Julius Berger-AFP products dazzle visitors at Design Week Lagos 2024 expo
. Art and Culture Minister, Musawa: Fantastic; AFP has again shone like a million stars in the furniture design sector
. The stand glows and it’s eye-catching, says, Olori Atuwatse III
Africa’s most prestigious premier design festival, Design Week Lagos, (DWL), recently returned to global stage in Lagos when no fewer than 1000 stakeholders featured in the annual event that saw Nigeria’s furniture production pride, Julius Berger-AFP dazzle visitors with its cutting-edge products.
The event which held from October 23rd to October 27th with the theme ‘’ The Role of Design in Economic Evolution’’ also had leading state-of-the-art furniture producer, Julius Berger-AFP showcasing the latest in its fine collection of innovative and scintillating products.
The General Manager, Oliver Cohnen did not mince words in describing the essence of AFP’s participation at the event thus: since 1991 when AFP commenced operation in this sector, we have become the largest furniture manufacturer in West Africa. As an integral part of Julius Berger’s value chain, we have always been guided by leading standards in quality and innovation using imported and locally sourced materials in combination with the latest modern machinery and technology to achieve the best results.
Saying that AFP’s portfolio includes, loose furniture, kitchen cabinetry, internal doors, wardrobes, wall panels and wooden floors as well designing bespoke residential spaces, corporate spaces, hospitality and retail, Cohnen added, we are here at this 2024 Design Week Lagos show to further our established goal of announcing our new innovative furniture products in all the class already said. They are products of the consistent training we give our interior architects, technicians and carpenters as well as our interns from within Nigeria and around the world.
Nigeria’s Art, Culture and Creative Economy minister, Hannatu Musawa hailed AFP’s products saying, they are as fantastic and shining like a million stars. I know AFP very well. They furnished my kitchen years back and they did an excellent job. Till today, I still love what I see each time I enter my kitchen. AFP, please, shine on and never slack, the minister added.
A premium visitor to the AFP stand was the Queen of the Warri Kingdom and wife of Ogiame Atuwatse III, current ruler of the Kingdom of Warri, and the 21st Olu of Warri, Ivie Atuwatse. She described the furniture range on display as glowing, radiant and eye-catching. She added: African design is the now design and a worthy catalyst for transformation; and what I have seen here at AFP tells it all.
Organiser of the week-long show, Titi Ogufere added her voice to the Queen’s. According to her, this is Nigeria’s largest and most prestigious furniture and furnishings trade event showcasing the latest furniture and designs from around Nigeria. We are now experiencing the opulence and elegance of the 2024 Made by Design Show; and AFP has always been a beautiful bride in our Design Week Shows year-in and year-out. We commend them for their versatility and their top-tier brands
The Managing Director of Novacolor Italian Nigeria, Okwani Chinonso Joseph was all smiles when he supported Ogufere saying, I am a furniture person too. But I give it to AFP; their range is as good as perfect. They capture the very essence of interior design. And the selection of curated cutting-edge furniture designs here speaks volumes.
Apart from Olori Atunwase III, other guests at the event include, the Special Assistant to Vice President on Creative and Digital Economy, Fegho Umunugbo, Managing Director of specialist industrial and domestic furnishings, Mustapha, Olorunnimbe.
DWL has emerged as a key platform for showcasing cutting-edge designs from African innovators and fostering global partnerships that drive industrial growth.
Team Julius Berger-AFP at the event include, Oliver Cohnen, Norbert Kossmann, Angel Udoh, George Mihali, Khadija Zarma, Glory Egharevba, Shola Kudaisi, Mirabel Egbonkhan, Mobolaji Ogunyemi, Emmanuel Isibor and Sascha Ziaja of Excellence Centre, among others.
Foundation praises Ernest Ikoli for fighting for his people
- Urges politicians, media professionals to emulate him
A Nigerian politician, nationalist and pioneering journalist, Ernest Sesei Ikoli, devoted his entire life to working for the true development of Nigeria, according to the Ikoli Foundation.
‘’With ink on his fingers, he penned truths profound. Defending the voiceless, his courage unbound. He nurtured the aspirations of those in the fray, lighting their paths, showing them the way’’.
He was also described as ‘’ a beacon of justice and champion for all’’
‘’His vision was vibrant, a future he’d dream, where freedom and justice would flourish and beam’’.
In a tribute to the memory of the first editor of the Daily Times, President of the Nigerian Youth Movement and Chieftain of the Action Group, the Ernest Ikoli Foundation praised the Lagos Representative in the Legislative Council for his consistency and selflessness.
‘’In the heart of a nation, a voice did arise, Ernest Ikoli, under vast African skies, a pen as his weapon, his words like a fire, igniting the spirit, inspiring desire’’.
The Foundation also praised his historic legacy.
‘’In the tapestry woven of struggle and strife, he crafted a narrative, a powerful life. So let us remember as history unfolds. The spirit of Ikoli, a story retold’’
The Ernest Ikoli Foundation in a statement issued by a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Bayelsa State, Chief Anthony George-Ikoli (SAN), said the editor of The Daily Service was a reassuring presence during the country’s struggle for political independence.
‘’Born in the shadows of colonial chains, he fought for his people, their hopes and their pains. A mentor, a guide to the founding fathers’ dream, his wisdom and vision forged a powerful team’’.
The statement underscored Ikoli’s meritorious career in politics and media, his political acumen and uncommon commitment to the struggle for freedom and emancipation in the society
‘’Through trials and tribulations, he stood ever tall. In discussions and dialogues, his influence grew, guiding the future, envisioning what was true.
The statement also highlighted Ikoli’s reputation, achievement and charisma.
‘’Though battles were many and the path often steep, Ikoli’s legacy is one we still keep’’.
LAGOS WILL MAKE GOOD USE OF ECOLOGICAL FUNDS, SANWO-OLU ASSURES HOUSE OF REPS
PRESS RELEASE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s willingness to continuously collaborate with relevant key players to address climate, environment and waste management challenges in the State.
He assured the House of Representatives Committee on Ecological Funds that the Lagos State Government will put into good use and be accountable with the Ecological Funds and other support and interventions from the Federal Government.
Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke at the weekend while receiving members of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Ecological Funds, led by its Chairman, Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji, at the Lagos House, Marina.
Sanwo-olu, while seeking more support in mitigating environmental issues in the state, stressed the benefits of timely completion of the proposed intervention to avert additional costs.
He said, “You are coming at a time we really need help. But we don’t just want help; we want partnership. We want people that appreciate and understand the need for us to solve problems, and by solving the problems, you are not solving the Lagos problems; you are solving the Nigeria’s problems because Lagos is a place that every ethnic national has a representative.
“We want to plead that whatever you are supporting us with, let us see it to completion because a job that is 80 percent done is not still done. It is only when it is 100 percent that we can say it is done.
“I want to assure the committee of our willingness to work with you and seek the support that you are willing to extend to us. We assure you that whatever support is given to us, we will put it to good and accountable use and show the benefits of the intervention.”
Speaking earlier, Hon. Jaji said his Committee will ensure that substantial intervention comes to Lagos to address ecological and environmental challenges.
He said, “We have visited several places in Lagos, and we have seen the challenges, and all the challenges we saw are real challenges, and the challenges must be addressed permanently with the intervention fund from the Federal Government.
“We will ensure that the Ecological Fund is utilised properly. We will ensure that Lagos State gets significant intervention. All the committee members were so impressed with the Lagos State Government capacity and the way it is addressing issues. So, the Committee will ensure that substantial intervention comes to Lagos.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
04 NOVEMBER 2024
PRESS RELEASE
‘LAGOS IS OUR OLD TIME FRIEND’ — UK FOREIGN SECRETARY TELLS SANWO-OLU
- British MP visits Lagos in first diplomatic mission to Africa
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, received the United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary, Mr. David Lammy, in a courtesy call at the State House in Marina, hours after the British envoy arrived Nigeria in his first trip to Africa to discuss UK’s new approach to the continent.
Lammy, accompanied by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, and his deputy, Jonny Baxter, said Lagos became his first port of call in his Africa tour, given the centuries-old relationships between the two countries.
The Foreign Secretary said the socio-cultural and economic relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria was second to none, pointing out that Lagos had a huge number of families with relatives in London and other parts of the UK. The mutual dealings, the envoy said, had been further strengthened in business, remittances and finance cooperation.
Lammy said his visit was to further enhance the bilateral ties between the two countries, creating mutual understanding that would unlock more opportunities for both sides in thriving trade relations.
He said: “My first port of call in my visit to the continent of Africa is Lagos, which is naturally a bustling economic hub not just for Nigeria but also West Africa. What I have been experiencing since my arrival in Lagos is dynamism, vibrancy and huge opportunities that exist in this great city. These values befit our approach to the continent, which rests on mutual growth of our economies.
“We have seen how the Red Line is increasing transportation options in Lagos and it is pleasing to see UK manufacturers as being part of this transportation growth in Lagos. We want to see more of mutual cooperation in this sector. There is more we can do in several other areas. I am here to say the UK is very much open for more business with our old friends, and I dare say Lagos represents the old friendship. There is a win-win for our businesses and our societies.”
Lammy said the UK looked forward to a new partnership with Lagos in expansion of clean energy consumption, which would help the city to bolster its adaptation to climate change.
The Foreign Secretary mulled a potential deal with two UK companies willing to invest in clean and renewable energy in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu told the visiting British envoy that the new UK’s trade approach aligned with the State’s growth plan, noting that Lagos possessed a huge population of creative and dynamic young people yearning for new opportunities across sectors.
He said the State Government had sustained an investment in knowledge-based training opportunities for young people to develop their talents and make their skills lucrative in modern economic order.
This agenda, the Governor said, is to make Lagos a human development capital of the continent, where investors would find competent professionals with right skills in any sector of the economy.
Sanwo-Olu shared business opportunities waiting to be harnessed in waste management, stressing that Lagos grappled with over 10,000 metric tons of waste daily, which could serve as raw materials for companies converting waste to clean energy.
He said: “We want you to go back home with the level of confidence that Lagos is a place to put investment and we will continue to make this environment a lot more attractive to businesses that are looking forward to more growth and opportunities.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
04 NOVEMBER 2024
FEAR GRIPS DELTA PDP LEADERS AS EFCC ARRESTS IFEANYI OKOWA OVER N1.3 TRILLION 13% DERIVATION FUND, N40 BILLION USED TO ACQUIRE SHARES IN UTM FLOATING LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday arrested a former Governor of Delta State, Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, for alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion 13% derivation fund from the federation account between 2015 and 2023.
Okowa was arrested on Monday, November 4, 2024, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, when he reported at the Port Harcourt Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on the invitation of investigators handling his matter.
The former governor was alleged to have failed to render accounts of the funds as well as another N40 billion he allegedly claimed he used to acquire shares in UTM Floating Liquefied Natural Gas.
Okowa allegedly bought shares worth N40 billion in one of the major banks in the country representing 8% equity to float the offshore LNG. The funds were alleged to be used for other purposes.
Investigators are also investigating the diversion of funds by the former governor to acquire estates in Abuja and Asaba in Delta state.
Popularly known as Ekwueme, the former governor is being held at the EFCC holding facility in Port Harcourt.
Okowa was the running mate to Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election.
SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES ONIKEPO AKANDE AT 80
PRESS RELEASE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Nigeria’s first female Minister of Industry and second female President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief (Dr.) Onikepo Akande, on her 80th birthday.
The Governor, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Akande, a renowned economist, accountant and industrialist, as a distinguished Nigerian who has served the country passionately and made significant contributions to the business world and society.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Chief Onikepo Akande, the Iyalaje of Ibadanland, who turns 80 on Tuesday, deserves all the accolades for her immense and impactful contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s economy and governance.
He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate the first female Minister of Industry, Chief (Dr) Onikepo Akande, on her 80th birthday.
“Dr. Onikepo Akande is worth celebrating on her 80th birthday based on her positive impact in the country. She has served Nigeria passionately and made significant contributions to the business world and society. She is an icon in the business world and beyond.
“She contributed positively to governance and nation-building as a Minister of Industry and later as delegate at the 2014 National Conference.
“As Chief (Dr.) Onikepo Akande joins the league of octogenarians today, I pray that God will grant her good health to enable her to render more service to humanity, the business community, Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
29 OCTOBER 2024
ONDO GUBER: APC INAUGURATES SANWO-OLU-LED 305-NEMBER NATIONAL CAMPAIGN COUNCIL
- We’ll win poll with nothing less than 80 percent of total votes, says Chairman
Lagos State Governor and the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Campaign Council for November 16 Ondo State governorship election, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured his party leadership that the committee would win the forthcoming governorship election with nothing less than 80 percent of the total votes.
He urged all the party leaders and members to work for the victory of the APC gubernatorial candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the November 16 poll.
Sanwo-Olu, who is the South-West leader of APC, spoke on Monday during the inauguration of the APC National Campaign Council by the party leadership led by the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, at Akure, the capital of Ondo State
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who noted that the party had given him the same assignment in the state twice, pledged that the campaign council will do everything within their means constitutionally and professionally to defeat other political parties in the November 16th poll.
The Lagos State Governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu, who he described as the leader of the party, for giving his support for the APC National Campaign Council to lead the governorship campaign in Ondo State.
He said: “On behalf of my entire team, most of whom are here today, we want to assure our party and everybody that we will do everything within our means; constitutionally and professionally to ensure that a free, fair, highly competitive election and campaign about issues is what we will be doing.
“It will not be a campaign on sentiment and abuse but on issues because Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has made our life a lot easier. We can boldly come out for Governor Aiyedatiwa because he has made us proud within his 305 days period as a governor of the state.
“We will go out with our full chest to campaign for him. We will not disappoint the party and the people of the state. We will win with nothing less than 80 percent of the total votes.”
In his address, the APC National Chairman, Ganduje, expressed confidence that the ruling party in Ondo State will win the governorship election with a wide margin in a free and fair contest.
Ganduje while inaugurating the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led 305-member council, urged them to swing into action and build a strong synergy with the state and local campaign council for APC to be victorious in the next month gubernatorial poll.
“We are here to create an enabling environment so that the election will be free and fair. And the election will be victorious for our party. We must support him (Governor Aiyedatiwa) so that he will continue to provide good governance for the state. He is a lucky man, and he will continue to be lucky,” Ganduje said.
Speaking earlier, Governor Aiyedatiwa said he deserved to be reelected based on performance, noting that within the last 10 months in office, he had focused on infrastructural development, public utilities renewal, boosting agricultural production, entrepreneurship and youth development, job creation and security.
He said: “We are filled with hope and determination as we look forward to the election of 16th of November, 2024 with so much enthusiasm. For us, it is an election that promises to be a defining moment for our great Party, Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
“What we are doing here today is a display of the strength of our will when we work together. It is the evidence of our capability which by God’s grace will produce victory on 16th November, 2024.
“I believe government is about the people. We are resolute and committed to that faith. We have worked hard for the heart of the people. We are talking to them house to house, door to door and mouth to ears. Above all, we are committed to a peaceful and credible election, where votes count.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY
29 OCTOBER 2024
Julius Berger begins construction work on Cotonou Road Bridges
Promoting equal opportunity, healthy ethnic diversity among multicultural workforce
Top notch engineering Construction Company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc recently kicked off the first phase of its contracted construction works in Cotonou, Republic of Benin. The field operations which began after preliminary works on a major highway, Acces et traversee de Cotonou, ATC 2 are already completed, which signifies the commencement of rehabilitation works including reconstruction of access roads in the city.
Last week, a visit to Section 1 of ATC 2 showed that work on Roads 7, 9 and 10 was in a full gear, especially on Road 10, the major presidential route to and from the Aeroport. Though the road is a very busy highway, Julius Berger has deployed its renowned engineering expertise in the construction works without obstructing traffic flow.
According to the Site Manager, Vodounou Blaise, there is a lot of work we are doing here in Benin. Here, before you start any major construction work, the first thing you do is to identity any network cable buried underground. Next, you must work with the service company to unearth and relocate them before you can commence real construction work. So, a lot of expertise and patience is required. He added that while Julius Berger has the seasonal weather changes to contend with, work is still on.
He disclosed the details of work being done on that site; thus, we are now working on the drainage, putting slabs on the adjoining Road 9. This includes the changing of interlocking stones on the road pavement preparatory to the laying of asphalt on the road. We have a government engineer who is the liaison with the community and stakeholders and for this, we are thankful that we do not have nor envisage any problem with the communities.
Work on Road 7 of the ATC 2 has also commenced with the demolition of old and dilapidated pavements and concrete walls.
At Julius Berger’s workshop in Cotonou too, workers were busy on diverse installations in the garage as work on the offices have since been completed
The Workshop Supervisor, Mr. Noal Lacey was upbeat last week when he explained that the Asphalt plant located at Calavi, North of Cotonou city, will not take time to be ready. We have completed the concrete wall. The Hot storage section have been completed too, he said.
On what was left to make the plant functional. Lacey said, “the mixer will be done today, (Thursday last week.) Then we will move on to the Screens, Filter, Box, Dryer, Loading Bins and Elevator. Very soon, this 200 tonnes per hour Asphalt Plant will be operational.”
Equal opportunity/Ethic diversity
Further to its acclaimed status of equal opportunity employer of note, Julius Berger in Benin, continues to live true to its role in this direction. We are encouraging the people from Benin North. We are conscious of the ethnic diversities as well as the way we treat our women here at Julius Berger, the head of projects in Julius Berger, Benin, Christoph Fierrens said.
He added thus: “Julius Berger promotes a sense of teamwork and collaboration among colleagues. Here we have workers from far and wide. There are Burkinabes, Cote d’Ivoire nationals, Ghanaians, Togolese, Nigerians and Beninois working here. They represent a good mixture and its good for the work force to meet the project delivery deadline,”
Giving an overview of the company’s projects in the West African port city of Cotonou, Fierrens said “Roads 9 and 10 and most aspects of the Asphalt plant will be completed this year and that is just on the ATC 2. There are others. But we have to meet the project deadline. We are demolishing pavements, retaining walls, reinforced and unreinforced concrete structure and surveying networks in central earthwork areas and along the retaining walls.”
Okpe leaders urge Okpe people not to allow Okpe Union to be captured for selfish, personal or political purposes
Hope dims for Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council Member
- Chief Robert Onome abdicated office; cannot claim benefit of suit he battled against- Okpe Leaders
- Insist Orerokpe High Court lacks jurisdiction to entertain case
- Consider legal suit dead on arrival
- Urge Okpe people not to allow Okpe Union to be captured for selfish, personal or political purposes
- Say Udogun Okpe not a rubber stamp of an Orodje
Leaders of the Okpe Nation on Monday urged Okpe nationals not to be deterred by the recent events in Okpe Kingdom, but to ensure that the Okpe Union autonomy was protected.
‘’Being the umbrella membership ethnic organisation of the Okpe Nation which has played several historical roles in the making of the modern Okpe Nation (including the restoration of the Okpe monarchy in 1945), Okpe people cannot afford to allow it to be captured for selfish, personal or political purposes’’.
They also implored the Udogun Okpe to be alive to its historical and strategic role of stabilising traditional administration of the Okpe Nation.
‘’The Okpe people continue to recognise the unique status of the Udogun and its capacity to ensure that Okpe Kingdom is administered within the traditional doctrine of consultative, democratic, and limited monarchy as opposed to despotic systems inherited by some other kingdoms in Nigeria and the African continent. Indeed, Udogun Okpe is a chamber of sober reflections and not a rubber stamp of an Orodje as Okpe people expect her to play a pivotal role of checks and balances on the Orodje’s policies’’.
In a communiqué from an emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union held on 27th October, 2024, on the approach of the High Court, Orerokpe by a member of the Delta State Advisory and Peace Building Council, Okakuro Robert Onome to declare him as President General of the Okpe Union, the leaders urged Okakuro Robert Onome to withdraw his baseless and irrational suit at the Orerokpe High Court.
‘’The case is res judicata as it has already been decided by a court of competent jurisdiction. A court of coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on appeal or entertain any facts different from the facts that were laid before the court that had given the judgement. For the sake of emphasis, in paragraph 17&18 of the Affidavit with which the Federal High Court, Lagos gave the Okpe Union Autonomy Judgement on the 19th of January 2023, it was clearly averred that Prof. Igho Natufe was the elected President General whose executive committee instituted the suit. Okakuro Robert Onome is a stranger to that case and can therefore not claim the benefit of a suit that he had battled against, along with the Illegal Interim executive committee. But in any case, the previous tenure which began in November 2016 (with a four-year tenure) was a collective one of the executive committee and not that of one man’’.
The leaders described the Orerokpe suit as the height of desperation.
‘’The Okpe Union National Executive Committee (NEC) is in possession of videos of his accompanying the nullified Illegal Interim executive committee in press conferences and also in possession of the audio recording of the 3rd of October 2020 event in which he abdicated office. For reasons of preserving the integrity of revered institutions, NEC has resolved not to let the latter one out. NEC shall recommend to the next General Assembly of the Okpe Union the expunging of the name of Okakuro Robert Onome from the list of former officials of the Okpe Union where he fails to accede to this advice’’.
The communiqué signed by Prof. Igho Natufe, President General, Okpe Union (Worldwide), Barrister Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin, General Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide) and Mrs. Atarhe Abuh, National Publicity Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide) said it took over a year for the Palace of the Orodje and a group led by Okakuro Joseph Aboze to whom the Illegal Interim EXCO handed over, to finally accept to comply with the judgement of the Federal High Court.
‘’To further destabilize the Okpe Union, the same group of persons who orchestrated the previous destabilization of the Okpe Union have put together another plot with an approach to the State High Court, Orerokpe requesting the court to interpret the Federal High Court, Lagos Judgement for the Prof. Igho Natufe Executive Committee of the Okpe Union and declare former President General, Okakuro Robert Onome as President General’’.
The notable leaders vowed to work with all to make the Okpe Nation great.
‘’The current National leadership of the Okpe Union pledges to continue working with all to achieve so much more and make the Okpe Nation great again as it occupies its place of pride in the comity of Ethnic Nationalities in Delta State, Niger Delta and Nigeria’’.
In the suit filed by Okakuro Robert Onome (Suit No. HOR/M/2/2024), the Orerokpe High Court is being asked to interpret the Judgment of the Federal High Court which was delivered on the 19th of January 2023 in the suit filed by the Prof. Igho Natufe led National Executive Council of the Okpe Union in May 2022 (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022).
The judgement granted all the reliefs sought which include declaration that the purported dissolution of the elected National Executive Council of Okpe Union by HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe was illegal and of no effect whatsoever, nullification of the Illegal Interim Executive Committee headed by Prof. Emrobome Idolor, and an order of perpetual injunction restraining the Imposed Interim, their privies and all those who derived authority from their actions from acting in any capacity in the Okpe Union.
On the 3rd of October, 2020, for reasons best known to HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe, he invited some leaders of the Okpe Union (under the leadership of Okakuro Robert Onome) to the Orodje’s palace where he read out a declaration that he was dissolving the Executive Council of the Okpe Union and imposing his own Interim Executive Committee on the union and banning all members of the then executive committee from getting involved in any leadership position of the Okpe Union for two years.
Of the then membership of the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union, only Okakuro Robert Onome accepted the dissolution declaration by picking up the microphone and pledging his support for the Imposed Interim executive committee.
Having abdicated the office of President General, by the operation of the Okpe Union Constitution, the next in hierarchy, Mr. Patrick Akpotor assumed the office of Acting President General and led the EXCO to complete the tenure after the General Assembly (the highest decision making organ of the union, held on the 14th of November, 2020), set up an Electoral Committee that conducted elections which the Prof. Igho Natufe led EXCO became elected as the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union on the 15th of May, 2021.
As the Illegally imposed Interim Executive Committee were still parading themselves as the National leadership of the Okpe Union, in spite of several attempts by eminent Okpe nationals to mediate and recommend to the palace not to interfere with the administration of the Okpe Union, the elected National Executive Council led by Prof. Igho Natufe was left with no other options but to approach the Federal High Court, Lagos (suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), in attempt to resolve the matter.
Meanwhile, Okakuro Robert Onome and some others teamed up with the Illegal Interim EXCO to approach the Corporate Affairs Commission to appoint a Board of Trustees for the Okpe Union as the previous trustees had all passed on. The legitimate NEC led by Prof. Igho Natufe had already commenced the process of regularising the affairs of the union with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) which included the process of appointing trustees with an application to the Federal High Court, Lagos. The Illegal Interim funded heavily by some Palace chiefs got ahead through the backdoor and surreptitiously procured a new Certificate of Registration with a Board of Trustees that included Okakuro Robert Onome. The elected NEC was however steadfast with the judicial redress believing that the wheel of justice grinds slowly but surely.
After nine months, the Federal High Court, Lagos gave judgment/victory to the elected Prof. Igho Natufe led NEC.
To ensure that the Board of Trustees and Certificate procured through the backdoor was not employed to further destabilize the Okpe Union, the court validated Prof. Igho Natufe Executive Committee had to approach the Federal High Court, Abuja (which was earlier used by the Illegal Interim EXCO to legalise their backdoor Board of Trustees/Certificate) so that the same court would vacate the earlier empowering order and nullify the trustees and certificate.
On the 30th of April 2024, the Federal High Court, Abuja gave its Ruling (Suit No.FHC/ABJ/CS/395) and nullified the Board of Trustees/Certificate and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge them (including Okakuro Robert Onome) from the records of the Okpe Union with CAC.
COMMUNIQUE FROM AN EMERGENCY MEETING OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF THE OKPE UNION HELD ON 27TH OCTOBER, 2024, ON THE APPROACH OF THE HIGH COURT, OREROKPE, BY OKAKURO ROBERT ONOME TO DECLARE HIM AS PRESIDENT GENERAL OF THE OKPE UNION*
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union held an Emergency Meeting to discuss the approach of Orerokpe High Court, Delta State, by former President General of the Okpe Union, Okakuro Robert Onome, to declare him as President General of the Okpe Union. In the suit filed by Okakuro Robert Onome (Suit No. HOR/M/2/2024), the court is being asked to interpret the judgement of the Federal High Court which was delivered on the 19th of January, 2023 in the suit filed by the Prof. Igho Natufe led National Executive Council of the Okpe Union in May, 2022 (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022). The judgement of the Federal High Court granted all the reliefs sought which include: 1. Declaration that the purported dissolution of the elected National Executive Council of Okpe Union by HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe was illegal and of no effect whatsoever; 2. Nullification of the Illegal Interim EXCO headed by Prof. Emrobome Idolor; and 3. An order of Perpetual Injunction restraining the Imposed Interim, their privies and all those who derived authority from their actions, from acting in any capacity in the Okpe Union.
NEC noted with regret that it took over a year for the Palace of the Orodje and a group led by Okakuro Joseph Aboze to whom the Illegal Interim EXCO handed over, to finally accept to comply with the judgement of the Federal High Court.
NEC also expressed shock that to further distabilise the Okpe Union, the same group of persons who orchestrated the previous distabilisation of the Okpe Union have put together another plot with an approach to the State High Court, Orerokpe, requesting the court to interpret the Federal High Court, Lagos Judgement for the Prof. Igho Natufe EXCO of the Okpe Union and declare former President General, Okakuro Robert Onome as President General.
NEC desires to give a summary of the issues since the event of 3rd October, 2020 to date so that the Okpe public would be abreast with the developments from the onset and the undercurrents.
On the 3rd of October, 2020, for reasons best known to HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe, he invited some leaders of the Okpe Union (under the leadership of Okakuro Robert Onome) to the Orodje’s palace where he read out a declaration that he was dissolving the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union and imposing his own Interim EXCO on the union and banning all members of the then EXCO from getting involved in any leadership position of the Okpe Union for two years. Of the then membership of the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union, only Okakuro Robert Onome accepted the dissolution declaration by picking up the microphone and pledged his support for the Imposed Interim EXCO.
Having abdicated the office of President General, by the operation of the Okpe Union Constitution, the next in hierarchy, Mr. Patrick Akpotor assumed the office of Acting President General and led the EXCO to complete the tenure after the General Assembly (the highest decision making organ of the union, held on the 14th of November, 2020), set up an Electoral Committee that conducted elections which the Prof. Igho Natufe led EXCO became elected as the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union on the 15th of May, 2021.
As the Illegally imposed Interim EXCO were still parading themselves as the National leadership of the Okpe Union, in spite of several attempts by eminent Okpe nationals to mediate and recommend to the palace not to interfere with the administration of the Okpe Union, the elected National Executive Council led by Prof. Igho Natufe was left with no other options but to approach the Federal High Court, Lagos (suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), in attempt to resolve the matter. Meanwhile, Okakuro Robert Onome and some others teamed up with the Illegal Interim EXCO to approach the Corporate Affairs Commission to appoint a Board of Trustees for the Okpe Union as the previous trustees had all passed on. The legitimate NEC led by Prof. Igho Natufe had already commenced the process of regularising the affairs of the union with the CAC which included the process of appointing trustees with an application to the Federal High Court, Lagos. The Illegal Interim, funded heavily by some Palace chiefs, got ahead through the backdoor and surreptitiously procured a new Certificate of Registration with a Board of Trustees that included Okakuro Robert Onome. The elected NEC was however steadfast with the judicial redress believing that the wheel of justice grinds slowly but surely. After nine months, the Federal High Court, Lagos gave judgment/victory to the elected Prof. Igho Natufe led NEC. To ensure that the Board of Trustees and Certificate procured through the backdoor was not employed to further distabilise the Okpe Union, the court validated Prof. Igho Natufe EXCO had to approach the Federal High Court, Abuja (which was earlier used by the Illegal Interim EXCO to legalise their backdoor Board of Trustees/Certificate), so that the same court would vacate the earlier empowering order and nullify the trustees and certificate. On the 30th of April, 2024, the Federal High Court, Abuja gave its Ruling (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/395) and nullified the Board of Trustees/Certificate and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge them (including Okakuro Robert Onome) from the records of the Okpe Union with the CAC.
As NEC is shocked by the current moves of Okakuro Robert Onome to undermine the stability of the Okpe Union, NEC points out to all Okpe people that, the case is res judicata as it had already been decided by a court of competent jurisdiction. A court of coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on appeal or entertain any facts different from the facts that were laid before the court that had given the judgement. For the sake of emphasis, in paragraph 17&18 of the Affidavit with which the Federal High Court, Lagos gave the Okpe Union Autonomy Judgement on the 19th of January, 2023, it was clearly averred that Prof. Igho Natufe was the elected President General whose EXCO instituted the suit. Okakuro Robert Onome is a stranger to that case and can therefore not claim the benefit of a suit that he had battled against, along with the Illegal Interim EXCO. But in any case, the previous tenure which began in November, 2016 (with a four year tenure) was a collective one of the EXCO and not that of one man.
*Resolutions of the NEC*.
After reviewing the embarrassing developments since the unfortunate purported dissolution of 3rd October, 2020 till date and especially the attempt to further distabilise the Okpe Union with the Orerokpe High Court suit, the National Executive Council of the Okpe Union resolves as follows:
- NEC calls on all Okpe nationals to endeavor to be fully aware of the developments about the Okpe Union and do everything to protect its autonomy. Being the umbrella membership ethnic organisation of the Okpe Nation which has played several historical roles in the making of the modern Okpe Nation (including the restoration of the Okpe monarchy in 1945), Okpe people cannot afford to allow it to be captured for selfish personal or political purposes.
- NEC calls on the Udogun Okpe to be alive to its historical and strategic role of stabilising traditional administration of the Okpe Nation. The Okpe people continue to recognise the unique status of the Udogun and its capacity to ensure that Okpe Kingdom is administered within the traditional doctrine of consultative, democratic, and limited monarchy as opposed to despotic systems inherited by some other kingdoms in Nigeria and the African continent. Indeed, Udogun Okpe is a chamber of sober reflections and not a rubber-stamp of an Orodje as Okpe people expect her to play a pivotal role of checks and balances on the Orodje’s policies.
- NEC calls on Okakuro Robert Onome to withdraw his legally baseless and irrational suit at the Orerokpe High Court. He is reminded that NEC is in possession of videos of his accompanying the nullified Illegal Interim EXCO in Press Conferences and also in possession of the audio recording of the 3rd October, 2020 event in which he abdicated office. For reasons of preserving the integrity of revered institutions, NEC has resolved not to let the latter one out. NEC shall recommend to the next General Assembly of the Okpe Union the expunging of the name of Okakuro Robert Onome from the list of former officials of the Okpe Union where he fails to accede to this advice.
- NEC calls for unity of all Okpe nationals and institutions to build an Okpe Nation of synergy, peace and development. The current National leadership of the Okpe Union pledges to continue working with all to achieve so much more and make the Okpe Nation great again as it occupies its place of pride in the comity of Ethnic Nationalities in Delta State, Niger Delta and Nigeria.
*SIGNED:*
*Prof. Igho Natufe*, President General, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
*Barr. Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin*, General Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
*Mrs. Atarhe Abuh*, National Publicity Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
Whether everybody likes it or not, Julius Berger is the best – Wike
Flag-off Ceremony of Arterial Road N5, Abuja
. As usual, we’ll deliver as promised, says Managing Director Lubasch
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has praised top-notch engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for its quality and timely delivery on assigned projects declaring that the company remains the best in the country’s engineering construction sector.
Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony of the development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road 111 in the Federal Capital city Friday, the minister traced his relationship with Julius Berger right from his days as Rivers State governor, and declared; that’s why I have always said I enjoyed the best, that is why I always go to Julius Berger to do construction work for us because I know they are the best whether everybody likes it or not.
The road is approximately 4.4 km inclusive of box culverts, one river bridge and the junction at N3/N30 to be delivered within 18 months construction time.
According to Wike, he had never been to the part of the FCT where the project was flagged off. However, he revealed that from the several messages he had received on the state of the road in the area and given what he later saw on ground, the need to rework the road was not in doubt.
As a minister I have never been to this part. I thought the junction they were talking about was Life Camp; that is the other one you take going to our official residences. No wonder every time I get text messages asking when we will do this Life Camp route. The text messages were always saying, the traffic is chaotic; and seeing the number of persons who are around today, tells you this neighbourhood is heavily populated, and that is why we thank God Almighty that we are starting this road and giving it to the constructions giant Julius Berger, Wike said.
The minister was not done as he recalled how the need for his administration as state governor in Rivers state gingered him to amend critical procurement policies to accommodate the quality services of Julius Berger.
He continued; let me tell you, one company that made me to move from amendment to procurement law in Rivers state was Julius Berger. How? When I knew that the law permitted 15 to 30 percent up for the variation fee, I realised there would be a problem; and that problem would be, by the time the 15 to 30 percent is paid and another milestone to variation certificate is being submitted, we may not have the money to pay. All I did was to seek the support of the State’s House of Assembly to amend the Procurement Law to allow the Executive Council to pay up to 70% if they believe that the firm or company is competent to carry out the job without running away. And I know Julius Berger is on ground. If you go to where they are living you will know that they will never live this country again. So, we amended the laws. And I could say that in every job that I did with Julius Berger then, we paid 70% upfront; that was how we were able to do 12 flyovers in four years.
The minister disclosed that his foregoing revelation was on purpose, to tell most of the National Assembly members among others that, part of our predicament and that our major headache is the Procurement Law. The law we know is to protect and make sure our money is safe; but again, if you look at it, it brings us backward. That is why in most cases you put procurement for almost four months before it is approved; before it goes to the Federal Executive Council and before you know it, six months have gone; six months for procurement alone; that is half of the year already.
Thanking the FCT Administration, FCTA for the contract award, the Managing Director of Julious Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr Dr Peer Lubasch said, on behalf of the entire management and Board of Directors of Julius Berger, I thank you for your trust and for giving our company the opportunity to deliver on these projects
Lubasch said that the contract stands on the long-lasting relationship the company has with the FCT Administration, the company’s partner for progress, even as he commended the FCTA for its vision and foresight in its true investment in infrastructure for progress and we are honoured to be the chosen partners for the realisation of this vision
Lubasch assured the administration and people of the FCT of quality and timely delivery on the project.
The representative of the Senate President and Senator of the Federal Republic, Ibrahim Bomai later flagged off the road construction thanking the FCT administration of Wike and the construction company.
At the event to witness the flagoff, were the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio represented by Senator Ibrahim Bomai, Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure, Senator George Skibo; House of Representatives member representing Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, Abaji FCT, Abdul Rahman Ajiya among others.
Team Julius Berger at the flag-off included the outgoing Managing Director, Engr Dr Lars Richter, Head Corporate Communications Department, James Agama and Happiness Moses of the Media Relations Department
Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi: One year score card
“Where there is no vision, there is no hope.” – George Washington Carver;
Carver a black American agricultural chemist, agronomist, experimenter and scientist invented more than 300 uses for the peanut. He made the above assertion when he alluded to the connectivity between vision and hope.
Like a twinkle of an eye, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, in a matter of days will mark one year in office, having been appointed on October 23, 2023.
Industry watchers however have been amazed with his glaring milestones in the space of 365 days, judging from an experience of near-obscurity of the Commission’s creation over 4 decades ago.
THE CLARION CALL
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, made it abundantly clear when he coined the catchphrase for his campaign – Renewed Hope. The choice of ‘Renewed Hope’ as the campaign shibboleth or what is popularly referred to as ‘slogan’ was not an accident, but of a determined mind who was out to give hope to the hopeless, succour to the crestfallen, and relief to the forlornly downtrodden.
Mr. President was intentional about his vision for running for the numero uno seat. It is the more reason he asked that people should not pity him. He asked for the job. And like Theodore Hesburgh, a renowned American priest and academic once said, “The very essence of leadership is that you have to have a vision. It’s got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion. You can’t blow an uncertain trumpet.” President Tinubu is determined to rewrite the Nigerian story and put her on a trajectory of progressive hallmark and shared prosperity. This was why he sounded a note of warning to his minister-designates at the outset, and by extension, all his other appointees across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to throw in their letter of resignation if they knew they could not match his vision with measurable milestones in their various offices.
This further implies every appointee who desires on-the-job accolades must not only be seen acting the Renewed Hope mandate in their various areas of responsibilities, but must truly activate steps and mechanisms that will contribute to the overall goal congruence of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) – which is to retool Nigeria in all facets for the good of all Nigerians irrespective of tribe, ethnic bias, religion and/or tongue.
This is in line with the promise of Mr. President during the campaigns. And a clarion calls for Dr. Abdullahi which has hitherto lived up to expectations.
- ABDULLAHI AS A VISIONARY
On resumption of office and in line with Mr. President’s mindset, the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi did not mince words when he averred, in line with the vision and mission of the Commission that; “Under my stewardship and with the support of our dedicated staff and stakeholders, the ECN as the Lead Agency in the country’s push for energy transition will set the tone for economic development based on progressive innovation and policy initiatives as envisioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.”
From his position, it is crystal clear that as the new honcho in charge of the country’s lead agency on energy wherewithal, he is in the Commission with a clear agenda as to give new direction on the energy economy.
He is poised to drive the country’s energy economy from a vista of excellence, industry, results and dedication to national growth and development.
To achieve his set objectives therefore, he rolled out a 5-point agenda from the day he assumed office as the numero uno of the Commission.
These are what his blueprint revolves around and will include;
- Integration of the Renewable and Alternative Energy Policy Structure into the Mainstream National Energy Architecture.
- Immediate facilitation of the actualisation of the Energy Transition Plan
- Facilitation of Research and Development Funding and Partnership Initiatives in the Energy Sector.
- Review of extant Energy Policies, Initiatives and Frameworks to stimulate economic development.
- Facilitation of improved welfare consideration for staff of the Commission commensurate with standards in the Energy Sector.
- ABDULLAHI AS A BRAND AMBASSADOR
Until in recent months, not many Nigerians were aware of the existence of an agency called the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN). Like a man with Midas touch, Dr. Abdullahi brought the Commission to global limelight when he engaged with the United States former Secretary of State, John Kerry and other world leaders at the #COP28UAE where he highlighted his leadership efforts in the area of energy transition.
This one huge notable footprint will remain indelible in the annals of the Energy Commission of Nigeria’s (ECN) history.
The image like never before that the Commission currently enjoys, not only in the country, but also across the globe. Dr. Abdullahi’s efforts at bringing the Commission out of near-obscurity to global prominence is highly commendable.
Aside his outstanding performance at the annual global event, #COP28UAE, Dr. Abdulahi had represented the country in other international events including the G20 Energy Summit in Brasilia, Brazil where he spoke on behalf of Africa, emphasising energy transitions and net-zero emissions, and in Cape Town, South Africa where he presented a paper at the Africa Energy Indaba Summit alongside other global energy experts.
- ABDULLAHI AS A MOVING ENERGISER
If there exists anything Dr. Abdullahi has in common with President Tinubu, it is the hunger for excellence in service delivery or quality leadership deliverables.
The energy Chief Executive knew his job was already cut out for him. For a Commission under The Presidency that had lasted over 4 decades in existence and its near-obscurity in the country’s energy sector. For him, there was no better time than now to make a statement of a complete paradigm shift in the way things were hitherto conducted.
And from his activities in the last one year, Dr. Abdullahi has shown himself as an ‘energiser’ in motion. From providing leadership for West African sub-region and beyond, to leading advocacy on energy transition from fossil fuel in international space, and a resolve to exploring renewable and alternative energy to provide homegrown solutions to the energy needs of the Nigerian people.
As the new Chairman, Nigeria National Committee on World Energy Council (NNC WEC), he had proposed to activate mechanisms with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) geared towards instauration of novel action plans that would not only change the ugly story of the energy economy of the country, but also that of West Africa sub-region and Africa as a whole. He is, at the moment working through tapping opportunities through the West African Power Pool (WAPP), an institution within the ECOWAS to chart a new cause for the energy economy for the country, Africans.
- ABDULLAHI AS A TOTAL WELFARIST
Efficiency often times is a corollary of staff motivation at work place. A value-driven leadership spurs its workforce to efficiency and optimal performance through incentives and conducive working environment. Dr. Abdullahi as a leader with ample experience that cuts across the globe recognises workers’ psyche at work, especially when such workforce is motivated. He understands that remuneration is a major factor in the determination of a worker’s productivity. He is aware of the near-zero motivation and he was prepared to address the situation frontally by making the necessary moves that would ultimately enliven the workers’ spirit and gear them towards the overall success of his leadership at the Commission.
Remuneration
Dr Abdullahi on assumption of office, knowing the importance of good remuneration for members of staff and the role it plays in gearing them to put in their best, activated various steps in making sure that staff’s welfare is put at utmost priority.
In a bid to actualize this, he established contacts with members of the National Assembly, Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission on possible wage review.
CAPACITY BUILDING
The Energy expert recognises the value of Human Capital Development in driving positive change. He understands the Commission is largely knowledge-driven.
Therefore, another milestone he has recorded in a space of few months was to ensure workers undergo serious trainings and re-trainings to enhance their capacity with overall effect on their productivity.
Dr. Abdullahi was able to secure two fully-funded PhD foreign scholarships (UK) from the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) for two (2) of the Commission’s members of staff. Also, he secured three (3) Masters degree scholarships (Japan) to members of staff through JICA.
He believes such opportunity will not only motivate other staff, but also increase brain gain in the Commission when such staff return to contribute their quota.
LAYING FOUNDATION FOR ENERGY PROSPERITY
Barely 7 months after his assumption of office, precisely on May 8, 2024, the ECN numero uno unveiled a twin document on National Energy Policy (NEP) and National Energy Master Plan (NEMP). The first time in the Commission’s over 40 years of existence. The event which held at the Main Auditorium of the Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) building had in attendance critical stakeholders from the Energy sector including Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Heads of Government Agencies and Private Sector Practitioners and the Special Adviser to Mr. President on Energy, Ms. Olubukola Arowolo Verheijen who did the unveiling.
The 2 documents would go on to provide foundation and pathway for the country’s energy development.
IN PUBLIC INTEREST
Wood Stove, Safer Environment
As a responsive leader who is committed to a safer environment as entrenched in his mandate, Dr. Abdullahi’s leadership pioneered the Commission’s Clean Cooking advocacy with presentation of clean cooking wood stoves to the Nigerian public. This was part of his commitment during the #COP28UAE where he delivered a masterpiece as a representative of President Bola Tinubu to enlist the country on the #CleanCoolingPledge at the gathering of over 70,000 world leaders.
Barely 4 months after the event, he launched the Clean Cooking Wood Stove Initiative in line with this global pledge. The pilot scheme held at Kurudu, Mararaba, Nasarawa State saw wood stoves with low emissions distributed to women. The initiative is to ultimately guarantee a safer environment, especially in the country’s hinterlands.
Alternative Energy Through Photovoltaic (PV) Electricity
On Saturday, July 27, 2024, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) under Dr. Abdullahi performed a groundbreaking ceremony of Assembly Plant construction at Ihunekwagu Autonomous Community, Akpugo in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State. The event came up as a corollary of the need to boost access to affordable electricity in the country, and to take several communities off the national grid.
In addressing the electricity menace therefore, the visionary Chief Executive of the Energy Commission saw an opportunity in photovoltaic (PV) electricity to provide alternative energy to millions of households. Hence, consolidating the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr. President. Such solar PV module assembling plant which will provide sustainable, reliable, and decentralized power source capable of reaching the remotest part of the country – thereby giving light and hope to Nigerians.
Renewable Energy College
Dr. Abdullahi’s leadership on Saturday, August 10, 2024 scored another record breaking milestone with groundbreaking ceremony of Barefoot Renewable Energy College (BRE College), Osara, Kogi State. The concept of a Renewable Energy College was in line with the manifesto of President Tinubu whose part agenda is to explore various energy potential of the country.
The college is a leap further into transitioning from fossil-based energy resources to renewable energy. The Barefoot Renewable Energy College was conceptualised to bridge the energy manpower gap, drive innovation, competence, and self-reliance in the renewable energy sector. The future is assured with a safer environment and a cleaner energy.
SYNERGY/COLLABORATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
The Energy Commission boss, in furtherance of his mandate, as the lead agency in the country’s energy pursuits, to leapfrog the Commission for optimal performance in its responsibilities did enter into synergy and collaboration with a number of development partners, international organisations as well as relevant and critical stakeholders. Prominent among these efforts include;
- The United Nation Environment Programme (UNEP) and Clean Cooling Collaborative (CCC) on Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) in the area of air conditioners that aims to reduce carbon emissions, thereby leading to safer environment.
- Signing up a tripartite wind energy agreement at the #COP28UAE held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and the Niger State Government.
- Teaming up with the United Kingdom’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) for energy planning workshop.
- Collaboration with DEWA and the European Union (EU) delegation on energy transition initiative of his leadership at the Commission.
- Capacity building of the Commission’s staff with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
- Entered into partnership agreement with the National Biomass Ethanol Programme (NBEP) amongst others.
As we celebrate this young Nigerian for his verifiable leadership milestones and footprints in a space of one year of assumption of office, it is equally germane that it is worth placing on record that Dr. Abdullahi will lead and coordinate the record breaking Nigeria-Germany $130billion Global Hydrogen Project from the Office of the Vice President of the Federal Republic. Such pedestal does not come on a platter of gold, but of capacity, competence and trust in this jewel from the savannah.
For now and even years to come, the man, Dr. Abdullahi does not look like somebody who is backing down. For him, the task of helping Mr. President achieve his aim of reworking and retooling Nigeria for Nigerians is a cause that cannot be compromised.
And there is no stopping. Not now, not anytime soon.
Emete Am is a media analyst