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Lagos State, Origin Tech Group Redefine Food Security with Africa’s Largest Food Hub

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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to increasing food security and infrastructure development from its current 18% to over 50% during a working visit to the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Park known as LHP in Ketu, Ereyun in Epe.

Lagos State, Origin Tech Group Redefine Food Security with Africa’s Largest Food Hub
Group Photograph of the cross section of ORIGIN Tech Group and Governor
Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his EXCO members

This transformative project, championed by Origin Tech Group, is set to become the largest food logistics hub in Africa and the second largest globally, after the iconic Rungis International Market in France.

The groundbreaking 220-hectare facility, initiated less than two years ago, promises to revolutionise Lagos’ food ecosystem by improving accessibility, stabilising market prices, and reducing post-harvest losses.

Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the first phase of the project is slated for completion by the second quarter of 2025, emphasising his administration’s commitment to the project in view of its critical role in safeguarding the state’s food supply and security.

Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed the dates for the completion of the project during a working visit with members of the State Executive Council, the leadership and members of the Lagos state Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems led by its Commissioner, Abisola Olusanya, government officials, and journalists to the Food Logistics hub in the Ketu-Ereyun, in the Epe Division of Lagos State.

Read AlsoAnambra State’s Cultural Troupe Emerges Most Creative Cultural Troupe in Nigeria
During his visit, the Governor highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “This hub represents a pivotal step toward achieving food sufficiency and affordability for Lagosians. By reducing wastage and optimising supply chains, we aim to stabilise food prices and mitigate the impact of economic disruptions.”

The Governor also announced plans to replicate middle-level market hubs across Ajah, Agege, Oregun, and Ikorodu, similar to the pioneering initiative in Idi-Oro, Mushin that was launched last year by the governor.

These hubs will serve as distribution points connected to the Lagos Central Food Security and Logistics Park (LHP) in Epe food logistics park, ensuring seamless and efficient food supply throughout Lagos as well as bordering communities.

Prince S. J. Samuel, Executive Chairman of Origin Tech Group, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s foresight, noting, “This project is a testament to visionary leadership of His Excellency, our amiable governor and his EXCO especially under the direct supervision of the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems in Lagos state.

Despite economic challenges, we are committed to delivering this world-class facility on schedule’’. Samuel assured that the project will be delivered before the second-year anniversary of the Governor’s second term. Upon completion, Lagosians can anticipate a 50% reduction in food prices due to integrated facilities like cold and dry storage, Africa’s largest abattoir, and a jetty for streamlined goods transportation.

The facility will feature: A 14,000-capacity abattoir on 1,000 hectares of land, size of 11 football fields of dry storage for agricultural produce, A 250mm dual carriageway concrete road network for efficient logistics and a jetty to facilitate waterway transportation across Lagos.
This audacious project is poised to strengthen Lagos’ agricultural value chain, create thousands of jobs, and position the state as a leader in sustainable food systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. Governor Sanwo-Olu remarked, “We are writing our destiny with this initiative. This hub will transform Lagos’ food systems, stabilize prices, and provide Lagosians with the food sufficiency and adequacy they deserve.”

As the largest food logistics hub in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Park will serve as a benchmark for innovation in food security and infrastructure. The partnership between Lagos State and Origin Tech Group exemplifies a commitment to sustainable development and economic growth.

With its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic vision, the hub is set to solidify Lagos’ position as an economic powerhouse while addressing the critical challenges of food security in the region.

For more information on the Lagos Central Food Security Systems and Logistics Hub, kindly visit www.origingroupng.com

Anambra State’s Cultural Troupe Emerges Most Creative Cultural Troupe in Nigeria

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Anambra State’s cultural troupe has attained recognition as the most creative at the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), held in Abuja, from November 22 to 30, 2024.

The cultural festival organised by NAFEST, had the various troupes in the country in participation, with the team from Anambra, in an amazing performance and cultural skills, emerging the most creative.

This comes on the heels of the innovation and creative revolution sweeping across the Anambra state, with the just concluded Innovation Week. The event which saw the display of talents and innovations from secondary school students to tertiary institutions, were rewarded with various prizes by the government.

Read AlsoIrish Ambassador Lauds Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Investment in the Creative Economy

To further enhance digital transformation in the state, Governor Soludo’s government recently partnered with Meta, a technology company that builds digital connectivity with people and businesses, to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. With this, Anambra State aims to leverage Meta’s cutting-edge technology and expertise to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.

In a statement by Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the governor is committed to investing in digital initiatives, including the Code Anambra programme, LevelUp Anambra, and the SID Teens Digital Bootcamp which has positively impacted over 80,000 young minds.

In the area of education, Soludo affirmed “the state will continue to provide qualitative education for every child in Anambra, to enable them to succeed.”

He said twenty-two (22) secondary schools will be transformed into smart schools (with many more to follow in the new year), setting a standard for what an ideal school should be, through the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) programme.

The state has extended its free education policy up to Senior Secondary School Year 3 (SS3) and recruited an additional 3,115 teachers, increasing the number to 8,115. It has equipped 60 secondary school laboratories with the required Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) equipment. It has also increased the operational budgets for primary and secondary schools to ensure they can deliver the quality education promised, among other initiatives.

Irish Ambassador Lauds Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Investment in the Creative Economy

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Lagos, Nigeria – Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Ryan, has commended Pernod Ricard Nigeria for its investment in the country, especially in talent, innovation and creativity.

Ryan, on a courtesy visit to the Jameson Yard, Jameson Irish whiskey’s first ever creative hub at Lekki, in Lagos, on Monday, 9th December 2024 lauded Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s dedication to sustainability and responsibility while promoting conviviality.

Welcomed by Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Marketing Director, Evane Chenuet, Mr. Ryan was accompanied by Aduke Gomez, a renowned writer, and cultural collaborator. The Irish Ambassador praised the venue’s artistic appeal, deeming it ideal for cultural activities and responsible hosting that fosters conviviality.

He commended Pernod Ricard Nigeria, for its leading position in the spirits and wine industry, which has earned the company and its premium brands a loyal following among quality-conscious consumers. He noted that the serene environment at Jameson Yard caters to all demographics, reflecting the excellence and innovation the company stands for.

Aduke Gomez also expressed admiration for the ambiance and creativity of Jameson Yard, which she said depicts the high standards of the brand.

Brendan Gonouya, Jameson Brand Ambassador, guided the tour, showcasing the various facilities including a podcast studio, content creation space, co-working office, lounge, living room for movie nights, games room, bar, and a fully equipped kitchen.

The Jameson Yard offers creatives a unique experience to expand their creativity, connection, as well as have a good time.

In her closing remarks, the Marketing Director, Evane Chenuet, expressed the company’s pleasure in hosting the ambassador at the Jameson Yard, emphasizing Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to innovation.

Since its launch, Jameson Yard has been accessible for private viewings. Starting January 2025, the space will be open to the public, with bookings available through the Jameson Nigeria webpage.

12 Days Of Christmas Campaign: Aero Contractors Offers Free Return Tickets

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Lagos, Nigeria – ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign, a festive and engaging social media initiative designed to spread holiday cheer and reward loyal customers has been launched by Aero Contractors.

While the offer lasts, the airline is offering a free return economy class tickets as the grand reward for participants and lucky winners of the campaign.

As circulated in a statement by its media consultant, the campaign would run from December 13 through 24, 2024.

The statement hinted that the campaign underscored Aero Contractors’ commitment to connecting families, friends, and communities during the holidays.

The ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign invites travel enthusiasts, loyal customers, and holiday travellers to participate in fun and interactive activities on Aero Contractors’ social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter).

Read AlsoExploitation Claims: Dapper Music Threatens Legal Action Against Shallipopi

The airline said that each day would feature engaging posts such as trivia, puzzles, and challenges designed to ignite the festive spirit and encourage community participation.

It added that participants are encouraged to follow the airline’s social media pages, engage with the daily posts by liking, commenting, or sharing, and follow the specific instructions for each day’s activity.

Winners would be selected daily and announced on the respective platforms.

Exciting prizes await participants, with the grand reward of a free return economy class tickets—a perfect gift for reconnecting with loved ones or exploring new destinations this holiday season.

Commenting on the campaign, Capt. Ado Sanusi, the Managing Director, Aero Contractors, said that the airline believed in the power of togetherness, especially during the holidays.

“Our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ campaign is our way of giving back to the community that has supported us throughout the year. It’s an opportunity to engage, celebrate, and reward our customers while spreading joy and festive cheer,” he added.

This campaign targets travel enthusiasts, loyal Aero Contractors customers, and families looking to make the most of the holiday season.

Through this initiative, Aero Contractors reaffirms its dedication to safe, reliable, and efficient air travel, bringing people closer when it matters most.

Exploitation Claims: Dapper Music Threatens Legal Action Against Shallipopi

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Following allegations of financial exploitation and poor working conditions, Dapper Music & Entertainment has announced its readiness to pursue legal action against two of its artists, Crown Uzama, known as Shallipopi, and Moshood Abdulmuiz, also known as Muyeez.

As circulated in a statement on Thursday the record label denied the accusations and claimed it had operated with transparency and fairness in all its dealings with artists.

The controversy began when Shallipopi announced on his X page on Thursday that he had officially terminated his agreements with Dapper Music and its affiliate, Dvpper Digital, accusing the companies of prioritising profits over his growth and career aspirations.

“I’ve worked hard, and like anyone, I deserve to know where my money is going. Despite repeated requests, I was denied access to clear financial records. Imagine not knowing how much you’ve earned or where it’s gone. This is devastating and unacceptable,” he said.

For Muyeez, he also accused the record label of exploiting him, claiming he was a minor when he signed his contract with record label. “This contract is not only flawed but also unfair under the law. I was forced to overwork myself, with no regard for my health or well-being,” he said.

Responding to the allegation, the Dapper Music insisted that all parties, including Shallipopi and Muyeez, willingly agreed to the terms of their contracts, including a 30% management commission.

“Our contracts solely relate to recordings and opportunities worked on and provided by our team within the contract term, which is common practice in the recording industry,” the company stated.

In addition the company said, “The latest allegations are extremely disappointing, especially after Dapper Music & Entertainment and Dvpper Digital have worked to build several artists’ careers that have dominated the Nigerian and global charts.

14 Suspected Cultists Arrested in Benue

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Police operatives in Makurdi, the state capital of Benue have arrested fourteen (14) persons based on their involvement in cult activities.

While speaking with the newsmen, the Commissioner of Police CP Steve Yabnet said that investigators sent to the murder scene to conduct an investigation had uncovered the suspects’ hiding places.

As per Yabnet, detectives were quickly sent to the area to conduct an investigation after police at Makurdi’s “C” Police Division received word that a young man’s body had been discovered in North Bank Makurdi.

“In the course of the investigation, it was revealed that the death of the suspect was as a result of a rival cult clash. Information was also gathered about their hideouts in the area,” he said.

He added that the suspected cultists were arrested at Avis Hotel and other areas of North-Bank with illicit drugs recovered from their various hideouts.

“The following exhibits were recovered from them; two locally made pistols, three live cartridges, leaves suspected to be marijuana, six mobile phones, cash sum of N23,670.00, one single barrel gun, three ATM cards, criminal charms, shisha smoke pot, one laptop and one graven image,” he explained.

The commissioner promised the suspects would soon be charged to court.

natnudO Foods Commissions Benin City Processing Plant, Launches natnuPreneur Scheme

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Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Limited’s subsidiary, natnudO Foods, a leading producer of high-quality animal protein, has officially commissioned its new processing plant in Benin City, Edo State.

Located in the Obayanto community, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, the commissioning ceremony, held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, marks a significant milestone for the company as it expands its operations in Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s food security and the accessibility of high-quality animal protein.

natnudO Foods Commissions Benin City Processing Plant, Launches natnuPreneur Scheme
From Left to Right – Group Managing Director, Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Ltd., Dr. Ayoola Oduntan; Edo State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Stephen Idehenre; Edo State Commissioner for Communications and Orientation, Hon. Chris Nehikhare; and Heifer National Coordinator, Dr. Lekan Tobe, during the commissioning of the company’s new processing plant in Benin City, Edo State.

The Benin City facility, one of several strategically located processing plants across Nigeria, will support natnudO’s mission of making affordable animal protein available to every Nigerian. The company already operates plants in Akinyele, Ibadan (Oyo State), Uyo (Akwa Ibom State), and Kaduna State, and the opening of this new plant underscores its commitment to providing sustainable food solutions while driving economic development in the region.

With support from Heifer International Nigeria, natnudO Foods launched the natnuPreneur Scheme, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering farmers and entrepreneurs in Edo State. This initiative is designed to provide farmers and entrepreneurs, especially women, with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to engage in poultry farming and the sale of animal protein products. The scheme consists of two key models: natnuPreneur Farmer and natnuPreneur Seller.

The natnuPreneur Farmer entrepreneurial initiative allows farmers to raise broiler and Noiler chickens under an out-grower model, which will then be bought back and processed at natnudO’s facilities. Similar to the way the program has delivered in other states, it aims to enable farmers with the knowledge, resources, and support necessary to succeed in the poultry business, creating wealth and employment opportunities in the local community across Edo State and beyond.

Read AlsoPhoto Story: Participants at the Annual SUNU Health 8km Walk on Saturday, November 9, 2024

Also, the natnuPreneur Seller model is designed to enable individuals and businesses to establish themselves in the animal protein business. This model will operate through a Hub and Spoke system, where each Hub will be equipped with solar-powered freezers to store and distribute products to four attached Spokes, which will be provided with push carts and parasols for daily sales. This model is expected to empower small businesses, improve local distribution, and increase access to affordable protein in Edo State.

Both the Hubs and Spokes systems, including the solar-powered freezers and push carts, were officially commissioned during the event.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, Group Managing Director of Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Ltd., expressed the company’s excitement about the new plant’s potential to drive both economic and social growth in Edo State. “We are excited to expand our operations into Edo State, a state with tremendous agricultural potential,” he said.

 “we believe in the power of partnership and community. Our mission is to ensure that protein is accessible to every Nigerian, and by launching the natnuPreneur scheme, we are not only increasing local production but also creating new opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs across the state.” He continued.

Hon. Chris Nehikhare, Commissioner for Communications and Orientation, who represented the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, commended the initiative for its potential to improve food security, generate employment, and contribute to the state’s economic development.

Mr. Stephen Idehenre, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, also attended the event and praised natnudO Foods for its innovative approach to addressing protein scarcity and promoting entrepreneurship.

natnudO Foods is committed to providing Nigerians with high-quality, affordable animal protein. Through its network of strategically located processing plants, natnudO aims to contribute to the country’s food security while supporting sustainable agricultural practices and economic development.

Photo Story: Participants at the Annual SUNU Health 8km Walk on Saturday, November 9, 2024

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A cross-section of Participants at the Annual SUNU Health 8km Walk and aerobic exercise in partnership with Catholic Chaplaincy, LUTH on Saturday, November 9, 2024.

A cross-section of Participants at the Annual SUNU Health 8km Walk and aerobic exercise in partnership with Catholic Chaplaincy, LUTH on Saturday, November 9, 2024.
Staff of SUNU Health Nigeria Limited.

 

Participants in action
Health walk in progress
Participants doing aerobic exercise

 

Aerobic session
A cross-section of Participants at the Annual SUNU Health 8km Walk and aerobic exercise in partnership with Catholic Chaplaincy, LUTH on Saturday, November 9, 2024.
Photo session

GHAPP Participates in FARMFATECH 2024, Advocates for Agricultural Financing and Mechanisation in Nigeria

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Abuja, Nigeria – Greener Hope Large-scale Agriculture Mechanisation Programme (GHAPP) made a significant impact at the maiden edition of the FARMFATECH 2024 EXPO, a three-day event held at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Dr. Musa Olasupo, Director of Programmes, Greener Hope Large-scale Agricultural Programme (GHAPP) and visitors to the Greener Hope Large Scale Mechanisation Programme’s stand at the FARMFATECH EXPO 2024

The event gathered prominent stakeholders from the agricultural value-chain sector to discuss pressing issues in agricultural financing and the value chain across Nigeria and Africa.

FARMFATECH 2024 featured a rich line-up of thought leadership panels and exhibitions, showcasing advancements in agricultural technology, mechanisation, and financing solutions.

Greener Hope actively participated in both discussions during the sessions as well as the exhibitions, highlighting its commitment to providing technology-driven mechanisation solutions to Nigerian farmers and the Agri-business value-chain.

A Cross-section of Origin Tech Group’s staff at the FARMFATECH EXPO 2024

Panel Discussions on Agricultural Financing and Mechanisation during the EXPO, commenced with the first panel, themed “Agricultural Financing and its Value Chain in Nigeria and Africa,” with discussants which paraded key industry leaders and decision-makers including Senator Abubakar Kyari, CON, Honourable Minister of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, General Christopher Cwabin Musa, OFR, Chief of Defence Staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Professor Benedict Okey Oramah, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, Oliver Alawuba, CEO of United Bank for Africa, while Dr. Ilyasu Gashinbaki, Vice President Finance (Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry), served as the session’s moderator.

On the panel, Dr. Musa Olasupo, Director of Programme of Greener Hope, extensively discussed the importance of access to finance in expanding mechanisation efforts. He emphasised the Greener Hope Large-scale Agriculture Mechanisation Programme (GHAP’s) relentless commitment to empowering both small holders as well as large-scale farmers, enabling them to increase productivity and address food security challenges.

‘’Agricultural mechanisation services require long-term financing options, and it must be made consistently over a period of time for us to attain the desired level of Mechanisation that can catalyse agricultural productivity in Nigeria. Government should be ready to do the heavy lifting and allow the private sector to complement her efforts. That is the logic guiding the Greener Hope Large Scale Mechanization Programme” said Dr. Olasupo.

A Cross section of Panelists and Executives of Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry at the FARMFATECH EXPO 2024.

The second panel brought together experts which included Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON),Mrs. Nonye Ayeni, Director/CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC),Mr. Kamal Abdullahi Rasheed, Executive Director and CEO, National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation (NCAM),Kamar Bakrin, Executive Secretary, National Sugar Development Council (NSDC),Mr. Oluwemimo J. Osanipin, Director General, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Sa’ad Hamidu, CEO, NIRSAL to discuss further strategies for advancing agricultural productivity and enhancing support structures for mechanisation.
Exhibition Highlights

In addition to the panel discussions, FARMFATECH 2024 also featured an extensive exhibition that showcased Greener Hope’s innovative mechanisation solutions tailored towards Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. Attendees, including policymakers, financiers, and agricultural stakeholders, were able to engage with Greener Hope representatives and explore the cutting-edge technologies that the organization offers to boost farm productivity, minimize manual labour, and address common farming challenges.

Shaping the Future of Agricultural Financing and Mechanisation
FARMFATECH 2024 was a crucial platform for Greener Hope to emphasize the role of mechanisation and innovative financing in building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem. Dr. Olasupo’s contributions to the discussions underscored Greener Hope’s leading role in meeting the financial and technological needs of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

To learn more about the GHAPP, please visit www.greenerhopeng.com

Ethiopian Airlines Named Best Overall Airline in Africa at 2025 APEX

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Ethiopian Airlines, has been recognised as the winner of the ‘Best Overall in Africa’ at the 2025 APEX Passenger Choice Awards.

A statement by the media consultant to the airline in Nigeria, said that the awards ceremony took place in Long Beach, California, on October 28, 2024.

This accolade underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ outstanding performance across multiple categories; for ‘Best Cabin Service’, ‘Best Entertainment’, ‘Best Food and Beverage’, ‘Best Seat Comfort’ and ‘Best Wi-Fi’ in Africa.

Expressing his delight, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive officer (GCEO), Ethiopian Airlines, assured that the airline was dedicated to providing an exceptional travel experience that encompasses the entire journey.

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Tasew, explained that winning the APEX Best Overall in Africa Award once again validated Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to excellence.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our entire Ethiopian family, employees, passengers, and stakeholders for this shared success,” he added.

The APEX Passenger Choice Awards, recognised as one of the airline industry’s most esteemed honours, celebrates airlines worldwide for offering superior passenger experiences.

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