Business

ONDO 2016: History beckons on APC Governorship Candidate, Senator Ajayi Boroffice

Published

9 years ago

June 22, 2016

One of the missing factors in Nigeria’s political leadership equation, is the persisting lack of requisite experience and will on the part of the principal actors to serve the state instead of the self.Thus, we have been bedeviled by the dark-horse syndrome. The other is the internecine gambit for the plums and perquisites of office, characterized by intrigues, mischief making and sheer blackmail,sometimes using armed thugs to brow beat real and perceived political foes.Yet, a third and quite distasteful ingredient in the potpourri of power is the obscene display of ill-gotten wealth aimed at courting the voters’ favour and thereby swaying his choice, all for monetary gains. But for how long would this continue? That is the million-naira question.

Truth is, that where competent,committed,courageous and patriotic politicians emerge on the scene their path to accessing the pedestal of power is literally strewn with thistles and thorns.There is however, one concerned Nigerian well-heeled in the art and science of politics who is battle-ready to make the paradigm shift. He wants to be the exception rather than the rule. And he is none other than the two-time Senator Ajayi Boroffice, representing Akoko North Constituency,using the platform of the All Progressives Congress(APC). But he knows it is not going to be a walk in the park. As he highlighted in a recent media chat, it is sad to note that sometimes you need the money and the thugs He should know. All through his political career he has distanced himself from anything that has to do with violence or throwing money about all because he wants some fleeting political position.

As the Asiwaju of Akokoland; a dignifying position thrust upon him after the demise of Chief Rufus Giwa he has become a worthy role model to all. Indeed, he wants to be the exception rather than the rule of brigandage in politics. He did not condescend to the use of thugs or foul language when he contested and convincingly won the Senatorial seat on two occasions. Not even when he squared up against a formidable candidate such as Chief Bode Jumoke. And he is not going to do so currently.

Instead, he wants to make the difference-to leave a legacy of positively impacting on the sustainable quality of life of his people. This he has amply demonstrated by his several philanthropic gestures. Over the years, he has sponsored the sinking of bore holes in virtually all the towns and villages across the Senatorial District that he represents. In addition, he has engaged in youth and women empowerment for skills acquisition and self-reliance. To further this noble cause, he donated grinding machines, motorcycles, in addition to 100 cars and 200 tricycles to those who needed them most.

For someone much-respected for his loyalty to the party, Boroffice firmly believes in the principles of putting the larger picture above his selfish ambitions. His victory at the polls in 2011 was seen by some as riding on the popularity of Governor Mimiko, then on the platform of the Labour Party, LP. But his successes using the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN and later the APC have shown that he is constantly faithful to any cause he believes in.

For instance,when in 2012 Barrister Akeredolu clinched the party’s ticket for the gubernatorial race, ahead of him he remained in the party. Even when some politicians such as the former Deputy Governor,Ola Olanusi, and others such as Olu Agunloye, Saka Lawal, Olaiya Oni as well as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly left he stayed loyal and used his influence to win Akoko South-West added to Akoko North for the party. Such a rare form of unflinching loyalty he has also demonstrated when crisis reared its ugly head at the Senate.

Having stayed in the APC for the four years of its existence, combined with the ever-expanding political structures on ground and the aforementioned loyalty, Boroffice stands head and shoulders above the pack to clinch the coveted governorship of the APC.The other factor that stands him in good stead is his wealth of professional experience. This includes his untainted career,that has seen him as a professor of molecular biology at the premier University of Ibadan, subsequently as the Director/Science Coordinator at the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology and DG of NASDRA. Thus, all these have fully equipped him to have a holistic view and vision on how to transform Ondo from that of a purely civil service state,dependent on the hand out allocations from the Federation Account to becoming an industrial hub.

First, is the natural advantage of it being a coastal state; with the longest coastline amongst the West African countries.It has the second largest deposit of bitumen, next to Canada in the entire world and fifth largest deposit of crude oil as far as the Nigerian nation state is concerned.Other minerals found, all in commercial quantity include coal, kaolin, columbine, clay, tin, talc, quart sand, granite and limestone.

With him, investors would be interested to build state-of-the-art oil refineries. They will also assist to resuscitate ceramics factory in Okeluse and build a deep sea port at Okitipupa. This would serve as an alternative to the Lagos ports and a choice destination for importers and exporters, rather than Cotonou. With rubber, cashew and cola nut in abundance agriculture-related industries could spring up.With him in the saddle, the state could establish cocoa-based factories as the largest producer in the country. Thousands of indigenes will be employed. Lasting wealth would be created.The Internally Generated Revenue,IGR will jerk up, to put a permanent smile on the forlorn faces of the long-suffering workers currently owed months of salaries.

With the growing clamour for the diversification of the economic base from the mono-product of oil, it should be obvious that Ondo state needs an erudite, globally recognized scientist in the mold of Boroffice to turn its fortunes around. He is a man whose time has truly come. But will the good people of the Sunshine State heed the clarion call? The answer lies in the voters’ hands. They should remember that man’s destiny is guided by the choices he makes.

Business

EGC Homes Unveils Goodness and Mercy Estate, Brand Ambassador

Published

2 minutes ago

December 24, 2024

Sahara Weekly

EGC Homes Unveils Goodness and Mercy Estate, Brand Ambassador

EGC Homes, a notable player in the real estate and property development sector, has made waves in the Nigerian market with its recent announcement of the launch of Goodness and Mercy Estate in Ogun, alongside other strategic initiatives.

The company emphasized its commitment to collaborating with the government to alleviate the housing deficit in Nigeria while prioritizing the well-being of residents.

In an interview with THECONSCIENCE NG, Oladapo Jimoh, the Managing Director of EGC Homes and Properties, expressed the brand’s long-term vision to bridge the housing gap and simplify the journey to homeownership.

He stated, “Current data estimates Nigeria’s housing deficit to be around 28 million units by 2024. This figure is among the largest globally and poses significant challenges, contributing to homelessness and various social issues.”

“National statistics indicate that our country faces a pressing need for approximately 700,000 new homes each year to address this deficit. As urbanization continues, these challenges are particularly evident in major cities, where affordable housing becomes increasingly scarce, forcing many into slums and informal settlements.”

The World Bank projects that Nigeria’s urban population could exceed 200 million by 2050, highlighting a potential social crisis as the lack of affordable housing leads to the rise of slums, especially in urban areas.

“As a forward-thinking and solutions-oriented company, we are dedicated to addressing these critical housing issues in partnership with the government.”

Following its successful launch in Lagos, EGC Homes has rapidly expanded its operations, acquiring a significant land bank across the southwestern region of Nigeria and enhancing its marketing strategies to effectively connect with customers.

The firm is committed to providing Nigerians with exceptional value, peace of mind, and simplifying the processes of land acquisition and homeownership.

“Our mission is to make life easier for Nigerians while assisting the government in tackling the housing deficit.”

Recently, the company introduced its premier property, the Goodness and Mercy Estate, located in Arepo and Sagamu Interchange in Ogun State, with more projects on the horizon. Its flexible payment plans and affordable property prices aim to cater to a wide audience.

Additionally, EGC Homes has appointed Titilayo Adebayo-Omotosho as its social media brand ambassador to promote the unique offerings of EGC Homes and Properties Limited to Nigerians both at home and abroad.

In her remarks, she highlighted her commitment to the vision of EGC Homes, stating, “I believe every Nigerian deserves a decent roof over their head. This aligns perfectly with the mission of EGC Homes and Properties, which is why I chose to represent the brand, promoting its exceptional estates and home packages to Nigerians and those aspiring to own homes here.”

Business

Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys LCC Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive $500m Investments in Nigeria

Published

3 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Sahara Weekly

L-R Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners and Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC during the partnership agreement signing between Optiva Capital partners and Loft & keys LLC at Optiva's headquarters in Lagos

Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys LCC Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive $500m Investments in Nigeria

Optiva Capital Partners, Africa’s leading wealth management and retention company, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Loft & Keys LLC, a renowned real estate and investment company with dominant presence in Nigeria and the Middle East.

The ceremony which took place over the weekend at Optiva Capital’s Corporate Headquarters, aims to boost investment in Nigeria’s hospitality and healthcare sectors on the one hand, as well as provide Nigerian investors with opportunities to invest in real estate in the UAE, particularly in Dubai.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership, “With Loft & Keys’ deep understanding of the Nigerian market and established networks in the Middle East, we are poised to bring $500 million in investments into Nigeria’s hospitality and healthcare industries. These funds will be strategically spread across Lagos, Abuja (FCT), Delta, and Enugu.”

The investment in hospitality will serve as a catalyst for economic growth in Nigeria. Beyond creating employment opportunities, it will spur infrastructure development, enhance regional tourism appeal, and foster business ecosystems in Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory, Enugu, and Delta. Similarly, the healthcare focus will address critical gaps in medical infrastructure, improve access to quality care, and promote health innovation—key pillars for national development.

The partnership According to Dr Kimemia also extends to Nigerian investors seeking opportunities in the UAE. With Loft & Keys’ expertise and extensive networks in Dubai and other Middle Eastern hubs, the collaboration will unlock access to one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.
Speaking about the partnership, Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC, said “Optiva Capital Partners stands as Africa’s leading wealth retention company, a position that is firmly established and without question. This partnership with Loft & Keys will further solidify their dominance and create even greater opportunities for growth. As Dr. Jane Kimemia has rightly emphasized, Loft & Keys, with our extensive expertise in the Middle East, is a trusted and experienced partner”. We have a strong presence in the UAE and are actively expanding into Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the near future. Together with Optiva Capital Partners, we are committed to capturing significant market opportunities in these regions. I am confident that this partnership will foster substantial growth that will be mutually rewarding for both parties.

Dubai, a city widely known for its opulence and rapid development, is reportedly operating at only 30% of its projected capacity, presenting a significant growth opportunity for investors. According to industry experts, this untapped potential creates a unique window for investors to capitalize on the city’s future expansion and development.
The partnership aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 as two formidable brands, Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys are committed to leveraging their collective strengths to drive impactful investments that benefit clients and communities alike.

About Optiva Capital Partners
Optiva Capital Partners is a premier wealth management and retention firm offering bespoke solutions in four areas of specialization – investment immigration, investment advisory, insurance, and international real estate.
About Loft & Keys LLC
Loft & Keys is an internationally recognized real estate and investment company with a robust presence in Nigeria and the UAE. The firm is dedicated to connecting investors with high-value opportunities in dynamic markets.

Business

Petrol: MRS Slashes Petrol Price to N935/Litre Nationwide, Enforces compliance

Published

21 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sahara Weekly

General Buratai Urges Dangote Not To Succumb To Marketers Blackmail, Reveals Why

Petrol: MRS Slashes Petrol Price to N935/Litre Nationwide, Enforces compliance

… Nigerians praise Dangote-MRS partnership

MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, a prominent player in the Nigerian downstream oil industry, has implemented a new petrol price of N935 per litre across all its retail service stations nationwide. This follows an announcement by the President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has partnered with MRS Oil and Gas to offer petrol at N935 per litre at retail outlets, following a reduction in the ex-depot price from N970 to N899.50 per litre.

In response, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc has instructed all its outlets to implement the new price immediately, setting up a digital platform and monitoring team to ensure full compliance. The company has also called on Nigerians to report any outlets that fail to adhere to the new price structure.

“Petrol is now being sold at N935 at MRS Filling Stations nationwide. If you find any station not following this price, please report it. Call 08009447853 or email: [email protected],” the company stated in a release.

Emphasising the eco-friendly nature of its products, MRS Oil added, *“We call on all petrol station owners to join MRS Oil Nigeria Plc in improving the supply chain of our beloved country, ensuring product quality and availability in every corner of Nigeria for the benefit of all Nigerians.”*

Checks by our correspondents yesterday confirmed that the new price had been implemented at all MRS Oil and Gas retail outlets nationwide.

In Lagos, commuters were seen queuing at MRS filling stations to purchase petrol. Many expressed their gratitude to Dangote Petroleum Refinery and MRS Oil and Gas, urging other marketers to support the indigenous refinery rather than import off-spec products into the country.

Mrs. Ibukun Phillips, a commuter at the MRS station at Alapere on the Lagos Ibadan Express way, could not hide her joy as her husband filled up their car.

“I am very happy today. This is a victory for Nigeria,” she said. “The price reduction is the best gift of the season. But beyond just the reduction, we are buying standard, eco-friendly petrol at a lower rate. My husband and I have decided we will only be using MRS from now on because we are confident in the quality of the product and supporting the economy.”

Commercial bus driver Adio Ajibade described the price reduction as a great relief, especially during the festive season.

“The reduction is a great relief. It will reduce transportation costs and benefit Nigerians. God will continue to bless Alhaji Aliko Dangote,” he said.

A public affairs analyst and university lecturer, Dr. Tunde Akanni, said the collaboration between Dangote Petroleum Refinery and MRS Oil represents a significant step towards improving the affordability, quality, and sustainability of petroleum products in Nigeria.

According to Dr. Akanni, “this move will not only help ease the financial burden on Nigerians but also promote a more environmentally conscious approach to fuel consumption, benefitting both the economy and public health in the long term.”