Business

Utsev: Appraising the Renewed Hope Change Catalyst

Published

6 months ago

November 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Utsev: Appraising the Renewed Hope Change Catalyst

By Adeniyi Adeleke

Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, has brought a renewed sense of hope and transformation to the ministry. With his wealth of experience and expertise, Utsev is tackling the nation’s water challenges head-on, prioritising sustainable access to safe and sufficient water for all Nigerians. Under his visionary leadership, the Ministry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by innovative strategies and collaborative efforts.

Utsev’s mandate is clear: to develop and implement policies, projects, and programs that ensure sustainable access to safe and sufficient water for all Nigerians. This includes harnessing both surface and underground water resources to drive socio-economic development. To achieve this, Utsev will rely on innovative strategies and collaborative efforts, as seen in the River Basin Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (RB-SPA).

The RB-SPA plan has already yielded impressive results, promoting inclusive growth, improving market access, and driving grassroots mobilization in River Basin Areas. This approach aligns with President Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda and the Renewed Hope Mandate of the Ministry, which prioritizes food security and poverty eradication.

Utsev’s unwavering determination and commitment to transforming the twelve River Basins into viable purposes and result-oriented organs of his ministry has led to efficient service delivery, capacity building, and the implementation of various comprehensive reforms. One such ambitious and dynamic reform undertaken by Prof. Joseph is in the area of the Water for Expanded Irrigated Agricultural Programme (WEIRPRO). This innovative programme has enhanced the expansion of irrigation as well as boosted crop production with increased yields and support for livelihoods.

A pragmatic and altruistic leader, Utsev has also changed the narrative in the utilization of the River Basin systems. Through the Partnership for Expanded Irrigation Programme (PEIRPRO), the Ministry has made giant strides and peculiar inroads into the utilization of efficient technologies and cross-sectorial collaboration for sustainable national development.

All these programmes have not only changed the narratives but are clear paradigm shifts in water resources management, which targets the optimization of the utilization of the River Basins to benefit from their full potential.

Another pivotal hallmark achievement is in the area of the Clean Nigeria Campaign which seeks to eliminate open defecation across the nation. Working in collaboration with sister agencies, Utsev declared a state of emergency on open defecation. Today there is steady, consistent and positively laudable progress in achieving the 2025 target.

In a concerted and demonstrable effort towards ensuring that Nigeria becomes a prosperous country, and considering the positive impact of the sugar sector on the creation of jobs, and the national economy, with its added value in sugar sufficiency, Utsev, diligently collaborated with the National Sugar Development Council to ensure the provision of sustainable water to sugarcane farms and factories in the country, thereby giving assurance for a steady production of the commodity.

Today, the collaboration has achieved excellent rewards as major water dams and water reservoirs have been designated to ensure unhindered supply to sugarcane farms, thereby having the combined advantages of mitigating perennial flooding as well as enhancing the blue economy.

Conscious about the yearly menace and devastating effect of flooding, especially in Makurdi, Benue State, as a result of the proximity of settlers along the bank of the River Benue, and to mitigate it, Prof. Joseph initiated the construction of a Dam at Dura in Benue State, to control the overflow of water from River Katsina-Ala. Consequently, this year, contrary to various expectations and predictions, there has been a tremendous decline in the incidence of flooding in Benue State.

His visionary and pragmatic leadership has heralded outstanding breakthrough initiatives in addressing the complexities of the water challenges of the country. He has effectively addressed the debilitating problem of flooding across the country using his rich expertise and innovative initiatives which combine collaboration, foresight and foreknowledge.

His deliberate development of internationally sustainable water infrastructures and innovative technologies has heralded a system of sustainable access to clean water all year round in all parts of the country. His frequent embarks tours, visitation to project sites, interaction with stakeholders, and inspections and enforcement of projects’ timely delivery and within budget have eliminated the incidences of variations, wastages and delays in project completion accounting for the numerous projects commissioned within his tenure, as well as enhancing a system of hands-on approach which ensures transparency, accountability, and fosters a culture of excellence within the Ministry.

Professor Utsev within his short stay in office has commissioned several water projects. These projects include two hundred thousand litres corrugated surface steel water tank serviced borehole, powered by the hybrid solar inverter to supply water to seven hundred households in Dutsen Dodo Birnin-Kudu, Jigawa State, one hundred and thirty-five kilowatts capacity solar panels installed at Birnin-Kudu water works as replacement for the diesel-powered generators for both the intake and booster pumps that ensure sustainable operations of the treatment plant and distribution of safe drinking water. Also, a water bottling factory meant to provide potable water on a commercial basis for citizens of Kano in line with the partial commercialization arrangement of the Federal Government. This project has also provided jobs for youths with a projected annual turnover of over three hundred million naira.

Other projects commissioned by Professor Utsev include Kabba Bunnu, Lessel in Ushongo and Rafin Yashin Multipurpose Dam all these are to ensure the provision of water for the citizens and irrigation for farming.

His selfless dedication and exemplary service have led to a workforce that is determined to see to the success of the mandate of the ministry.

A highly educated and skilled professional, Prof. Utsev has demonstrated equanimity, resilience and the highest level of expertise in the discharge of his duties, thereby justifying the confidence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment, as he achieves remarkable hallmark milestone within a very short period. He has effectively used his capacity, competence and capability to reposition the country’s water resources and sanitation sector to an enviable, result-oriented revenue generating institution. Surely, this is his turn to turn around the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

Adeleke wrote this piece from Bodija, Ibadan.

Business

Akarigbo of Remoland Hosts Grand Royal Reception in Honour of Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing’s 50th Birthday

Published

12 hours ago

May 27, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Akarigbo of Remoland Hosts Grand Royal Reception in Honour of Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing’s 50th Birthday

In a magnificent display of royal honour and cultural pride, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, hosted a grand royal reception in celebration of the 50th birthday of Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, the Otun Akile of Remoland.

The prestigious event, held at the Sagamu residence of the Akarigbo, drew an esteemed gathering of traditional rulers, captains of industry, political dignitaries, and members of the Remo community. Together, they celebrated a man whose life has been defined by visionary leadership, a deep-rooted commitment to development, and philanthropy across Remoland and Nigeria at large.

Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, who also serves as Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, was visibly moved by the royal honour. In an emotional expression of gratitude, he described the event as a defining moment in his life.

“This goes far beyond a birthday celebration,” he said. “It is a sacred reminder of the unbreakable bond I share with my heritage, my people, and most especially, my revered father, the Akarigbo.

“I am deeply humbled by this royal gesture. To be so honoured by the custodian of our culture and tradition, His Royal Majesty, the Akarigbo, is one of the highest privileges of my life. It is a call to even greater service and sacrifice for the land that raised me. I thank Kabiyesi for his unflinching support, for his prayers, and for this unforgettable display of love. I pledge my continued loyalty and service to the Remo Kingdom and the enduring vision of unity, progress, and prosperity that he so nobly represents.”

The ceremony was rich with cultural heritage, featuring traditional music, heartfelt prayers, and powerful tributes that resonated with the values of Remoland.

In his royal address, the Akarigbo lauded Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing as “a visionary son of the soil whose legacy of service is etched in the sands of time.” He commended him for his steadfast loyalty to the throne and for being a beacon of hope and transformation within and beyond Remo.

As the golden jubilee celebration of Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, continues, the outpouring of tributes from across the nation reflects the impact of a life lived with purpose, a man who has not only built homes but has built lives, uplifted communities, and carried the light of Remoland wherever he goes.

Business

Dangote Cement wins ‘Dividend Paying Company of the Year Award’

Published

1 day ago

May 26, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Dangote Cement wins ‘Dividend Paying Company of the Year Award’

Africa’s largest cement producer, Dangote Cement has been named the Dividend Paying Company of the Year at the inaugural Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards, held weekend, in Lagos.

According to the organisers, the awards’ ceremony, themed “Capital Market as a Catalyst for Nigerian Economic Transformation,” celebrated companies making significant contributions to the country’s economic progress.

Dangote Cement was awarded the Dividend Paying Company of the Year, ahead of other nominees including Nigerian Aviation Company and Airtel Africa—recognizing its record of solid shareholder returns. The company has established a strong reputation for rewarding its shareholders with consistent and robust dividends.

Speaking on the award, Group Head, Investor Relations, Dangote Group, Temilade Aduroja, said “Our commitment to paying strong dividends reflects our robust financial performance, commitment to value creation, and dedication to delivering sustainable value to our shareholders. It reinforces trust, rewards long-term investment, and signals discipline in capital allocation.”

A review of Dangote Cement’s annual reports and accounts indicated that since 2018, the company has paid above N10 per share as dividend, increasing the payout to N16 per share and sustaining it through 2022. In 2023, the dividend rose to N20 and was later raised to N30 for the 2023 financial year.

The board for the financial year ended December 31,2024 proposed a dividend of N30 per share subject to the approval of Shareholders.

It should be noted that Dangote Cement recently emerged as the Platinum Award Winner of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and NGX Regulation Limited (NGX REGCO) Corporate Reporting Award. Organised by ICAN-NGX REGCO, the event celebrated excellence in corporate transparency and governance, with other notable winners including MTN Nigeria, Seplat Energy, Stanbic IBTC Holdings, GTCO, Zenith Bank, United Bank for Africa, and International Breweries.

According to the Corporate Reporting Award guidelines issued by ICAN-NGX REGCO, thirty listed companies were evaluated across three key categories with marks allotted for compliance. The categories and allotted marks are financial reporting with 35 percent, corporate governance allotted 30 percent and sustainability reporting allotted 35 percent. The awards were ranked in Platinum, Gold and Silver categories.

Dangote Cement is Africa’s leading cement producer with 52.0Mta capacity across Africa. A fully integrated quarry-to-customer producer, with a production capacity of 35.25Mta in its home market, Nigeria. Obajana plant in Kogi state, Nigeria, is the largest in Africa with

16.25Mta of capacity across five lines; Ibese plant in Ogun State has four cement lines with a combined installed capacity of 12Mta; Gboko plant in Benue state has 4Mta; and Okpella plant in Edo state has 3Mta. The company is building a new six million tons per annum cement plant in Itori, Ogun State.

Through recent investments, Dangote Cement has eliminated Nigeria’s dependence on imported cement and has transformed the nation into an exporter of cement and clinker, serving neighbouring countries.

Business

Brand Africa: Dangote beats MTN, DSTV, AZAM to emerge as the Most Admired African Brand

Published

1 day ago

May 26, 2025

Sahara Weekly

… Inducted into the Brand Africa Hall of Fame

… Honours Aliko Dangote with a Lifetime Achievement Award

It was another historic milestone for pan-African investor Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Industries Limited over the weekend, as they garnered three prestigious accolades at the 15th annual Brand Africa 100 awards, held at the iconic Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—the birthplace of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU).

Dangote Industries Limited was named Most Admired African Brand, following an independent, consumer-led survey conducted across more than 30 African countries. The company was also inducted into the Brand Africa Hall of Fame, becoming the first African firm to receive this distinction. The induction recognises Dangote’s transformative impact on African consumers and its influential role in shaping a positive narrative for the continent.

President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his leadership in driving impactful industrialisation, establishing a world-class African brand, and reshaping the continent’s economic future through a benchmark, homegrown enterprise.

Joining Dangote Industries in the inaugural Hall of Fame were MTN, M-Pesa, Ethiopian Airlines, and South Africa, for consistently ranking among Africa’s most admired brands over the past 5 to 15 years and for building sustainable, globally respected brands.

Reacting to the awards, Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, said the honours reflect the unwavering commitment, excellence, and innovation that define the group’s journey. He added that they are a testament to the dedication of the company’s outstanding team, partners, and stakeholders, who continue to believe in the mission to drive sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.

“We also extend our heartfelt appreciation for the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to our Founder and President, Aliko Dangote for building a purposeful world-class industrial brand that has exceptionally transformed African lives and the African narrative. This accolade celebrates not only his visionary leadership but also his tireless efforts in transforming industries, creating opportunities, and championing African enterprise on the global stage. His legacy is an inspiration to generations of entrepreneurs and leaders across Africa,” he said.

Noting that the recognition would further inspire the company to push boundaries, empower communities, and deliver meaningful value across Africa and beyond, Chiejina reaffirmed Dangote Industries’ commitment to excellence, integrity, and transformative growth.

In his keynote address, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Mr Claver Gatete, praised Aliko Dangote, the Hall of Fame inductees, and the Brand Africa laureates for advancing the African agenda. He highlighted the alignment between Brand Africa and the ECA’s mission to promote inclusive industrialisation, regional integration, and private sector-led growth. He also called for increased investment in youth-led innovation, regional value chains, and the establishment of a Pan-African Creative Innovation Fund to identify, finance, and globalise Africa’s most promising brands.

“I wish to particularly acknowledge MTN, Dangote Group, mPesa and Ethiopian Airlines for consistently maintaining their distinguished positions among the “Most Admired African Brands” category and continuing to set benchmarks in brand leadership, innovation and continental impact,” he said.

According to the organisers, the 2025 rankings reveal a stark contrast between rising African optimism and declining brand loyalty. While 68% of Africans expressed belief in the continent—up from 64% in 2024—only 11% of the Top 100 Most Admired Brands are African, marking a historic low and down from 14% in 2024. The report indicates the urgent need for homegrown brands to translate belief into consumer loyalty, and for Africans to more actively support Made-in-Africa products and enterprises.

“It is disappointing to see the sharp drop in African brands, which mirrors the ranking of non-African nations as the most influential in Africa,” says Thebe Ikalafeng, Founder and Chairman of Brand Africa. “It’s a wake-up call for Africa—and a barometer of the continent’s lagging industrialisation agenda. It’s not enough for Africans to say they believe in the continent—they must buy made-in-Africa. For that to happen, African brands must invest in R&D, continue to innovate, deliver quality, and use authenticity as a differentiator.”