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Dangote now 65th richest person worldwide with $28bn
Nigerian business mogul, Aliko Dangote, remains the richest man in Africa. Dangote is also ranked the 65th richest man in the world. Bloomberg, in its latest Top 500 Billionaires Index released on Thursday, revealed that Dangote with a wealth of $28 billion had his wealth increased significantly after the commencement of operations of his newly built Petrochemical refinery, said to be worth over $20 billion. This new ranking is the highest the renowned entrepreneur has risen. He was previously ranked 83rd in 2022. No African is close to Dangote’s latest ranking as Johann Rupert, of South Africa is 174 on the world list, with a wealth of $13.6bn and Nicky Oppenheimer also of South Africa is number 224 on the world list with a wealth of $11.6bn. Other Africans on the list are: South Africa’s Natie Karsh, number 297 in the world with a wealth of $9.25bn, Egypt’s Nassef Sawiris on number 302 in the world with a wealth of $9.16bn, and Naguib Sawiris also of Egypt with a wealth of $7.37bn on number 407 in the world. Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos are the richest in the world with $242 billion and $210 billion respectively in their kitties while Mark Zuckerberg and Larry Ellison followed respectively with $204 billion and $185 billion on the world’s billionaires’ chart.
EFCC, NAPTIP join forces against money laundering
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede has expressed the readiness of the Commission to work closely with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, in order to tackle the scourge of Money Laundering more fiercely. He gave this indication in Abuja when the Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Bello Adamu, led the management team of the agency on a courtesy visit to Olukoyede at the corporate headquarters of the Commission. The EFCC’s boss explained that there was a strong linkage between human trafficking and money laundering and that all efforts should be made to confront and conquer the two crimes together. “There’s a very strong nexus between human trafficking and money laundering. Wherever human trafficking takes place, there will definitely be money laundering, so that makes it necessary for us to work together,” he said. While assuring NAPTIP of EFCC’s support, he pledged the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that the relationship is further strengthened for optimal outcomes, noting that NAPTIP plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economic development and good international image. “Even though there’s an existing relationship, the essence of enhanced collaboration is to strengthen it and take it to a higher level. So, we will always be willing to collaborate with you, especially in areas like joint investigation, public awareness, resource mobilization, and manpower development as you have requested. The mandate of your agency is critical to our economic development and in giving a good international reputation to our country. So we will always be willing to support and to collaborate with you,” he said. Earlier in her remark, Bello pointed out that “the key points for this visit today are to seek collaboration on joint investigation, cybercrime and online trafficking investigation because this kind of crime involves a lot of finances, intelligence sharing, and capacity building, public awareness, and resource mobilization. I need all the support that will make us succeed in this fight so as to curtail the menace of human trafficking and violence against persons to the barest minimum,” she said. She noted that NAPTIP has been working closely with the EFCC since its inception, adding that “because of that, we think it is very important to come and present ourselves again before the Executive Chairman, particularly regarding the fight against human trafficking.” She recalled that the landmark conviction her agency got in 2022, involving a transnational human trafficking syndicate operating between Nigeria and European countries was achieved through a robust collaboration with the EFCC, adding that “Previous joint efforts also yielded notable results, such as the 2021 rescue operation that liberated 500 human trafficking victims from Libya, Europe, and the Middle East, and the 2020 partnership that resulted in the arrest of several traffickers and the recovery of over N100 million illicit funds.”
Senate passes vote of confidence on Akpabio
The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, passed a Vote of Confidence on Godswill Akpabio, reiterating loyalty in his leadership as President of the red chamber. The lawmakers also passed a confidence Vote on the entire leadership of the 10th Senate. Repots claimed that the assurances of loyalty to the leadership of Akpabio by the senators followed social media reports on Wednesday, that some aggrieved senators from the North planned to impeach the Senate President. While the the Presidency and the upper chamber refuted the reports, the Senate also directed its Committee on Special Duties chaired by Shehu Kaka to investigate and reports findings within 24 hours.
Tinubu celebrates Ooni of Ife’s 50th birthday
President Bola Tinubu proudly joins Nigerians, the people and chiefs of Ile-Ife, and the global Yoruba community in commemorating the 50th birthday of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, the Ojaja II. The President notes Ooni’s extraordinary leadership and maturity since ascending the throne at 41, emphasising his significant role in preserving the rich traditions of the Yoruba people in the ancient city known as The Source. President Tinubu acknowledges Oba Ogunwusi’s deep sense of duty, wisdom, and knowledge as he fulfils his responsibilities as both the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, Osun State, and the revered spiritual leader of the Yoruba people. The President also recognises Ooni’s critical contributions as Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, where he serves as a unifying figure, a steadfast supporter of government policies, and a passionate advocate for religious tolerance, peace, and the unification of our nation. President Tinubu commends Oba Ogunwusi’s tireless advocacy for women and youth empowerment through education and entrepreneurship, underscoring his admirable philanthropy and unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need throughout Nigeria and beyond. With heartfelt optimism and support, the President pays tribute to the Ooni for exemplifying the traditional Yoruba values of humility, peace, and generosity while also honouring the dignity and integrity of his exalted throne. As the esteemed Yoruba monarch celebrates this significant milestone, President Tinubu offers his sincere prayers for the continued success and prosperity of His Imperial Majesty’s reign, which will undoubtedly benefit the people of Ife and the nation at large.
Shettima embarks on 2-day visit to Sweden
The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, will depart Abuja for Sweden on a 2-day visit to represent Nigeria in bilateral engagements with the Scandinavian nation. At the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Vice President, during the working visit, will engage in high-level bilateral talks with key government officials, including a meeting with Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and the Swedish Prime Minister. Senator Shettima will use the visit to explore opportunities for strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and Sweden in areas such as ICT, innovation, education, digitalisation, sustainable transport, mining, and agriculture. He will also meet with key stakeholders in both the Government and Private Sector. The Vice President will also meet with Norrsken, a Stockholm-based venture capital impact investor, which recently launched Norrsken22, a USD 205 million tech investment fund for Africa. Norrsken22 is a technology growth fund, backed by over 30 prominent unicorn founders, partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs building Africa’s next tech giants. The meeting with Norrsken will provide insights into how Nigerian entrepreneurs can benefit from this fund and further strengthen the technology ecosystem in Nigeria. Notably, 40% of the investments from Norrsken22 are expected to be allocated to Nigerian technology entrepreneurs. Twelve (12) Nigerian private sector companies that are doing business with Sweden are going independently as a private sector bloc. While in Sweden, VP Shettima is also expected to articulate Nigeria’s economic vision and the reforms being undertaken by the administration to create a business-friendly environment in Nigeria for investors. The myriad of opportunities that abound in Africa’s largest economy will also be showcased. The Vice President is expected back in the country on Saturday.
Peter Obi donates 32-seater bus to College of Nursing Sciences
Former Presidential Candidate of Labour Party Mr Peter Obi has donated a 32-seater bus and the sun of N5million to Grimard College of Nursing Sciences, Anyigba, Kogi State. The former Anambra State Governor made the presentation at the College premises on Wednesday. According to him; “Yesterday, I returned to Grimard College of Nursing Sciences in Anyigba, Kogi State, to honour a pledge I had earlier made three months ago. “I had, in my earlier visit to the College, donated ₦10 million to support learning. “Both the Proprietor and the Rector informed me then that their most urgent need for accreditation was a 32-seater coaster bus for the student’s clinical experience visits. “In my further discussion with the Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Adaji, he mentioned that since a brand-new bus now costs over ₦100 million, a fairly used one costing between ₦20 million and ₦30 million would suffice. “Today, I returned to the College to present a fairly used bus within the range mentioned by the Proprietor, to assist the students in their critical clinical experience assignments. “Additionally, I donated ₦5 million to cover the cost of registration, insurance, and other expenses for one year. “I extend my sincere thanks to the Proprietor, Management, and staff of the institution for their warm reception and commend their tireless efforts in contributing to the betterment of humanity through education and health apostolate. “I assured them that I would continue to support them in my modest way as we work together towards a new Nigeria that is POssible.”
Herbert Wigwe’s father denies 20% of late son’s estate
Shyngle Wigwe, father of the late Herbert Wigwe, former Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, has denied reports alleging that he sought a portion of his late son’s estate. An online publication claimed that Pastor Shyngle and other family members filed a caveat at the Probate Registry to contest the distribution of Herbert’s estate as outlined in his will. The publication reported that the caveat was filed under Pastor Shyngle’s direction, backed by an affidavit from Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, who identifies as Herbert’s cousin. This legal action was said to aim at altering the directives specified by the deceased regarding the management of his estate. Further allegations included claims that Pastor Shyngle requested 20 per cent of Herbert’s estate, a demand that allegedly contradicts the will’s stipulation to distribute his wealth solely among his children. Herbert’s will had been lodged at the Ikeja Probate Court prior to his untimely death. In a statement issued by Emeka Wigwe on behalf of the family, Pastor Shyngle refuted these claims, stating, “At no point has Pastor Shyngle Wigwe requested 20 per cent of the estate of the late Herbert Wigwe. “Neither has there been any such request by other family members. The article’s claim that this demand contradicts Herbert’s will is entirely false and misleading. “The facts regarding the estate are already publicly available in the Probate Registry, where an affidavit clearly outlines the correct details. A simple search by your reporters would have revealed this truth.” Pastor Shyngle further urged the publication to correct the inaccuracies in their report and to practice greater diligence in fact-checking future stories. He emphasised, “During this painful time of grief, our family remains united, focusing on healing and growing stronger together. “We have no intention of engaging in a public defence because there are no sides to take. The only truth is that we are navigating this immense loss and will continue to do so with dignity.” “Herbert Wigwe’s legacy as a visionary banker and entrepreneur is paramount, according to the family. He is remembered for transforming Access Bank into a national leader and for his commitment to empowering others through initiatives such as The HOW Foundation, which focused on education and healthcare. “The family concluded that these values should take precedence over “unfounded speculation.” Tragically, Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife, Chizoba, and son, lost their lives in a helicopter crash on February 9, 2024, near a border town in California, USA.
Two-storey building collapses in Lagos
A two-storey building has collapsed in the Orile-Iganmu area of Lagos. The incident occurred at about 8am on Monday. Social media footage showed the moment the building caved in as people in the vicinity scampered for safety. Nosa Okunbor, head of public affairs unit of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASEMA), said there were no casualties from the incident. “LASEMA Response Teams in Search & Rescue Operation at a self-collapsed building on Amusu Street, Baale Bus Stop, Orile Iganmu,” he said. “Incident summary: Transmitted at 08:54am; No Casualties.” Okunbor said the agency would share more information in the coming hours.