FEATURES

FEATURES

Swiss building materials giant, Holcim AG has announced the sale of its Nigerian business to China’s Huaxin Cement Co. in a deal valued at $1 billion.

This transaction involves Holcim’s 83.81% stake in Lafarge Africa PLC, and it is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by Holcim on Sunday.

 

The company is divesting its stake in Lafarge Africa as part of its strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on core markets.

“Holcim has signed an agreement with Huaxin Cement Ltd to sell its entire 83.81% shareholding in Lafarge Africa PLC, at an equity value of USD 1 billion on a 100% basis.  

The transaction is expected to close in 2025, subject to customary and regulatory approvals,” the company stated.

Details of the deal 

The divestment in Nigeria aligns with Holcim’s plans to spin off and list its North American business in the US next year.

  • The company aims to capitalize on strong demand in the North American market driven by a housing shortage and regulatory pressures for sustainable construction materials.
  • The deal forms part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline its portfolio by shedding non-core assets.
  • The sale is in line with Holcim’s focus on optimizing operations and expanding in markets where demand for its products, such as roofing and energy-efficient building materials, is growing rapidly.

Previous disposals in Africa 

This sale is not Holcim’s first divestment on the continent. In 2021, Holcim closed the sale of its business in Zambia, representing a 75% stake in the company, to the Chinese cement group Huaxin for an enterprise value of USD 150 million for 100% of the company.

The deal was closed following approvals from Chinese and Zambian authorities.

Holcim’s CEO, Jan Jenisch, described the divestment as part of the company’s transformation towards becoming a leader in sustainable building solutions, enabling investments in growth opportunities, and praised Huaxin as a trusted partner suited to advancing the Zambian business.

“This divestment is another step in our transformation to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions giving us the flexibility to continue investing in attractive growth opportunities. Huaxin has been a trusted partner for many years and we see the company as an ideal owner to further develop the business in Zambia.” 

The sale of Holcim’s business in Zambia follows the divestment of the Indian Ocean cluster, which was closed at the end of October 2021. Since 2019 the company has achieved over USD 3.1 billion in divestments.

What you should know 

  • Holcim AG is a Swiss-based global leader in building materials and sustainable construction solutions.
  • The company specializes in cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building products, with a strong focus on sustainability and recycling.
  • The company has over 70,000 employees worldwide.

[Nairametrics]

Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, have deactivated 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recovered 1.2 million litres of stolen products in the Niger Delta. 
 
Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel, Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, December 1, 2024, said troops also arrested 17 suspected oil thieves, destroyed 88 cooking drums and 20 boats used for the illicit activity in four states, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta and Akwa Ibom, respectively. 
 
 
Danjuma stated that the operations which were conducted from November 25 to December 1, 2024. 
 
“Troops of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies, have increased the rhythm of the ongoing anti-illegal bunkering operations across the Niger Delta Region, with visible operational footprints,” the statement read.
 
"The operations, which were conducted from 25 November - 1 December 2024, led to the deactivation of over 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries, 88 cooking drums, and 20 boats,s, as well as the recovery of over 1.2 Million litres of stolen crude. Others included the arrest of 17 suspected oil thieves, interception of seven vehicles, discovery of six illegal connection points and destruction of five motorcycles used for perpetrating economic sabotage across the region.
 
"In Bayelsa State, at an abandoned Oando wellhead situated in Okordia Forest, Yenagoa Local Government Area (LGA), 15 illegal refining sites were deactivated with over 755,000 litres of stolen crude as well as over 53,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) recovered. Similarly, around Biseni Forest, also in Yenagoa LGA, 12 illegal refining sites with over 34,000 litres of stolen crude as well as 5,500 litres of illegally refined AGO were confiscated.
 
"In a related development in Rivers State, around Kula I, general area in Akuku-Toru LGA, troops discovered one illegal connection on 36 inch Government pipeline, with three inches hose connected on it, used as a loading point by oil thieves. This was in addition to a ground reservoir of 80 by 80 tarpaulin stocked with over 100,000 litres of stolen products recovered during the operations. 
 
"The operation was also extended to Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, where an abandoned truck ladened with 35,000 litres of stolen crude stocked in a fabricated tank and concealed with bags of sawdust was uncovered. 
 
"Relatedly, around Bakana and Buguma general area in Degema LGA, eight illegal refining sites with over 27,000 litres of stolen crude were confiscated. Three wooden boats, one fibre speed boat, several pots of different sizes, two receivers containing AGO and a local boat with over 12,000 litres of stolen were intercepted. The operation also led to the arrest of three suspected oil thieves in connection to the economic sabotage.
 
"Also in Bukuma community in Degema LGA, one illegal refining site, a reservoir with over 5,000 litres of stolen crude was dismantled. While at Imo River, eleven illegal refining sites, 88 cooking drums, 26 metal container receivers, 14 plastic tanks, eleven boats, and four pumping machines with over 42,500 litres of stolen crude were recovered, with three suspects arrested. Around Obiafu Oil Field, several vehicles were intercepted with over 5500 litres of stolen products recovered.
 
"Similarly, in Delta State, troops pursued economic saboteurs to Ugo Community in Orhionwon LGA of Edo State, where one suspected oil thief was arrested. He subsequently led troops to a bunkering site. Enroute the site, troops discovered a stationary Toyota Sequoia Jeep with Reg No Edo WWR 896 JU, loaded with sacks meant for stealing products. 
 
"Further combing of the area, led to the discovery of a storage filled with stolen crude as well as over 200 sacks filled with over 40,000 litres of stolen products. At Yeye general area in Warri South LGA, one active illegal refining site, two ovens containing substances suspected to be over 2,000 litres of illegally refined AGO, were confiscated. 
 
"Additionally, one Yamaha outboard engine with four suspected oil thieves arrested. While in Akwa Ibom, troops acting on credible intelligence, intercepted several drums of estimated to be over 5,580 litres of petroleum motor spirit at Enwang Bridge in Mbo LGA. The products were being prepared for onward smuggling to a neighbouring country.
 
“The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, while commending troops for the huge operational successes recorded, reassured that the ongoing onslaught against illegal oil bunkering would be sustained. This, he averred is aimed at securing all critical national infrastructures within the Division's Area of Responsibility.”
 
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta
Troops deactivate 56 illegal oil bunkering sanctuaries and recover 1.2 million litres of stolen crude in Niger Delta

Popular actress, comedian, and influencer, Chinonso Ukah, a.k.a. Nons Miraj, is set to launch a dating App to help singles discover genuine relationships.

This was contained in a statement issued and made available to journalists on Sunday by Nons Miraj’s Brand Manager, Becky Joe,

Joe said the Hunt Games dating App to be launched on December 4 in Lagos is designed for singles to find their perfect matches.

 

 

“At its core, this app is about bringing people closer together in a way that feels natural, exciting, and secure.

“We’re creating a space where users can meet people who truly align with their values and interests, without the superficial barriers.

“It is all about bringing singles together in a real and meaningful way. It’s set to be the ultimate go-to, for finding genuine connections.

“It is fresh, it is fun and it is here to help you find your perfect match in today’s fast-paced digital world,” the statement said.

According to Joe, the App combined cutting-edge technology with a user-friendly interface, adding that it will be available for download on both iOS and Android devices.

“Unlike traditional dating platforms, it incorporates unique features that foster authentic connections, including interest-based matching, privacy, and verified user profiles to ensure safety and transparency,” she added.

She said the App’s official launch would coincide with an exclusive event featuring live entertainment, and networking opportunities for singles and influencers alike.

Nons Miraj is the host of one of the biggest shows in Nigeria, ‘The Hunt Games Show’, which started in 2023.

Nigeria cultural tours

She took part in the Next Movie Star, Nigerian TV reality show and became the first runner-up

She began her acting career in mid-2015, starring in the Nollywood horror film Quiet and began full time acting in 2017, after gaining admission into the university.

Nons Miraj has also featured in several other Nollywood movies including, Imperfect (2019) Pandora’s Box (2020), Our Wife (2019), The Third Wheel (2021) Hustle (2021), among others.

Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru, has given workers in the state 72 hours ultimatum to resume work or face dismissal.

The governor also threatened to replace them after their dismissal from duty.

Nwifuru’s action followed a seven days warning strike embarked on by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ebonyi State wing.

Addressing newsmen on Monday in his office at the new Government House, Centenary City, Abakaliki, Nwifuru said the state government is not owing any worker.

He stated that the state government has approved N75,000 as minimum wage and has already started paying.

The NLC, Ebonyi State, had on Sunday commenced a seven days warning strike over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage in the state.

However, reacting to the strike, Nwifuru said, “If you don’t go to work, not only that I will not pay you salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours in your office.

“If I don’t see you in your office, consider yourself sacked. So far I am not guilty, I am not owing you.

“I am paying you what is supposed to be paid. And according to the agreement and the Constitution, I am not owing you. If you don’t go to work within 72 hours I will replace you.

“And I have called the state chairman of the Civil Service Commission. I have directed all the commissioners to go to their offices. All the agencies, all the departments of government must be in their office and record the people that come to work. And that is the people I will pay through table payment.

“I will pay you by the number of days you attended to your duty in your office. If you don’t want to come to work, you will forget about the state government.”

[DailyPost]

The Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Kalu, has revealed that the Federal Government made a mistake not to have carried the National Executive Council (NEC), Nigeria Governor’s Forum, and the Council of State along in its tax reform bills.

Orji Kalu who spoke on Monday in an interview with Arise Television opened up on the controversial tax reform bills, saying the bills are very progressive and would bring back fiscal federalism in Nigeria.

New Telegraph recalls that Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, the Northern Governor’s Forum, the National Economic Council, and others have openly opposed the tax reforms.

The Senator representing Abia North, had faulted the initiators of bills for not carrying key stakeholders along saying, “As I told you before, the bill is very progressive. It will bring back fiscal federalism.

“Many senators have not been briefed. I think the federal government made a mistake. The initiators of the bills would have briefed the National Economic Council, Governors’ forum”.

 

Recall tax reform bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, were sent to the National Assembly for passage since October 2024.

The bills gained momentum last week when they secured second-reading passage at the Senate.

This comes after the Northern Governor’s Forum and National Economic Council called for the bill’s withdrawal.

[newtelegraphng]

The Humanity Development and Empowerment Organisation (HDEO) has asked the federal government to pay back N12 billion borrowed by civil servants.

Speaking at the weekend in Abuja, Osita Nebolisa, outgoing national president of HEDO, also known as the Lenders Association, said the government had deducted the loans from the workers, but had failed to remit to the creditors.

Nebolisa, founder of Visa Microfinance Bank, said Dele Apanisile, the incoming president of the association, and his team should work towards resolving the issue with the office of the accountant-general of the federation (OAGF).

“One of our most pressing challenges remains the recovery of over N12 billion,” the outgoing president said as he handed over to the new executive council.

“The incoming leadership, consisting largely of experienced members from the current team, brings valuable continuity to this effort.

“To those few who may have reservations, I appeal for unified support of their strategies to retrieve these funds and prevent future losses through the IPPIS deduction system.”

Nebolisa said under his leadership, the association – made up of commercial, microfinance banks, and finance companies – provided more than N6 billion in loans to over 2,000 civil servants.

 

He added that a service level agreement (SLA) was signed in 2023 with the OAGF to provide a framework for further equitable access to credit and protect stakeholders’ interests.

Grammy-nominated singer Davido has shared how his father’s teachings on faith have profoundly influenced his life and resilience.

Speaking on a recent Rollingout podcast, Davido opened up about growing up in a Christian home where his father, a prominent businessman and church elder, instilled strong values of trust in God. 

According to him, among the lessons he learnt from his father, one stood out: never question God’s plans.

He revealed that this advice has been a cornerstone in helping him navigate life’s challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of his son, Ifeanyi. 

Davido credited his father’s wisdom for providing him the strength to endure difficult times.

The singer reflected on how his father’s words initially didn’t make sense to him, but after experiencing a series of blessings, including the birth of twins, a successful album, and Grammy nominations, he began to understand the power of faith.
 

Davido emphasised that his father’s lessons have taught him to trust in God’s plan, even in the face of adversity. 

He encouraged others to adopt a similar mindset, reminding them that God is always working in their favor.

He said: “My dad is very successful, but he’s an elder in the church. I grew up as a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. I attended a Christian college.

“I overcame a lot of challenges because of my dad. Initially, I did not understand, but now I’ve come to the realization. I was angry. Sometimes, I was like, ‘Why do bad things happen to good people?’ And my dad told me that you can’t question God.

“I was like, ‘What do you mean you can’t question God?’ And then a year later [after the death of my son, Ifeanyi], we had twins, the biggest album of my career came, and my first Grammy nominations came. Then it started to make sense. People go through different challenges, but just know that God has your back,” he said.

[TheNation]

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing the Edo North senatorial district, has expressed strong support for the financial autonomy of local governments in Nigeria.

Oshiomhole’s comments came in response to the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling that upheld the financial autonomy of local governments.

 
 

Speaking at a forum on local government autonomy organized by the House of Representatives on Monday, the former Governor of Edo State emphasized the importance of character in governance and accountability.

He highlighted the significant responsibilities of local government chairmen, given their proximity to the people, and advised them to allocate resources wisely for essential infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and other public services.

On a lighter note, Oshiomhole remarked, “It’s better to have 774 local government chairmen who are thieves than one big thief,” adding that with this every local government in Nigeria will produce one or two billionaires, rather than having just one billionaire in the state.

[Vanguard]

Princess Chineke, a Nollywood actress has joined the U.S. Army.

The former beauty queen who represented her state in the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, MBGN, pageant has traded her crown for a soldier’s uniform, making a surprising career shift.

The Nation reports that this makes her the first Nollywood actress to join the U.S. Army.

Princess once modelled for several television commercials, billboards and runways.

Princess Chineke’s decision to enlist has shocked many of her fans, who remember her for her captivating performances on screen.

Some of her works include; Battleground, Forever in Me, Last Flight to Abuja, Super Story, Papa Ajasco, Tales of Eve, Ada Mbano, To Love a Sister, Amaonyebuoneye, Give it Up, Masters at War, Give it Up, 2broken, Airline Bases, Mmeso, Royal Maid, Professor Johnbull, Ay show Skit etc.

However, the actress who was also a former Miss UNIBEN has expressed her passion for serving her adopted country.

“I love the prestige that comes with the American military,” Princess Chineke said. “As a citizen of this great country that has done so much for me, I feel it’s my turn to give back. God bless America.”

Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives, has described the conduct of local government elections in the country as “disgraceful”. 

Abbas spoke in Abuja on Monday at the national dialogue on local government and constitution amendment.

Represented by Benjamin Kalu, his deputy, Abbas said local governments, being the closest to the people, have a vital role in delivering services, promoting community development, and ensuring citizens’ voices are heard at all levels of governance.

Abbas said for local governments to function effectively, they must have a certain level of autonomy that enables them to respond promptly and appropriately to the specific needs of their communities.

 

“One of the most pressing issues we must deal with is the poor quality of elections into local government councils across our states,” he said.

“This situation not only undermines the very essence of democracy but also raises serious concerns about the integrity and functionality of our local governance structures.

“When elections are characterised by a lack of competitiveness — wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions — it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles.

 

“This scenario is not merely an embarrassment, it poses a significant threat to our democracy. It fosters an environment where undesirable elements infiltrate these councils, often lacking the necessary capacity and vision to govern effectively.

“Consequently, local governments have become mere appendages of state governments or pawns in the hands of so-called godfathers who manipulate political outcomes for their gain.

“The recent supreme court judgment mandating the conduct of elections into the councils and direct disbursement of funds to them has provided a significant legal framework that supports the autonomy and functionality of local governments across the country.

“This landmark decision is a testament to our collective commitment to uphold democratic principles at all levels of governance.

 

“However, while we celebrate these advancements, we must also acknowledge that the need for comprehensive reform has never been more urgent as some of the nagging issues persist.

“Importantly, we must confront the disgraceful and poor conduct elections into the councils. We must find a way of instilling transparency, fairness and openness in the conduct of elections in local governments. Doing this would require the understanding and collaborative efforts of the State governors and houses of assembly.

“We must find a way of convincing them that a strengthened local government system would relieve the States of unnecessary burdens and lead to grassroots development.”

Abbas said constitutional reforms are essential to addressing the challenges facing the local governments.

 

The speaker said the advocacy for “greater financial autonomy” for local governments must continue to ensure that they get adequate funding directly from federal allocations without excessive state control.

He said inadequate funding remains one of the most significant obstacles to local government administration, noting that they operate on budgets that are “insufficient to meet their responsibilities”.

 

“This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation. As a result, many communities continue to suffer from poor living conditions and lack access to basic amenities,” he said.

Abbas said more mechanisms must be explored to empower local governments with decision-making authority over their affairs.

 

Over the years, the conduct of local government elections by various state independent electoral commissions (SIECs) has been fraught with controversies, as ruling parties in the states often dominate the polls, winning almost all available seats.

In 2020, Mike Igini, resident electoral commissioner of Akwa Ibom state at the time, said local government elections in Nigeria are “nothing but organised crime”.

 

“Local government elections are nothing but organised crime. They should not be calling them elections at all. They are nothing but coronation ceremonies that we have across Nigeria,” he said.

In March, Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, proposed that SIECs should be scrapped.

Fagbemi recommended that the powers of SIECs should be transferred to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

[TheCable]