Sahara Group to Deliver 180MW Power Plant in Rivers State

 Sahara Group to Deliver 180MW Power Plant in Rivers State

Rasheed Akolawole 

February 7, 2025

Sahara Group, a leading energy conglomerate, has announced plans to commission a new 180-megawatt (MW) power plant in Rivers State, Nigeria, within this year. This initiative aims to enhance electricity supply and foster industrial growth in the nation.

Kola Adesina, Executive Director of Sahara Group, highlighted the company's dedication to improving energy access across Africa. He emphasized the necessity for collaborative efforts among governments, private sector stakeholders, development partners, and civil society organizations to bridge the continent's energy gap. Adesina stated, "We are up against the all-important task of bridging the energy gap in Africa and need a strong coalition of stakeholders to achieve this." 

The forthcoming power plant is part of Sahara Group's broader strategy to invest in power generation and distribution assets across Africa. Currently, through its subsidiary, Sahara Power Group, the company boasts a generation capacity of approximately 2,000MW. In Nigeria, Sahara Power operates several plants, including the Egbin Thermal Power Plant in Lagos State, which has a capacity of 1,320MW, and multiple facilities in Rivers State, such as the Afam Power Plant (180MW), Eleme (75MW), Omoku (150MW), and Trans Amadi (136MW).

This development aligns with the Mission 300 initiative, which seeks to connect 300 million Africans to reliable electricity by 2030. The initiative focuses on increasing energy access and promoting environmental sustainability through the deployment of renewable energy solutions. Key partners, including the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank (AfDB), are expected to play significant roles in financing energy projects, providing project development and advisory services, and supporting policy reforms and capacity building. 

Sahara Group's commitment to delivering the 180MW power plant in Rivers State underscores its dedication to enhancing energy access and driving economic growth in Nigeria and across the African continent.

Yemi Olakitan's Resume/CV

 

 

Name: Yemi Olakitan

Sex:   Male

State of Origin:      Lagos State, Nigeria

Marital Status:       Married

yemiolakitans.blogspot.com.

Portfolio: Yemi Olakitan's articles on Muckrack. https://muckrack.com/yemi-olakitan/articles

Phone: 08033766549

Email: yemisage@gmail.com

Career Objectives

To provide excellent professional services in communications, Journalism, traditional media, digital marketing, content marketing and management

To excel in Digital Content Management, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media Management, and Content Writing.

Skills

●       News Editing, Reporting, Journalism skills, Digital Marketing.

●       Search Engine Optimization, SEO Content writing, Copywriting, Web Management, Content Creation and Social Media Marketing

●       Investigative reporting

Experience

96.9 Coolfm▪ 2000 – 2006, https://www.coolfm.ng/

Steam Broadcasting and Communications Ltd ▪ 267A Etim Inyang Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos

Position Held: News Editor/News Correspondent

Duties and Skills on the Job: News Reporting and Editing, News Correspondence, Social Media Management.

·        Bowclose Ltd, 2006-2007, Lekki, Lagos

Position Held:  Assistant Editor, Duties, on the job skills: Article writing, editing, interviews, social media management.

·        The Guardian Newspapers, 2007-2012,  Rutam House, Isolo Way, Lagos, Nigeria, https://guardian.ng/

Position Held: Arts Reporter, Journalist

·        News watch Magazine, 2012-2013 Energy House, CMS, Lagos, https://newswatchnigeria.com/

Position Held: Senior Staff Writer, article writing, editing, research.

·        National Mirror Newspaper- 2013-2014, Energy Building, CMS, Lagos,

Position Held: Head of Investigations. Duties and on the job skills: Research, investigations, interviews, writing.

·        World Entertainment Television, 2014-2016, owners of Wazobia Television, https://www.wetv.ng/, Wazobia FM, CoolFM, Nigeria InfoFM, Arewa FM, Kano

Position Held: Content Developer. 

Skills on the job: Content Development, Social media management, Search Engine Optimization, SEO

·        May University Press, https://www.mayeducational.com.ng/ publishers of the journal Nigeria, https://thejournalnigeria.com/author/yemi/

Position Held:

Editor.

Duties and Skills on the job: Writing, Editing, Reporting and Investigation

Current Position: Senior correspondent at New Telegraph newspaper:

Co-founder and General Manager at Techpression Media Ltd, publishers of online technology news magazine. www.techpression.com

Education

University of Ilorin,

Kwara State, Nigeria

1996 ▪ Bachelor of Arts, the Performing Arts

 

General Certificate of Education, GCE

1990

West African Examination Council, WAEC

1989

 Certifications

2010: Certificate in Advanced Computer Application (Microsoft sponsored)

2003: International Committee of the Red Cross Society, Journalism Training in Armed Conflicts Reporting

2002: British Broadcasting Corporation, BBC Certificate in Election Reporting

LinkedIn Certified Search Engine Optimization Expert

LinkedIn Certified Social Media Manager

Certified SEO Specialist at Simplilean.com

LinkedIn Marketing and Newsletter Marketing Foundations, July 2024

LinkedIn, Improving SEO For Your Website June 2024

Learning to Write Marketing Copy, June 2024

Marketing Strategy and SEO Content Writing, June 2024

LinkedIn SEO Marketing Tools, June 2024

Social Media Marketing Foundations, May 2024

Using AI as Your SEO Marketing Assistant, May 2024
 

Award

1998: Adamawa State NYSC Merit Award

Referees

Gboyega Akosile

Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State

 

Tajudeen Sowole

Arts Journalist, Blogger

The Guardian Newspapers

Rutam House,

Isolo, Lagos, Nigeria

 

Kazeem Ugbodaga

Editor

PM News

Ifá: A Sacred Divination System

 

By Ifadola Ifadayo

Ifá is a sacred divination system practiced by the Yoruba people of Nigeria and other parts of West Africa, the Americas, and the Caribbean. It is deeply connected to Òrúnmìlà, the deity of wisdom and divination, who is believed to have revealed Ifá to humanity.

Key Aspects of Ifá Divination

1. The Ifá Oracle System

Ifá divination is performed by a Babaláwo (male priest) or an Ìyáláwo (female priestess), meaning "father/mother of secrets." These priests use Odu Ifá, a vast collection of wisdom, to interpret divine messages.

2. Tools of Ifá Divination

• Ọ̀pẹ̀lẹ̀ (Divination Chain) – A chain with four shells or seeds on each side, used for quick divination.
• Ìkìn (Palm Nuts) – Sixteen sacred palm nuts cast on a divination tray (Ọ̀pón Ifá) to reveal Odu Ifá.
• Ẹrìndínlógún (Sixteen Cowrie Shells) – Used mainly in related traditions for divination.

3. The Odu Ifá – Sacred Texts of Ifá

Ifá consists of 256 Odu (sacred verses), which hold the entire wisdom of the system. Each Odu contains poems, proverbs, and historical stories used to guide people in life.

4. How Ifá Divination Works

1. A person consults a Babaláwo for guidance.
2. The priest casts the divination chain or palm nuts.
3. The resulting Odu is interpreted based on the situation.
4. The person may be advised to perform a Ẹbọ (sacrifice/ritual) or take other spiritual actions.

5. Ifá and Destiny (Ori)

Ifá teaches that each person has an Ori (spiritual head/destiny) chosen before birth. Through Ifá divination, one can understand their destiny and take steps to align with it.

Ifá in Modern Times

Ifá is still widely practiced in Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Brazil (Candomblé), Cuba (Santería), and the U.S. It was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005 due to its deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Lagos State Government Approves N500 Million Subsidy to Reduce Food Prices

By Yekini Agbojulogun 

Lagos, Nigeria – January 30, 2025 – In a bid to alleviate the burden of rising food prices on residents, the Lagos State Government has announced the approval of a N500 million subsidy aimed at reducing the cost of essential food items. The initiative, which seeks to stabilize food prices across the state, is expected to benefit millions of Lagosians grappling with inflationary pressures in the country.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Tuesday, revealed that the subsidy would be directed towards key food items such as rice, beans, maize, and vegetable oil, among others. According to the Governor, the government’s decision was motivated by the urgent need to ensure food security and improve the standard of living for Lagos residents, particularly those in low-income communities.

"Over the past few months, many families have struggled with escalating food prices, which has created hardship for a large segment of our population. The N500 million subsidy is part of our broader strategy to cushion the impact of inflation and ensure that food remains affordable and accessible to all," Governor Sanwo-Olu stated.

The subsidy will be disbursed through various state-run outlets and markets, including designated food distribution centers and local vendors, who will sell subsidized goods at reduced rates. Authorities have emphasized that the initiative will focus on creating a direct link between the government’s efforts and Lagosians in need, making sure that the subsidy reaches its target beneficiaries.

Food inflation has been one of the most pressing issues in Nigeria, as the cost of basic commodities has surged due to factors such as increased fuel prices, supply chain disruptions, and adverse weather conditions affecting agricultural production. The impact has been particularly severe in Lagos, a major urban hub where many residents depend on affordable food for their daily sustenance.

This move by the Lagos State Government follows similar initiatives by other states and the federal government, aimed at addressing Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges. Experts have welcomed the subsidy but urged that it should be part of a broader, long-term strategy to address the root causes of food inflation.

Economist and policy analyst, Dr. Ngozi Adebayo, commended the Lagos government for the initiative, noting that “while this subsidy will provide temporary relief, there is also a need for greater investment in agricultural infrastructure and policies that support local food production to reduce Nigeria's reliance on imports.”

As the subsidy rolls out, residents of Lagos are hopeful that it will ease some of the pressure they face in the markets. However, they are also calling for sustained efforts from both state and federal governments to tackle the broader economic issues that continue to affect the cost of living in the country.

In the coming weeks, the state government is expected to release additional details on the operational framework for the subsidy distribution, including how vendors will be vetted and monitored to ensure transparency in the program.

"I Was Carried Upstairs to Attend Class": Change Leader’s Viral Video Exposes Nigeria’s Failing Disability Infrastructure

 

Adaobi Chuma-Okeke, an Nguvu Change Leader, has a video which is gaining attention online.

 In the video, she recounts her struggles as a wheelchair user in inaccessible schools and calls for urgent action to implement Nigeria’s Disability Rights Act.

Shared on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Adaobi’s story highlights the need for accessible infrastructure, equal opportunities, and dignity for all Nigerians living with disabilities. Her advocacy resonates with the ongoing global push for inclusivity and representation. Adaobi's video is on X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Adaobi Chuma-Okeke is advocating for accessibility, equal opportunities, safe mobility, and dignity for all Nigerians living with disabilities.

Adaobi, an Nguvu Change Leader, shared a poignant video on social media the day before the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, recounting her experiences as a person with a disability and calling for urgent action. Confined to a wheelchair, Adaobi reflects on the many struggles she faced in completing her education. "I finished my studies largely thanks to the help of supportive friends and classmates. I recall being physically carried upstairs to attend classes, and that experience, among many others, has inspired me to campaign for better accessibility in Nigerian schools."

In her video and accompanying petition, Adaobi urges the Ministry of Education and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to take meaningful, concrete steps. She stresses that while there are laws and policies in place, such as the Disability Rights Act, these have yet to be effectively implemented, leaving many institutions inaccessible. “Promises, policies, and laws must result in real, tangible changes. If every school – from primary to tertiary – had proper ramps and/or elevators, it would open up opportunities for countless children with disabilities to access their education. I’ve risked injury, endured great pain, and sacrificed comfort in my pursuit of learning, and I want to remove the barriers that prevent others from fully participating in their education.”

According to a press statement, Adaobi’s message resonates with the theme of this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” This theme aligns with the global disability rights movement’s slogan “Nothing About Us Without Us”, advocating for greater representation, agency, and inclusivity in all spheres of life. It calls for accessible public buildings, transportation systems, and services, but also for meaningful changes to the daily lives of disabled people.

The issue of accessibility is pressing, but it is not the only challenge the disability community in Nigeria faces. Beyond the physical barriers to education and public spaces, people with disabilities often encounter widespread societal discrimination and stigma. Many Nigerians with disabilities struggle to find employment, as employers are either unaware of their legal obligations or are unwilling to make the necessary adjustments. The Disability Rights Act may exist on paper, but in practice, it is not consistently enforced, and disabled people continue to face exclusion in both the workplace and public life. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness and training on disability rights among the general public and government officials, which exacerbates the difficulties faced by people with disabilities.

Adaobi’s call to action includes not only a demand for wheelchair-accessible infrastructure in educational institutions but also a broader push for inclusion in all public spaces, transport systems, and services. She highlights the need for more comprehensive policies that promote equal employment opportunities, social inclusion, and improved healthcare for people with disabilities. The need for dignity and respect for all Nigerians, regardless of their physical condition, is urgent.

Her viral video and the ongoing online discussion reflect a growing recognition of the systemic barriers faced by millions of Nigerians living with disabilities. As a result, there is increasing pressure on the government and private sector to take immediate and meaningful action to remove these obstacles and build a truly inclusive society.

About Ojude Oba festival

 The Ojude Oba festival is an annual celebration by the Yoruba people of Ijebu-Ode, a major town in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. This vibrant festival takes place on the third day after Eid al-Kabir (Ileya), which is a Muslim holiday celebrating Abraham's sacrifice.

The Ojude Oba translates to "King's Court" and it serves as a time to pay homage and show respect to the Awujale of Ijebuland, the paramount ruler of the Ijebu people. It's a beautiful display of culture, fashion, and tradition, and it has grown into one of the most prestigious festivals in Nigeria.

Here are some of the highlights of the Ojude Oba festival:

• Parade: The Regberegbe parade is the heart of the Ojude Oba festival. Different age groups within Ijebu-Ode, known as Regbe regbe, dress in colorful uniform attires and parade before the Awujale. They sing, dance, and chant praises to their king.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival parade
• Fashion: The Ojude Oba festival is known for its extravagant displays of fashion. People wear their finest attire, often made from expensive fabrics.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival fashion
• Horsemen: Horsemen are a big part of the Ojude Oba festival. They ride their horses in a procession before the Awujale, showcasing their riding skills and horsemanship.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival horsemen
• Food: As with any good festival, there is plenty of food to be enjoyed at the Ojude Oba. Traditional Yoruba dishes such as pounded yam, efo riro, and amala are all popular choices.

The Ojude Oba festival is a unique and colorful celebration of Yoruba culture. It's a great opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the Ijebu people

Why Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won the Lagos Governorship elections

 

Yemi Olakitan

 

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was named the victor of Saturday's governorship election in Lagos State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

 He was proclaimed the winner of the election by INEC's returning officer, Prof. Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, after meeting the requirements of the electoral act and the constitution.

Many were surprised as Sanwo-Olu easily defeated Labour Party candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour to win the election.

Rhodes-Vivour received 312,329 votes, but Lagos State sitting Governor, Sanwo-Olu won with 762,134 votes.

As a result, it is pertinent to note the achievements of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the reasons behind Lagosians drive to retain him as Governor.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was first elected as governor of Lagos State on March 9, 2019, giving the most important position in Lagos state to a man who had pledged to serve and advance Lagos.

In his inaugural speech, "Awakening Greater Lagos," Mr. Sanwo-Olu pledged to concentrate on six development pillars known as "THEMES," to make Lagos a 21st-century economy, health and environment, education and technology, traffic management and transportation, entertainment and tourism, security, and government. 

"Our ultimate goal would be to ensure that Lagos State remains one of the best destinations on the African continent to live, work, and invest in," the governor, who is running for reelection in the 18 March elections, told Lagosians at the inaugural ceremony. He claimed that the six development pillars "reflect our response to the people's longing.’’

Before Mr. Sanwo-Olu took office in 2018, the commercial center of Nigeria produced a total of N382.1 billion.

It was one of two states whose IGR surpassed their federal allotment because the primary source of revenue was taxes.

As Mr. Sanwo-Olu was inaugurated in 2019, the IGR increased to N398 billion. Notwithstanding the COVID-19 pandemic and the Endsars demonstrations, Lagos outperformed all other states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in terms of revenue at the end of 2020, coming in at N418.99 billion.

IGR increased from the previous year by N20.26 billion (5.08%).

Sam Egube, the state's commissioner for economic planning and the budget, stated in February that they are aiming for N77.067 billion in IGR every month, or more than N900 billion annually, when he broke down the state's 2023 appropriation bill of N1.768 trillion.

The lowest of the five states with the highest unemployment rate in 2018 was Lagos, which had an unemployment rate of 14.6% prior to his election as the state governor.

With 1,088,352 unemployed residents, Lagos was one of the four states that topped the unemployment rankings in 2019.

The additional states were Kano, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers.

According to figures from BudgIT, the combined rate of unemployment and underemployment in Lagos reached 41.66 percent in 2021.

Lagos presently has a 29.4% poverty rate, however, according to a report titled Nigeria Poverty Assessment 2022: A Better Future for All Nigerians by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Lagos was at the top of the State's Fiscal Sustainability Index before Mr. Sanwo-Olu took office.

According to the States by States Fiscal Performance Ranking report by BudgIT, Lagos rose to the fourth spot by 2021, exhibiting its resiliency with a total income of N658.56 billion for the fiscal year 2020.

In addition, in the last three and half years, Governor Sanwo-Olu has constructed and rehabilitated over 1,000 roads while others are at various stages of completion. He completed the Blue line rail while the Red line rail is under construction.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also built the Imota rice Mill at Ikorodu towards food sufficiency in Lagos State and completed the Lekki deep sea port to decongest the Apapa port in Lagos. He also obtained FG permission to build the Badagry deep sea port and the Lekki International Airport.

Sanwo-Olu commissions 150-classroom blocks, hostels in 15 Lagos Schools. Education in Lagos State witnessed another remarkable moment of infrastructure expansion, with the addition of newly built 150 blocks of classrooms and 1,386-bed hostels to 15 existing schools across the six education districts in the State.