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NCRIB President Wants NIIRA ’25 To Launder Insurance, Get It Out Of Shadow

 

 

 

Amaka Obiefuna

 

 

 

The President of Nigerian Corporation of Registered Insurance Brokers, Prince Babatunde Oguntade is optimistic that “taking the insurance industry out of the blighted imagery” can be attained by unambiguous implementation of the Nigerian Insurance industry Reform Act 2025.

 

He made this known at the National Insurance Brokers Conference and Exhibition in Lagos Thursday October 24, stressing that, “Our industry can no longer remain the shadow of itself.”

 

He emphasizes his objection to the state of the industry, “We have been undervalued for too long, as it concerns our relevance to national development. No nation develops beyond its level of insurance appreciation, as the bedrock of it’s economy.”

 

Drawing a line between insurance in Nigeria and other developed climes he said, “The insurance industry is the major source of investible funds in other economies and in fact own banks, but this is not the case in Nigeria as the industry is at the backwaters of the various economic considerations of government.”

 

Upbeat about what taking place in the industry he said, “I want to specifically appreciate the various initiatives of the present administration in rejigging the insurance industry, especially through a more favorable legislation. It is hoped that with NIIRA 2025, the situation will change.

 

As a pathing to fellow brokers who he ceases to lead from October 25, Oguntade said “I would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our members, whose dedication and professionalism have been instrumental in shaping the insurance landscape in Nigeria. Your commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction as insurance brokers and the only professional intermediary in the insurance value chain is bedrock of our industry’s growth.”

Savannah Energy Provides Nine-Month Period Financial And Operational Update, Announces New Nigerian Investor, NIPCO

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Savannah Energy PLC, the British independent energy company focused around the delivery of Projects that Matter, has provided update on its operating and financial performance for the nine months to 30 September 2025. All figures are unaudited.
The update shows that Savannah has continued its growth trajectory, with appreciable increase in its Total Revenues and cash collections. Total Revenues during the period was US$185.2 million, up 9% compared to the Total Revenues of US$169.3 million in the first nine months in 2024, just as its cash collections rose by 5% to US$241.6 million compared to US$229.3 million in the corresponding period in 2024. The company also reported cash balances of US$101.8 million, which as of 31 December 2024 stood at US$32.6 million.
Likewise net debt and trade receivables balance continue to see improvements, reducing by 1% and 9%, respectively to 30 September 2025 since YE24. The company’s net debt as of 30 September 2025 stood at US$629.9 million (it was US$636.9 million by 31 December 2024), with Gross debt at US$731.7 million, of which only US$41.4 million (6%) was recourse to PLC. Its Trade Receivables balance as of 30 September 2025 was US$493.3 million, a 9% improvement on year-end 2024 of US$538.9 million.
According to the update, agreements have been signed with a consortium of five Nigerian banks in respect of an increase in the Accugas debt facility from NGN340 billion (approximately US$222 million) to up to approximately NGN772 billion (approximately US$500 million). It is expected that the Transitional Facility will be utilised to enable the remaining outstanding balance of the Accugas US$ Facility to be repaid by end 2025. This is in addition to the term sheet agreed between Savannah’s wholly owned subsidiary, Savannah Energy EA, and a major African based financial institution for a new US$37.4 million debt facility to provide funding for our planned acquisition of a 50.1% interest in Klinchenberg BV, which holds indirect interests in three East African hydropower projects.
As part of its financial drive, Savannah announced its intention to complete a fundraising by way of subscription of 161,061,510 new Ordinary Shares at 7 pence per new Ordinary Share to raise approximately £11.3 million before expenses. The completion of the final tranche of the March 2025 fundraising of 138,977,614 new Ordinary Shares at 7 pence per new Ordinary Share is expected imminently, with the final approximate £9.7 million in subscription funds to be received.
The company also announced the planned introduction of a new strategic shareholder, NIPCO, a diversified Nigerian energy conglomerate, onto the company’s register. The new Investor intends to acquire, for £7.9 million, 113,378,685 Ordinary Shares issued as part of the Company’s March 2025 fundraising and expects to acquire a further £9.5 million, 135,674,944 Ordinary Shares through a series of secondary market trades, representing a total investment of approximately £28.7 million in the company and an expected pro forma holding of around 19.4% of the Company’s enlarged share capital (as enlarged by the various proposed share issues referred to in this announcement). Savannah also announced the intended sale of Ordinary Shares by the Company’s employee benefit trust and issue of new Ordinary Shares to the EBT.
Operationally, Savannah’s gross production in Nigeria averaged 20.1 Kboepd (9M 2024: 23.0 Kboepd), of which 85% was gas (9M 2024: 88%). At Stubb Creek, the 18-month expansion programme has increased production to 3.3kbopd, 24% above the 2024 average. Well site construction is currently ongoing for the Uquo NE development well, following the earlier signing of a turnkey drilling contract for a planned two-well drilling campaign on the Uquo Field, scheduled to commence in January 2026, with first gas targeted by the end of that quarter. In Niger, Savannah is also considering commencing a four-well testing programme and/or a return to exploration activity in the R1234 PSC contract area 2026/27, subject to a satisfactory agreement being reached with the country’s government.
It reports that the company’s new compression system at the Uquo Central Processing Facility has been completed and fully commissioned. This project, which was delivered safely and approximately 10% under the original US$45 million budget, is expected to allow Savannah to maximise the production from its existing and future gas wells.
Savannah also announced that it has agreed a gas contract extension with the Central Horizon Gas Company Limited to end December 2026 for up to 10 MMscfpd.
Savannah said it also progressing on its previously announced proposed acquisition of indirect interests in three East African hydropower projects, including the 255 MW Bujagali power plant, with a 13-year operating and payment track record, and two advanced-stage development projects, marking its planned entry into five new countries, namely: Uganda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi and Rwanda.
The company continues to progress on its existing priority Power Division projects, including the up to 250 MW Parc Eolien de la Tarka wind farm project in Niger and the up to 95 MW Bini a Warak hybrid hydroelectric and solar project in Cameroon. It is also actively reviewing opportunities in both the thermal and renewable power sector, with the expectation of announcing transaction(s) currently under consideration over the course of the next 24 months in the African power space.
 
 
 
Andrew Knott, CEO of Savannah Energy, said:
“2025 has been a year of strong progress against the nine focus areas we set out at the beginning of the year. These include increasing our rate of cash collections in Nigeria, with performance remaining on track; advancing the refinancing of our principal Nigerian debt facilities, which we expect to complete by year-end; and successfully completing the acquisition of 100% of Sinopec International Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Nigeria Limited in March.
 
 
We have also commenced the Stubb Creek expansion project, continued to advance our arbitral processes, and begun site construction ahead of the planned drilling of our Uquo development and exploration wells. In Niger, discussions on the R3 East development are progressing, while in the power sector we have refined our business model to align with future growth opportunities. Finally, we continue to pursue further value-accretive acquisitions across both the oil and gas and power sectors, with the Norfund transaction already announced and several other opportunities under active discussion.
 
 
Additionally, earlier in the year, the Company reported a 21% 2P Reserves upgrade on its Uquo gas field and a 29% upgrade on its Stubb Creek oil field 2P Reserves. Collectively, these developments demonstrate the strong operational momentum within the Group and our continued focus on disciplined execution across all parts of the business.
 
 
We are also pleased to welcome NIPCO Plc (“NIPCO” or the “New Investor”), a diversified Nigerian energy conglomerate, as a potential new investor in the Company, who we expect to own approximately 19.4% of the Company following completion of their primary investment and certain secondary share transactions. The proceeds of the New Investor’s primary investment are expected to enable, among other things, the advancement of certain business development opportunities currently under consideration. Coupled with the imminent completion of the primary investment I committed to in March 2025, a series of secondary transactions, which are expected to occur today, are anticipated to increase my shareholding in the Company to approximately 12.6%, demonstrating my continued strong faith in the Company’s future potential.1
 
 
In addition, we are pleased to announce that should we see a significant improvement in cash collections- and/or receive meaningful proceeds from the arbitral processes we are engaged in, it is the Board’s present intention to consider returning a portion of such funds to shareholders through a tender offer or share buy-back, subject to prevailing capital requirements and shareholder and regulatory approvals. In this vein, today we are also announcing the signature of a conditional off-market share buyback agreement for approximately 6.8% of the Company’s enlarged share capital, to acquire shares prior to 31 March 2026. We are also announcing the proposed cancellation of warrants over approximately 101 million shares.
 
 
I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to all those who contributed to our successes this year – my incredibly dedicated and passionate colleagues, our host governments, communities, local authorities and regulators, our shareholders and lenders, and our customers, suppliers and partners. Thank you all.”
 
 
 
Update Highlights
Funding
  • Intention to complete a fundraising by way of subscription of 161,061,510 new Ordinary Shares at 7 pence per new Ordinary Share to raise approximately £11.3m before expenses;
  • Completion of the final tranche of the March 2025 fundraising of 138,977,614 new Ordinary Shares at 7 pence per new Ordinary Share expected imminently, with the final approximate £9.7 million in subscription funds to be received; and
  • Planned introduction of a new strategic shareholder, NIPCO, a diversified Nigerian energy conglomerate, onto Company’s register.
Conditional Share Buyback
  • Proposed share buyback agreement expected to be signed to acquire up to 143,565,582 existing Ordinary Shares from certain shareholders at 7 pence per share during the period ending 31 March 2026 (conditional upon the approval of Shareholders, expected to be sought shortly).
Warrant Cancellation
  • The Company intends to acquire and cancel warrants over 101,113,992 Ordinary Shares in the Company.
Operational
  • 9M 2025 average gross daily production of 20.1 Kboepd (9M 2024: 23.0 Kboepd), of which 85% was gas (9M 2024: 88%)2. Following completion of the SIPEC Acquisition in March 2025, we commenced an 18-month expansion programme that has already increased current Stubb Creek gross daily production to 3.3 Kbopd, approximately 24% above the 2024 average;
  • Well site construction is currently ongoing for the Uquo NE development well. This follows the earlier signing of a turnkey drilling contract for a planned two-well drilling campaign on the Uquo Field, scheduled to commence in January 2026, with first gas targeted by the end of that quarter;
  • New compression system at the Uquo Central Processing Facility (“CPF”) completed and fully commissioned. This project, which was delivered safely and approximately 10% under the original US$45 million budget, is expected to allow us to maximise the production from our existing and future gas wells;
  • Gas contract extension agreed with the Central Horizon Gas Company Limited (“CHGC”) to end December 2026 for up to 10 MMscfpd;
  • Progressing our previously announced proposed acquisition of indirect interests in three East African hydropower projects, including the 255 MW Bujagali power plant, with a 13-year operating and payment track record, and two advanced-stage development projects, marking Savannah’s planned entry into five new countries – Uganda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the “DRC”), Malawi and Rwanda;
  • Continuing to progress our existing priority Power Division projects, including the up to 250 MW Parc Eolien de la Tarka wind farm project in Niger and the up to 95 MW Bini a Warak hybrid hydroelectric and solar project in Cameroon;
  • Subject to a satisfactory agreement being reached with the Government of Niger, our subsidiary is considering commencing a four-well testing programme and/or a return to exploration activity in the R1234 PSC contract area in 2026/27; and
  • Actively reviewing opportunities in both the thermal and renewable power sector, with the expectation of announcing transaction(s) currently under consideration over the course of the next 24 months in the African power space.
Financial (unaudited)
  • 9M 2025 Total Revenues3 of US$185.2 million, up 9% (9M 2024: US$169.3 million) and 9M 2025 cash collections of US$241.6 million, an increase of 5% (9M 2025: US$229.3 million);
  • As at 30 September 2025, cash balances were US$101.8 million (31 December 2024: US$32.6 million) and net debt stood at US$629.9 million (31 December 2024: US$636.9 million). Gross debt as at 30 September 2025 was US$731.7 million of which only US$41.4 million (6%) was recourse to PLC;
  • The Trade Receivables balance as at 30 September 2025 was US$493.3 million, a 9% improvement on year-end 2024 (31 December 2024: US$538.9 million);
  • Agreements signed with a consortium of five Nigerian banks in respect of an increase in the Accugas debt facility from NGN340 billion (approximately US$222 million) to up to approximately NGN772 billion (approximately US$500 million) (the “Transitional Facility”). It is expected that the Transitional Facility will be utilised to enable the remaining outstanding balance of the Accugas US$ Facility to be repaid by end 2025; and
  • Term sheet agreed between Savannah’s wholly owned subsidiary, Savannah Energy EA, and a major African based financial institution for a new US$37.4 million debt facility to provide funding for our planned acquisition of a 50.1% interest in Klinchenberg BV (“Klinchenberg”), which holds indirect interests in three East African hydropower projects.
Employee Benefit Trust
  • Intended sale of Ordinary Shares by the Company’s employee benefit trust (“EBT”) and issue of new Ordinary Shares to the EBT.
Reasons for the Potential Funding and Use of Proceeds
The Company intends to conduct a fundraising of approximately £11.3 million at a price of 7 pence per new Ordinary Share (the “Financing”), to be subscribed in full by NIPCO, a diversified Nigerian energy conglomerate. Accordingly, 161,061,510 new Ordinary Shares are expected to be issued pursuant to the Financing.
In addition, the New Investor intends to acquire, for £7.9 million, 113,378,685 Ordinary Shares issued as part of the Company’s March 2025 fundraising and expects to acquire a further £9.5 million, 135,674,944 Ordinary Shares through a series of secondary market trades, representing a total investment of approximately £28.7 million in the Company and an expected pro forma holding of around 19.4% of the Company’s enlarged share capital (as enlarged by the various proposed share issues referred to in this announcement).
The Company’s CEO Andrew Knott also intends to: (1) imminently acquire 25,598,929 new Ordinary Shares for £1.8m as part of the March 2025 fundraising; (2) acquire a further 32,202,738 existing Ordinary Shares for a total consideration of £2.3m through a secondary market trade; and (3) acquire 63,690,129 existing Ordinary Shares from the EBT for a total consideration of £4.5m. Post these transactions Mr Knott is expected to have a pro forma holding of around 12.6% in the Company’s enlarged share capital.
In reaching its decision to proceed with the Financing, the Board considered the proposed introduction of NIPCO to be beneficial to shareholders as a whole, bringing onto the Company’s share register a diversified Nigerian energy conglomerate with deep industry expertise. The Board believes that the New Investor’s intended investment will strengthen the Company’s balance sheet, broaden its shareholder base, and support the next phase of the Company’s growth. Accordingly, the Board considers the Financing to be in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. The net proceeds of the equity issuance are expected to be used, inter alia, to enable the acceleration of certain potential near-term business development opportunities and for general corporate purposes.
The Financing was discussed on a wall-crossed basis with shareholders representing approximately 50% of the Company’s enlarged share capital, each of whom has provided written confirmation of their support for the Financing.
Excess Cash
The Board is also mindful that an improvement in receivables cash collections and/or a favourable outcome in ongoing arbitral proceedings could, in due course, result in the business holding excess cash balances. In such circumstances, it is the Board’s present intention that, subject to the Company’s capital requirements, shareholder authorities, available reserves and applicable regulatory approvals, a portion of those funds could be used to implement a share buy-back and/or tender offer for the Company’s Ordinary Shares. No assurance can be given that any such distribution or capital management initiative will occur, and the timing and quantum of any return of capital would remain at the sole discretion of the Board. Further, pursuant to authority granted to the Company at the Company’s AGM held in June this year, the Company may conduct market share buybacks of up to 241,592,266 Ordinary Shares, subject to certain parameters with regard to the buyback price, and the Company reserves the right to use such authority on an opportunistic basis.
Buyback Agreement
The Company expects to enter into an off-market share buyback agreement with certain existing Shareholders (the “Buyback Agreement”), the terms of which would allow the Company to buy back (or nominate third parties to purchase) up to 143,565,582 existing Ordinary Shares (the “Buyback Shares”) at 7 pence per share in one or more tranches at any time prior to 31 March 2026 (subject to the Company having sufficient distributable profits at the time of any such buyback). The Buyback Agreement provides for the Company (or third parties) having acquired 50% of the Buyback Shares by 30 January 2026, and the balance of the Buyback Shares by 31 March 2026, subject, in the case of any buybacks by the Company, to the Company having sufficient distributable profits. The Buyback Agreement would terminate on 31 March 2026 and any Buyback Shares not purchased by the Company or third parties on or prior to that date would be released from the arrangement. The Buyback Agreement will require the approval of Shareholders by way of an ordinary resolution.
The Company intends to convene a general meeting of Shareholders in due course to seek approval for the Buyback Agreement and to renew and to potentially expand its general buyback authority. There is no certainty that the Company will ultimately buyback the Ordinary Shares subject to the Buyback Agreement.
No assurance can be given that any such distribution or capital management initiative will occur, and the timing and quantum of any return of capital would remain at the sole discretion of the Board.
Operational Update
Hydrocarbons Division
Average gross daily production was 20.1 Kboepd for 9M 2025 (9M 2024: 23.0 Kboepd), of which 85% was gas (9M 2024: 88%)2;
On 10 March 2025, we announced the completion of the SIPEC Acquisition. Following completion, we commenced a planned production expansion programme that has already increased current Stubb Creek gross daily production to 3.3 Kbopd, approximately 24% above the 2024 average. The full programme, expected to take up to 18 months, is anticipated to raise gross production to as much as 4.7 Kbopd. In parallel, we are evaluating an alternative, lower capex option that could deliver a faster production ramp up, with plateau production sustained for a longer period at a slightly lower rate than under the original expansion programme.
The compression project at the Uquo CPF is now completed and fully commissioned. This project, which was delivered approximately 10% under the original US$45 million budget, is expected to allow us to maximise the production from our existing and future gas wells.
The Company’s Accugas subsidiary was pleased to agree a contract extension (effective 20 June 2025) with CHGC to end December 2026 to supply up to 10 MMscfpd of gas. This represents the fourth such extension to the original contract signed with CHGC in February 2022. CHGC is a major gas distribution company situated in the South-South region of Nigeria, operating a 17 km gas pipeline infrastructure network providing natural gas to industrial and commercial users in the Trans Amadi Industrial Area of Port Harcourt as well as the greater Port Harcourt Area, Nigeria.
Well site construction is currently ongoing for the Uquo NE development well. This follows the earlier signing of a turnkey drilling contract in preparation for a planned two-well drilling campaign on the Uquo Field. Drilling for this well is scheduled to begin in January 2026, with first gas targeted by the end of that quarter and forecast to deliver gas volumes of up to 80 MMscfpd. An additional exploration well in the Uquo Field (“Uquo South”) is expected to be drilled back-to-back with the Uquo NE well. Uquo South is a well targeting an Unrisked Gross GIIP of 131 Bscf of incremental Prospective gas Resources on the Uquo licence area.
The Company notes the supportive public statements made by various officials of the Government of Nigeria during 2025 regarding the Nigerian electricity sector, stating that His Excellency President Bola Tinubu has approved a US$2.6 billion financing package to assist companies operating within the power industry settle outstanding verified invoices to power generation companies (“Gencos”) and subsequently to gas supply companies. This has created renewed positive momentum in the discussions Accugas Ltd, an 80% Savannah owned subsidiary, is having with its offtakers that are Gencos around the repayment of the Company’s outstanding receivables balance in an accelerated manner.
We continue to actively engage with the Government of Niger around our forward work programme plans in country. Subject to a satisfactory agreement being reached with the Government, our subsidiary is considering commencing a four-well testing programme and/or a return to exploration activity in the R1234 PSC contract area in 2026/27. The R3 East development plan, itself, has been significantly re-worked since the last published Niger Competent Persons’ Report (“CPR”) of December 2021, with a plateau production rate of around 10 Kbopd now assumed (previously 5 Kbopd). The Company has updated its internal management estimates of the potential PV10 value (on an unrisked basis) at an asset level basis for R3 East to US$184.4 million (vs the last CPR asset value estimate of US$150 million). Assuming a successful well test programme is conducted, we would look to accelerate plans to commence commercial oil production from the R3 East Area and intend to incorporate the data acquired into our field development plan.
 
Outlook
Given the significant ongoing operation work, including completion of site and logistical preparations for the upcoming material drilling activity and other ongoing well activities at the Uquo Field, together with anticipated levels of customer demand, we expect production to average around 19-20 Kboepd for FY 20253. From Q2 2026, following the drilling and tie-back of the Uquo NE development well (“Uquo NE”), we expect to materially increase our gas delivery in addition to increased oil production from Stubb Creek.
 
Power Division
In 2025, we have repositioned our power sector business model to pursue operating asset opportunities in both the thermal and renewable energy spaces alongside interests in large scale renewable energy development projects.
Proposed Acquisition of Three East African Hydropower Projects
On 19 September 2025, we announced the proposed acquisition of interests in three East African hydropower projects with the signing by our wholly owned subsidiary, Savannah Energy EA Limited, of a Share Purchase Agreement (“SPA”) with Norfund, the Norwegian investment fund for developing countries, to acquire its current 50.1% interest in Klinchenberg for a total consideration of up to US$65.4 million (the “Klinchenberg Transaction”). Klinchenberg is a joint venture company currently owned by Norfund (50.1%) and British International Investment (“BII”) (49.9%), the UK’s development finance institution. Klinchenberg has interests in a portfolio of hydropower assets, as set out below:4
  • an indirect 13.6% interest in the operating 255 MW Bujagali run-of-river hydropower plant (“Bujagali”) in Uganda;
  • an indirect 12.3% interest in the 361 MW Mpatamanga hydropower development project (“Mpatamanga”) in Malawi; and
  • an indirect 9.8% interest in the 206 MW Ruzizi III hydropower development project (“Ruzizi III”) spanning Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (the “DRC”) and Rwanda.
The consideration includes a US$6.8 million deferred cash element, payable three years post-completion of the Klinchenberg Transaction, and contingent payments in respect of Mpatamanga and Ruzizi III payable upon financial close of these projects. The Klinchenberg Transaction is subject to customary adjustments upon completion and is expected to complete no earlier than Q1 2026. The SPA has an economic effective date of 31 December 2024. The consideration is expected to be funded by through a new US$37.4 million debt facility provided by a major African based financial institution, and the cash resources of the Company.
In 2024, Klinchenberg distributed a gross dividend of US$17.4 million to its shareholders, of which US$8.7 million was attributable to Norfund.
The Bujagali tariff is governed by a 30-year, capacity-based power purchase agreement running to 2042, providing stable, dollar-denominated cash flows. Revenues are anchored in availability payments rather than dispatch volumes, insulating returns from hydrological variability and demand risk.
Net capital expenditure to reach financial close for the Mpatamanga and Ruzizi III projects, after accounting for the acquired interests, is expected to be less than US$2 million. To date, approximately US$6.5 million has already been invested, net to the acquired interests. The project companies are targeting financial close on both projects in 2026. Going forward Savannah expects to account for the transaction as an investment in an associate, through the equity method of accounting.
 
Existing Projects
We continue to progress our existing portfolio of wind, solar and hydroelectric projects, with our principal focus projects being on the up to 250 MW Parc Eolien de la Tarka project in Niger and the up to 95 MW Bini a Warak hybrid hydroelectric and solar project in Cameroon.
Our Parc Eolien de la Tarka project has made significant progress in the year to date, with the Minister of Energy confirming that the project is on the Government’s list of priority projects. We are continuing to progress the additional Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (“ESIA”) field work studies required for the full ESIA, which we expect to complete and submit to the relevant authorities in early 2026. The Company is continuing to seek to negotiate outline terms in relation to the project’s proposed power purchase agreement and continues to work on the project in close collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (World Bank) and the US International Development Finance Corporation.
Negotiations with the Government of Cameroon are at an advanced stage regarding a Joint Development Agreement for the up to 95 MW Bini a Warak hybrid hydroelectric and solar project. This is expected to replace the Memorandum of Agreement signed in April 2023 and secure the terms under which Savannah will collaborate with the Government of Cameroon to develop the project further. Prior to financial close, we currently expect to reduce our ownership interest in the Bini a Warak project by around 50%, so as to introduce additional equity partners.
Future M&A Activity
The Company continues to view mergers and acquisitions activity as a core driver of potential future value creation and is actively pursuing opportunities across both the hydrocarbon and renewable energy sectors.
Savannah has recently entered into an exclusivity period in respect of the proposed acquisition of majority interests in a portfolio of renewable projects located in Sub-Saharan Africa, with an aggregate gross capacity in excess of 100 MW and a strong payment history. The proposed acquisition would also include the associated operational teams and a portfolio of renewable development projects in the same country with a targeted gross capacity of approximately 40 MW. The transaction, which remains subject to the execution of long-form documentation and other customary conditions, is envisaged to involve a potential gross consideration in the US$90 million to US$110 million range and would be expected to be funded through a combination of debt and cash resources.
This proposed acquisition represents the most advanced transaction currently being progressed by Savannah. However, shareholders are advised that there can be no certainty that the transaction will proceed on the above summarised terms or be completed at all. The Company maintains an active business development pipeline comprising a number of potential transactions at various stages of evaluation, although no other opportunities have, at this stage, reached such a level to necessitate disclosure under applicable regulations. The Business development pipeline is sufficiently large that we are however confident of announcing further transaction(s) over the course of the next 24 months in the African oil and gas and power space.
Financial Update (unaudited)
9M 2025 Performance Highlights
9M 2025 Total Revenues3 were US$185.2 million, an increase of 9% over the prior year period (9M 2024: US$169.3 million) and 9M 2025 cash collections were US$241.6 million, an increase of 5% over the comparable prior year period (9M 2024: US$229.3 million).
As at 30 September 2025, cash balances were US$101.8 million (31 December 2024: US$32.6 million) and net debt stood at US$629.9 million (31 December 2024: US$636.9 million). This included debt associated with the SIPEC Acquisition and, for comparison purposes, if this were excluded, net debt would have further reduced to US$587.3 million. It should be noted that only 6% of outstanding debt as at 30 September 2025 was recourse to Savannah, with the balance sitting within subsidiary companies on a non-recourse basis.
The Trade Receivables balance as at 30 September 2025 was US$493.3 million, a 9% improvement on year-end 2024 (31 December 2024: US$538.9 million). This relates primarily to amounts due under various gas sales agreements in Nigeria. Delivering an increase in our rate of cash collections in Nigeria remains a key focus area for the business in 2025. The Company is hopeful that the Trade Receivables balance will reduce further in Q4 2025.
Debt Facilities
In January 2024, a NGN 340 billion (approximately US$222 million) term facility was signed by Accugas with a consortium of five Nigerian banks (the “Transitional Facility”). This facility was fully utilised earlier this year with the resulting funds converted to US$, which, along with cash held, was used to partially prepay the existing Accugas US$ Facility. As at 30 September 2025, there was a remaining principal balance under the US$ Facility of approximately US$193 million. We have signed agreements with the consortium of five Nigerian banks to increase the Transitional Facility to up to approximately NGN772 billion (approximately US$500 million), enabling the remaining outstanding US$ balance to be converted into Naira, with the expectation this will allow the remainder of the Accugas US$ Facility to be fully repaid by end 2025. This process, when complete, is expected to align Accugas’ debt facility with the currency in which gas revenues are received.
Our wholly owned subsidiary, Savannah Energy EA, has signed a term sheet with a major African based financial institution for a new US$37.4 million debt facility to provide funding for the planned acquisition of a 50.1% interest in Klinchenberg, as previously announced on 19 September 2025.
Arbitration Update
Our wholly owned subsidiary, Savannah Chad Inc (“SCI”), commenced arbitral proceedings in 2023 against the Government of the Republic of Chad in response to the March 2023 nationalisation of SCI’s rights in the Doba fields in Chad, and other breaches of SCI’s rights. Another wholly owned subsidiary, Savannah Midstream Investment Limited (“SMIL”), commenced arbitral proceedings in 2023 in relation to the nationalisation of its investment in TOTCo, the Chadian company which owns and operates the section of the Chad-Cameroon pipeline located in Chad. SMIL has also commenced arbitral and other legal proceedings for breaches of SMIL’s rights in relation to COTCo, the Cameroon company which owns and operates the section of the Chad-Cameroon pipeline located in Cameroon. We currently expect these arbitral proceedings to be concluded in the first half of 2026.
SCI and SMIL are claiming in excess of US$775 million (plus interest which is currently estimated at in excess of US$170 million and costs) for the nationalisation of their rights and assets in Chad.5 SMIL has a claim valued at approximately US$330 million (plus interest which is currently estimated at in excess of US$60 million plus costs) for breaches of its rights in relation to COTCo.6 Whilst the Government of the Republic of Chad has acknowledged SCI’s and SMIL’s right to compensation, no compensation has been paid by the Government of the Republic of Chad to date. Savannah remains ready and willing to discuss with the Government of the Republic of Chad an amicable solution to the disputes. However, in the absence of such discussions, SCI and SMIL intend to vigorously pursue their rights in the arbitrations.
SCI is involved in further arbitral proceedings in which designates of Société des Hydrocarbures du Tchad allege breaches by SCI of the Doba fields joint operating agreement.7 SCI is defending the claims vigorously. We currently expect these arbitral proceedings to be concluded in Q3 2026.
EBT Issuance and Transactions
Sale of Ordinary Shares
It is intended that a company owned and controlled by the Company’s CEO, Andrew Knott, (the “Purchaser”) will purchase 63,690,129 existing Ordinary Shares currently held by the EBT (which is independent of the Company) at 7 pence per share (the “EBT Share Sale”). The aggregate consideration due by the Purchaser to the EBT will be approximately £4.5 million (the “Consideration”), to be settled by the transfer to the EBT of warrants to subscribe for up to 101,113,992 new Ordinary Shares at 19.2 pence per share and expiring in June 2029 (being the warrants granted by the Company in December 2021 to a company owned and controlled by Mr Knott) (the “Warrants”) (such Warrants currently valued by the Company at approximately £1.3 million using a methodology consistent with the approach adopted by external advisers when valuing the Warrants for annual accounts (the “Warrants Value”)). The balance of the consideration due by the Purchaser to the EBT will be deferred and be payable in cash over a six-year period (with a commercial rate of applied on monies due until the date of payment). Mr Knott has provided a personal guarantee to the EBT in relation to the deferred consideration.
 
Purchase and Cancellation of the Warrants
Following completion of the EBT Share Sale, but legally separate and distinct to the EBT Share Sale, it is intended that the Company will purchase the Warrants from the EBT for cash consideration equal to the Warrants Value (the “Warrants Purchase”). Following completion of this intended purchase, the Warrants would be cancelled (the “Cancellation”), thereby removing an instrument which, if exercised, would result in future dilution. This intended cancellation of the Warrants was discussed with the New Investor in connection with making its proposed equity investment in the Company referred to above.
The economic effect of the proposed EBT Share Sale and in turn the Warrant Purchase and Cancellation is a reduction in the Company’s enlarged fully diluted share capital by approximately 4.5%. Given the importance of his position within the Company, the Board is highly supportive of Mr Knott acquiring a greater ownership interest in the business and acknowledges the substantial personal financial commitment he is making in the years ahead. The Board also considers that the Cancellation of the dilutive warrants previously granted to Mr Knott is in the best interests of shareholders as a whole.
 
Proposed Subscription for New Ordinary Shares by the EBT
Ensuring that the Group is able to appropriately incentivise its employees is considered by the Board to be crucial to the future success of the business. It is therefore proposed to issue 210,000,000 new Ordinary Shares to the EBT at nominal value (£0.001) (the “EBT Share Issuance”), with such shares being held by the EBT for the benefit of the Group’s employees, for example in satisfaction of the exercise of employee options over Ordinary Shares.  The EBT’s subscription obligation will be funded from the EBT’s cash reserves that will derive from the Warrants Purchase.
Receipt of Shareholder Support 
The EBT Share Sale, Warrants Purchase and EBT Share Issuance (together, the “EBT Transactions”) were discussed on a wall-crossed basis with a number of the Company’s shareholders ahead of this announcement. Shareholders representing approximately 50% of the Company’s enlarged issued share capital have provided written confirmation of their support for the EBT Transactions. In addition, the Company and the trustees of the EBT have each obtained independent professional advice in relation to the EBT Transactions.
The Company believes the proposed EBT transactions deliver several key strategic benefits, being: (1) the cancellation of the Warrants and issuance of new shares into the EBT are expected to provide improved transparency regarding the potential future equity dilution faced by shareholders, particularly in light of the Company’s acquisition-led growth strategy and associated headcount expansion; (2) the EBT Transactions are intended to further align the interests of management and employees with those of shareholders through increased equity participation; (3) they reflect a specific request from the New Investor that Mr. Knott increase his shareholding in the Company; and (4) they enhance the Company’s flexibility to incorporate equity components into future remuneration arrangements – something that was previously constrained by the limited number of unallocated shares available within the EBT.
Lastly, when considered together with the other proposed share-related transactions announced today – namely, the Financing, the Buyback Agreement, the Warrant Purchase and Cancellation, and the EBT Issuance – the illustrative net change to the Company’s fully diluted share capital is expected to be approximately 6.7%, assuming completion of all such transactions and the corresponding adjustments to the fully diluted share capital. There can be no assurance that all of these transactions will complete as envisaged, or at all.
CEO Service Agreement Renewal
Mr. Knott has agreed with the Board to renew his service agreement on revised terms. The renewed agreement includes a minimum term of two years, securing Mr. Knott’s continued leadership during this period as a key member of the senior management team. All other material terms of his existing service agreement remain unchanged.
The Board, having consulted with and received written support from shareholders representing approximately 50% of the Company’s enlarged issued share capital, believes that the renewal of Mr. Knott’s service agreement is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, providing leadership continuity as Savannah advances its growth strategy.
UK Public Markets Landscape
The UK equity market continues to face a number of structural challenges. Industry data indicates that UK equity funds have experienced sustained net outflows for several consecutive years, with cumulative redemptions in the tens of billions of pounds over this period. Over the past two decades, UK pension funds have also materially reduced their allocation to UK-listed equities, from levels of around 50% in 2000 to single-digit percentages today.8 As a result, UK-listed companies currently trade at valuation multiples that are materially lower than many of their international peers.9
The UK Government and financial regulators have acknowledged these trends and have stated their intention to implement reforms designed to strengthen the attractiveness of the UK’s capital markets and to encourage greater investment in domestic equities.
Savannah Energy plc has actively engaged with the London Stock Exchange in connection with its consultation paper “Shaping the Future of AIM”, contributing to this reform dialogue. Savannah’s particular focus has been on the operation of AIM Rule 14 relating to share suspensions, under which companies may be required to suspend trading for extended periods when undertaking large-scale transactions deemed to be reverse takeovers. The Company believes that such transactions can represent important opportunities for value-accretive growth; however, the potential for prolonged suspension periods can deter companies – particularly those operating in jurisdictions where governmental approvals are protracted – from pursuing such opportunities.
While the Board remains supportive of the Shaping the Future of AIM initiative and is hopeful that it will deliver reforms enhancing AIM’s suitability for high-growth companies, it also recognises the ongoing market challenges noted above, including those relating to cost of capital. Further the Board is concerned that, given the Company’s strategy and ambitions, were AIM Rule 14 not to be significantly amended, there is a risk that the Company’s shares could be subject to another prolonged period of share suspension in relation to a future reverse takeover. The Company continues to evaluate a range of potential corporate transactions which, if pursued, could be classified as reverse takeovers under the AIM Rules. Accordingly, the Board considers that further reform of AIM Rule 14 would be beneficial in supporting the Company’s growth strategy.
As part of its normal course of business, the Board has also initiated a review of the appropriateness of Savannah’s current AIM quotation and the potential alternative options available to the Company, including the possibility of seeking admission to another recognised stock exchange. This review remains at an early and exploratory stage. There can be no certainty that it will lead to any changes to the Company’s current market arrangements. The Company intends to engage with its investor base on this matter during the course of Q4 2025.
RE: ALLEGATION OF IMPROPER TRANSACTION PRACTICES INVOLVING OUR STAFF

The attention of the Management of the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) has been drawn to a recent social media post alleging that a staff of our Agency engaged in improper transaction practices by using a personal bank account to receive payments from customers for signage-related services.

The Agency views this allegation with utmost seriousness and wishes to state unequivocally that such actions, if verified, are contrary to the established financial and ethical procedures governing transactions within LASAA and the Lagos State Civil Service.

In line with the directive of the Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the staff involved has been identified and directed to report at the Agency’s Head Office for immediate investigation and disciplinary proceedings in accordance with public service rules.

LASAA reiterates its unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all its operations. The Agency maintains a strict policy that all payments for its services must be made only through officially designated government channels.

We appreciate the vigilance of members of the public who bring such matters to our attention. The Agency assures all stakeholders and clients that necessary corrective measures will be taken to uphold public trust and the integrity of our processes.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

 

Nestlé’s MAGGI Partners With Farmers On Regenerative Agriculture

MAGGI, Nigeria’s leading seasoning brand from Nestlé, has announced the successful completion of its Regenerative Agriculture (RegenAg) pilot for local soybean sourcing, a milestone that has inspired a broader program now supporting 25,000 smallholder farmers across Nigeria.
Launched in 2023 with an investment of over ₦100 million, the pilot supported 1,030 soybean farmers to adopt climate-smart practices that improved their yields while restoring soil health. Implemented in partnership with TechnoServe and IDH, with technical guidance from the Centre for No-Till Agriculture (CNTA), Ghana, the project demonstrated the potential of regenerative farming to transform smallholder agriculture in Nigeria.
The pilot introduced simple but effective techniques such as cover cropping, minimal tillage (ripping), crop rotation, and hedgerows, leading to healthier soils and higher yields.
“Soybean is a key ingredient in MAGGI, and supporting local farmers to grow it sustainably is central to our mission,” said Funmi Osineye, Category Manager for Culinary, Nestlé Nigeria. “This initiative is more than a sourcing strategy; it is an investment in resilient food systems. By equipping farmers, especially women and youth, with regenerative agriculture skills, we are improving productivity today while protecting the land for future generations. This is how MAGGI continues to nourish Nigerian families while helping build a stronger agricultural economy.”
At a celebration event held to mark the pilot’s success, over 150 stakeholders from agriculture, development and industry came together to recognize five award-winning farmers for their outstanding adoption of regenerative practices. One of the farmers, Engineer Lawan Abdul, shared a compelling testimonial.
“Since I started adopting these strategies, as we were taught in this project, my yields have increased by 100%. This was very encouraging, and I would like to applaud the project organizers and thank MAGGI for bringing this to us.”
The pilot’s success has paved the way for a larger, multi-partner scale-up initiative, now backed by AGRA and MAGGI’s parent brand, Nestlé, to reach 25,000 smallholder farmers across Nigeria. The program aims to produce at least 80,000 metric tonnes of quality grains annually, with a growing share cultivated using regenerative practices.
“This project shows what is possible when businesses, development partners and farmers work together,” said Alidu Amadu, Head of Agriculture Services, Nestlé Central & West Africa Region (CWAR). “Regenerative agriculture not only restores soil health but also builds long-term productivity and resilience for local communities.”
This initiative contributes to Nestlé’s global ambition to source 20% of key ingredients through regenerative agricultural methods by 2025 and 50% by 2030, while supporting Nigeria’s broader food security and rural development goals.
Sir Malinson Ukatu Honoured with Honorary Doctorate by Tansian University

Renowned industrialist and Chairman of Nispo Porcelain Group, Sir Malinson Afam Ukatu, has been conferred with an honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration by Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in job creation.
The prestigious award was presented during the university’s 14th Convocation ceremony held on October 18, 2025.
Sir Ukatu’s conglomerate, comprising subsidiaries like Malinson and Partners, Nispo Porcelain Floor and Tile Company, and Nispo Porcelain Pharmaceuticals Ltd, has been instrumental in creating numerous opportunities for Nigerians.
Delivering an address themed “Education as a Catalyst for Social and Economic Development,” Tansian University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eugene Okoye Nwadialor, highlighted the institution’s impact on societal development and urged honorees to serve as university ambassadors.
Professor Nwadialor announced that 577 students received Bachelor’s degrees, alongside postgraduate awards, including the first Nursing Science graduates.
In his speech, Sir Malinson Ukatu expressed profound gratitude for the honour, dedicating it to his family, mentors, and colleagues.
“I accept this award with immense gratitude… This recognition will motivate me to continue striving for excellence,” he stated.
In a generous gesture, Dr. Ukatu pledged to construct two classroom blocks for the university and offer scholarships to 10 students from admission to graduation.
Other distinguished Nigerians honoured include former Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and DIG Taiwo Lakanu, represented by AIG Zone 13, Ukpo.
Prominent attendees included Chief Dr. Alexander Chika Okafor (Chicason) and Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chief Mrs. Ify Obinabo.
Other attendees are HRH Igwe G N Odiegwu, igwe of  Abacha. Dr and lady Emma Oyeka, Chief Sir Clement Aniefuna, Barris Bona Orakwe, Canon Ben Obodo and Chief Austin Edozie, Dr Ekene Nwankwo, Chief Ifediora Abasilim and  Chief Obum Ukatu. .Okey Ezeonu
Insurance Is A Strategic Enabler of National Development Not Merely A Financial Product – emPLE CEO

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By Fidelia Okafor 
 
Mr. Rantimi Ogunleye, CEO of emPLE Life Assurance Limited, has stated that as Nigeria charts it’s course towards becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2030, that insurance industry must transition from a peripheral role to a central driver of economic resilience and investment confidence.
Ogunleye, who was represented by Mr. Jolaolu Fakoya at the Finance and Business Online Publishers (FiBOP) 2025 National Conference held in Lagos, called for a sector-wide mindset shift, urging policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to treat insurance not merely as a financial product, but as a strategic enabler of national development.
“Insurance is more than numbers; it’s the confidence to build, invest, and grow. If we get it right, we won’t just contribute to GDP—we will help safeguard it,” Ogunleye asserted.
Despite its current GDP contribution of just over $1 billion—translating to less than 1% penetration, insurance, he argued, underpins critical sectors such as agriculture, oil and gas, real estate, logistics, and construction.
While  illustrating, Ogunleye pointed to Dangote’s $20 billion refinery, highlighting that such capital-intensive ventures are only possible with robust insurance coverage providing the risk buffer necessary for investment.
The conference, brought together finance, policy, and tech leaders for high-level discussions on sustainable economic growth. For emPLE Life Assurance, the message was clear: insurance must be recognized as a cornerstone of economic continuity and stability.
In his presentation titled “The Strategic Place of Insurance in the Achievement of One Trillion Dollar Economy for Nigeria: Claims  Payments and Customers Feedback,” said “From farmers to fintech founders, from construction firms to cargo carriers, insurance allows stakeholders to operate with reduced exposure to risk,” .  “It creates the resilience that keeps the economic engine running.”
Ogunleye identified persistent structural barriers stalling the industry’s growth—including low consumer trust, poor awareness, and deep-rooted cultural skepticism, especially surrounding claims payments. He emphasized the need for transparent communication, simplified policy language, and consistent, high-integrity claims settlement practices.
“Claims payment is the strongest form of public relations in insurance. It builds trust better than any ad campaign ever could,” he stated.
A major highlight of Ogunleye’s presentation was the recent passage of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025—a legislative milestone mandating compulsory insurance across key sectors, including public buildings, infrastructure projects, trade, and professional services.
Calling the Act a “landmark step,” he noted that it institutionalizes risk management as a prerequisite for economic activities and introduces enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance.
“This reform aligns the insurance sector more directly with Nigeria’s development priorities,” he noted. “It’s a signal that risk management is now a national imperative.”
Ogunleye warned that legal mandates alone are insufficient, noting that reaching the informal sector where most Nigerians live and work requires innovative, low-cost, and accessible products tailored to daily realities.
“It’s hard to sell a policy to someone who’s worried about their next meal,” he observed. “Affordability and access must be front and center.”
He urged a multi-stakeholder coalition involving regulators, insurers, fintechs, and community leaders to drive penetration beyond urban centers and salaried workers.
He called for bold thinking, digital inclusion, and behavioral research to design insurance solutions that reflect the socio-economic dynamics of Nigeria’s diverse population.
“The future of Nigeria’s economy won’t just be built with steel and cement, but with trust, protection, and resilience. Insurance must be a pillar—not an afterthought—of our $1 trillion ambition.”
As Nigeria pushes toward its $1 trillion economic target, the message is clear: Without insurance, there is no resilience. Without resilience, there is no sustainable growth.
LASAA Hosts Legislative Delegation, Vows Continued Commitment To Visual Order, Safety

L-R: The Chairman, Committee on Information, Security and Strategy, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode; Chairman, Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources, LAHA, Hon. Sobur Akanbi Oluwa; MD/CEO, Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA), Prince Fatiu Akiolu; Chairman, Committee on the Environment (Parastatals), LAHA, Hon. (Engr.) Shabi Adebola; Chairman, Committee on Procurement, LAHA, Hon. Apata Samuel; and the Committee Clerk, LAHA, Mr. Olaosebikan Ebenezer during the Committee’s oversight function at LASAA in Lagos ..,Monday
The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) recently welcomed a high-powered delegation from the house committee on environment of the Lagos State House of Assembly, led by its Chairman, Honourable Shabi Rasheed Adekola. The visit served as a statutory oversight function, providing a critical platform for detailed engagement on the agency’s performance and regulatory adherence.
The LASAA management team, headed by the Managing Director/CEO, Prince Fatiu Akiolu, engaged the Committee in extensive discussions that spanned the agency’s activities, its performance metrics and compliance with regulatory responsibilities. The meeting fostered productive conversations focusing on strategic policies and ongoing projects aimed at developing an organised, safe and visually appealing outdoor advertising space across the state.
Prince Akiolu seized the opportunity to express his profound gratitude to the Committee for their time, unwavering support and valuable guidance.
“We are deeply committed to upholding best practices in outdoor advertising regulation,” Prince Akiolu stated. “LASAA’s mission is to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development of Lagos State’s visual environment, a goal we pursue rigorously for the benefit of all residents and visitors.”
In his remarks, Honourable Shabi Rasheed Adekola delivered a glowing assessment of LASAA’s operational efficiency. He particularly praised the agency’s efforts in maintaining a cleaner and safer Lagos through effective signage control and regulation under Prince Akiolu’s leadership.
The Chairman underscored the non-negotiable need for sustained cooperation between the legislature and all government agencies to guarantee efficient service delivery and accountability.
“We recognise LASAA’s vital role in keeping Lagos clean and safe,” Honourable Adekola stated. “This partnership between the legislature and government agencies is essential for ensuring service delivery and accountability that aligns perfectly with the agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.”
Honourable Adekola also issued a call to action, urging LASAA to intensify its efforts in public sensitization. He explained that engaging the public on the agency’s core mandate is crucial for ensuring continuous compliance and maximizing revenue potential.
Crucially, he reinforced the need for LASAA to reassure the public that the state’s outdoor advertising structures are maintained with “utmost integrity,” guaranteeing their safety.
The oversight visit successfully affirmed the shared commitment of both the legislature and LASAA to promoting transparency, efficiency and innovation within the public service, thereby enhancing the quality of life in Lagos State.
Roche Collaborates With Health Writers To Boost Breast Cancer Awareness

By Winifred Bosa
Roche Nigeria has partnered with Health Writers’ Association of Nigeria ( HEWAN ) to boost breast cancer education and media reporting in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month .
To commemorate this , a strategic capacity-building workshop for health journalists was held at the Cancer Centre, Nigerian Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) in Lagos .
The workshop was designed to equip journalists with the necessary tools to accurately inform the Nigerian public about the realities of breast cancer and the available care initiatives.
Key sessions at the workshop included:
1. An expert overview of breast cancer, presented by Dr. Samuel Otene, a Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist and State Chairman, Nigerian Cancer Society, Benue Chapter.
2. A presentation on the Presidential Directive for Mandatory Health Insurance and its implications for transforming healthcare in Nigeria by Dr Amade-Agada, GM Standards & Quality Assurance, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA)
3. . A detailed briefing on the Africa Breast Cancer Ambition (ABCA), an ongoing mission by Roche and its partners to improve breast cancer care outcomes.
Pharm. Gilbert Ogbewele, Marketing and Business Support Lead representing the General Manager Dr. Ladi Hameed, addressed the journalists highlighting their essential role. “Roche is proud to partner with HEWAN, a truly critical stakeholder entrusted with preserving public interest. Your role in educating the Nigerian public about the scourge of breast cancer is invaluable,” Ogbewele stated.
 “Crucially, you offer hope by arming our citizens with information about the available policies and breast cancer care initiatives that are functional in Nigeria today.”
The workshop aims to leverage the media’s reach to drive increased awareness, encourage early detection, and support the strengthening of Nigeria’s healthcare system for improved cancer care and survival. Mr. Ogbewele also noted that journalists are critical in supporting the government’s drive toward universal health coverage.
This initiative is part of Roche’s bold Africa Breast Cancer Ambition (ABCA), a mission dedicated to rewriting the story of breast cancer in Nigeria. Roche invited the media to join the quest to make a real difference in the essential fight against breast cancer.
Fidelity Bank Celebrates International Day Of The Girl Child with Debate Showcase

Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, recently hosted a debate competition for female secondary school students as part of its activities to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

 

Held at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos on Thursday, 16 October 2025, the She Leads Debate Competition brought together students from six secondary schools to argue for or against the topic: “In today’s world, is digital literacy more essential for girls than traditional life skills?”

 

Welcoming participants, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, Osita Ede, represented by the Head of Women Banking, Harriba Harry-Pepple, emphasized the importance of equipping girls with relevant skills and support to help them thrive as adults.

 

“Each year, this day reminds us of the limitless potential within every girl, potential that must be nurtured, celebrated and given a platform to shine. Through HerFidelity, our Women Banking Initiative, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower girls and women to dream boldly, learn confidently and lead fearlessly,” Ede said.

 

He added that the debate was not merely a contest but a platform for young female voices to express their ideas, challenge societal norms and showcase their intellectual strength. “When a girl is educated and supported with opportunities for self-expression, she becomes a catalyst for positive change in her community and beyond.”

 

Following a spirited debate session, Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College emerged the second runner-up, receiving N150,000. Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School took the first runner-up position with a prize of N300,000, while Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School won the competition and received N500,000.

 

The International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, is a global movement that highlights the unique challenges girls face and promotes their empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.

 

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

 

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

 

 

The Trouble With Nigeria’s Healthcare System

By Michael Owhoko, Ph.D
The quality of a country’s healthcare system is a mirror image of its leaders’ commitment to citizens’ health.  Countries like Singapore, Japan, South Korea and Switzerland are among the world’s top countries with best healthcare for citizens, driven majorly by robust funding and well-structured policy programme. Leaders in these countries do not go to foreign countries for medical tourism, as they have absolute confidence in the delivery capacity of the healthcare system.
But in Nigeria, the healthcare system is fraught with dysfunctionality, forcing elasticity of reliability southward.  Poor health facilities, unprofessionalism, unethical standards, weak regulatory agencies, bad personnel attitude, questionable health insurance schemes, unreliable health management organisations (HMOs), mismanagement, corruption, fake drugs and obsolete equipment are incidental to lack of commitment by Nigerian leaders to efficient and quality healthcare system.
Though, this is a symptom of greater disorders in Nigeria, poor funding and non-utilisation of health facilities by the ruling elites undermine efficiency, quality and delivery capacity of the healthcare system.  Why will leaders not trust and utilize the healthcare system they have built, equipped and made available to the people through funding?  When food is served to public by a provider who has no intention of eating, there is high probability that quality and hygiene may be compromised.
In the 2025 federal government budget, only N2.56 trillion was budgeted for the health sector, representing 5.15 percent of the country’s total budget of N49.7 trillion, which is far below the 15 percent recommended by the Abuja Declaration, to which Nigeria is a signatory. Though, the N2.56 trillion is an increase of about 58.53 percent of the 2024 budget of N1.62 trillion, however, when viewed in dollar terms, the amount decreased by 15.45 percent, dropping to $1.7 billion from $2.02 billion.
Since the famous coup speech of Late General Sanni Abacha on December 31, 1983 that the country’s health services were in shambles, and hospitals had been reduced to mere consulting clinics without drugs, water and equipment, the health sector has not shown promises of improvement. Even 34 years after, the wife of Late President Muhammadu Buhari, Aisha, confirmed this in 2017 when she resorted to use of a private hospital wholly owned and run by foreigners due to dysfunctional x-ray machine and lack of syringes in the Villa Clinic.
Unfortunately, 42 years after these observations were made by the powers that were, the healthcare sector is still defined by lack of government’s commitment.  This is particularly worrisome when viewed against the background of Nigeria’s growing population, currently characterized by low life expectancy, high maternal and child mortality rates.  This means that dependable and quality healthcare provision is not a priority for government, and therefore, a mirage for Nigeria to achieve high quality healthcare in line with World Health Organisation (WHO)’s standard.
Globally, Nigeria is ranked 157th out of 191 countries by WHO in the areas of quality health delivery performance. As the largest oil producer in Africa and 16th largest in the world, it is untenable for Nigeria not to provide robust funding for the health sector, given the country’s huge earnings from crude oil sales.
Even among African countries, Nigeria is rated poorly in healthcare provision.  In a report released by The Legatum Institute, a London-based global healthcare assessment organization, Nigeria was ranked 11th out of 12 African countries with poor healthcare system.  The countries include Central African Republic, South Sudan, Chad, Lesotho, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Swaziland (Eswatini), Liberia, Guinea, Angola, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.
Despite this poor performance ranking, no concerted effort is being made by government to improve quality service delivery, as budget allocation to the health sector has been on the downward swing.  Since Nigerian leaders who determine the condition of the sector, do not utilize the facilities due to poor services, it means the Nigerian healthcare system is designed to service the health needs of the poor and common Nigerians, and not Nigerian leaders.
Put differently, the healthcare system in Nigeria is determined and conditioned by the thought process and preferences of those who do not use the services.  For example, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and his cabinet members, including the Minister of Health, together with the Senate President and members of the Legislature, who approve the nation’s tertiary healthcare budget, do not patronize services of Nigerian hospitals.
State governors and their cabinet members, as well as members of the state houses of assembly responsible for approval of budget for secondary healthcare in the country, also, do not patronize health facilities at this level. Same applies to the various local government chairmen and council members whose jurisdiction cover primary healthcare. They all seek better healthcare outside their domains.
The poor premium placed on the health sector by Nigerian leaders have obviously prevented them from knowing that there is a correlation between robust funding of healthcare system and a healthy workforce, and by extension, robust economy.  A vibrant economy is contingent upon a healthy population and a healthy workforce, as health is a critical contributory factor to economic development.  This is the reason advanced economies invest so much in healthcare services, a contrast to Nigeria’s healthcare sector that is troubled by incapacity, unable to address mounting health challenges in the country.
The healthcare delivery system in Nigeria is executed through public and private facilities.  Unfortunately, the private healthcare providers are also enmeshed in unprofessional conduct driven by pecuniary motive.  Most of them take advantage of the country’s weak systemic policies to deliver poor health services. Regulatory authorities like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), and The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) are not doing enough to enforce professionalism and standards in the country’s healthcare system.
I recently lost a friend to prostrate operation in one of the private hospitals in Lagos.  Prior to the operation, he walked into the hospital by himself, looking normal.  But what he took to be a proactive step to avoid future complications, ended his life.  He was admitted under a health insurance cover managed by an HMO on executive plan with full options.  But rapid deterioration of his health in the hospital triggered skepticism on whether quality of treatment was commensurate with subscribed insurance plan.
There are numerous public complaints about HMOs conniving with private hospitals to render inadequate and poor services for financial gains. Most of these hospitals deliberately delay diagnosis and treatment until approval is obtained from HMOs, notwithstanding conditions of patients and category of insurance plans. The NHIA which carries out accreditation of HMOs before approval must look beyond this process to ensure they are continually monitored during operations.
My late friend’s case reminded me of a professional colleague, Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu, who narrated how God spared his life and given another chance to live again at 58.  His story brought to fore, the ineptitude, inefficiencies, unprofessionalism and lack of commitment and management of patients in Nigerian hospitals. His experience also proved that without connection at the top, patients can die out of share negligence and abandonment without consequence.
After undergoing six major operations and three minor procedures for prostrate, his survival was still on a cliff edge, necessitating the intervention of the Minister of Health through the help of ThisDay Publisher, Nduka Obaigbena and former Senate President, Bukola Saraki.  This intervention notwithstanding, hopes dimmed, leading Saraki to fly him to Egypt where he underwent successful corrective surgical operations.
Olaniyony’s case casts aspersion on the entire medical system in Nigeria, and exposed the agony voiceless Nigerians go through in Nigerian health facilities.  Trust deficit induced by poor services in Nigerian hospitals, has given rise to patronage of unlicensed and quack herbal health practitioners whose activities are damaging vital organs of innocent Nigerians, with concomitant reduction in life expectancy.
It is depressing to know that out of about 34,000 general hospitals, 21,000 primary health centers and 60 teaching hospital and federal medical centers located across the country, only about 41,000 hospitals are functional.
Government must therefore reorder its priorities to make health facilities efficient, affordable and reliable to enable both leaders and poor Nigerians alike to receive treatment in-country, as against resort to medical tourism which cost Nigeria approximately $1.6 billion annually.
Dr. Mike Owhoko, Lagos-based public policy analyst, author, and journalist, can be reached at www.mikeowhoko.com, and followed on X {formerly Twitter} @michaelowhoko.