DANGOTE GROUP, SUBSIDIARIES SHINE AT NECA’S 2024 VISIBLE IMPACT AWARDS

…Dangote Cement, Refinery win Sectoral, Groundbreaking investment awards 

In a blitz of honour, the Pan-Africa Conglomerate, Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), and its subsidiaries Dangote Cement Plc and Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals stole the show at the weekend in Lagos when they carted away excellence awards bestowed by the private sector employers’ body, Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) during its 2024 annual night of recognitions.

Dangote Group was recognised under the Visible Impact Award for Resilience & Entrepreneurship; Dangote Cement won the Sectoral Excellence Award in the Chemical and Non-Metallic Products category, while the 650,000bpd capacity world’s largest single train refinery, Dangote Refinery won the Groundbreaking Investment award.

Basking in the euphoria of the recognitions, Dangote Industries Limited’s Vice-President, Oil and Gas, Mr. Devakumar Edwin, who was on ground to receive the awards described them as reflecting the values of Dangote Group and its subsidiaries as top employers of labour showing resilience in the face of tough business operating environment.

He said the award would only spur the management of Dangote to continue in the trajectory of the fine best global best practices in business with more investments in the task of rejuvenating the nation’s economy.

In the same vein, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole and her counterpart in Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN) were recipients of the “Visible Impact in Public Service Award.”

This year’s awards, dubbed “Defying the odds”, NECA said, is geared towards promoting and encouraging best practices in Corporate Performance, People Management and Industrial Relations practices amongst employers in Nigeria.

This, it explained, is in a bid to celebrate outstanding contributions of enterprise to national development, noting that the award provided a platform for celebrating the resilience, doggedness and outstanding performance of employers in Nigeria.

In his welcome address, President of NECA, Dr. Ifeanyi Eric Okoye, noted that the award ceremony was to celebrate the excellence, resilience, innovation and unwavering commitment demonstrated by businesses across the various sectors of the Nigerian economy in 2024.

He said the Awards’ theme, “Defying the Odds,” reflected the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian enterprises that had consistently risen to the challenges posed by the dynamic and demanding local and global economic landscape.

Said he, “This annual ceremony is a testament to remarkable progress made by organisations that share our vision of a thriving private sector as the bedrock of national development. Over the years, the NECA’s Excellence Award has become a hallmark of prestige highlighting organisations that exemplify best practices in corporate governance, industrial relations and environmental sustainability.

“Our honours tonight do not only serve as a beacon of hope, and a reminder that in the face of adversities excellence is achievable, it is also an opportunity to increase visibility by highlighting their achievements and innovations to a wider audience.

“As we celebrate tonight, let us not only celebrate the achievements of the award recipients; let also celebrate all businesses here present and those that have left in the past few years and recommit ourselves to fostering innovation, inclusivity and resilience in all that we do. Together we can build a future where Nigerian enterprises thrive as global leaders.”

Also speaking, the Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, explained that the awards were a statement that, irrespective of the challenges the private sector employers have been facing “since January till now, there is time for all of us to sit down and just breathe and celebrate the resilience, doggedness, innovations your businesses were able to bring on-board and their contributions to national development”.

Oyerinde stated further: “So, we are gathered this evening to celebrate your businesses, contribution and support to NECA. We have broken away from the traditional issues of labour and employment that you know us with and are now dealing with all fundamental issues that affect your businesses either now or in the future like Environmental, Social and Governance in sustainability issues.

“We are also deepening our collaboration with CIPE moving into the realms of ethics with emphasis on doing business correctly. We are also deepening our engagements with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in the context of responsible business conduct for our members to operate responsibly within the context of the law.

“This strengthens our hands to advocate against unfavourable business regulations that see businesses as cash cows rather than agents of national development.”

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr. Shuaheeb Agoro, commended NECA for its remarkable legacy of championing enterprise, competitiveness, responsible business practices and industrial harmony describing the award as another remarkable way of motivating employers in the private sector.

Sanwo-Olu said, “This year’s theme could not to be more apt as it speaks to the determination that Nigerian employers have continued to demonstrate in overcoming challenges to sustain businesses, create jobs and drive national development. This resilience is a reflection of enduring entrepreneurial spirit that defines our great nation.”

The governor pointed out that the award inspires the culture of   best practices in corporate governance, industrial relations, environmental sustainability and responsible business conduct.”

ZENITH BANK LIGHTS UP AJOSE ADEOGUN STREET, USHERING IN THE YULETIDE SEASON

In keeping with its acclaimed annual tradition, Zenith Bank once again set the stage for the Yuletide season with the Light-Up of Ajose Adeogun Street and Roundabout, Victoria Island, Lagos on Saturday, 23 November 2024. The Light-Up ceremony was performed by the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON.

The Light-Up ceremony is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Zenith Bank. Now in its 18th year, the beautiful Christmas decoration, which transforms the entire stretch of Ajose Adeogun Street (home to Zenith Bank’s Corporate Headquarters) and Roundabout into a breathtaking yuletide wonderland, has come to be recognized as an iconic tourist attraction, bringing visitors from far and wide who visit with their families and friends to take pictures and enjoy the ambience of the street.

Speaking during the ceremony, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji said “Over the years, Zenith Bank has hosted this spectacular event, transforming the entire Ajose Adeogun Street into a breathtaking yuletide wonderland. Our beautiful and elaborate Christmas decorations have become a centre of attraction and shared on social media platforms globally. As we light up the street tonight, we celebrate the essence of Christmas and Zenith Bank’s unparalleled CSR. Our customers will always be at the centre of all that we do in Zenith Bank.” She urged everyone to imbibe the message and spirit of Christmas which is about love, kindness, generosity and respect for humanity, and thanked the Lagos State Government for creating an enabling environment for the initiative.

She also praised the efforts of Quantum Markets, who have been responsible for the annual decorations, for their expertise and creativity in putting together the lovely decorations. In her words, “I want to thank the management of Quantum Markets for all the beautiful, creative and innovative ideas they keep coming up with. Quantum Markets always make it bigger and better every year, and we are always looking forward to it.”

Zenith Bank remains committed to furthering the economic, cultural and social development of its host communities. The bank’s sustainability and CSR initiatives are hinged on the belief that today’s business performance is not all about the financial numbers – the bank believes that an institution’s social investments, contributions to inclusive economic growth and development as well as improvements in the condition of the physical environment, all constitute a balanced scorecard.

As a testament to its contributions and social investments in its host communities and the society at large, the bank was recognised as the “Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria” in the 2023 and 2024 International Banker Banking Awards and “Most Responsible Organization in Africa” at the Sustainability, Enterprise, and Responsibility (SERAS) Awards 2021.

Top 10 Places Where Smart Money Flows in Lagos Real Estate in 2024 by Dennis Isong.

Last week, my friend Chidi called me in a panic. “Bros, I just inherited ₦50 million from my extremely wealthy uncle, and my wife wants us to buy land in Banana Island!” he exclaimed. I couldn’t help but laugh. “Chidi,” I replied, “with ₦50 million, you can’t even buy a decent-sized parking space in Banana Island.” That’s the reality of Lagos real estate – a market where dreams meet practicality, and smart investors look beyond the obvious.

As Lagos continues its relentless expansion, new investment opportunities are emerging in previously overlooked areas. Let’s explore the top 10 real estate investment hotspots that promise significant returns in 2024.

1. Sangotedo
Once considered the backwoods of Lekki, Sangotedo has transformed into a real estate goldmine. With the completion of several major road networks and the presence of notable institutions like the Lagos Business School, property values here have appreciated by over 40% in the last two years. The area offers a perfect blend of residential and commercial opportunities, with land prices still reasonable enough for medium-scale investors.
2. Ikorodu North
Don’t roll your eyes just yet! Ikorodu North, particularly around Ijede Road, is experiencing unprecedented development. The ongoing road expansion project and the proposed Fourth Mainland Bridge access point have triggered a surge in property values. Early investors are already reaping rewards, with some reporting up to 60% appreciation in just 18 months.
3. Epe
The quiet transformation of Epe into a major industrial hub is perhaps Lagos’s best-kept real estate secret. With the Lekki Deep Sea Port now operational and the Dangote Refinery nearby, Epe’s real estate market is on steroids. Focus on areas around the Lekki-Epe Expressway and the new Epe Resort Road.
4. Badagry
History is repeating itself in Badagry, but this time with property values. The completion of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway project has opened up unprecedented opportunities. International investors are quietly acquiring large land parcels here, particularly around the Free Trade Zone area. The planned seaport project makes this a long-term investment goldmine.
5. Abijo GRA
Situated between Ajah and Ibeju-Lekki, Abijo GRA represents the new face of luxury suburban living in Lagos. The area benefits from excellent infrastructure and proximity to major developments along the Lekki corridor. Property values here have shown consistent appreciation, with a remarkable 35% increase in the past year alone.
6. Isheri North
This area’s transformation from a flood-prone zone to a prime real estate location is nothing short of miraculous. Improved drainage systems and the completion of several estate projects have boosted investor confidence. The proximity to both Lagos and Ogun states makes it a unique investment opportunity.
7. Bogije
Located along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, Bogije is experiencing a real estate renaissance. The area benefits from its strategic location between developed Ajah and the industrial hub of Ibeju-Lekki. Land prices here are still relatively affordable, making it attractive for both individual and institutional investors.
8. Agbowa
Don’t let the distance fool you. Agbowa is emerging as Lagos’s new industrial frontier. The state government’s focus on developing this area as an industrial hub has sparked interest from real estate investors. Early birds here stand to gain significantly as industrial development drives residential and commercial property demand.
9. Alimosho
As Lagos’s largest local government area, Alimosho continues to offer diverse real estate opportunities. The focus areas are around Ikotun-Igando and Ayobo-Ipaja axes, where improved road networks and the proposed rail line are driving property appreciation. The high population density ensures steady rental income for residential properties.
10. Ibeju-Lekki
Despite being an obvious choice, Ibeju-Lekki deserves its spot on this list. The area around the Lekki Free Trade Zone continues to appreciate, driven by industrial developments and improved infrastructure. However, smart investors are now looking at secondary locations within Ibeju-Lekki, particularly areas around Eleko Junction and Akodo.
Investment Tips:
Due diligence is crucial. Always verify land titles and obtain necessary documentation.
Consider infrastructure development plans when making investment decisions.
Long-term holds typically yield better returns in Lagos real estate.
Partner with reputable real estate professionals for guidance.
Keep an eye on government policies and development plans.

Remember Chidi? He eventually invested in two plots in Sangotedo instead of chasing the Banana Island dream. Six months later, a major tech company announced plans to build their campus nearby, and his property value jumped by 25%. Sometimes, the best investment opportunities aren’t in the most obvious places.

As Lagos continues its march toward becoming Africa’s premier megacity, these locations offer varying degrees of opportunity for different categories of investors. Whether you’re looking for quick appreciation or steady long-term growth, understanding these hotspots’ unique characteristics and growth drivers is crucial for making informed investment decisions.

The key to success in Lagos real estate remains the same: buy where development is going, not where it has been. As we navigate through 2024, these areas represent the sweet spot where opportunity meets affordability, promising significant returns for discerning investors.
Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041