Business
Guinness in debt mess as officials of Ikpoba Okha LGA, Edo state Blocks company’s entry over unpaid fees
Operations at Guinness Nigeria Benin plant has been paralysed by officials of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, LGA of Edo State, who mounted a blockade at the entrance to the brewery compound over unpaid fees. The blockade stalled exit and entry into the premises for a few hours. The blokade was led by Mrs. Itohan Ogbeide,Chairman, Ikpoba-Okha LGA, who claimed that Guinness Nigeria have been obstructing the local government from collection of fees from third party logistics companies engaged in the provision of haulage services.
Mr. Kingsley Imade, the Plant Manager at the Brewery later held a meeting with Mrs. Ogbeide, following which the blockade was lifted and operations at the Brewery resumed. Before departing the brewery, Mrs. Ogbeide however issued an ultimatum to Guinness Nigeria to comply with her directive on or before Wednesday, 29 July 2015, or face further disruptions to its business operations.
Responding, Sesan Sobowale, Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, said: “We are taken aback by this unlawful disruption of our activities ostensibly to blackmail the company to assume the role of an agent for revenue collection from the logistics services providers. According to him, “the blockade is also in violation of a subsisting court order restraining the local government from mounting blockades at our premises and demanding levies allegedly payable by these companies from Guinness Nigeria.”
Continuing, he stated: “Guinness Nigeria Plc is a responsible, law abiding corporate citizen and has operated its business peacefully for several decades in Benin City. While we continue to explore options for peaceful and legal resolution of this issue, we are also consulting our legal advisers to protect our business against further unlawful invasion of our business premises,” Sobowale said.
In addition, he said: the invasion of our business premises which we witnessed yesterday has become recurrent, and we have had to call the attention of the Executive Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, to this practice by Ikpoba Okha local government officials. The Comrade Governor was emphatic about the local government having no business blocking our business premises in a bid to collect third party levies.
His Excellency acknowledged Guinness Nigeria as the second largest employer of labour in Edo State, after the state government, and a major private sector contributor to internally generated revenue. “As a law abiding corporate citizen, Guinness Nigeria Plc hereby appeals to the leadership of the local government to act in compliance with applicable laws. We understandour responsibilities, and always act lawfully and with integrity in every aspect of our business.
Operations at Guinness Nigeria Benin plant has been paralysed by officials of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, LGA of Edo State, who mounted a blockade at the entrance to the brewery compound over unpaid fees. The blockade stalled exit and entry into the premises for a few hours. The blokade was led by Mrs. Itohan Ogbeide,Chairman, Ikpoba-Okha LGA, who claimed that Guinness Nigeria have been obstructing the local government from collection of fees from third party logistics companies engaged in the provision of haulage services.
Mr. Kingsley Imade, the Plant Manager at the Brewery later held a meeting with Mrs. Ogbeide, following which the blockade was lifted and operations at the Brewery resumed. Before departing the brewery, Mrs. Ogbeide however issued an ultimatum to Guinness Nigeria to comply with her directive on or before Wednesday, 29 July 2015, or face further disruptions to its business operations.
Responding, Sesan Sobowale, Corporate Relations Director, Guinness Nigeria, said: “We are taken aback by this unlawful disruption of our activities ostensibly to blackmail the company to assume the role of an agent for revenue collection from the logistics services providers. According to him, “the blockade is also in violation of a subsisting court order restraining the local government from mounting blockades at our premises and demanding levies allegedly payable by these companies from Guinness Nigeria.”
Continuing, he stated: “Guinness Nigeria Plc is a responsible, law abiding corporate citizen and has operated its business peacefully for several decades in Benin City. While we continue to explore options for peaceful and legal resolution of this issue, we are also consulting our legal advisers to protect our business against further unlawful invasion of our business premises,” Sobowale said.
In addition, he said: the invasion of our business premises which we witnessed yesterday has become recurrent, and we have had to call the attention of the Executive Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, to this practice by Ikpoba Okha local government officials. The Comrade Governor was emphatic about the local government having no business blocking our business premises in a bid to collect third party levies.
His Excellency acknowledged Guinness Nigeria as the second largest employer of labour in Edo State, after the state government, and a major private sector contributor to internally generated revenue. “As a law abiding corporate citizen, Guinness Nigeria Plc hereby appeals to the leadership of the local government to act in compliance with applicable laws. We understandour responsibilities, and always act lawfully and with integrity in every aspect of our business.
Why We Honoured AfricentOCL UK, Several Other Top Businesses
Greater London Enterprise Awards’ organizers
Sahara Weekly Reports That SME News Magazine has announced the winners of its 2023 Greater London Enterprise Awards. Africentocl Uk Ltd is one of the prestigious recipients of the honour, for its contribution to the development of the maritime sector globally. AfricentOCL UK won the ‘Best Maritime Materials and Vessel Chartering Provider’ category.
According to a statement from the organizers, the awards event is held annually to honour outstanding top businesses for their special contributions in their sectors. Now in its seventh year, SME News’ ‘Greater London Enterprise Awards’, the organizers say, has continued to recognize SMEs at the very beating heart of the corporate landscape, as they continue to put their best foot forward on a daily basis. “Within the awards programme, we get a deeper understanding of what makes Greater London so bold as we delve into the businesses and individuals who live and breathe progression, compassion, and innovation,” the statement reads.
AfricentOCL UK was bestowed with the award, according to SME News, because of its excellent leadership in service, which distinguishes it and co-awardees and make them outstanding sector leaders. AfricentOCL is a leading global physical commodities and vessels chartering brokerage company, with a strong track record of success in the maritime sector with a unique quality of extensive experience and expertise in the physical commodities trading market.
Having developed a rare knack for managing people and resources, the AfricentOCL chief executive officer, Mr. Juwon Lawal Razaq, an official member of the Forbes Business Council and global ambassador and member of the Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club in London, has made a remarkable impact on the maritime sector. With the courage and boldness of a lion, he has successfully confronted the daunting task of running one of the most strategic aspects of the maritime business.
His company, before the Greater London Enterprise Awards’ honour, has also been recognized both in Nigeria and abroad as one of the best marine companies in the world.
According to Kaven Cooper, the Greater London Enterprise Awards coordinator, “This 2023 edition of Greater London Enterprise Awards was a delight to host”, emphasizing that Africentocl Uk Ltd and other awardees were found to be “focused, determined, and soulful businesses reaching their clients and customers with pride and precision.”
“We pride ourselves on the validity of our awards and winners. The awards are given solely on merit and are awarded to commend those most deserving for their ingenuity and hard work, distinguishing them from their competitors and proving them worthy of recognition,” the organizers elucidate.
The Dotun Adesua Symposium Paves Way for Nigeria’s Creative Industry Advancement
The Dotun Adesua Symposium, an earnest endeavor to cultivate meaningful dialogue within Nigeria’s dynamic creative industry, has laid a firm groundwork upon which this vibrant sector can flourish and become a catalyst for national development.
The symposium, held in Lagos, brought together luminaries, industry professionals, and creative minds under the theme, “Nurturing Creative Talent For Nation-Building. “It served as a pivotal platform for driving conversations that are essential to the growth and prosperity of the nation.
At the heart of the symposium was the visionary mission to bridge the gap between established professionals, mentors, and the emerging generation seeking guidance. The symposium aimed to equip these budding talents with invaluable knowledge and insights while fostering stronger connections between industry leaders and the creative pioneers of tomorrow.
In his keynote address, President and Chairman, Governing Council of the National Institute of Marketing Nigeria (NIMN), Mr. Idorenyen Enang set the tone for the symposium illuminating the diversity within the creative industry, with each facet underpinned by creativity at its core.
Using a metaphorical dining table, Enang vividly illustrated how consumers often engage with creative products without fully comprehending the intricate workings of the industry. He emphasized the need for professionals to expand their horizons and deepen their knowledge.
Enang went further to underscore that the journey of nurturing creative talent commences at home, drawing parallels with the farming process. He likened the act of planting seeds to the inception of creativity, asserting that the cultivation of creative talent begins with education.
“Mentorship plays an indispensable role in guiding individuals along their creative journeys, nurturing the sparks of genius within them.” Enang firmly stated.
The symposium also featured a panel session where the President of the Association of Professional Party Planners and Event Managers of Nigeria, Funbi Akinyosoye shared her insights on the pivotal role of education in unlocking creative potential.
Akinyosoye recounted her personal journey, highlighting that formal education alone does not define one’s ability to infuse perfectionism into their work.
She encouraged young individuals to embark on creative explorations, even in seemingly minor endeavors, reinforcing the notion that education provides the platform for them to express themselves more effectively.
Veteran Comedian and Compere, Gbenga Adeyinka the 1st, brought his wealth of experience to the panel.
He shared his experiences in propelling the comedy sector in Nigeria’s southwest region, despite initial skepticism regarding his choice of location for shows.
Adeyinka emphasized his steadfast dedication to nurturing talents, which has played a pivotal role in the remarkable growth of comedy in the region. He dispelled the misconception that creativity is synonymous with chaos and underscored the importance of structure in delivering successful creative projects.
Summing up the symposium’s significance, the Convener Dotun Adesua, declared that the symposium sent a resounding message: Nurturing creative talents is not merely an individual odyssey but a crucial contribution to Nigeria’s cultural and economic development.
Adesua announced that the symposium marked the initiation of an annual tradition, poised to continue inspiring and connecting professionals with emerging talents within the creative industry, adding that subsequent events would propel Nigeria forward through the transformative power of creativity and mentorship, envisioning a brighter future for the nation’s creative landscape.
Business
Celebrate Independence Day with a Star-Studded Extravaganza at Roseview Court Hotel & Apartments!
Celebrate Independence Day with a Star-Studded Extravaganza at Roseview Court Hotel & Apartments!
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the vibrant spirit of independence takes center stage. October 1st marks a day of celebration, reflection, and unity. At Roseview Court Hotel & Apartments, we believe in commemorating this historic day in grand style. And this year, we have something truly extraordinary in store for you!
This Independence Day, come together with friends and family to celebrate Nigeria’s rich heritage, culture, and the spirit of unity. Roseview Court Hotel & Apartments is proud to host an event of this magnitude, featuring the sensational Seidu and Juwon Flavour. Get ready to groove, savor delicious cuisine, and witness a spectacular performance from the sensational duo, Seidu and Juwon Flavour.
Join us on October 1st for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration that will leave you breathless. Roseview Court Hotel & Apartments has always been known for its commitment to creating memorable experiences, and this event will be no exception.
To make the most of this Independence Day celebration, book your stay at Roseview Court Hotel & Apartments. Our luxurious rooms and apartments are designed for your comfort and relaxation, ensuring your stay is as memorable as the event itself. Be sure to ask about our special Independence Day packages when making your reservation.
- President of Ethiopia Meets Qatar's Ambassador September 26, 2023
- Eritrea: Minister Osman Saleh met with General Secretary of United Nations (UN) September 26, 2023
- Tunisia: African Development Bank (AfDB), AMEA Power, International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) launch first large-scale privately-financed solar project September 26, 2023
- Global Black Impact Summit 2023 Welcomes Aprille Ericsson-Jackson as Keynote Speaker September 26, 2023
- Jane Elliott, American Diversity Educator, to Inspire at the Global Black Impact Summit in Dubai September 26, 2023
- United States (U.S.) Department of Energy to Speak at Critical Minerals Africa 2023, Affirming Minerals Engagement in Africa September 26, 2023
- bp Confirmed as Platinum Sponsor of MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2023 September 26, 2023
- Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) secures US$300 Million Loan from the Export-Import Bank of China to boost trade finance in Africa September 26, 2023
- Algeria must open civic space and let critical voices be heard: United Nations (UN) expert September 26, 2023
- Southern Africa sets out to strengthen One Health approach September 26, 2023
You must be logged in to post a comment Login
You must log in to post a comment.