Business

Buratai on the Ground in Lusaka as Africa’s Diplomats Rally for Change

Published

7 months ago

October 6, 2025

Buratai on the Ground in Lusaka as Africa’s Diplomats Rally for Change

LUSAKA — In a powerful show of continental unity and vision, the League of African Ambassadors (LAA) is set to officially launch in Lusaka, Zambia, promising to become a game-changer in Africa’s socio-political and economic diplomacy.

On the evening of October 5th, 2025, distinguished members of the LAA, led by Ambassador Ominyi Nwanne, the Interim President of the League of African Ambassadors (LAA), the immediate past Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and Zambian Special Envoy Ambassador Lazarus Kapambwe, held an exclusive briefing and dinner at Pamodzi Hotel, outlining plans for the historic event.

Among the distinguished guests was the Board of Trustees member representing West Africa and former Nigerian Army Chief, His Excellency Ambassador Lt. General T.Y. Buratai, who is currently on an on-ground assessment mission ahead of the launch.

Buratai’s Message of Unity and Vision for Africa

General Buratai commended the Zambian President, His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema, for his progressive leadership of Zambia and Africa. He appreciated the Zambian President for graciously taking over the hosting of the LAA and its grand launch scheduled for October 14 and 15, 2025.

Reflecting on Africa’s liberation movements in the 19th and 20th centuries, Buratai recalled the immense contributions of Zambia’s founding father, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, of blessed memory. “Kenneth Kaunda will always be remembered for his unwavering commitment to Pan-Africanism and liberation. He was a champion of peace, unity, and reconciliation — a man of profound humility and personal integrity,” Buratai said.

He urged the League to continue from where Africa’s founding fathers stopped, stressing that the issues of security, development, and progress remain elusive across the continent. With the birth of the LAA, Buratai called for a new era of robust, progressive, and pragmatic diplomacy to tackle Africa’s myriad challenges.

The former Army Chief also commended the interim president, the chairman and vice chairman of the local organising committee, and all members for their vision, solidarity, commitment, and sacrifices toward ensuring the success of the launch.

Buratai was accompanied by his close friend, His Royal Majesty, Oba Alhaji (Dr.) Hameed Oyelude Makama, Tegbosun III, the Olowu of Owu-Kuta Kingdom, a distinguished and influential monarch from Osun State, Nigeria.

A Call to Action for Africa

In a stirring statement, Deputy Spokesperson Ambassador John J. Usanga urged all African stakeholders to “join the League, lend your voice, and shape Africa’s future together. History will judge us not by our hesitations, but by the actions we take today.”

Zanaco: A Strategic Partner in Economic Diplomacy

Ahead of the launch, the LAA planning committee made a courtesy visit to Zanaco headquarters in downtown Lusaka, where CEO Ms. Mukwandi Chibesakunda hailed the League as a vital partner in advancing Africa’s economic diplomacy.

“The knowledge and experience I see in this room is immense,” she said, noting that the LAA complements existing government initiatives and can catalyze long-term continental growth.

The LAA, a non-profit and non-political continental body comprising retired and serving envoys, models itself after the Council of American Ambassadors in the United States and the European Council on Foreign Relations. Its inaugural launch, scheduled for October 14th, will host delegates from across Africa and beyond.

Ambassador Sylvester Mundanda, the LAA’s administrative head, added, “Zanaco’s pan-African reach and credibility make it the perfect partner as we pursue economic diplomacy. Their commitment to sustainability, financial growth, and social development aligns seamlessly with our vision for Africa Rising.”

Building on Experience, Recycling Wisdom

Ambassador Kapambwe emphasized the League’s mission: “Recycling wisdom and experience earned at a huge cost is invaluable. If we can recycle plastic, why not recycle the knowledge and expertise of Africa’s ambassadors?”

The Lusaka launch promises to set the stage for an enduring legacy, ensuring that Africa’s diplomatic experience is preserved, shared, and leveraged for the continent’s development.

Interim President Ominyi Nwanne, Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, and other key stakeholders were recognized for their pivotal roles in making this historic event possible.

With Zambia’s central location, peaceful democratic credentials, and growing reputation as a hub for regional diplomacy, the LAA’s continental launch is poised to become a defining moment for Africa’s collective vision and ambition.

Africa Rising: The Journey Begins

As the countdown to October 14th continues, one message resonates across the continent: Africa’s future is a shared responsibility — and the League of African Ambassadors is ready to lead by example.

Related Topics:Ambassador Buratai Featured

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Business

ADVAN Wins Global Honour at WFA Awards for “Project Freedom” Initiative

Published

1 day ago

April 25, 2026

Sahara Weekly

ADVAN Earns Global Recognition As WFA President’s Award Winner For “Project Freedom”

The Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) has been recognised on the global stage as a recipient of the prestigious WFA President’s Award, presented by the World Federation of Advertisers during its Global Marketer Week in Stockholm. The recognition places ADVAN among a select group of leading industry associations worldwide acknowledged for driving meaningful impact in marketing and society.

The WFA President’s Awards, established in 2010, celebrate national industry associations whose initiatives advance the marketer’s agenda and contribute to positive change. This year’s honours were awarded following a rigorous selection process involving 38 submissions from associations across the WFA’s global network, with winners chosen for their measurable impact and potential for replication across markets.

ADVAN’s recognition comes through its advocacy initiative, Project Freedom, a bold and strategic effort focused on addressing the challenges of stifling, non–data-driven regulations affecting businesses in Nigeria and across Africa. The initiative underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking while championing the constitutional right to freedom of commerce.

Through Project Freedom, ADVAN has taken a proactive leadership role in engaging key stakeholders and shaping conversations around fair, balanced, and transparent regulation. The initiative reflects a shift toward constructive dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that regulatory frameworks support innovation, protect consumer interests, and enable sustainable business growth.

By earning this global recognition, ADVAN reinforces the growing influence of African marketing institutions in shaping international discourse. Its work highlights how local advocacy, when rooted in data and guided by clear principles, can deliver impact not just within national borders but across the global marketing ecosystem.

The award also affirms ADVAN’s commitment to strengthening self-regulation within the industry, fostering accountability, and promoting standards that align with global best practices while remaining relevant to local realities.

As the marketing landscape continues to evolve, ADVAN’s recognition by the World Federation of Advertisers signals a strong endorsement of its leadership and vision. It positions the association as a key voice in advancing responsible marketing, advocating for enabling policies, and ensuring that businesses can operate in an environment that supports both innovation and economic freedom.

Business

PUBLIC NOTICE*: Revalidation of UNIPGC Organizational Status

Published

2 days ago

April 24, 2026

Sahara Weekly

***PUBLIC NOTICE*: Revalidation of UNIPGC Organizational Status**

To prevent any misunderstanding regarding our affiliation with the United Nations, we hereby provide a formal clarification on the status and identity of the United International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC), formerly known as IPGC.

UNIPGC is an independent Civil Society Organization and Non-Governmental Organization with continental chapters registered in the United States, Germany, Canada, and several countries across Africa. The organization is committed to promoting the values and principles of the United Nations, particularly in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), as well as advocating for good governance globally.

In furtherance of its mandate, UNIPGC has established partnerships with reputable diplomatic civil society organizations, including the United Nations Association of Nigeria and the United Nations Association of Ghana. These collaborations are aimed at strengthening its engagement with initiatives aligned with United Nations ideals.

Additionally, UNIPGC has entered into diplomatic relations with the International Organization for Economic Development (IOED), an Intergovernmental Organization (IGO), to enhance its capacity for international cooperation and diplomatic engagement.

We wish to clearly state that UNIPGC is **not** an entity, agency, or organ of the United Nations.

Members of the public and media practitioners are respectfully advised to refer to the organization by its full and correct name: **United International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC)**, and not as the United Nations.

Thank you.

Business

Laffmattazz Announces Strategic Partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for 2026 International Tour

Published

2 days ago

April 24, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Laffmattazz Announces Strategic Partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for 2026 International Tour

Laffmattazz, one of Nigeria’s foremost comedy and live entertainment brands, is pleased to announce its official partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited for the highly anticipated Laffmattazz 2026 International Tour, themed “Next Chapter: A New Season of Laughter.”

Now in its 15th year, Laffmattazz—the brainchild of renowned Nigerian comedian Gbenga Adeyinka (Gbenga Adeyinka 1st)—has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its seamless fusion of comedy, music, and live stage performances.

The 2026 tour, which kicked off on Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026 at the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey. Building on over a decade of success across Nigeria, this year’s edition signals a bold expansion into the international market, with a multi-city run in Canada, alongside major stops in Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

This strategic partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited underscores a shared commitment to excellence and innovation. It is also aligned with FirstBank’s First@Arts initiative—a significant and ongoing program dedicated to supporting the creative arts, entertainment, and cultural sectors. Through this initiative, FirstBank provides financing, advisory services, and actively fosters a sustainable value chain for artists and creative entrepreneurs, while supporting key industry platforms such as the Nigerian Entertainment Conference.

Speaking on the collaboration, the Laffmattazz team stated:

“We are delighted to welcome First Bank of Nigeria Limited as a strategic partner for the Laffmattazz 2026 International Tour. As we mark 15 remarkable years of Laffmattazz, this partnership reinforces our vision to take premium Nigerian entertainment beyond borders, while delivering even bigger, better, and more memorable experiences for our audiences.”

As a key partner, First Bank will enrich the tour through innovative customer engagement initiatives, experiential activations, and exclusive fan experiences across all tour locations.

With its distinctive blend of humor, culture, and live entertainment, the Laffmattazz 2026 Tour is poised to connect audiences across cities and continents, bringing laughter to thousands of fans worldwide.

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About Laffmattazz

Laffmattazz is a premier Nigerian comedy and entertainment brand, now in its 15th year, renowned for its vibrant live shows and nationwide tours. Founded by Gbenga Adeyinka 1st, the brand continues to deliver high-quality experiences that celebrate creativity, culture, and laughter.

About First Bank of Nigeria Limited

First Bank of Nigeria Limited is Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, widely respected for its legacy of trust, innovation, and customer-centric financial solutions that support economic growth and development. Through its First@Arts initiative, the Bank continues to play a pivotal role in empowering the creative industry and driving sustainable growth across the sector.