In recent months, Lagos State has witnessed an unsettling wave of house demolitions. Streets that once bustled with life now bear the scars of broken walls and shattered dreams. For many families, these were not just structures of brick and mortar; they were homes built from years of savings, sweat, and hope.

The consequences of this trend go beyond the rubble that lines our streets. It chips away at the very image of Lagos as a vibrant, forward-looking megacity. Investors—both local and international—are watching closely. What they see is a real estate market struggling to inspire confidence, weighed down by the perception that the rules can change overnight, and properties deemed safe today can be demolished tomorrow.

This uncertainty has cast a long shadow over the once-booming Lagos property market. Developers are sitting on rows of unsold houses. Estates that were once buzzing with prospective buyers now stand eerily quiet. Those with disposable income—traditionally the lifeblood of real estate—are stepping back, preferring to wait and see how far the demolition exercise will go before committing their capital.

For many families, the impact is deeply personal. Imagine a couple who invested their life savings into building a modest duplex in a new estate, only to wake up one morning to the sound of bulldozers and officials declaring their dream home illegal. Or the small-time developer who took a bank loan to complete a set of terrace houses, only to find potential buyers backing out because they fear the government might one day come for the property. These stories are not rare—they are becoming frighteningly common.

The ripple effect of all this is profound. Beyond the emotional toll on homeowners, the market is stagnating. Developers are unable to sell, banks grow more reluctant to finance real estate projects, and the wider economy suffers as jobs in construction, sales, and ancillary services dwindle.

It would be unfair to suggest that regulation is unnecessary. Lagos, like any thriving city, needs strong oversight to ensure urban planning and environmental standards are met. But there is a right way to do this. Regulation should be proactive and compassionate—carried out with a human face, not the blunt force of bulldozers.

If a property violates planning laws, homeowners deserve transparent communication, adequate notice, and access to fair hearings. It is also the duty of the government to ensure that approvals are genuine and that officials who grant dubious permits are held accountable. Ordinary citizens should not be left to bear the brunt of systemic failings.

Lagos prides itself on being Africa’s commercial hub, a magnet for investment and innovation. Yet the current climate of fear and uncertainty in the real estate sector sends the wrong signal to investors who could help the city grow. A dull, stagnant property market benefits no one—not the government, not developers, and certainly not the families who dream of homeownership.

The Lagos State Government has a unique opportunity to rebuild trust. By prioritising empathy, transparency, and due process, it can transform the real estate sector from one paralysed by fear into one brimming with opportunities.

In the end, real estate is not just about buildings—it’s about people: the young couple saving for their first home, the developer employing hundreds of workers, the investors whose funds can boost the economy. Regulation must protect these dreams, not crush them beneath the weight of bulldozers.

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

By ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has emphasized the importance of learning from global experiences to drive Nigeria’s economic and social renewal, following a series of high-level engagements in the United States and Indonesia.

In a statement titled “Turning Nigeria Around: Insights from Global Engagements”, Obi described his recent three-day trip to the United States as “defining and enriching.” The highlight of the visit was a two-hour lunch and walk meeting with renowned economist and Nobel Laureate, Professor James Robinson, co-author of the influential book “Why Nations Fail.” The meeting was also attended by Professors Korieh and Pat Utomi.

Obi said he was deeply struck by Professor Robinson’s observation that “some nations know the path to prosperity yet consistently fail to take it,” citing Nigeria as a prime example. “That remark was not just academic but a mirror held up to our nation,” Obi stated. “Professor Robinson reminded me that nations must possess the humility to remain learners if they are to advance.”

Earlier in the year, Obi visited Johns Hopkins University to meet with Professor Peter M. Lewis, author of “Growing Apart: Oil, Politics, and Economic Change in Indonesia and Nigeria.” According to Obi, the comparative study of the two nations—both once on similar development trajectories—raises fundamental questions about why Nigeria has struggled where Indonesia progressed.

In his quest for solutions, Obi travelled to Indonesia, where he held talks with six ministers, a former vice president, and the country’s popular president, Joko Widodo. These engagements, Obi said, reinforced his belief that Nigeria can still achieve meaningful reforms.

“Such encounters with some of the finest minds and experienced leaders across continents deepen my conviction that Nigeria’s story is not a closed chapter of decline but an unfinished narrative with the potential for redemption,” Obi remarked.

He stressed that Nigeria’s transformation would require “competent and visionary leadership—rooted in capacity, character, commitment, and compassion.”

Concluding his statement, Obi reiterated his optimism: “A new Nigeria is possible.”

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Monrovia, Liberia — In a significant boost for regional oil and gas development, Atlas-Oranto Petroleum, a Nigerian-owned exploration and production (E&P) group founded by billionaire Prince Arthur Eze, has signed a landmark $800 million agreement with the Liberian government to acquire rights to four offshore exploration blocks.

According to details released by the parties, each block carries an estimated investment value of $200 million, with a combined signature bonus of $12 million. The deal marks one of the most substantial energy investment commitments in Liberia’s offshore sector in recent years.

Industry analysts say the agreement could not only accelerate Liberia’s upstream oil and gas development but also deepen regional energy cooperation between West African nations.

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Africa’s Largest Privately-Held E&P Group

Founded in the early 1990s, Atlas-Oranto Petroleum is widely recognized as Africa’s largest privately held, Africa-focused E&P company by acreage. The group holds more than 21 oil and gas licenses across 11 African nations, including Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Uganda, and South Sudan.

The company’s focus on frontier exploration and its track record of working with host governments in emerging energy markets have made it a key player in advancing Africa’s hydrocarbon resources.

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A Boost for Liberia’s Energy Future

The deal is expected to bring significant capital inflows, technical expertise, and job creation opportunities to Liberia as it seeks to unlock the potential of its offshore resources.

Energy sector observers believe the investment could help position Liberia as an emerging destination for oil and gas exploration in the Gulf of Guinea, further diversifying its economy and increasing government revenue.

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By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

New York, USA — Tariye Gbadegesin, Chief Executive Officer of the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), has underscored the urgency of delivering a just and equitable energy transition, stressing that energy remains the driving force for development and inclusive growth.

Speaking during a series of high-level events held in New York as part of Climate Week, Gbadegesin emphasized that unlocking clean, affordable, and reliable energy access for emerging and developing economies requires bold leadership, deep collaboration, and a surge of private investment.

“Energy is the engine of development and growth,” Gbadegesin told the Global Leadership Council of the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP). “The transition is not just a technical challenge—it’s a leadership opportunity.”

The CIF CEO joined an array of global leaders including H.E. President Daniel Francisco Chapo, Woochong Um, Rajiv J. Shah, Anna Bjerde, Jon Creyts, Vera Songwe, and Francesco La Camera, to deliberate on strategies for scaling energy access and decarbonizing industries to meet net-zero targets.

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Focus on Industrial Decarbonization

A key highlight of Gbadegesin’s engagements was her address at the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT) event, where she spoke about transforming heavy industries in emerging and developing economies—an area she described as “central to achieving global climate goals.”

The session brought together government representatives and private sector leaders, including Dan Ioschpe, Sibi George, Cédric de Meeûs, Tobias Axerup, and Mattias Frumerie, with moderation by Esther Pan Sloane of the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce in New York (SACCNY).

Gbadegesin also provided insights into the progress of CIF’s $1 billion Industry Decarbonization Program, during a dialogue hosted by the Mission Possible Partnership (MPP) and the Industrial Transition Accelerator (ITA). Notable speakers at this session included Faustine Delasalle, Bruce Douglas, María Mendiluce, and Nili Gilbert, CFA, CAIA.

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Mobilizing Private Finance for Emerging Markets

Recognizing the pivotal role of private capital in accelerating clean energy adoption, Gbadegesin participated in a Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) forum that explored innovative strategies to unlock investments in emerging energy markets.

She further contributed to a high-energy discussion on expanding private finance for renewables alongside UK Secretary Ed Miliband, Special Climate Envoy Rachel Kyte, Brazil’s Vice Minister Tatiana Rosito, Luiza Demôro, Guangzhe Chen, and Justin Wu. The session was co-hosted by the Global Renewables Alliance (GRA), BloombergNEF, and Bloomberg Philanthropies.

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Leadership for a Sustainable Future

Gbadegesin’s participation in these engagements highlighted her conviction that the energy transition is not merely about deploying technology but also about fostering global leadership and equitable partnerships.

“This week, we saw just how ready the world is to rise to the challenge,” she said, reflecting on the discussions and commitments shared during Climate Week.

Observers say her interventions at these events underscore the CIF’s growing role in advancing clean technology investments and driving systemic change in high-emission industries while prioritizing the needs of developing economies.

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By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Katsina, Nigeria — In a show of solidarity and commitment to the families of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, the Katsina State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Hadiza Abubakar Yar’Adua, has lauded the efforts of the Military Widows Association and pledged further government support to enhance their work in empowering widows and the children of military personnel.

The Commissioner gave this assurance on Monday, September 15, when she received a delegation of the Association led by its Chairperson, Mrs. Hafsat Ya’u Usman, during a courtesy visit to her office in Katsina.

The visit, according to the Commissioner, was both inspiring and sobering, as it highlighted the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives defending the nation and the resilience of their families.

“The visit is a reminder of our collective duty to protect, support, and empower the families of those who paid the ultimate price for peace,” Yar’Adua said. “Together, we will continue to build a stronger and more inclusive Katsina State.”

Empowering the Next Generation

Founded more than two years ago, the Military Widows Association has become a lifeline for many families. With over 200 widows under its care, the Association has also successfully trained more than 300 children of fallen military personnel, aged between 16 and 20, in a range of vocational skills including shoemaking, Turaren wuta (traditional incense) production, soap-making, and salon services.

These vocational programs aim to equip the young beneficiaries with practical skills to achieve economic independence. At the end of their training, each participant received ₦10,000 in start-up support and a certificate of completion — a gesture made possible through the support of the Katsina State Government.

Renewed Government Commitment

Hon. Yar’Adua commended the Association’s dedication to uplifting the lives of widows and their children, praising their resilience and determination. She assured them that the Ministry of Women Affairs will integrate the Association and its beneficiaries into the ministry’s broader empowerment programs.

She further pledged that the government will look into providing necessary support to enable the graduation of the second batch of trainees, many of whom are still undergoing their skill-acquisition programs.

“We will ensure that the work of this Association continues to receive the attention it deserves, because the families of our military heroes deserve nothing less,” the Commissioner said.

Building a Stronger, Inclusive Katsina State

Observers say the collaboration between the state government and the Military Widows Association represents a significant step toward inclusive development, particularly in extending opportunities to often-overlooked groups such as the widows and children of fallen soldiers.

For many of the widows and their children, these empowerment initiatives are not only helping to build economic self-reliance but also restoring a sense of dignity and hope for the future.

Hon. Yar’Adua emphasized that the government will continue to prioritize policies and programs that ensure no group is left behind.

The courtesy visit ended on a note of renewed partnership, with both the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Military Widows Association reaffirming their shared commitment to improving the lives of military families in Katsina State.

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The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Nigerian Economy, Mr.Wale Edun will lead robust discussions on how to transform and grow the nation’s economy to one trillion dollars at the 2025 Finance and Business Online Publishers (FiBOP) national annual conference.

The theme of the conference is : ” Achieving $1 Trillion Economy : Leveraging Technology Innovations, Tax Reforms, and Opportunities in Renewable Energy, Agriculture and Financial services.

The FiBOP Conference is bringing together technocrats, leaders of thought, captains of industries, the academia, and key players from across all sectors of the economy to discuss the ways to put the country on the path of accelerated economic growth and development.

The FiBOP 2025 National Annual Conference will hold on October 18th to 19th, 2025 at Orchid Hotels, Lekki, Lagos State.

The 2025 conference which has continued to garner support and sponsorship from some of the most reputable organisations and institutions in the nation’s economy has gotten firm commitments from the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), emPLE Insurance Limited, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Polaris Bank, Zenith Bank, Fidelity Bank , Universal Insurance, and Nestle Nigeria Plc. These organizations alongside others will be joining forces to fast track the process towards achieving the one trillion dollars economy by year 2030.

This conference is pointedly , an integral part of the renewed hope agenda of the President Bola Ahmed administration designed to chart a clear plan for securing successful mutual accountability and investment strategies, crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth and development, particularly in areas of technology innovations, tax reforms, renewable energy, and agriculture .

Specifically,technocrats and speakers from different sectors of the economy, will also identify innovative strategies for diversifying from dependence on oil, adapting technology, fostering innovation, investing in renewable energy, insurance, agriculture, and services.

The conference organizers have expressed optimism that more institutions will join the train to attain the $1 trillion economy by 2030, as a means of ensuring improved living conditions for the citizens of the country.

Edun believes that domestic savings are the engine of sustainable investment. “A trusted and stable financial system, anchored by strong institutions is essential to lifting millions out of poverty and driving Nigeria’s transition to a $1 trillion economy”

Meanwhile, President, Finance and Business Online Publishers FiBOP, Mr. Charles Onwuatogwu has called on more companies and organizations to partner with the association in alignment with federal government’s objective of wealth creation and advancing the dividends of democracy for the betterment of the people
He also assured that partners and sponsors will gain a wide range of benefits including well articulated media hype via press interviews, media publicity promotions, display of their organization’s backdrops and similar publicity initiatives to mention but a few.

FiBOP is a registered body by the Corporate Affairs Commission made up of seasoned online publishers and editors, with wealth of experience in the print and electronic media, who are dedicated to promoting informed and balanced reporting of economic events and activities, wealth creation, and contributing to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy and the continent of Africa.

The association’s annual conference provides the needed platform for experts and stakeholders to contribute to issues of great national importance aimed at fostering inclusive growth, unity, and national prosperity.

Karl Toriola, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, is among the highest-earning corporate executives in the country. Public disclosures show that Toriola, who hails from Modakeke in Osun State, earns over ₦134 million every month, amounting to about ₦1.6 billion annually in salary.

Toriola’s successful corporate career has transformed his fortunes, positioning him as one of Nigeria’s billionaire executives. Beyond his remuneration as CEO, he also holds an equity stake of 0.0201% in MTN Nigeria—equivalent to 4,086,858 ordinary shares—with a current market value of approximately $1.34 million.

His daughter, Damilola Toriola, also benefits from her father’s position as a shareholder in MTN Nigeria. Her stake in the company is currently valued at about ₦15.8 million.

Toriola’s rise underscores the wealth-building potential of corporate careers in Nigeria, countering the popular notion often pushed by motivational speakers that working a traditional 9-to-5 job cannot lead to financial success. Industry observers note that stories like his demonstrate how corporate leadership roles can be a powerful path to wealth creation.

(Culled from the writings of Chukwudi Iwuchukwu.)

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“Lagos hides some of its best experiences in the most unexpected places, and Festac is proof of that,” says food critic Opeyemi Famakin after a recent visit to La Belle Lifestyle.

Speaking on the environment, Famakin noted:

“Festac has this calm, suburban energy you don’t get on the Island. The streets are wider, the chaos is dialed down, and there’s a sense of community that makes places like La Belle Lifestyle feel like a hidden retreat. You walk in and it’s modern but unpretentious — warm lights, breezy outdoor spots. It’s the Lagos you go to when you want to breathe.”

On the cuisine, he added:

“I expected the usual Lagos bar menu — wings, fries, and vibes — but La Belle surprised me. The seafood was actually fresh, the plating had intention, and the suya slapped like it should. It’s clear they’re trying to elevate the dining experience without being pretentious.”

Famakin also paid homage to the cultural identity of the neighborhood:

“I wore the Igbo cap as a nod to the Igbo community here. Festac has long been home to some of the wealthiest Igbo businessmen in Lagos, and that heritage shows in the food culture too — hearty meals, bold flavors, no shortcuts.”

Concluding his first impressions, Famakin said:

“There’s a quiet, laid-back luxury in Festac. They don’t shout about it like the Island, but if you know where to look — in the food, the spaces, the people — you realize Festac has been enjoying life lowkey.”

“Festac People Are Enjoying Lowkey” – Opeyemi Famakin

“Lagos hides some of its best experiences in the most unexpected places, and Festac is proof of that,” says food critic Opeyemi Famakin after a recent visit to La Belle Lifestyle.

Speaking on the environment, Famakin noted:

“Festac has this calm, suburban energy you don’t get on the Island. The streets are wider, the chaos is dialed down, and there’s a sense of community that makes places like La Belle Lifestyle feel like a hidden retreat. You walk in and it’s modern but unpretentious — warm lights, breezy outdoor spots. It’s the Lagos you go to when you want to breathe.”

On the cuisine, he added:

“I expected the usual Lagos bar menu — wings, fries, and vibes — but La Belle surprised me. The seafood was actually fresh, the plating had intention, and the suya slapped like it should. It’s clear they’re trying to elevate the dining experience without being pretentious.”

Famakin also paid homage to the cultural identity of the neighborhood:

“I wore the Igbo cap as a nod to the Igbo community here. Festac has long been home to some of the wealthiest Igbo businessmen in Lagos, and that heritage shows in the food culture too — hearty meals, bold flavors, no shortcuts.”

Concluding his first impressions, Famakin said:

“There’s a quiet, laid-back luxury in Festac. They don’t shout about it like the Island, but if you know where to look — in the food, the spaces, the people — you realize Festac has been enjoying life lowkey.”

Governor Alex Otti’s recent public apology for the poor state of education in Abia State was more than just words — it was a pledge to rewrite the story of learning and development in the state. His decision to refurbish the hostels at Abia State University (ABSU) to international standards is a practical demonstration of that commitment. For many students who had endured years of inadequate facilities, this is more than a facelift; it’s an investment in their dignity, productivity, and academic success.

ABSU’s improved hostels are not just about comfort. They create an environment where students can focus on their studies, thrive in research, and develop skills needed in today’s competitive economy. By addressing such fundamental needs, the Otti administration is sending a clear signal that education is a cornerstone for Abia’s transformation.

What is perhaps even more exciting is that this progress in Abia reflects a healthy competition among South-East governors. From Enugu’s new smart schools to Anambra’s infrastructural push, Imo’s road and university upgrades, and Ebonyi’s giant strides in industrial and educational projects, there’s a regional momentum that is reshaping the South-East.

For the first time in a long while, it feels as if the states are engaged in a developmental race — each trying to outdo the other in landmark projects that matter to their people. This competition is good for the region: it raises standards, accelerates progress, and shows that political leadership can be about impact, not just promises.

As Abia positions education at the heart of its development agenda, ABSU’s transformation should serve as a model for other institutions. It reminds us that when government prioritizes the learning environment, it empowers the next generation to drive innovation and growth.

Governor Otti’s apology was an admission of past neglect, but his actions suggest a readiness to move forward. If this spirit of accountability and competitive development continues across the South-East, the region could soon emerge as Nigeria’s leading hub for education, innovation, and inclusive growth.

In Nigeria’s often unpredictable business climate, some companies not only survive but thrive, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. One such company is IMPACT CITY NIGERIA, which has spent nearly a decade making its mark in the logistics and haulage sector. Known for its reliability in moving goods and managing fleets, the company is now taking a bold step into an entirely new arena — car repairs, maintenance, and advisory services.

For years, IMPACT CITY NIGERIA has built a reputation for efficiency in keeping its fleet of lorries and cars in top condition. According to the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nnamdi Jerry Ozor, the decision to diversify into the automotive repair space was not a sudden one but the natural next chapter in their story.

“We have been in the logistics and haulage ecosystem for years and have gained a deep understanding of everything that comes with it — from procuring vehicles to delivering goods and maintaining them,” Ozor said, speaking at a recent media briefing. “Over time, we built strong internal systems to keep our trucks and cars in good shape. Today, we feel it’s time to share that expertise with the public and contribute to solving some of the pressing issues in car repairs and maintenance.”

Ozor’s remarks touch on a problem familiar to most Nigerian car owners: the struggle to find competent and honest mechanics. He lamented the way a lack of skilled technicians and transparent practices has created frustration and distrust among vehicle owners.

“With the shortage of competent mechanics and the difficulty clients face in getting the truth about their car’s condition, we believe our approach will be a game-changer,” he said. “We’ve always been known for our integrity in the logistics business, and that is exactly what we want to bring into the car repair space.”

IMPACT CITY NIGERIA’s entry into the automotive sector aims to do more than just fix cars. The company wants to change the relationship between car owners and service providers. Ozor explained that their new venture will focus on creating an experience where customers can feel confident about the quality of work done on their vehicles. He emphasized that trust and professionalism will sit at the heart of their operations.

What sets the company apart, he noted, is its willingness to put transparency first. From clear communication about costs to providing customers with reliable updates during the repair process, IMPACT CITY NIGERIA hopes to eliminate the guesswork that often plagues car owners when they hand over their keys.

Beyond repairs, the company also plans to offer advisory services, helping customers make better decisions about vehicle purchases, long-term maintenance plans, and overall fleet management. For Ozor, this is about filling a gap in the market and providing a service that empowers clients, rather than leaving them feeling uncertain or misled.

“This isn’t just about opening another auto repair shop,” he said. “It’s about changing the culture around car maintenance in Nigeria. We want to create a system where honesty and competence go hand in hand — where people know they are getting value for their money.”

As IMPACT CITY NIGERIA takes this new step, industry observers believe its track record in logistics gives it an advantage. Years of keeping heavy-duty trucks and vehicles roadworthy have equipped the company with both the technical expertise and the operational discipline to succeed in the automotive repair business.

For many Nigerian car owners weary of the stress and anxiety that often come with vehicle repairs, IMPACT CITY NIGERIA’s entry into the sector may bring a breath of fresh air. By combining its reputation for integrity with a strong focus on professionalism, the company hopes to build trust and set new standards in an industry that has long been in need of reform.

In the words of Ozor, “Our goal is simple — to make car repairs and maintenance something people can rely on, not something they dread. We’ve built a name for ourselves in logistics by staying true to our values, and we intend to carry that same ethos into this new venture.”

With this move, IMPACT CITY NIGERIA is not merely expanding its business horizons; it is stepping forward to transform an industry that touches millions of lives every day, promising a future where car owners can finally feel at ease when their vehicles need attention.