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FrieslandCampina WAMCO: Langat Speaks On Revolutionizing Dairy Sector, Benefits

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FrieslandCampina WAMCO: Langat Speaks On Revolutionizing Dairy Sector, Benefits

FrieslandCampina WAMCO: Langat Speaks On Revolutionizing Dairy Sector, Benefits

 

 

Known in multinational circles as a turnaround business strategist, the Managing Director of FrieslandCampina WAMCO and Sub-Saharan Africa Cluster, Ben Langat, has maintained steam in the sustainable dairy breakthroughs that the firm has championed in more than a decade.

 

 

 

 

 

Since 2010 and still counting, FrieslandCampina WAMCO has invested over N21 billion in the Nigerian dairy sector even as the dairy giant continues to lead the transformation of the sector. Media visits to the dairy development sites of the firm across several states in the country show how the lives, living and livelihoods of thousands of farmers, their wives and children have gradually upscaled; improving their nutrition, health, earnings and access to child education, among other benefits that had eluded them for decades.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thriving on its corporate commitment of nourishing Nigerians with quality dairy products, FrieslandCampina WAMCO continues to help solve issues of malnutrition, poverty, herders and farmers’ incessant clashes, as well as promote sustainable dairy practices through intense and creative backward integration.

 

FrieslandCampina WAMCO: Langat Speaks On Revolutionizing Dairy Sector, Benefits

 

 

 

The company has created over 100,000 employment opportunities, directly and indirectly through on-farm and off-farm activities; improved the livelihood of over 12,000 smallholder dairy farmers and pastoralists, which they have organized into cooperatives and integrated them into FrieslandCampina WAMCO’s fresh milk supply chain, which provides for the local dairy farmers guaranteed incomes and market access all-year round.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FrieslandCampina WAMCO provided access to potable water for communities and livestock with the construction of 109 solar-powered boreholes and proficient extension services for value chain actors; extensive farmer2farmer training where Dutch farmers visit Nigeria to train local farmers on animal health, hygienic milking, and best global dairy practices.

 

 

 

 

Besides developing productivity and efficiency in farm management, FrieslandCampina WAMCO is the highest off-taker of fresh milk produced locally for manufacturing in Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Kwara and Ondo and have spread their footprints into northern Nigeria as champions of the nation’s march towards a prosperous and self-sufficient dairy industry.

 

 

 

 

Speaking to the media recently, the eminent dairy management maestro, Langat fielded these questions among others, thus lending credence to the impact his company has made in the dairy sector…

 

 

 

How do you sustain local content for your products?

To grow high milk-yielding cows, you have to put in extra effort like we have been doing for over 12 years. FrieslandCampina WAMCO is the highest off-taker of fresh milk produced locally from five states in Nigeria. Our Yoghurt factories are running on local milk, so we can say we have brands that are 100% Nigerian in our portfolio. However, to be able to meet the total dairy nutrition demands in a country as large as Nigeria, the local milk currently available is still very much inadequate. In my opinion, the model that the country will run will still have a reasonable mix of importation of some of the raw materials, while local content is developed over a period of time.

What impact do your dairy activities have in your host communities?

We are doing all the right things if you look at it from the employment perspective. Among the 12,000 farmers we work with, there are about 1500 Fulani women who had been at home but today, they are productive and are being paid regularly for raw milk and their families are much more prosperous than before – the farmers, their wives and children. In some cases, their mud huts have been rebuilt to brick houses and their children now go to school, which they could not afford before.

How have you dealt with the paucity of Forex and threats of insecurity?

We have had to restrict our Forex needs as much as we can and also source it by any means legal. We sometimes source from commercial banks in addition to whatever the Central Bank is able to make available. Also, some of our service providers are able to source Forex and supply us products in Naira. This invariably means that the cost of raw materials will go up and ultimately affect the retail prices of our products. On insecurity, we have regular conversations with relevant government security agencies. We will never risk the lives of our people. Where we have security challenges around areas where we operate, we pull out for the time being like the case of the Bobi Reserve in Niger State. We had to withdraw from the location due to banditry in order not to risk the lives of our people. We are now in eight states in Nigeria; we work with 23 dairy cooperatives; we collect more than 40,000 litres of milk daily at peak periods and we have best-in-class raw milk quality, one of the best in Africa.

BIO: Bernard Cheruiyot Langat joined FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria in 2017 as the Managing Director and in July 2021, his role was expanded to Sub-Saharan Africa Cluster. He has over 30 years’ experience having worked in leading multinationals – Unilever, Coca Cola Hellenic – and across African markets in Kenya, Malawi, Ghana and Nigeria, where he has consistently led businesses to accelerate performance and build long term growth strategies, and has delivered impressive results even during volatile times.

 

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Overcoming Property Ownership Fears with Adron Homes: Your Pathway to Affordable Real Estate

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Overcoming Property Ownership Fears with Adron Homes: Your Pathway to Affordable Real Estate

Overcoming Property Ownership Fears with Adron Homes: Your Pathway to Affordable Real Estate

 

Embarking on the journey to becoming a property owner can be a daunting ambition. The fears of finding reliable, secure, and affordable real estate, coupled with the worry of paying a hefty lump sum and potentially missing out on your dream home, often hold people back. However, fear not! We at Adron Homes; are strategically positioned to provide solutions to these common concerns, ensuring that your path to homeownership is smooth, secure, and affordable.

 

 

 

Many individuals hesitate to invest in property due to financial concerns, worried about the burden of a large upfront payment. We understand the financial concerns associated with property acquisition, hence our affordable payment plans which are designed to ease this burden, making your dream property within reach without compromising your financial stability.
 

 

Overcoming Property Ownership Fears with Adron Homes: Your Pathway to Affordable Real Estate

We understand that the real estate market can be unpredictable, causing concerns about the reliability and security of your investment. With over Eleven years of impact in the real estate industry, we at Adron Homes take pride in our reputation for reliability and security. With a diverse portfolio of estate locations across the country, we assure you that each property is carefully planned and developed to meet the highest standards. Your investment with us is backed by a track record of excellence, void of land disputes, land grabbers popularly known as Omo Oniles, encumbrances, and improper documentation.

Afraid of missing out on your preferred property or location due to the competitive nature of the real estate market? “We have got you covered!” Our extensive range of estate locations ensures that regardless of background, class, or occupation, everyone has options that cater to their dream. Whether you envision a home in the bustling city or a serene suburban retreat, Adron Homes has a property for you. With locations in Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Badagry, Ede Osun, Ado Ekiti, Shimawa, Atan-Ota, Ikorodu, Shagamu, Papalanto, Ijebu Ode, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Abuja, Nasarawa, Jos and Niger, you’re sure to find the perfect place to buy land.
We understand that the intricacies of the real estate process can be overwhelming, sometimes leading to uncertainty. We recognize that the real estate journey can be complex, especially for first-time buyers. Our dedicated team of realtors is committed to guiding you through every step. Whether you prefer reaching out via social media platforms or a direct call via the contact numbers on our website, Adron Homes ensures personalized assistance, making the process transparent and accessible.
With our Lemon Friday Promo, it’s time to face your fears and take that step toward homeownership with confidence. Adron Homes is your trusted partner in making property dreams a reality. Don’t let fears hold you back – enjoy 30%, 40%, and 50% discounts on any of our landed properties across the country with 36 months, 24 months, and 12 months payment plans respectively.
Becoming a property owner is a significant milestone, and Adron Homes understands the fears that may accompany this journey. Through affordable payment plans, diverse locations, property options, and unwavering reliability, we are daily driven to alleviate these concerns. Trust us at Adron Homes to be your partner in turning the dream of homeownership into a seamless and enjoyable reality.

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Let’s Join Hands To Build Nigeria, Abike Dabiri, Pelican Valley CEO Urge Diasporas

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Let's Join Hands To Build Nigeria, Abike Dabiri, Pelican Valley CEO Urge Diasporas

Let’s Join Hands To Build Nigeria, Abike Dabiri, Pelican Valley CEO Urge Diasporas

….Advocate Making Exit Plan, Investment Ties With Home Ahead Of Retirement

 

 

 

 

The Chairman/ CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa and realtor (Amb) Babatunde Adeyemo have called on Nigerians in the United Kingdom, United States and other parts of Europe to join hands with their fellow compatriots at home to build Nigeria together to greater heights.

 

 

Let's Join Hands To Build Nigeria, Abike Dabiri, Pelican Valley CEO Urge Diasporas

 

 

Hon. Abike Dabiri and Ambassador Adeyemo gave the advice separately on Sunday night while addressing the Nigerians in the UK during the Avenue Impact Business Networking and Winter Ball at the Crown Plaza Hotel, London.

While the former federal lawmaker and veteran Broadcast journalist who expressed joy because of the many diasporas making Nigeria proud at home and globally, who she urged to continue believing in themselves and supporting one another to keep Nigeria aloft for honours, Adeyemo advised them not to wait until they’ve attained the retirement age before making plans to relocate back home – japada, or establish investment ties with their fatherland.

The CEO of NIDCOM said the Commission exists among other things to serve as an ambassador and a bridge between the Nigeria diaspora and homeland to foster continuous collaboration, preserving expertise, and mobilising resources for Nigeria’s socio-economic, cultural, and political development by way of encouraging those abroad to invest at home.

According to her, there is a mortgage scheme of the Federal Government to support the diasporas on mortgage issues.

In his address, Adeyemo told the diasporas that the time to make strategic exit plans and establish investment ties with home is now that many of them are still active or have few years ahead of their retirement age so that the process of relocation would be seamless, thorough and achievable when the period beckons on them.

The CEO of Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited, a foremost Nigerian real estate firm behind the Pelican Valley Estate Laderin, Abeokuta, Pelican Valley’s Brief Estate, Pelican’s Ecostay Apartments and Pelican Valley Green Acres Farm Estate – all at Kobape – Masa corridor of Ogun State spoke on the Investment opportunities in the real estate business back home at the well attended event by Nigerian professionals and government officials, including the Chairperson of the Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri – Erewa, the Mayor of Southwark London, Michael Shitu and Mr Smart Kemiki, the Director of Dominion Forever Limited.

Adeyemo who is a multi – award winning real estate practitioner, urged diasporas to make hay while the sun still shone or better still, take a bow when the ovation is heard loud, even as he said they could venture into the real estate industry with little or no funds by starting as realtors, earn commissions and grow to be like the Pelican Valley within the next 10 years.

He, however, identified capital, due diligence, development and value adding as well as goodwill as four basic necessities to be in place for one to succeed or excel in any venture, especially the real estate industry.

The ECOWAS Youth Ambassador and an Anti – Corruption Ambassador, explained that carrying out due diligence, for example, is very critical when buying any piece of land lest one falls into the hands of scammers and have one’s fingers burnt while the goodwill is essential to a successful marketing of real estate products.

According to him, if any of the diasporas follows those four key factors with a strategic exit plan long before retirement and possible relocation to Nigeria, the better the chances of success.

“As we have, japa so we have japada syndrome…infact, to japada syndrome is even more complex than to japa…if you don’t want to eventually become a mama londona or baba londona in future…they say, Ile ni abo sinmi oko …the time to start having an investment ties with your homeland is now…don’t ever procrastinate…the ovation will soon be loud and it will be in your best interest to take a bow when the ovation is loud,” he advised.

Adeyemo recalled with pride and satisfaction that he has been practicing real estate business for over 14 years without a single dispute or court case and without running to the police for any land dispute, warning investors to be mindful when they ‘see a real estate company doing aggressive marketing,’ they should know that something is chasing such a firm.

He noted that in Pelican Valley, they don’t call their prospects, having been convinced that real estate is value driven.

He said, “If you Google “the only estate with full government approval in.Ogun state now, you will definitely see what the Ogun State government said about our Estates…not only the Ogun State government but also private individuals and investors.

“Pelican Valley Estate has 100 percent positive reviews on Google….The values we add to our projects made our client’s ROI to move up by almost 300 percent in just one year.

“We launched Pelican Brief with a paltry sum of 685 just 3 years ago, today, Pelican-Brief is #5m per plot and it will be N7.5m per plot starting from next tomorrow which is the 5th of December.

“In that Estate, we have a 500 kva electric transformer, fully energized, 5 armed security guards, Camels and peacocks for tourist attractions…..less than 50 mins drive to.the.Lagos State governors office and 15 mins from the Ogun State governors office.

“We also have Pelican Valley estate, Laderin…we introduced that estate for just 800K per plot 9 years ago but today, the plot is N 25Million and it will be N30m next tomorrow…I live in that Estate with my family presently. These are lands we bought as low as 300K per plot about ten years ago.”

Earlier in his welcome address, the CEO of Avenue Impact Limited and Convener of the event, Mr. Funso Akinwunmi appreciated Honourable Abike Dabiri-Erewa for her presence, and lauded her for the dedication to fostering stronger ties between Nigerians in the diaspora and their homeland, adding that the establishment of the NIDCOM is a testament to the Nigerian government’s dedication to leveraging the diaspora’s vast human capital and material resources.

“We extend our encouragement to the government to proactively cultivate an environment that makes Nigeria a home and an attractive destination for those contemplating travel abroad. Our beloved Nigeria holds immense potential, and fostering an environment conducive to growth and prosperity will undoubtedly serve as a magnet for Nigerians at home and abroad.

“It is our collective responsibility to engage in nation-building actively, and a critical aspect of this endeavour involves addressing key areas that influence citizens’ decisions, including the desire to travel abroad. By investing in robust infrastructure and fortifying the economy, the government can instil confidence and pride in Nigerians, making them enthusiastic about contributing to the nation’s growth and development.

“We also urge the government to seize this opportunity to prioritise initiatives that enhance the appeal of Nigeria, both for its residents and those living abroad. A thriving and welcoming Nigeria will retain its talented citizens and attract the global Nigerian diaspora, fostering a collective effort towards building a stronger and more prosperous nation,” he said.

Akinwunmi also appreciated the CEO of Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited whom he described as a distinguished expert in property investment for gracing the business networking event and sharing his useful wisdom in the real estate business within the Nigerian context.

“Your wealth of knowledge and strategic vision have undoubtedly played a crucial role in the real estate sector, and we are privileged to have you share your wisdom with us,” he said.

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Ogun CNG Buses Begin Mowe-Ibafo-Berger Operations

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Abiodun Approves Appointment Of Four New Perm. Secs

Ogun CNG Buses Begin Mowe-Ibafo-Berger Operations

 

 

 

The Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses of the Ogun State Government, tagged ‘DapoCNG Bus’ on Monday, commenced operations along the Mowe-Ibafo-Berger, Lagos axis of the state.

The buses, according to the state Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Gbenga Dairo
are to operate ahead of the introduction of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) along the axis.

They would be operating from 6 am to 9 pm from Mondays to Saturdays and 7 am to 6 pm on Sundays with bus stops at Mowe, Ibafo, Magboro, Arepo, and New Garage in Berger.

According to Mr. Dairo, transport rates on the CNG powered buses range from N200 to N400 maximum.

The commissioner said every necessary arrangement has been concluded with all the stakeholders, including transport unions and local government officials, for the smooth take-off of the scheme.

“Expectations are quite high, the services are much anticipated, and the timing of start of operations with Xmas activities at the RCCG camp much valued by commuters”

“Commuters along that axis are encouraged to patronize these buses as they are convenient, safe, and affordable with promises to give an endearing smooth experience while on the road,” Dairo said.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, while
announcing the deployment of CNG Technology and E- Mobility as a better alternative and viable means of transportation in the Gateway State with the launching on October 30, of 17 converted vehicles in the maiden scheme, said it was a cost-effective transportation system with little impact on the environment and a direct response by his administration devised to mitigate the adverse impact of fuel ‘subsidy removal’ on transport costs experienced by commuters in the state.

He said the scheme, which started along Adatan to the Ita-Oshin corridor in the Abeokuta metropolis, will be extended to other towns and cities in the state.

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