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Abiodun turns sod, commissions roads to Nigeria’s largest industrial estate

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Abiodun turns sod, commissions roads to Nigeria's largest industrial estate

Abiodun turns sod, commissions roads to Nigeria’s largest industrial estate

 …We’ll include them in the 2022 budget – Senate
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday, turned the sod for the reconstruction of the Atan-Lusada-Agbara Road, with a promise that the road will not be abandoned.
The governor also commissioned the 10.25km Lusada Junction-Igbesa-Ogun Guangdong FTZ Road, a project undertaken via a Public-Private Partnership.
At the twin-event, Chairman Senate Committee on Works, Adamu Ailero, assured the Ogun State Government that the committee would ensure that the reconstruction work on Atan -Lusada-Agbara road be included in the 2022 Appropriation Bill.
Flagging off the 19km Atan-Lusada-Agbara Road, Abiodun said the commencement of rehabilitation work on the road would impact positively the ease of doing business along the industrial corridor.
Both events were attended by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo; Chairman, Senate Committee on Works and former governor of Kebbi State, Senator Adamu Aliero; Senator representing Lagos West and Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Olamilekan Adeola; Senator Ayo Akinyelure, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and Senator Micheal Nnachi, among other dignitaries.
While saying the road will be completed in 15 months, the governor said though the road, which is part of the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway, belonged to the Federal Government, his administration decided to embark on the reconstruction of the road to give succour to the residents and industries along the axis.
Abiodun, who reiterated that his government would not develop any part of the state at the expense of another, disclosed that over 172 kilometers of the road had been constructed, while 120 kilometers had also been rehabilitated across the length and breadth of Ogun State within two years of his administration.
The governor assured that all roads leading to industrial areas and farm settlements in the state will be prioritized to boost economic growth and development.
He commended President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government for the prompt approval of the request for the transfer of the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and maintenance of Atan-Lusada-Agbara road to the Ogun state.
He, however, urged the residents along the axis to take charge of the project, disclosing that the youths in the area would be gainfully engaged during the construction of the road.
“No doubt, today’s twin event of turning of sod of Atan-Lusada-Agbara road and commissioning of the Lusada-Igbesa road is part of our administration’s commitment to providing infrastructure to continue to open up our border communities along the axis.
“It is, in fact, an assertion of our strategic and deliberate approach to repositioning all our industrial hubs in our dear state. And, no doubt, Ogun West, especially the Agbara Industrial Estate, which is one of the biggest industrial estates in Nigeria remains key to the development of Ogun State.
“In this direction, the completion of Atan-Lusada-Agbara, which is expected in the next 15 months, will go a long way towards improving the quality of life and advancement of commerce in Ogun West and other industrial hubs in Ogun state.
“And, I am very optimistic that, at completion, this Atan-Lusada-Agbara Road will not only improve Ease of Doing Business in this area but bring a wholesome development to the entire Ogun West District”, Abiodun stated.
In his remark at the event, Chairman, Senate Committee on Works, Adamu Aliero assured the Ogun State Government that the committee would ensure that the reconstruction work on Atan-Lusada-Agbara road is included in the 2022 appropriation bill.
The Senator noted that the Abiodun-led government had thought it wise to reconstruct the federal government road because of concern for the people of the state.
He described the initiative as a symbol of good governance which must be appreciated while urging the governor to ask for reimbursement from the government at the centre upon completion of the project.
“This road is a Federal Government road, because of concern you have for your people you decided to embark on the reconstruction of the road because of its economic value, not only to the state but to the country. This is what good governance is all about.
“I want to urge you to ask for reimbursement from the Federal Government upon the completion of this project. This project is much more important to Ogun State and by extension Nigeria. I appreciate you for this initiative, it is the right step in the right for the benefit of the country.
“We’ll give the necessary support to ensure that this project is included in the 2022 budget”. Aliero stated.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo, lauded the governor for taking the bold step to rehabilitate the industrial road, assuring that his ministry would continue to collaborate with the state in the areas of trade and investment.
In their respective remarks, Senator Olamilekan Adeola and former senator who represented Ogun West at the NASS, Akin Odunsi, expressed their delight at the decision to reconstruct the road after years of abandonment

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SWISSDARL FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS LIMITED: REDEFINING AFRICA’S FREIGHT FORWARDING LANDSCAPE

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SWISSDARL FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS LIMITED: REDEFINING AFRICA'S FREIGHT FORWARDING LANDSCAPE BY CHINEDU NSOFOR

SWISSDARL FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS LIMITED: REDEFINING AFRICA’S FREIGHT FORWARDING LANDSCAPE

BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

The global freight forwarding industry has witnessed a remarkable evolution, growing steadily with an estimated market size of USD 207 billion in 2023 and projected to hit USD 250 billion by 2028 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4%. This growth has been largely driven by increasing trade agreements between countries, the rise of automation, real-time data usage, artificial intelligence, and the expanding demand for ocean and air freight. While Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, South America, and Africa all play significant roles in this industry, Africa remains a region with enormous untapped potential – a gap SWISSDARL Freight and Logistics Limited is expertly positioning itself to fill.

Africa’s freight and logistics market is rapidly emerging as a key frontier, with an expected CAGR of 6% from 2023 to 2028. Despite accounting for only 3% of global trade and with merely 17% of that trade occurring within the continent, Africa presents a massive growth opportunity for logistics providers. The African Development Bank’s investment of over USD 44 billion in infrastructure over the past six years, coupled with the potential impact of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) – predicted to boost intra-African freight demand by 28% by 2030 – positions the continent for transformative change. SWISSDARL Freight and Logistics Limited is uniquely positioned to harness these growth drivers to deliver world-class freight solutions across Africa.

As a leading African-owned freight forwarding company, SWISSDARL Freight and Logistics Limited is at the heart of this exciting revolution. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, data-driven operations, and strategic partnerships, SWISSDARL provides seamless, reliable, and efficient freight and logistics solutions. The company specializes in international ocean and air freight forwarding, warehousing, customs brokerage, haulage, and supply chain management — ensuring that goods move swiftly and securely across borders and continents. SWISSDARL’s operations are backed by automation and real-time data integration, which enhance productivity, reduce operational costs, and guarantee accuracy in delivery timelines.

SWISSDARL FREIGHT AND LOGISTICS LIMITED: REDEFINING AFRICA'S FREIGHT FORWARDING LANDSCAPE
BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

More than just a logistics company, SWISSDARL Freight and Logistics Limited is a growth partner for businesses looking to navigate Africa’s complex trade environment. With the rising demand for over 2 million trucks, 100 vessels, and 250 aircraft by 2030 across Africa, SWISSDARL’s robust network, experienced personnel, and client-centric approach ensure they stay ahead of the curve. Their expertise in navigating diverse regulatory landscapes, coupled with a commitment to operational excellence, makes them the trusted choice for businesses involved in intra-African and international trade.

In a world where speed, precision, and trust define successful freight forwarding, SWISSDARL Freight and Logistics Limited stands out as an African success story shaping the future of logistics on the continent. As the African market expands, fueled by trade liberalization, infrastructure development, and technological advancements, SWISSDARL remains committed to powering Africa’s trade dreams — delivering not just goods, but also prosperity, connectivity, and growth across borders.

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EFCC RAID ON STUDENT HOSTELS IN BIDA: NAPS CONDEMNS UNLAWFUL INVASION, DEMANDS JUSTICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

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NAPS National Convention: Polytechnic Students Call for Reforms, Elect New Leaders

EFCC RAID ON STUDENT HOSTELS IN BIDA: NAPS CONDEMNS UNLAWFUL INVASION, DEMANDS JUSTICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

 

The leadership of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) strongly condemns the recent unjustified raid carried out by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on student hostels surrounding the Federal Polytechnic, Bida.

While NAPS remains unequivocally opposed to all forms of criminal activity, we firmly state that the fight against crime must never come at the expense of the rights, dignity, and safety of innocent Nigerian students.

According to verified reports reaching our secretariat, EFCC operatives stormed various student lodges without search warrants—harassing occupants, destroying personal property, and unlawfully arresting numerous students, many of whom have no known link to any alleged crime.

This blatant abuse of power is not only intolerable but constitutes a serious violation of fundamental human rights. Students are not criminals by default, and indiscriminate raids on academic environments erode trust, compromise mental well-being, and jeopardize academic pursuits.

We demand the following actions without delay:

Immediate and unconditional release of all unlawfully detained students.

Public apology and compensation for affected students whose rights were violated.

A transparent and thorough investigation into the misconduct of the EFCC operatives involved.

Structured dialogue between EFCC leadership and student representatives to set clear operational boundaries within academic institutions.

Strict adherence to constitutional rights and due process in all future enforcement activities.

NAPS reaffirms its commitment to supporting sincere efforts to combat crime and corruption in Nigeria. However, we will not remain silent while the nation’s future—its students—are unjustly profiled, harassed, or treated as criminals under the guise of anti-corruption enforcement.

We urge the EFCC, the Federal Government, and relevant human rights bodies to take immediate action to address this gross misconduct and prevent future occurrences.

An injury to one polytechnic student is an injury to all.

In unwavering solidarity,
Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, FCAI, GCNPS
National President,
National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS)

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SOSAP Founder, Bolaji Applauds Dr Akinola on New Appointment, Contributions to Maritime Industry

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SOSAP Founder, Bolaji Applauds Dr Akinola on New Appointment, Contributions to Maritime Industry

 

Comrade Israel Bolaji, a communications consultant and Founder of Skills Over Substances And Paradigm Shift Alliance (SOSAP), has congratulated esteemed media practitioner and maritime analyst, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, on his latest appointment as Media and Communication Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola.

Bolaji noted that the Marine and Blue Economy is estimated to hold a potential worth of around $296 billion and is capable of generating an annual revenue of $53.6 billion, with the potential to contribute over 7 trillion Naira annually and create approximately 40 million jobs. This sector is a critical component of Nigeria’s economy and holds significant potential for its prosperity.

He stated that the appointment was well-deserved and commended Akinola for his contributions to the maritime industry, which have spanned over a decade.

“Akinola is a seasoned media practitioner and maritime analyst who has significantly contributed to the growth of the maritime industry, and continues to do so through various initiatives, especially as an analyst, journalist and Publisher of Ships & Ports Newspaper, and CEO of Ships & Ports Communication Company.”

He added: “I firmly believe that Dr. Bolaji Akinola’s experience will facilitate smooth communication between the Ministry, the media, and other stakeholders, thereby promoting further growth and development in the maritime sector and the nation’s economy.”

Dr Akinola is widely recognised for his contributions to issues concerning port reforms, maritime safety, shipping development, and Nigeria’s Blue Economy.

SOSAP is a non-profit organisation that mentors youths, assisting them in acquiring essential technology skills and developing the right mindset while discouraging anti-social behaviours.

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