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Soludo Seeks a New Deal For Nigeria

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**By Christian ABURIME

In a compelling convocation lecture delivered at Veritas University on November 7, 2024, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, the Governor of Anambra State, outlined a vision for a transformative “New Deal for Nigeria.”

Reflecting on his own graduation experience four decades ago, Governor Soludo emphasised the stark contrast between past and present challenges faced by graduates.

He articulated concerns over Nigeria’s socio-economic issues, including rising inflation, unemployment, and a culture where wealth accumulation is prioritised over virtue.

Acknowledging the historical conditions that shaped his generation, Professor Soludo urged graduates to embrace their upcoming year of National Youth Service as an opportunity for personal and societal resetting.

He encouraged active volunteerism and community service, positioning these experiences as crucial for nurturing selfless public service.

He stressed the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in navigating the complexities of modern life, citing a worrying disconnect between graduates’ expectations and the reality of job availability.

Central to Professor Soludo’s message was the call for collective effort in nation-building, asserting that a new social contract encompassing basic socio-economic rights is essential.

He emphasised that graduates from Veritas University, equipped with a holistic education grounded in Christian principles, bear the responsibility of contributing positively to society.

Professor Soludo also advocated the need for a pragmatic approach to governance in Nigeria, reminiscent of the U.S. Marshall Plan, calling for infrastructural investment and a focus on human capital development.

He highlighted initiatives undertaken in Anambra State, such as massive investments in education and health, aimed at creating a more equitable society.

The erudite economist and former CBN governor further lamented the growing educational divide between rich and poor in the Nigerian society, proposing that breaking this cycle of poverty must be a priority.

By fostering an inclusive educational environment, he posited that Nigeria could maximise its demographic potential and prepare itself as a leading global labour supplier by 2050.

In wrapping up, Professor Soludo inspired graduates to view their futures as flexible and urged them to actively shape Nigeria’s destiny through engaged citizenship.

He called on them to cultivate hope, recognising that despite the challenges, they carry the responsibility to realise Nigeria’s potential as a great nation.

His rallying cry reminded the young graduates that true leadership and commitment to civic duty begin with individual action, urging them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.

Business

BUA Foods Plc Reports Strong 2025 Performance with ₦1.77 Trillion Revenue, Proposes Record ₦28 Dividend per Share

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Leading Nigerian food manufacturer BUA Foods Plc has announced robust full-year 2025 audited results, with revenue climbing 16% to ₦1.77 trillion from ₦1.53 trillion in 2024.

The growth was driven by sustained consumer demand for the company’s core staples sugar, flour, pasta, and rice alongside higher sales volumes and strategic pricing amid a challenging economic environment marked by inflationary pressures on households.

Profit after tax nearly doubled, rising 95% to ₦518.4 billion, while gross profit surged to ₦737.3 billion from ₦540.8 billion the previous year.

Operating profit also increased significantly to ₦656.6 billion.In a strong signal of confidence in its outlook and commitment to shareholder value, the Board of Directors has proposed a final dividend of ₦28 per ordinary share of 50 kobo.

This represents a 115% increase from the ₦13 per share paid in 2024, translating to a total payout of approximately ₦504 billion, subject to approval by shareholders at the company’s 2026 Annual General Meeting.

Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu highlighted the results, stating that the substantial dividend hike underscores the company’s dedication to rewarding investors while continuing to invest in business expansion and operational efficiency.

BUA Foods, a major player in Nigeria’s food processing sector controlled by billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu, has continued to benefit from scale advantages, market expansion, and resilient demand for essential food products despite broader economic headwinds.

The company’s shares have reacted positively in recent trading, reflecting investor optimism over the strong earnings and generous dividend proposal.

Full details of the financial statements were filed with the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on Monday.

Analysts view the performance as a testament to BUA Foods’ robust business model and ability to navigate Nigeria’s macroeconomic challenges through volume growth and cost discipline.

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Business

OPay launches new office in Jos

” Opening this office in Jos allows us to stay closer to the people we serve, better understand their needs, and continue to provide fast, secure, and reliable financial services that improve everyday life.”

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OPay has officially launched its new office in Jos, Plateau State.

Speaking at the event, OPay’s Chief Operations and Technology Officer, Dotun Adekunle, said that the new Jos office reflects OPay’s continued commitment to putting customers first and advancing financial inclusion across Nigeria.

He said :” Our customers are at the center of everything we do.

Opening this office in Jos allows us to stay closer to the people we serve, better understand their needs, and continue to provide fast, secure, and reliable financial services that improve everyday life.”

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Business

Governor Otti Commissions Ultimum Manufacturing Plant in Aba

Razzle beverages include Razzl Pamplemousse (a unique and special grapefruit flavour), Razzl Cola, Razzl Orange, and Razzl Lemon.

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Ultimum Limited, the manufacturers of Razzl brand of carbonated soft drinks has commissioned its state-of-the-art beverage manufacturing plant in Aba, Abia State.

Razzle beverages include Razzl Pamplemousse (a unique and special grapefruit flavour), Razzl Cola, Razzl Orange, and Razzl Lemon.

Located in the Osisioma Industrial Layout, the new plant was commissioned by the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti.

Otti described the investment as a clear signal of economic revival and growing investor confidence in Abia State.

“This investment confirms that we are creating the right conditions for businesses to grow, thrive, and succeed. Investors will always go where there is clarity, stability, and opportunity.

Our focus has been to build that environment, and today’s commissioning shows that the strategy is working,” he said.

The Chairman of Ultimum Limited and representative of the investor group, Mr. Whalen Kadji, emphasized the company’s long-term commitment to Aba and Nigeria.

“We did not come here by chance. We came because of the energy and entrepreneurial spirit of Aba. This city has always been a center of enterprise, and we believe strongly in its future.

This plant is more than an investment in beverages; it is an investment in people, in jobs, and in the growth of local industry. We are here for the long term, and this is just the beginning of what we intend to build here.”

The Managing Director of Ultimum Limited, Mr. Austin Ufomba, described the plant as a bold step in the company’s journey.

“Ultimum Limited started with a simple idea, to build world-class products right here in Africa,”he said.

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