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Nestlé Nigeria Collaborates With Govt To Drive Nationwide Water Quality Campaign

By Winifred Bosa

L-R: Toju Egbebi, Corporate Affairs Manager, Nestle Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nestle Nigeria, Honourable Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation in Nigeria, Dr. Nicholas Igwe, Global Head & Nigeria National Coordinator, Organized Private Sector in Water, Sanitation & Hygiene and Engr. Nnenna Igwegbe, APWEN National Vice President and OPS-WASH Head of Zonal Coordinator during a visit to the Minister to discuss partnership on a National Water Quality Advocacy campaign in Abuja recently.

As part of ongoing efforts to ensure safer water for all Nigerians, Nestlé Nigeria is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to launch a National Water Quality Advocacy Campaign aimed at raising awareness, educating communities, and mobilizing multi-stakeholder action around water safety and sustainable water practices.

 

The collaboration, announced in Abuja during a courtesy visit by Nestlé and members of the Organized Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), reinforces the government’s commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through improved access to clean water and sanitation.

 

At the meeting, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, welcomed the partnership, noting its importance in tackling persistent public health threats such as cholera and diarrhea while also addressing challenges related to flooding and climate resilience.

 

He assured the Ministry’s full support for Nestlé’s campaign and pledged timely collaboration to deliver impactful results. “The Ministry is committed to working with Nestlé Nigeria to improve water quality across the country. This partnership is in line with our mission to ensure safe water access and support the health and wellbeing of all Nigerians.”

 

 

Speaking on the company’s role, Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, said:

 

“Water is essential to life, yet millions of Nigerians remain at risk due to unsafe water sources. Our campaign is not just about raising awareness, it’s about shifting behaviors and building partnerships that deliver lasting impact. We’re working across communities, industries, and institutions to help close the knowledge gap, improve water safety, and support national health outcomes.”

 

She emphasized that the campaign rests on three pillars: building awareness and knowledge, engaging stakeholders at all levels, and driving long-term, sustainable action.

 

Providing additional perspective, Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, shared details of the initiative’s community reach:

 

“We are taking a long-term, impact-led approach. In Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, 16 communities will benefit from water quality interventions, while 8 communities in Agbara, Ogun State, are also included. In addition, two agricultural communities will receive water harvesting systems to support irrigation and food production.”

 

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry and OPS-WASH, reaffirming cross-sector commitment to accelerating access to clean, safe water for all Nigerians.

FG Commissions Rebuilt Kano Digital Industrial Park With Support From IHS Nigeria

By Winifred Bosa

L–R: Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, at the commissioning of the restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, refurbished in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

L–R: Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo; Executive Vice Chairman, Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida; Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Services Officer of IHS Nigeria, Dapo Otunla at the commissioning of the restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, refurbished in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

The Federal Government has commissioned the fully refurbished and restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive digital growth, youth empowerment, and strong private sector collaboration. The facility, which suffered significant damage during the August 2024 protests, has now been fully restored through a generous intervention by IHS Nigeria.

The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, was led by the President of Nigeria, ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Kano State (representing the Governor) Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; the Emir of Kano, represented by His Highness, Jarman Kano, Amb. Ahmed Umar OON; the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission Dr Aminu Maida; the Minister of State for Youth Development; representatives from IHS Nigeria; and other senior government officials.

Delivering his opening remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the strategic importance of the park and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enabling Nigeria’s digital future.

“The recommissioning of the NCC Digital Industrial Park in Kano is a landmark moment in our journey to accelerate ICT innovation and empower the next generation of digital pioneers. This facility will serve as a catalyst for digital inclusion, economic transformation, and youth empowerment not just in Kano, but across the entire Northwest region. We remain committed to creating a thriving digital ecosystem where innovation can flourish and no one is left behind in Nigeria’s digital revolution.” He said.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Governor of Kano State, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, reaffirmed the state’s digital ambition and expressed deep appreciation for the partnership that made the park’s restoration possible.

“This commissioning marks more than the unveiling of a refurbished structure, it represents Kano’s bold vision to lead Northern Nigeria’s digital transformation. “We are grateful to IHS Nigeria for their swift response and unwavering support following the vandalization of this facility. Their commitment goes beyond corporate responsibility, it reflects a shared vision for a digitally inclusive Nigeria. He said

Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, who represented the CEO of IHS Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future.

“Our decision to sponsor the refurbishment of the Kano Digital Park is rooted in our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in the digital age,” he said.

“This partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is a clear demonstration of the power of public-private collaboration in addressing national challenges. We are proud to contribute to the 3MTT program and help restore this park as a hub of innovation and opportunity for the Kano community. Supporting initiatives like this and others such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub is how we aim to foster long-term digital growth, create jobs, and drive inclusive development across Nigeria.” He added.

Capping off the event, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted the significance of public-private collaboration in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

“The recommissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park is a powerful demonstration of what is possible when public and private sector actors unite behind a shared vision. This facility is more than just infrastructure, it is a beacon of innovation, resilience, and opportunity for Northern Nigeria. IHS Nigeria’s swift intervention following the vandalism of this park reflects true partnership and corporate citizenship. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where young Nigerians, especially those in underserved communities, have the tools and training to thrive in a digital economy.” He highlighted.

The Kano Digital Industrial Park forms a key part of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, a flagship government program aimed at equipping Nigerians with globally competitive digital skills. The renovation includes fully equipped training labs, power and connectivity infrastructure, upgraded learning spaces, and restored digital equipment to support thousands of learners across Northern Nigeria.

 

The commissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park comes just weeks after Ilorin Innovation Hub, the largest innovation hub of its kind in West Africa, which is also sponsored by IHS Nigeria, kicked off its incubation and acceleration programs. These interventions highlight IHS Nigeria’s continued commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. By bringing the Kano Digital Industrial Park back on stream, IHS is reinforcing its pledge to support impactful initiatives at both the federal and sub-national levels, particularly those that provide opportunities for young Nigerians, who represent the future of the nation.

 

Father O’Connell Science College , GSS Karu Crowned Champions At 25th MILO Basketball National Finals

By Winifred Bosa

The 25th anniversary edition of the MILO Basketball Championship came to an exciting close at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, with Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State, and Government Secondary School (GSS) Karu, FCT, emerging as national champions in the male and female categories, respectively.

 

The national finals brought together the best secondary school basketball teams from across Nigeria in a thrilling celebration of sporting excellence and youth empowerment. This milestone edition highlighted the impact of the championship, which has helped shape the lives of students in over 13,000 schools this year.

 

In a hard-fought match in the male category, Father O’Connell Science College clinched their third championship title, defeating Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa, with a final score of 66–64. This latest victory cements their position as one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.

In the female category, Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT, delivered a commanding performance, defeating Lanreleke Sports Academy, Ile-Ogbo, Osun State, with a 55–42 win to claim their first-ever national championship title. The victory is especially significant, as the team had previously finished in second place on three separate occasions, making this long-awaited triumph a defining milestone in their journey.

 

Speaking on behalf of Wassim El-Husseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Boladale Odunlami, Commercial Manager, commended the athletes and applauded the coaches for their dedication to nurturing young talent. He also reaffirmed Nestlé’s purpose behind the MILO Basketball Championship.

“For 25 years, we’ve stayed true to our belief in growing champions through sport.
The MILO Basketball Championship has supported hundreds of thousands of young athletes, some of whom have gone on to play on the international stage and earn scholarships.

Take Rueben Abuchi, now at the University of Florida, an NCAA National Champion with the Florida Gators, or Murjanatu Musa, recently drafted into the WNBA and currently playing for the Phoenix Mercury. They started with MILO, and they soared. But this isn’t just about creating stars on the court, it’s about building champions in life. That’s why we remain committed, not just as sponsors, but as partners in purpose,” he said.

Ifeanyichukwu Orabuche, Category Manager, Beverages, added “This championship has become a powerful symbol of the MILO basketball championship empowering boys and girls across Nigeria to discover their strength, showcase their talent, and unlock their full potential. We’re not just crowning new champions; we’re marking 25 years of transformation, purpose, and impact. Because every child who steps onto a MILO basketball court isn’t just playing a game, they are building the mindset, discipline, and resilience to win in life”

This year’s tournament included an inclusive match for young individuals with disabilities, highlighting the championship’s commitment to inclusivity and Nestlé’s dedication to ensuring that everyone can participate and thrive.

Both winning teams received trophies, cash prizes, full basketball kits, and MILO products. Their victory at this landmark 25th edition makes them part of the long history of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots youth basketball platform.

Now celebrating 25 years of impact, the MILO Basketball Championship continues to be a key youth program, showing Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to building talent, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and developing future champions, both on and off the court.

SO&U Group CEO Udeme Ufot To Chair Brand Handlers Summit 2025

By Winifred Bosa

The organisers of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards are proud to announce that Mr. Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited, will serve as Chairman of the 2025 edition of the highly anticipated summit and awards ceremony.

The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, Central Business District, Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos. The theme for the event is, “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth.”

With a legacy spanning over three decades, Mr. Ufot is one of the most revered figures in Africa’s advertising and branding landscape. He has led numerous groundbreaking campaigns and helped shape industry standards through visionary leadership and purpose-driven innovation. His role as Chairman further underscores the summit’s dedication to advancing thought leadership and brand excellence in Nigeria and across the continent.

Speaking on the appointment, Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space Magazine and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, highlighted the deep symbolic and strategic significance of Mr. Ufot’s leadership.

“When we envisioned that the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards has to be steered by someone whose journey reflects the core of what branding truly is; values, vision, and voice, Mr. Udeme Ufot immediately came to mind. He is not only a leader; he is a legacy. His works have shaped how brands are perceived, how stories are told, and how agencies align with purpose. He represents the gold standard, and having him as Chair for the event is both an honour and a symbol of what this platform stands for.”

“Bringing Mr. Udeme Ufot on board as Chairman for the 2025 Summit was not just a strategic decision, but a statement. A statement about excellence, depth, and industry evolution. Mr. Ufot’s career is a textbook of leadership, innovation, and commitment to African excellence in branding,” Ishau added.

He noted that, ‘’The summit will spotlight the urgent need to strengthen Nigeria’s marketing value chain, from education to execution, from strategy to storytelling. The focus will be on empowering professionals, inspiring fresh thinking, and bridging the gap between global trends and local relevance.’’

The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is designed to be one of Nigeria’s foremost gatherings of marketing minds and brand custodians, offering networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and a platform for spotlighting excellence in the marketing and communications industry.

As the countdown to August 29 begins, anticipation is building across the marketing, media, and creative landscapes. The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2025 promises to be more than an event, it will be a transformational experience that sets the tone for the future of brand development in Nigeria.

The organisers have extended a warm invitation to brand custodians, agency leaders, marketing professionals, aspiring students, policymakers, and visionary entrepreneurs to participate in this landmark event. It will be a dynamic gathering where industry players unite to ignite bold conversations, unlock new opportunities, and collectively shape a marketing ecosystem that drives lasting brand growth and national impact.

 

By Winifred Bosa

FirstBank, the West Africa premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider has launched an advanced facial biometric technology on its mobile banking application- FirstMobile, along with other exciting features that includes:

• Facial recognition sign-up and activation

• Virtual credit cards for secure online shopping

• Instant credit card activation

• Flexible salary advances with 3-month repayment options

• General improvements, bug fixes,

These upgrades all aim to provide customers with a seamless, secure, and efficient digital banking experience.

The new facial biometric feature enables users to activate or register on FirstBank’s mobile app- FirstMobile securely, using facial verification. This feature also includes an advanced anti-spoof detection, to enhance customer account protection and ensure robust security.

This innovative solution effectively addresses the diverse needs of customers, including new customers, diaspora customers without cards, individuals with lost or expired cards, those who have opted out of card use, as well as customers facing card verification failures or lacking convenient access to card details.

This feature will provide seamless access to essential banking services, such as fund transfers and bill payments ensuring swift, reliable, and convenient transaction processing for all users.

The newly enhanced FirstBank mobile banking platform, FirstMobile, offers a comprehensive array of features and services designed to provide our customers with a seamless and innovative digital banking experience, no matter where they are in the world. With these substantial improvements, users can easily sign up and activate the app using just their face.

They can shop online securely with a virtual credit card that is instantly issued and always accessible within the app. Additionally, customers can activate their new credit card directly from the app to start spending immediately. They also have the option to access salary advances with a convenient 3-month repayment plan.

“With these new services now live on FirstMobile, we are confident we will undoubtedly enhance our customers’ digital experience.” remarked Chukwuma Ezirim, Group Executive, E-Business and Retail Products Division, FirstBank. “FirstBank is committed to innovative ways of delighting our customers so that they can carry out their transactions with no stress and with utmost convenience.

We understand the importance of keeping up with the evolving digital landscape, and we are dedicated to providing our customers with cutting-edge solutions that make banking simpler, faster, and more accessible. Our goal is to ensure that every interaction with FirstBank enhances customer satisfaction and builds long-lasting relationships”

 

To deliver on its promise of gold-standard banking services, FirstBank remains committed to advanced innovative solutions and robust secure security measures, to protect customer data and empower them to transact effortlessly and manage their finances effectively.

The Repression Of Widowhood: CBA Foundation Shines At Pitcher Awards 2025 With Two Awards

When we began the Repression of Widowhood campaign, it wasn’t about awards, it was about dignity. About restoring voices that have been silenced, about standing for widows in society, often forgotten, and left behind.

 

In Nigeria, over 15 million women are widows, with a huge proportion classified as underprivileged / disadvantaged widows. Many face abuse, exclusion, neglected or accused of killing their husbands. Some are thrown out of their homes, whereas most are left to survive alone with children to care for and no one to care for them.

 

That’s where we stepped in.

 

What started as a podcast to educate widows on their legal rights became a national movement. From online awareness to real-life action, we mobilized a Walkathon that inspired everyday Nigerians to walk in solidarity. We weren’t just raising voices—we were raising support to echo the pain of disadvantaged widows.

 

But awareness was never enough. We listened to the cries behind the silence. And we acted.

 

With the help of five FMCG brands, we delivered:

 

Food relief and healthcare to 412 widows across Lagos, Ogun, and Anambra

Seed funding and financial empowerment for over 20 women to start their own businesses

Free healthcare for 202 widows

169 children back in school

Seven impactful podcast episodes reaching over 51,000 listeners

A sustainable skill-building initiative, Art Piece of Hope, teaching widows tie & dye fabric making for long-term income

 

These are not just numbers, they are stories of resilience

 

This campaign gave them more than resources gave them back hope, dignity, and a future.

 

And then came the win.

 

At the Pitcher Awards 2025, The Repression of Widowhood was honored with:

 

🏆 Silver for Societal Impact in Effectiveness Category – This category celebrates the measurable impact of creative work. Entries in the Societal Impact subcategory demonstrate how the campaign drove tangible results, was instrumental to cultural change, social change, environmental change or was integral to achieving a brand’s purpose.

 

🏆 Bronze for Non-Profit Organizations in Pitcher for Good Category – This subcategory recognizes communication or initiative that addresses social or environmental issues created by non-profit organizations or a partnership between a for-profit organization and non-profit organization.

 

A proud moment for the CBA Foundation, digitXplus, and for every widow whose life was touched.

“This recognition is for every woman who thought her story had ended. It’s a reminder that we see you, we hear you, and we will keep fighting for you.”

Chinwe Bode Akinwande, Founder – CBA Foundation

 

“It’s not every day you get to be in the forefront of a vision that truly changes lives. We’re proud of this win, but even prouder of the impact.”

Damilola Popoola, Head of Strategy – digitXplus

This wasn’t just a campaign, it was a commitment to justice. to humanity. to lasting change. And we’re not stopping here. We’re walking for hope—until every widow stands tall again.

 

 

MediaConsortium’s 3rd Conference Set For September 18 , Features Feyi Olubodun As Keynote Speaker

 

By Winifred Bosa

Seasoned marketing professional and CEO, Managing Partner, Open Squares Africa, Feyi Olubodun, will deliver the keynote address at the 3rd edition of MediaConsortium Conference (MCCA) on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The conference with the theme: “DEFINING VALUE IN THE MODERN MARKET: BEYOND PRICE, QUALITY, EXPERIENCE AND ETHICS”, will hold at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos by 10am.

Olubodun, is a sought after speaker and experienced brand builder with several years of experience of building and managing top brands. He was the former Chief Executive at InsightPublicis, and will be bringing his experience to bear in his paper on the theme.

According to the organiser, MediaConsortium Conference, the concept of “value” is no longer confined to the traditional pillars of price, quality, experience, and ethics, in the ever-evolving global marketplace. While these elements remain essential, today’s discerning consumers, investors, and stakeholders demand a more nuanced and multidimensional interpretation of value. To stay relevant and competitive, brands must redefine what value truly means in the modern age.

The event will pull industry stakeholders and allied sectors in an engaging and impactful sections with the aim to stimulate consumer/brand engagement.

A list of marketing communications experts have confirmed their participation to discuss Olubodun’s paper. Among them are Obinna Ojekwe, Marketing Lead, Hydrogen, Yinka Femi Opadere, Head, Online Media, Globacom and Samuel Akinrimisi, New Product Development Lead, EKo Supreme Resources Nig. Limited.

The MediaConsortium Conference, hosted by MediaConsortium, a leading brands, business, and marketing publication, aims to facilitate engagement among stakeholders in the IMC and related sectors to address pertinent issues.

This year’s event follows the successful maiden edition held in 2023 at the Sheraton Hotels and Suites, Ikeja and a second edition held at the LCCI, Ikeja.

Nitro 121 sparks Creativity In Schools With “Fuelling Future Creatives” CSR Drive

 

Some representatives of Nitro121 Ltd presenting the certificates of participation to students of Victory Grammar School and Victory High School Ikeja, flanked by the Principal of the former, Mrs. Adeyinka Afolayan.

To flag off its 20th anniversary celebrations, Nitro 121 took a creative drive outside the boardroom and into the classroom, sparking inspiration in the next generation of creators.

 

On May 29, 2025, the marketing communications company hosted a one-day creative immersion for students of Victory Grammar School and Victory High School, Ikeja, with the theme “Fuelling Future Creatives.”

 

The CSR initiative was designed to equip senior secondary students with relevant, real-world creative skills such as Graphics Designing, Video editing, as well as AI for content creation.

 

The sessions were hands-on and led by Nitro121 talents- Creative Director,

Chamberlin Ukenedo; Digital content writer, Faith Ekekwe; Copywriter, Kedonojo Williams, and Brand Strategist- Favour Alilu.

 

In his opening remarks, Managing Director/CEO of Nitro 121 Ltd., Lampe Omoyele encouraged the students to make good use of the opportunity as creativity is needed in every facet of life. He noted that every human being has the gift of creativity which is why Nitro 121, in celebration of its 20th Anniversary organized the event to fuel their creativity as future leaders.

 

Moderated by Nitro 121’s CSR Lead, Kehinde Adollo, the event excellently delivered on what it was set out to achieve- Fuelling future creatives.

 

At the end, each student received a certificate of participation, signalling the commencement of their creative journey.

 

In response, Principal of Victory Grammar School, Mrs Adeyinka Afolayan, applauded Nitro 121 for putting together such an excellent training, while emphasizing the uniqueness of the training modules as well as the stationery provided for the students and teachers.

 

‘Fuelling Future Creatives’ is one of many activities lined up to mark Nitro 121’s 20 years of igniting ideas and shaping brands.

Airtel Nigeria Promotes World Environment Day With Nationwide Sustainability Activities


Chief Technology Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Harmanpreet Singh Dhillon; Director, Human Resources & Administration, Airtel Nigeria, Adebimpe Ayo-Elias; Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh; Director, Sanitation Services, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Hassan A. Sanuth; Director, Corporate Communications & CSR; and Marketing Director, Airtel Nigeria, Ismail Adeshina; at the sustainability seminar hosted by Airtel Nigeria in commemoration of World Environment Day at the company’s head office in Lagos on June 4, 2025.

Leading telecommunications provider, Airtel Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability with a nationwide campaign to combat plastic pollution in commemoration of World Environment Day 2025. Themed “Ending Plastic Pollution”, this year’s events demonstrated the corporate mission of Airtel to champion environmental stewardship.

Tagged #UnPlasticAfrica, the company’s campaign began on June 3, mobilizing employees across six operating regions for a week of education, advocacy, and cleanup activities aimed at promoting sustainable living, in alignment with global efforts to reduce plastic pollution.

The activities kicked off with a Sustainability Seminar, led by Dr Hassan A. Sanuth, Director of Sanitation Services at the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, and focused on the role of the individual in reducing plastic waste while promoting practical recycling habits.

Following this educational session, all Airtel Nigeria employees took the “Eco Pledge” to commit to reusable containers.

In his remarks at the seminar, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Dinesh Balsingh, reaffirmed Airtel`s dedication to sustainability.

“As we invest in Nigeria’s digital future, we are equally committed to protecting the environment that sustains us. From AI-powered services that reduce paper use to partnerships that connect rural areas without environmental disruption, we are embedding sustainability into every layer of our operations,” he said.

Speaking at the workshop, Dr. Sanuth emphasized the urgency of addressing the plastic pollution crisis, particularly in urban centers like Lagos.

“Plastic waste is choking our drains, polluting our water bodies, and threatening public health. Every little action counts, from individuals making conscious choices to organizations taking bold steps and together, our collective efforts can make a significant impact in ending plastic pollution,” he noted.

He also highlighted the dangers of plastic waste, noting that microplastics have been traced in food, water, and even human blood and called for stronger policies and corporate accountability.

The highlight of the week was a market clean-up and sensitization drive held by Airtel employees in Abuja, Oyo, Benin, Enugu, and Kano. Airtel staff volunteers, in collaboration with local partners, led plastic collection efforts, conducted environmental hygiene training, and distributed over 3,000 branded reusable bags and parasols to market vendors and shoppers.

The World Environment Day campaign, nicknamed Earth Fest 2025, is part of Airtel Nigeria’s broader CSR Strategy, which continues to integrate environmental stewardship into its organizational practices.

 

 

 

NCDMB, NLNG Accelerate HCD Training As $5B Train 7 Project Reaches 80% Completion

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited recently in Port Harcourt inaugurated 140 trainees for an intensive three-month Advanced Nigerian Content Human Capital Development (NC-HCD) Programme for the US$5 billion NLNG Train 7 Project on Bonny Island, Rivers State.

 

The trainees, who are graduates in different academic disciplines, had completed a 12-month Basic Training Programme in diverse oil-and-gas-industry-related skill sets and are now for the on-the-job phase which includes active hands-on participation in operational areas such as Turn Around Maintenance (TAM), Commissioning, and Desktop Programmes, among others.

In November 2024, a set of 331 trainees under Batch A of the NLNG T7 HCD Training Programme had begun capacity development in facility management, engineering, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Health Safety and Environment (HSE), Quality Assurance and Quality Control, as well as welding and fabrication.

Another set of 77 trainees under Batch B of the same Training Programme began capacity development in data analytics and supply chain management among several other fields relevant to the operations of the oil and gas industry.

Addressing the trainees and trainers drawn from the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) as well as Management personnel of the NCDMB and NLNG, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the Advanced NC-HCD training is more than a milestone, but an expression of the collective commitment of the Board and the NLNG “to nurturing world-class Nigerian professionals who will shape the future of our oil and gas industry.”

He said the Board has remained steadfast in its conviction that Human Capital Development is “a critical investment in the sustainability and competiveness” of Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain, pointing out that over 400 Nigerians have undergone basic training in diverse technical, vocational, and specialized areas and are equipped with practical skills directly aligned with industry needs.

According to the NCDMB boss, who was represented by the Manager, Human Capital Development, Mrs. Tarilate Teide-Bribena, the Board and NLNG are “advancing even further by formally launching the on-the-job component of the NLNG Train 7 NC-HCD Programme,” which would see 140 bright and promising Nigerians gain practical exposure and real-time experience across technical domains within the NLNG operational plants in Bonny Island.

He commended the NLNG, which he described as “a trusted and forward-looking partner in the development of [Nigeria’s] human capital base,” for its unwavering partnership, noting that the company has not only complied with Nigerian Content requirements but “has consistently shown leadership in embracing the spirit of national capacity building.”

Engr. Ogbe also acknowledged the critical role of OGTAN for being instrumental in aligning training content, delivery standards, and capacity development frameworks with the actual needs of the industry. The trainers, he noted, have helped to bridge the gap between training and employability – ensuring that trainees do not just learn but are ready to add value from day one.

In her own remarks, the General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development of the NLNG, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, expressed profound appreciation to the NCDMB for productive collaboration on the HCD Programme, which she described as “a reaffirmation of NLNG’s unwavering commitment to human capital development.”

She said the support of the NCDMB has enabled the NLNG to effectively carry out its programme for the development of a strong, skilled and highly professional workforce for the country’s oil and gas industry. The trainings, she noted, are particularly significant as the NLNG Train 7 Project, which involves very advanced technology, has reached 80 per cent completion, and highly skilled technical manpower would be required. Final Investment Decision on the project was signed in December 2019.

On what she described as “robust, advanced … on-the-job training programme,” Dr. Hosfall disclosed that the trainees would work within the facilities of the NLNG on Bonny Island.

 

In closing remarks, the Nigerian Content Manager of NLNG, Engr. Dagogo Buowari, thanked the NCDMB for the partnership between the two organisations, and expressed his belief that the industry would continue to benefit from their collective endeavours.

He advised trainees to get themselves organised for their three-month programme on Bonny Island, which begins on June 16, 2025, and to ensure they do not become distracted in the course of their training.