It was another historic milestone for pan-African investor Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Industries Limited over the weekend, as they garnered three prestigious accolades at the 15th annual Brand Africa 100 awards, held at the iconic Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—the birthplace of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU).

Dangote Industries Limited was named Most Admired African Brand, following an independent, consumer-led survey conducted across more than 30 African countries. The company was also inducted into the Brand Africa Hall of Fame, becoming the first African firm to receive this distinction. The induction recognises Dangote’s transformative impact on African consumers and its influential role in shaping a positive narrative for the continent.

President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his leadership in driving impactful industrialisation, establishing a world-class African brand, and reshaping the continent’s economic future through a benchmark, homegrown enterprise.

Joining Dangote Industries in the inaugural Hall of Fame were MTN, M-Pesa, Ethiopian Airlines, and South Africa, for consistently ranking among Africa’s most admired brands over the past 5 to 15 years and for building sustainable, globally respected brands.

Reacting to the awards, Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, said the honours reflect the unwavering commitment, excellence, and innovation that define the group’s journey. He added that they are a testament to the dedication of the company’s outstanding team, partners, and stakeholders, who continue to believe in the mission to drive sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.

“We also extend our heartfelt appreciation for the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to our Founder and President, Aliko Dangote for building a purposeful world-class industrial brand that has exceptionally transformed African lives and the African narrative. This accolade celebrates not only his visionary leadership but also his tireless efforts in transforming industries, creating opportunities, and championing African enterprise on the global stage. His legacy is an inspiration to generations of entrepreneurs and leaders across Africa,” he said.

Noting that the recognition would further inspire the company to push boundaries, empower communities, and deliver meaningful value across Africa and beyond, Chiejina reaffirmed Dangote Industries’ commitment to excellence, integrity, and transformative growth.

In his keynote address, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Mr Claver Gatete, praised Aliko Dangote, the Hall of Fame inductees, and the Brand Africa laureates for advancing the African agenda. He highlighted the alignment between Brand Africa and the ECA’s mission to promote inclusive industrialisation, regional integration, and private sector-led growth. He also called for increased investment in youth-led innovation, regional value chains, and the establishment of a Pan-African Creative Innovation Fund to identify, finance, and globalise Africa’s most promising brands.

“I wish to particularly acknowledge MTN, Dangote Group, mPesa and Ethiopian Airlines for consistently maintaining their distinguished positions among the “Most Admired African Brands” category and continuing to set benchmarks in brand leadership, innovation and continental impact,” he said.

According to the organisers, the 2025 rankings reveal a stark contrast between rising African optimism and declining brand loyalty. While 68% of Africans expressed belief in the continent—up from 64% in 2024—only 11% of the Top 100 Most Admired Brands are African, marking a historic low and down from 14% in 2024. The report indicates the urgent need for homegrown brands to translate belief into consumer loyalty, and for Africans to more actively support Made-in-Africa products and enterprises.

“It is disappointing to see the sharp drop in African brands, which mirrors the ranking of non-African nations as the most influential in Africa,” says Thebe Ikalafeng, Founder and Chairman of Brand Africa. “It’s a wake-up call for Africa—and a barometer of the continent’s lagging industrialisation agenda. It’s not enough for Africans to say they believe in the continent—they must buy made-in-Africa. For that to happen, African brands must invest in R&D, continue to innovate, deliver quality, and use authenticity as a differentiator.”

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has conferred an honorary fellowship on the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo.

He was awarded the fellowship alongside two other distinguished individuals, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Tim Akano, MD/CEO of New Horizon Nigeria, during Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025 held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Fadolapo stated that the honor recognizes the synergy between the advertising and public relations sectors in promoting the growth of the marketing communication industry.

“For me, personally, this honor signifies that other industries and key stakeholders appreciate my contributions to the growth and improvement of the industry,” Dr. Fadolapo said. “It demonstrates their belief in the reforms ARCON is championing and shows that we are providing effective leadership to the advertising industry.”

He highlighted the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ARCON, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and the National Institute of Marketing Nigeria (NIMN), emphasizing the importance of a united front within the marketing communication industry.

“This induction is an endorsement, a collaboration, and an alignment with other sectoral groups, and it affirms that we are on the right path,” Dr. Fadolapo noted.

He further emphasized that ARCON and other sectoral groups are integral parts of the marketing communication ecosystem, with both public relations and advertising playing critical roles in communication strategy. The MoU, he explained, will facilitate collaboration and smoother transitions for public relations practitioners into the advertising industry, reducing bureaucracy and improving workflow.

“The curricula for both fields are closely related within the marketing communication industry. This collaboration will ensure greater synergy and smoother operations.”

The honorary fellowship underscores the increasing recognition of the interconnectedness between public relations and advertising, as well as the importance of regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders working together to promote excellence in the industry.

On his part, Tim Akano, MD/CEO of New Horizon Nigeria, expressed his gratitude for the honorary fellowship. He noted that, although he has received several awards in the past, the NIPR recognition is particularly meaningful due to the institute’s reputation as one of the most respected institutions in Nigeria and Africa.

“The fact that NIPR considered me alongside two other esteemed individuals for this award means a great deal to me,” Akano said.

Dr. Fadolapo attended Ogun State University, where he earned his first degree in Economics. He further obtained three master’s degrees: a Master of Science in Marketing (MSc.), a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), and a Master’s in Legal Studies (MILS) from Babcock University, Illisan, Ogun State; the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State; and Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos, respectively.

He holds a PhD in Marketing with a specialization in Marketing Communications from Babcock University, Illisan-Remo, Ogun State. Dr. Fadolapo is a Fellow of the Advertising Profession, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN). He has been actively involved in the industry, serving as a member of the immediate past Governing Council of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) and as a member of the Executive Committee of the Heads of Advertising Sectoral Groups (HASG). Additionally, he has served as Secretary to various advertising industry organizations and bodies.

Following the recent reform of the advertising regulatory sector, the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) was renamed the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). Dr. Fadolapo was appointed as the first Director-General of ARCON by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Prior to this, he was the fourth (4th) substantive Registrar/Chief Executive of APCON, appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in August 2020. Under his leadership, ARCON continues to advance the regulation and growth of the advertising industry in Nigeria. He is a recipient of numerous awards and has facilitated many seminars, conferences, and symposiums.

Dr. Ike Neliaku has been re-elected as the President and Chairman of the Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), alongside Vice President Prof. Emmanuel S. Daudara from Nasarawa Chapter. They will steer the affairs of the council for the next two years, together with other new executives.

Neliaku, who is from the FCT Chapter, was re-elected at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, tagged ‘Uyo 2025.’ This event was part of the annual Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025, held in Uyo. Former Chairman of the Lagos Chapter, Olusegun McMedal, and the current Chairman of the chapter, Comfort Nwankwo, were elected as Council members.

A total of 17 members were elected into the council through e-voting, which members praised as credible and demonstrative of the viability of e-voting in Nigeria.

The other newly elected council members include Mr. Akin Agbejule (Niger), Mrs. Olubunmi Adedoyin Badejo (FCT), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha (Anambra), Mallam Bashir Adamu Chedi, and Dr. Saudat Salah Abdubaqi (Kwara).

Additional new members are Comrade Ini Ememobong (Akwa Ibom), Malam Kabir Ali Kobir (Bauchi), Pastor Paulinus Enyidah Nsirim (Rivers), Prof. Sarah Benjamin Lwahas (Plateau), Mr. Adaramola Temitope (Ogun State), Dr. Adewale Oladipo Oyekanmi (Osun), Chief Patrick Ogoegbunem Uka (Delta), and Sajoh Ahmed Ibrahim (Adamawa).

Since Dr. Neliaku assumed office, NIPR has undergone several reforms. Recently, Nigeria secured the bid to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF).

The NPRW 2025 edition, themed “Solid Minerals: A Solid Path to Nigeria’s Sustainable Economic Recovery – The Challenge for Public Relations,” brought together PR professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders. The event was held at Ceedapeg Hotels, Uyo, from May 19–24, 2025.

What happens when legacy meets preparedness? What results from such a combination? Let us not be in a hurry to put forward any answers yet. Instead, let us consider first the opposite situation: When legacy meets unpreparedness.

The world abounds in examples of this distressing situation. A dynasty that has built wealth from generation to generation, with its illustrious heirs providing generational leadership, finds itself in a strange phase where an ill-prepared heir takes over the reins and in that same generation, not the next, wipes out the entire family fortune built over several generations.

We see the same thing with nations. History is replete with examples of great nations built by great leaders, which slid into oblivion when they were hit by arguably the greatest misfortune that ever befalls humanity – bad leadership. It is the reason American author and leadership expert John Maxwell asserts, “Everything rises and falls with leadership.”

As with nations, so with organisations. We see organisations that have thrived for decades and over several generations, get a new leader who is not prepared for such leadership, and the leader pushes the organisation to the brink of collapse.

Contrast this picture with the situation at Nigeria’s most enduring corporate organisation with the most amazing legacies of firsts, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, which witnessed a leadership transition about a year ago. Faced with a number of quality options in and outside the then management team, the decision-makers at the bank and its parent company FBNHoldings, now First HoldCo Plc, had to be clear-minded about who could become the new Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group.

Equally important as the need for continuity was the non-negotiable requirement for capacity to manage the ship of the 130-years-plus institution to sustain its enviable legacies and consolidate the gains made in recent years. The search was for someone with a steady head and hands (talk of risk control and mitigation), in addition to an excellent track record of sterling performance and achievements.

Fortunately, fate was on their side. They did not have to look outside. Right there before them was someone who understood all kinds of risks and how to control and mitigate them. He had been with FirstBank since 2016 when he joined as Group Executive / Chief Risk Officer. Then in January 2022 he was elevated to Executive Director / Chief Risk Officer and Executive Compliance Officer.

This man has given nearly three decades of his working life to the banking and financial services industry. He has under his belt a rich tapestry of cross-functional experience in credit risk management, financial planning and control, credit and marketing, and trade. His cross-functional exposure also includes corporate and commercial banking, agriculture financing, oil and gas, transportation, including aviation and shipping, and project financing

Meet Olusegun Alebiosu, the man history had prepared and the one decision-makers chose among the quality options. He was appointed substantive Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group in June 2024, having acted in that capacity since April 2024 when the former CEO left.

Determined to build on the bank’s legacies while navigating the ever-changing landscape of the financial services industry, Alebiosu has shown unwavering commitment to lead the bank through a transformative period that places emphasis on strategic consolidation, technological advancement and market expansion.

Alebiosu’s approach to sustaining the legacies of firsts at FirstBank, which has been at the vanguard of accelerating Nigeria’s digital payments as the first bank to issue over 13 million cards to customers, draws from his vast professional experience which began with Oceanic Bank Plc, now Ecobank Plc, in 1991. Between then and joining FirstBank in 2016, he had worked at Coronation Merchant Bank as Chief Risk Officer, at African Development Bank Group as Chief Credit Risk Officer and at United Bank for Africa as Group Head, Credit Policy and Deputy Chief Credit Risk Officer.

Under one year of his appointment as substantive CEO of FirstBank, Alebiosu’s strategic consolidation efforts have demonstrated that he is a worthy successor, not an ill-prepared or unprepared one, proving the decision-makers right. Understanding the critical role of its human capital in sustaining the bank’s legacies, Alebiosu has invested himself and the bank’s resources in promoting staff welfare.

A comprehensive review of the bank’s compensation structure was undertaken to position it within the 75th percentile of the industry, making the bank more retentive of, and attractive to, the best talents. The highest number of staff promotions across various grades in the last five years has happened under Alebiosu’s watch, with 1,654 employees being elevated in one single promotion cycle.

Under his leadership, over 2,186 new hires have been recruited across key functions and subsidiaries, with a large number of them deployed to the sales function to ensure that retail customers are adequately served. Staff are now more engaged based on the high employee engagement score of 86% achieved in the April 2025 WorkBuzz survey, indicating remarkable progress in the bank’s multi-pronged efforts to promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

This drive to reinforce a culture of inclusion and recognition has been accentuated by the launch of a group-wide culture transformation initiative with the goal of embedding the core values of integrity, excellence and innovation. It has also been strengthened by a renewed focus on inclusion, collaboration and high performance. Also contributing was the staging of a FirstBank Employee Appreciation Day 2025 featuring, among others, a personalised appreciation video message from the CEO to all employees across the group throughout Africa and beyond. The inclusion message is further boosted by the launch of the inaugural edition of the bank’s pioneering initiative, Mandarin Language School, to bolster the bank’s expansion in the Asian market.

Expansion is a critical plank in FirstBank’s new strategic planning horizon, under Alebiosu’s leadership. Taking off this 2025, the plan seeks to reinforce the bank’s market dominance across all operational regions and it includes deliberate expansion into new markets within and outside Africa.

Beyond geographical and horizontal expansion, Alebiosu’s plan has also targeted a skyward expansion. Or how else does one describe the groundbreaking ceremony in March 2025 for the bank’s new green-certified, 44-storey iconic head office building in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos State?

Alebiosu is also prioritising the acceleration of process automation in recognition of the importance of digital transformation. It is a massive push for technological advancement that includes adopting robotics technology and artificial intelligence at scale, to give the bank an unassailable competitive advantage among its peers in the industry.

The bank has deployed digital tools to enhance seamless account opening and optimised backend systems and customer service delivery. Two additional Digital Experience Centres (DXCs) have been launched – one at Lekki Admiralty Way, Lagos State and the other at its UNN branch, Nsukka, Enugu State. Also, the bank’s agent network has expanded to over 280,000, a 50,000 increase from the 230,000 agents it had in 2023.

As expected, shareholders, among other stakeholders, have been observing the strides the bank has been making under Alebiosu’s leadership, with a keen eye on the numbers. Fortunately, again, the bank’s results for the financial year ended December 2024 speak volumes, with after-tax profit of its parent company rising to the highest point it has reached in the last 12 years, according to the company’s latest financial statement.

In recognition of his achievements within such a short period and his exemplary leadership, Alebiosu was honoured at the World Business Outlook Awards as “Banking CEO of the Year – Nigeria 2025”. He has also been honoured with the “Special African Banking Leadership Award” by African Leadership Magazine. This was in 2024.

The story of Alebiosu’s leadership at FirstBank has clearly been one of preparedness meeting legacy. Working with the board and management team, he has consistently sustained the bank’s legacies and also consolidated its recent gains in ways that will ensure the gains keep compounding. FirstBank, more than ever before, is poised for greater intra- and intercontinental growth and impact in the years ahead.

Source: Aniekan Ezekiel

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s public relations sector gathered at the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025, organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), to chart a new course for Nigeria’s image on both national and global stages. Under the theme “Solid Minerals: A Solid Path to Nigeria’s Sustainable Economic Recovery – The Challenge for Public Relations,” the event spotlighted strategies for enhancing Nigeria’s reputation amid ongoing economic reforms and international engagements.

*A New Dawn for Nigeria’s Global Image*

The event held in Uyo, featured significant announcements, including Nigeria’s upcoming hosting of the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF). President and Chairman of NIPR, Dr. Ike Neliaku, emphasized Nigeria’s readiness to showcase the country’s rich culture, vibrant music, exotic cuisine, and warm hospitality to the world. “At WPRF 2026, the world will savor Nigeria’s magnificent splendor, from our cuisine to our creativity,” he stated confidently. “Despite concerns about safety and tourism, Nigeria will present a compelling case for itself as a premier destination in Africa.”

Neliaku underscored the importance of proactive communication in shaping perceptions, sharing a recent experience where a simple question about Nigerian food became a metaphor for external perceptions. “The challenges of leadership in Nigeria are partly due to ineffective communication. Leaders need to share their visions openly and responsibly,” he said.

*Leadership and Rebranding through Strategic Appointments*

A major highlight was the installation of John Momoh, CEO of Channels Media Group, as the pioneer Chairman of the Nigeria Reputation Management Group (NRMG)’s Body of Advisers. This strategic initiative by NIPR is dedicated to building and maintaining a positive national image. “Every negative post or harsh comment erodes our image,” said Momoh. “Let us instead share stories of innovation, resilience, and excellence within our borders, promoting constructive narratives that rebuild trust and credibility.”

Other notable appointments include Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, as Vice Chairman, and Mohammed Kudu Abubakar as Secretary. Dr. Momoh expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and called on Nigerians to use social media responsibly, advocating for a united effort to reposition Nigeria’s narrative positively.

*Stakeholders Call for Positive Narratives and National Unity*

Throughout the event, government officials and industry leaders stressed the importance of positive storytelling. Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, highlighted how negative news hampers foreign investment. “Our state is safe, peaceful, and investment-friendly,” she affirmed, urging practitioners to leverage their expertise in fostering peace and promoting government initiatives.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Muhammed Idris, echoed this sentiment. “We need to speak good about our country,” he urged. “Constructive criticism is welcome, but we must focus on promoting Nigeria’s positive stories. Only then can we accelerate development and restore our national pride.”

*A Collective Responsibility for Nigeria’s Future*

Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, called for unity among all stakeholders. “Reforms may take time, but they are underway,” he stated. “All of us—government, media, citizens—must work together to build a better Nigeria.”

The event also paid tribute to distinguished members of the profession with posthumous awards, honoring their contributions to nation-building and the public relations field.

*Conclusion: A Vision for a Resilient Nigeria*

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ike Neliaku emphasized the vital role of public relations in nation-building. “Our collective narratives shape perceptions. Every Nigerian has a role in telling our story—of resilience, innovation, and hope,” he said.

As Nigeria prepares to host the 2026 WPRF and strengthen its reputation management infrastructure, the stakeholders’ rallying cry is clear: to build a positive, credible, and inspiring national image that resonates both within and beyond our borders.

The vibrant city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, is set to host more than 1,000 delegates from across Nigeria and beyond, as the Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025 officially kicks off on Monday, May 19, 2025.

Organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), this year’s edition promises a dynamic and immersive five-day experience filled with knowledge sharing, strategic networking, and cultural celebration.

DAY 1 – Monday, May 19:
The week begins with the Public Relations Stakeholders’ Roundtable with Traditional Rulers, a strategic dialogue bridging culture and communication. This will be followed by the NPRW Undergraduates Forum, aimed at grooming the next generation of PR professionals.

Simultaneously, golf enthusiasts will gather for the NPRW Golf Kitty, adding a sporting flair to the day.

The evening will feature the Welcome Cocktail and Manifesto Night, where candidates for the NIPR Council election will engage delegates in an interactive forum.

DAY 2 – Tuesday, May 20:
The first full day of plenary and breakout sessions begins, featuring thought leaders and practitioners speaking on emerging trends and specialization in public relations.

A major highlight will be the Investiture of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State as a Patron of NIPR, a recognition of his administration’s support for communication and development.

The day will conclude with “Ndia Ibom” , a Food and Drink Festival showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Akwa Ibom.

DAY 3 – Wednesday, May 21:

Sessions continue with more plenary and breakout tracks, diving deeper into critical sectors of PR including tech, health, security, governance, and integrated marketing.

The evening will celebrate local fashion and identity with the Ethnik Fashion Nite, spotlighting the state’s diverse fashion culture.

DAY 4 – Thursday, May 22:
The spotlight turns to the NIPR Annual General Meeting, including Council Elections to elect new national officers. The day will end on a high note with a Closing Gala/Happy Hour, offering delegates a chance to unwind and network in a relaxed setting.

DAY 5 – Friday, May 23:
Delegates will embark on a guided tour of Akwa Ibom, experiencing the state’s scenic beauty, tourism, and cultural attractions.

The conference’s keynote address will be delivered by renowned tax expert, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, during the opening plenary.
Over the course of the week, sessions will be led by top communication scholars, consultants, and corporate leaders, including Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, fnipr; Mr. Yakubu Lamai, mnipr; Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, fnipr; Mr. Ali-Balogun, fnipr; Ms. Tolulope Olorundero, mnipr; Barr. Chimdi Neliaku, mnipr; Maryam Sanusi, fnipr; Dr. Abdullahi Maiwada, mnipr; Dr. Adewale Oyekomi, mnipr; Prof. Saudat Abdul-Baqi, fnipr; Adetokunbo Modupe, mnipr; Dr. Monday Ashibogwu, fnipr; Mr. O’tega Ogra; Mr. Segun McMedal, mnipr; and Prof. Iyorza Stalinus, anipr.

According to Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, fnipr, Chairman of the NPRW 2025 National Planning Committee, “This year’s NPRW promises to be a convergence of ideas, people, and opportunities for our profession. From the roundtables to the cultural showcases, we are celebrating the essence and future of PR in Nigeria.”

In a bold step towards building a climate-resilient agricultural sector, AGRA, Nestlé Nigeria, and TechnoServe have launched the Strengthening Farmers’ and SMEs’ Resilience through Climate Smart Grain Production and Accessing the Structured Markets (StreFaS) initiative in Nigeria.

StreFaS is a three-year initiative, funded by AGRA and Nestlé, that will run from June 2024 to October 2027. The program aims to support 25,000 smallholder farmers and eight aggregators across Kaduna and Nasarawa States, promoting sustainable production of maize, soybean, rice, and sorghum. It focuses on integrating regenerative agriculture into every step of the value chain, with particular emphasis on empowering youth and women.

StreFaS will help improve soil health, lower greenhouse gas emissions, increase biodiversity, and strengthen economic resilience. Furthermore, the program connects smallholder farmers to formal markets, including Nestlé’s supply chain, enabling them to receive premium prices for climate-smart produce.

The launch event, held in Zaria, Kaduna State, brought together high-level representatives from the government, development partners, private-sector stakeholders, and members of the media. The event featured keynote speeches from implementing partners, a case study from a climate-smart farmer, and a powerful project overview underscoring the initiative’s role in transforming Nigeria’s grain value chains.

In her welcome address, Mrs. Adesuwa Akinboro, Country Director of TechnoServe Nigeria, described the STREFAS initiative as a transformative step for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. “This project represents a bold commitment to supporting smallholder farmers and agribusinesses with the tools, knowledge, and market access they need to thrive in the face of climate change. STREFAS is not just about boosting yields—it’s about regenerating our soils, restoring dignity to farming, and creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for communities across Kaduna and Nasarawa States,” she said.

“We are proud to co-lead this initiative that puts farmers first — not just by introducing new practices, but by rebuilding the very ecosystems that sustain farming — core to AGRA’s approach to sustainable and resilient food systems transformation,” said Dr. Rufus Idris, AGRA’s Country Director for Nigeria.

Speaking on Nestlé’s commitment, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, CEO of Nestlé Nigeria, added:

“At Nestlé, we believe that good food starts with high-quality ingredients and the well-being of the people who produce them. Our partnership in this initiative underscores our commitment to sustainable sourcing and decarbonizing our value chain. Globally, we aim to source at least 50% of our key ingredients from farmers practicing regenerative agriculture by 2030. With an investment of over $1,000,000 in this project over the next three years, we aim to contribute towards establishing regenerative agriculture as the standard in the food industry, addressing both environmental and social priorities holistically.”

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture, Kaduna State, Honourable Murtala Muhammad Dabo stated “This launch marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a more sustainable agricultural future. I commend TechnoServe and its partners for their dedication to promoting climate-smart agriculture practices in Kaduna State. Let us continue to work together to empower farmers, improve food security, and build a climate-resilient agricultural sector. I wish you all the best in this endeavor.”

On the sidelines of the launch, MAGGI celebrated the Soya Bean farmers who were part of the regenerative agriculture pilot project. One of the farmers Engineer Lawan Abdul, shared a compelling testimonial.

“Since I started adopting the strategies, we were taught in this project, my yields have increased by 100%. This was very surprising and encouraging for me. I am very happy with the outcome and thank the project partners and MAGGI for bringing this opportunity to us.”

The StreFaS initiative is aligned with AGRA’s 3.0 Country Strategy, Nestlé’s 2030 Climate resilience sourcing goals, and TechnoServe’s proven expertise in building market-driven solutions for rural prosperity.

By connecting smallholder farmers to better tools, markets, and capital, StreFaS will scale regeneration in ways that are profitable and empowering. As implementation continues, the program will deepen collaboration with government, private sector, and civil society partners to sustain scalable change across Nigeria’s grain value chain.