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World Economic Forum Honours Temi Marcella With Young Global Leader Award

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World Economic Forum Honours Temi Marcella With Young Global Leader Award

World Economic Forum Honours Temi Marcella With Young Global Leader Award

 

 

Temi Marcella, one of Nigeria’s high-flying female investors and entrepreneurs shattering the glass ceiling and founding partner of Alcent Capital has added another feather to her cap as one of the world’s Young Global Leaders Class of 2024. The prestigious award, a vision of the World Economic Forum, WEF, was launched in 2024 as a platform to recognize exceptional and forward-thinking leaders from all walks of life and various fields who are below 40 years old.

 

World Economic Forum Honours Temi Marcella With Young Global Leader Award

 

Getting nominated for the award is not an easy feat, Marcella was selected among a group of nearly 90 changemakers who are shaping the future and accelerating positive change through their groundbreaking work. But Temi Marcella is no stranger to success. She has carved a niche for herself as one of Africa’s emerging female leaders in the investment world. With the recognition, Marcella joins a list of outstanding honorees from every corner of the world who have gone on to become Pulitzer winners, UN Goodwill Ambassadors, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies and heads of state. Notable community members include Netflix Executive Producer Peace Hyde, Vogue China’s Former Editor-in-Chief Margaret Zhang, Olympian Lewis Pugh, disability activist Sinéad Burke, Peace Activist Victor Ochen, and singer-songwriter will.i.am.

Described as an epitome of beauty and brain, Marcella has continued to be a symbol of inspiration to many young leaders in their pursuit of greatness. In its biography of Marcella, WEF describes her as “the Founding Partner of Alcent Capital. This platform channels capital into the next generation of leading technology companies with global ambitions. As a distinguished investment professional, Marcella highlights that “the dynamic landscape of 2024 demands responsive and adaptive leadership.” Continuing, the WEF said in her view “innovation is paramount to unleashing new waves of economic growth”. She is “focused on scaling platforms that unlocks the powers of entrepreneurship across global innovation ecosystems while building bridges to foster investment, trade, and collaboration on global issues.”

In her reaction to the global recognition, Marcella expressed excitement for being recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. In her words”I look forward to embarking on this transformative journey and working alongside fellow WEF leaders to build and grow innovative platforms that will drive impact at large scale.” For over two decades, the Forum for Young Global Leaders has been at the forefront of identifying and uniting the world’s most promising leaders under 40, fostering a community of exceptional individuals committed to driving positive change and supporting them in tackling the world’s most pressing problems.

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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IBB Launches Nigeria’s Second Presidential Library, Secures N17.5bn in Landmark Fundraiser

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…Babangida Commends Abdul Samad Rabiu’s Early and Sustained Commitment to Project

 

Abuja — Nigeria’s former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), on Thursday launched the country’s second presidential library—The IBB Presidential Library—during the public presentation of his memoir, A Journey in Service, in Abuja.

 

The high-profile event, held at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton, not only unveiled Babangida’s much-anticipated autobiography but also served as a major fundraising drive for the library project, raising an estimated N11.5bn to be redeemed immediately from some of Nigeria’s most prominent business and political figures.

Topping the list of donors was billionaire industrialist and philanthropist Abdul Samad Rabiu, who contributed N5bn —the largest single commitment announced at the event. He was followed by General TY Danjuma (rtd), who pledged N3bn. Both pledges are to be redeemed immediately while Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, donated N2bn at the event to be redeemed this year, with a further pledge to contribute N2bn annually over the next three years, bringing his total to N8bn. Billionaire businessman Prince Arthur Eze also supported the project with N500m.

In his remarks, General Babangida, visibly moved by the generosity of the donors, singled out Abdul Samad Rabiu for special praise, acknowledging his steadfast support from the early days of the project.
Referring to him as his son, General Babangida said that Abdul Samad has been supporting the project from the very beginning. He further said that his commitment and consistency have been critical in bringing this vision closer to reality.

The IBB Presidential Library is designed as a national institution that will serve as a repository of Nigeria’s arts, political,and military history, preserving the evolution of leadership and governance in the country for future generations especially during General Babangida’s tenure. It follows the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, which was the first of its kind in Nigeria.

The event was chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, while former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered a keynote address. It was an afternoon that brought together some of Africa’s most notable statesmen.

Present at the occasion were former Nigerian leaders General Yakubu Gowon, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (accompanied by his wife), former President Goodluck Jonathan, and former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a compelling speech, emphasizing the importance of documenting Nigeria’s leadership journey and the impact IBB had on him and Nigeria’s history.

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo provided a detailed review of Babangida’s book, which offers rare insights into the former leader’s time in power, including the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari and General TY Danjuma were represented by senior aides.

Key Pledges from the Night:
• Abdul Samad Rabiu – N5bn
• General TY Danjuma – N3bn
• Aliko Dangote – N2bn to be redeemed in 2025 (with an additional N2bn pledged annually for three years, totaling N8bn)
• Prince Arthur Eze – N500m
• Senate President Godswill Akpabio – N50m
• Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau – N20m
• Mustapha Chike Obi and Fidelity Bank – N100m and N50m respectively

While the evening showcased philanthropy at its finest, Abdul Samad Rabiu’s leading contribution stood out—not only for its size but for the consistency of his support over time.

The industrialist, known for his low-profile yet transformative philanthropy, has become a driving force in Nigeria’s development landscape. Through his Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), he has committed over $300million to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and social development across the continent.

Reflecting on his donation, Rabiu said:
“Leadership is not only about the present; it is about the legacy we build and the history we preserve. Supporting this library is an investment in Nigeria’s history and future generations.”

As the fundraising concluded, it was evident that beyond the billions pledged, the evening had cemented Abdul Samad Rabiu’s role not merely as a donor, but as a custodian of Nigeria’s history—a quiet force driving the preservation of the nation’s leadership heritage.

IBB Launches Nigeria’s Second Presidential Library, Secures N17.5bn in Landmark Fundraiser

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Nigeria’s Access to $602.95m USAID Grant in Limbo Amid Trump’s Aid Freeze

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Nigeria’s Access to $602.95m USAID Grant in Limbo Amid Trump’s Aid Freeze

Nigeria’s Access to $602.95m USAID Grant in Limbo Amid Trump’s Aid Freeze

 

Nigeria’s access to a crucial $602.95 million grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for 2025 is now under threat following a sweeping 90-day suspension of all USAID programs, implemented by US President Donald Trump.

The freeze follows an executive order signed by Trump in January 2025, shortly after his return to office. The order mandates a comprehensive review of all US foreign aid programs to assess their efficiency and alignment with American national interests.

The sudden freeze has disrupted multiple USAID-supported initiatives in Nigeria, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, governance, economic development, and national security.

Nigerian Senate Investigates Terrorism Funding Allegations

The suspension also comes as the Nigerian Senate summoned intelligence chiefs to investigate allegations made by US Congressman Perry Scott. Scott accused USAID of indirectly funding terrorist organizations, including Boko Haram.

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, raised an Order of Urgent National Security to address the claims. Intelligence officials summoned include the heads of the National Intelligence Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, Department of State Services, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

Impact on Health Sector: Funding for HIV/AIDS and Maternal Health in Jeopardy

The proposed USAID budget for 2025 allocated $368 million—nearly 89% of the total grant—to health-related initiatives. Among the programs at risk:

  • HIV/AIDS: $368 million was earmarked for Global Health Programs, with $322 million from GHP-State and $46 million from GHP-USAID.
  • Malaria and Tuberculosis: $73 million and $22 million, respectively, were dedicated to combating these diseases.
  • Maternal and Child Health: $33.25 million was allocated for maternal healthcare, with $22.5 million for family planning and reproductive health programs.
    Only $2.5 million was designated for water supply and sanitation, a critical need in Nigeria’s rural areas.

Emergency Measures by Nigerian Government

In response, the Nigerian government has approved $200 million to sustain healthcare services. The Ministry of Finance confirmed the funds will go toward vaccine procurement, antiretroviral drug distribution, and maternal health services.

Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, also revealed plans to engage 28,000 health workers who had been funded under USAID’s programs. The Federal Executive Council approved an additional N4.5 billion for the procurement of HIV treatment packs to support Nigerians living with HIV/AIDS.

Governance and Security Initiatives Face Uncertainty

Governance programs were set to receive $7.5 million under USAID, covering democracy, civil society engagement, and human rights initiatives. However, these programs are now in jeopardy as Trump’s administration reassesses its foreign policy priorities in Africa.

The aid suspension also places $7.6 million in security funding at risk, which was intended to bolster Nigeria’s anti-terrorism efforts.

Economic Development Programs Could Be Affected

USAID had allocated $39.6 million for economic growth initiatives, with $29.1 million designated for agriculture. Clean energy projects and private sector productivity were also slated to receive $5 million and $1.5 million, respectively.

Broader US Scrutiny of Foreign Aid

Between 2022 and 2024, Nigeria received $2.8 billion from USAID. However, the agency now faces heightened scrutiny after Congressman Perry’s claims that American aid funds were misused or diverted to fund terrorist organizations.

As the 90-day aid review progresses, Nigeria may be forced to rely more heavily on domestic resources or seek alternative support from the World Bank and African Development Bank. The Nigerian government, meanwhile, continues to navigate a diplomatic and economic crisis with far-reaching consequences for its development and stability.

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Dangote is committed to operational sustainability

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Dangote is committed to operational sustainability

Dangote is committed to operational sustainability

…He is a ‘global groundbreaker’, says Bandir

 

The Pan-African Conglomerate, Dangote Group has re-emphasized its commitment to sustainable practices in its operations across the nation.

 

The declaration came against the background of its partnership with the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADCCIMA) in the ongoing 2025 Kaduna International Trade.

 

Spokesperson for Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Anthony Chiejina who is the Group Chief Branding & Communication Officer while speaking with newsmen on the participation of the Group at the Fair said the company is irrevocably committed to sustainability because the well-being of the people is at the center of its operations.

 

 

He spoke just as the speakers at a Conference organized by the KADCCIMA at the fair thumbed up the investment activities of the Company across sectors and the need for government to deliberately put in placies aimed at encouraging local entrepreneur.

 

The Guest speaker at the Conference and the former Secretary to Adamawa State Government, Dr. Umar Buba Bindir, advocated for consistency in Government policies in supporting initiatives such as the establishment of Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a brand from Nigeria to blossom.

 

He described Aliko Dangote’s courage and commitment to the realization of the project in Nigeria as “a Global Groundbreaker”.

”Like I said during the presentation of my paper, government policies must be consistent in supporting local entrepreneur, local production, and value addition to businesses to take Nigeria to the next level.

 

“It is incredible for Dangote to have put up such a refinery. It is a global groundbreaker and for him to sustain his effort, and for coming across to Nigerians as someone who is dogged enough to even challenge the cartel that we know in Oil and Gas is incredible”.

 

Dr. Bindir said though Dangote refinery is in a free trade zone, it is however, a business strategy by the foremost entrepreneur who must have taken cognizance of its feasibility and realized the opportunities there.

 

Bindir, an Agricultural Engineer said Dangote has the capability to make an impact in Steel Development in the Country. According to him,  “there is no Country that has sprouted and unleashed its entrepreneurial energy in manufacturing that has not gone into Steel industry, and Dangote’s intervention in the sector would contribute to growth and development of the industry.

 

“I think he should go into the Steel industry because this Country with 250m people that require food, water, education, jobs for young people, infrastructure, export, particularly to African countries cannot be supported without a vibrant steel industry.

 

“And as someone who is well vast in industry, who can secure finances or investment in this area, and is internationally recognized in China, India and other countries where this industry is highly developed, with the doggedness and endurance that he has demonstrated in oil and gas, the cartel, and inconsistent government policies. I think it will be easier with the Steel industry.

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