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  • Dangote, Jibrin, Shekarau, Ganduje, others to address Kano’s socio-economic problems

    Dangote, Jibrin, Shekarau, Ganduje, others to address Kano’s socio-economic problems

    Kano elders and leading personalities across socio, economic, religious and political spheres have formed a united front to address socio-economic challenges confronting the state.

    The elders and leaders, who met under the aegis of Kano State Elders Advisory Council with coordination from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Kano State Chapter, lamented the ugly trend of social vices within the state and around the north and called for collective efforts to rid the state of crimes.

    They called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to rebuild values of honesty, respect, tolerance, hard work and decency within the society, noting that the menace of drug abuse, robberies and indecent behaviours was due to collapse of family values.

    A 34-member committee was formed by the meeting to brainstorm on the objectives, galvanise members of the elders’ council and other stakeholders, and interface with relevant state and national governments’ officials towards resolution of identified challenges.

    The committee, which comprised of experts across various fields, has Prof. Shehu Galadanchi as chairman and Dr Faruk Umar, Chairman of Kano ACF, as Secretary. Other members included Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, General Halliru Akilu, Alhaji Salihu Abubakar Tanko Yakasai, Alhaji Mahe Bashir Wali, Prof. Sani Zahraddeen, former governors of Kano- Senator Kabiru Gaya, Senator Rabi’u Kwankwaso, Dr. AbdulLahi Ganduje and Senator Ibrahim Shekarau.

    Other members included Alhaji Isyaku Tofa, Prof. Tijjani Isma’il, Prof. Auwalu Yadudu, Sheikh AbdulWahab AbdulLahi, Sheikh KaribulLah Nasiru Kabara, Khalifa Sani Shehu Maihula, Prof. Umar Sani Fagge, Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, Alhaji A A Rano, Alhaji Tajuddeen Aminu Dantata, Prof. Ruqayya Ahmad, Prof. Fatima Mukhtar and Hajiya Mariya Waziri.

    Also included were Alhaji Shehu Mohammed S/Shanu, Alhaji Muntaka Tijjani Usman, Prof. Musa Muhammad Borodo, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, Alhaji Sabi’u Bako, Alhaji Yusuf Garba Ali, General Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd) and Chief Imam of Kano, Professor Sani Zahraddeen.

    READ ALSO: Obasanjo, Pate, Abdulsalami launch health hub to expand access to affordable healthcare

    In his welcome address, ACF Kano Chairman, Dr Faruk Umar said the elders’ council would serve as an unbiased, non-partisan advisory body by making useful contributions to the running of the affairs of the state.

    According to him, the elders’ council would look into challenges and problems and suggest solutions to the policy makers. 

    He pointed out that problems like drug abuse, phone snatching, human rights abuses, and child trafficking would receive urgent attention.

    “The council comprises of people with different expertise and it is thus qualified as a technical committee on various issues. It is like guiding council for the state and governance. 

    He noted that initiatives such as AKHUWAT Initiatives by the ACF were meant to address root causes of many problems, while commending key contributors for the AKHUWAT project funds.

    Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, commended ACF Kano and the elders for forging a common front irrespective of socio-political differences.

    He pledged to support the efforts of the committee in addressing pressing issues of poverty, unemployment and other socio-economic problems confronting the state.

    He pointed out that despite the economic challenges, the federal government is doing everything possible to address macroeconomic problems, which will set strong basis for sustainable developments across the country. 

    He called on all northern elders to unite and work together for regional development.

    President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, in a letter of endorsement, expressed his “full endorsement” and confidence in the ability of the elders’ council to strengthen governance within the state by providing wise counsel to stakeholders in Kano and beyond.

    He commended the profound leadership and commitment of the Dr Faruk Umar-led ACF Kano, noting that such leadership and commitment have continued to inspire progress and unity across the nation.

    According to him, the visionary resolutions of the elders were not only timely but also essential to restoring principled leadership and moral guardianship in the affairs of the society.

    Dangote, Africa’s richest man, said he was ready to “collaborate as applicable to advance the elders’ council objectives.

    “I look forward to positive updates on the council’s progress and stand ready to assist in any way possible,” Dangote stated.

    Former Governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau said it was the absence of an initiative like the elders’ council that contributed to the menace of hooliganism and robbery.

    He said he had had discussions with other political leaders to work for Kano and put Kano first above any political interest.

    He noted that with the careful selection of the advisory council and committee members, the root causes of the problems would be addressed, urging community leaders to show care and support for all members of the society.

    Former Governor of Kano State and immediate past chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje stressed the importance of cooperation, urging all elders to join hands in moving Kano forward.

    Ganduje, who was represented by former Secretary to the Government, Alhaji Usman Alhaji, promised to support the council in achieving its objectives.

    Chairman and Chief Executive, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA,) Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), emphasised the importance of cooperation in the fight against drug abuse.

    According to him, the fight against societal vices such as drug abuse cannot be done alone, but through joint efforts by stakeholders like ACF, government and traditional rulers among others.

    Marwa, who was represented at the meeting by the NDLEA Director of Administration and Establishment , Alhaji Lawan Hamisu , decried the high level of drug abuse in Kano and underscored the need for immediate efforts to address this ugly trend.

    Prof. Galadanchi said the diverse problems confronting Kano such as social fragmentation, drugs abuse, unemployment, political instability, poverty, especially in the middle and lower classes and security challenges could only be addressed by restoring long-held values and ethical reorientation.

    He cited various Qur’anic verses and prophetic traditions that encouraging unity and helping each other as a way to stay strong in daily life. 

    He said virtues as love for one another, willingness to support others, forgiveness and due respect to all individuals irrespective of status help to build social cohesion.

    He stressed that unity of purpose would help to catalyse the much-needed human and material resources needed to confront any problem.   

    National Chairman, Board of Trustees, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF),  Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu commended the elders for their contributions to the development and growth of the Arewa community.

    He pointed out that the serious issue of insecurity in the North-West can only be resolved by unity and collective commitment by all stakeholders.

    He also noted the need for family reorientation as many crimes were as results of breakdown in family values and home training.  

    Alhaji A A Rano welcomed the elders’ council initiative noting the need for traditional elders that could mobilise people to address common problems. 

    He expressed his readiness to support all efforts by ACF Kano and the elders’ council in eliminating social vices bedeviling the state, especially in the area of poverty alleviation and employment generation.

    Rano, who had earlier donated N30 million to the AKHUWAT Initiatives, made additional donation of N20 million to help small business owners improve productivity.

    Amb. Mukhtar Gashash said the cause of many problems was the disintegration of community bond, especially with people placing money as the sole object of importance rather than cultural values of honesty, brotherliness and hardwork.

  • I didn’t inherit any money from my father – Dangote

    I didn’t inherit any money from my father – Dangote

    Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has revealed he built his business empire from the scratch despite being born into a wealthy family.

    Speaking in a video, Dangote said he chose not to rely on inherited wealth.

    Dangote said he worked with his uncle before venturing into his business, initially trading in cement.

    He recognised the vast potential of cement production in Nigeria, driven by the country’s significant infrastructural deficits.

    Through hard work and innovative thinking, Dangote’s business empire grew exponentially, making him a self-made success story.

    He added that he donated any inherited assets to charity.

    Read Also: Dangote Group condoles with family on Phyna’s sister’s death

    Dangote said: ““I came from a wealthy family. My late great-grandfather in the 1940s was actually the richest, you know, West African. My late grandfather was one of the wealthiest Nigerians, you know.

    “The family name is Dantata. That’s from my maternal side. My father too, you know, was fairly rich, you know, but he was both, you know, in business and also in politics.

    “But you know, David, one thing that I’m very, very proud of is that I did not inherit any money from my father. I built everything from scratch to where I am. Well, he lived in the world, but you know, I mean, whatever that I inherited from him, which means in assets, I gave that on to charity since then.

    “I started work with my, you know, uncle, but this few months and then I went to Lagos and now I started my own business by just, you know, buying cement, selling. You know, it was just a very low-key business. The issue is that when you look at cement, cement is what builds infrastructure and we need a lot of infrastructural deficits.

    “In Nigeria alone, we have about 17,000 deficit of housing and it is all over in, you know, Africa. So when we started cement in Nigeria, we realized that majority of it was actually imported and that is why we went in there, we started and it’s a long story.”

  • Dangote mourns passing of Phyna’s sister

    Dangote mourns passing of Phyna’s sister

    Dangote Group has announced the death of Big Brother Naija’s season 7 Phyna’s sister, Ruth Otabar, who was injured in a road accident involving one of its trucks in Auchi.

    It was disclosed in a statement signed by Dangote’s management on Sunday via X, expressing their grief for the deceased.

    “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ruth Otabar, who was injured in the recent road incident involving one of our trucks in Auchi, Edo State. On behalf of the entire Dangote Group, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time.” 

    The Group explained that it had supported Ruth since the accident in terms of financial, medical expenses, and care.

    “Our officials and insurance partners have been by her side, covering all financial and medical costs and supporting her family. Arrangements had been made for her to be flown to India for advanced treatment, pending medical clearance from her doctors. Sadly, despite these efforts and Ruth’s brave fight to live, we lost her today.”

    Read Also: Dangote, Ethiopia sign deal for 3mmt fertiliser plant

    Dangote further reaffirmed its commitment to safety and offered prayers for the bereaved.

    “At Dangote Group, safety, accountability, and compassion remain at the core of our operations. We remain committed to strengthening our safety systems and supporting those affected in moments of tragedy. May God grant her mercy and eternal rest.”

    Ruth had passed away today at about 6:30 a.m. and had her leg amputation as a result of the accident.

  • Dangote elevates Ethiopia to No. 2 urea producer in sub-Saharan Africa

    Dangote elevates Ethiopia to No. 2 urea producer in sub-Saharan Africa

    • Signs deal for new 3mmt fertiliser Plant

    Ethiopia is on course to become the second biggest producer of urea fertiliser in sub-Saharan Africa following the signing of an agreement with Dangote Group to develop, construct, and operate a world-class urea fertiliser production complex.

    The complex, which will be located in Gode, Ethiopia, will have a capacity of three million metric tonnes.

    Spokesperson of the Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina, said the agreement underscores the position of the President of the group, Aliko Dangote, that it is only Africans who can develop the continent.

    He asked wealthy Africans to look inward and invest in the continent, rather than take their wealth overseas.

    “This partnership with the Ethiopian Investment Holdings represents a pivotal moment in our shared vision to industrialise Africa and achieve food security across the continent,” Chiejina quoted Dangote as saying at the agreement signing.

    He added: “We are committed to bringing our decades of experience in large-scale industrial projects to ensure this venture becomes a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s industrial transformation and a catalyst for agricultural productivity throughout the region. The 60-40 partnership structure reflects our commitment to this transformative project while ensuring strong Ethiopian participation.”

    Dr. Brook Taye, Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), the strategic investment arm of the Government of Ethiopia, described the agreement as a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward industrial self-sufficiency and agricultural modernisation.

    “As the strategic investment arm of the Government of Ethiopia, EIH is proud to secure a 40% stake in what will be one of the world’s largest urea production facilities. The project aligns perfectly with our national development priorities and will substantially enhance our agricultural productivity while positioning Ethiopia as a regional hub for fertiliser production,” Taye said.

    Read Also: 1,500 Dangote Cement truck drivers undergo screening

    The strategic location of Gode, combined with Ethiopia’s abundant natural gas resources from the Hilal and Calub reserves, makes this an ideal location for what will become one of the world’s largest fertiliser complexes.

    The EIH will hold a 40% equity stake, while the Dangote Group will maintain a 60% ownership of the transformative project, representing one of the largest industrial investments in Ethiopian history.

    The project will establish one of the world’s largest single-site urea fertiliser production complexes, with production facilities boasting a combined capacity of up to three million metric tonnes per annum. The facility will rank among the top five largest urea production complexes globally.

    Under the agreement, the two companies will jointly develop, own, construct, operate, maintain, insure, and finance the state-of-the-art urea fertiliser plants and associated infrastructure.

    The development covers advanced gas transport pipelines to evacuate natural gas from Ethiopia’s Hilal and Calub reserves, storage facilities, logistics infrastructure, and export capabilities designed to serve both domestic and regional markets.

    The agreement also provides for potential expansions, upgrades, and similar fertiliser production initiatives in ammonia-based fertilisers, including ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and calcium ammonium nitrate, further cementing Ethiopia’s position as a regional fertiliser production hub.

    The Project Development Costs are estimated not to exceed $2.5 billion USD, with completion expected within 40 months of commencement of work.

  • Dangote, Ethiopia sign deal for 3mmt fertiliser plant

    Dangote, Ethiopia sign deal for 3mmt fertiliser plant

    • To become second Urea producer in Sub-Saharan Africa

    The Dangote Group yesterday signed an agreement to develop, construct, and operate a world-class urea fertiliser production complex in Gode, Ethiopia. Once consummated, Ethiopia will become the second in Sub-Saharan Africa to own a Urea Plant, with a capacity of three million metric tonnes.

    The agreement underscores the position of the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, who firmly believes that “it is only Africans who can develop Africa.” 

    “Both Tanzania and Mozambique, in the past decade, have not been able to build a Urea Plant, despite having a large deposit of Gas in their respective countries. They have both depended on imports, as no foreign investor was willing to stake their funds into the project.”

    On Thursday, Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), the strategic investment arm of the Government of Ethiopia, and Dangote Group announced the signing of a comprehensive shareholders’ agreement to develop, construct, and operate a world-class urea fertiliser production complex in Gode, Ethiopia.

    READ ALSO: Echoes of terrorism

    Under the partnership structure, EIH will hold a 40 per cent equity stake, while the Dangote Group will maintain a 60 per cent ownership of the transformative project, representing one of the largest industrial investments in Ethiopian history.

    The ambitious project will establish one of the world’s largest single-site urea fertiliser production complexes, with production facilities boasting a combined capacity of up to three million metric tonnes per annum.

    The facility will rank among the top five largest urea production complexes globally.

    Under the agreement, the two companies will jointly develop, own, construct, operate, maintain, insure, and finance the state-of-the-art urea fertiliser plants and associated infrastructure. The comprehensive development includes advanced gas transport pipelines to evacuate natural gas from Ethiopia’s Hilal and Calub reserves, storage facilities, logistics infrastructure, and export capabilities designed to serve both domestic and regional markets.

    The agreement also provides for potential expansions, upgrades, and similar fertiliser production initiatives in ammonia-based fertilisers, including ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and calcium ammonium nitrate, further cementing Ethiopia’s position as a regional fertiliser production hub.

    The Project Development Costs are estimated not to exceed $2.5 billion USD, with completion targeted within 40 months from commencement. A significant component of this investment includes the construction of a dedicated pipeline infrastructure to transport natural gas from Ethiopia’s proven Hilal and Calub gas reserves to the Gode production facility, ensuring a reliable and cost-effective feedstock supply for the fertiliser complex.

    This substantial investment underscores both companies’ commitment to transforming Ethiopia’s agricultural sector and enhancing food security across the region. The project is expected to significantly reduce Ethiopia’s dependence on fertiliser imports while creating thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities in the Somali Regional State and beyond.

    Aliko Dangote commented: “This partnership with the Ethiopian Investment Holdings represents a pivotal moment in our shared vision to industrialise Africa and achieve food security across the continent. The strategic location of Gode, combined with Ethiopia’s abundant natural gas resources from the Hilal and Calub reserves, makes this an ideal location for what will become one of the world’s largest fertiliser complexes.

    “We are committed to bringing our decades of experience in large-scale industrial projects to ensure this venture becomes a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s industrial transformation and a catalyst for agricultural productivity throughout the region. The 60-40 partnership structure reflects our commitment to this transformative project while ensuring strong Ethiopian participation.”

    The Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Investment Holdings, Dr. Brook Taye, stated: “This landmark agreement with Dangote Group marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward industrial self-sufficiency and agricultural modernisation. As the strategic investment arm of the Government of Ethiopia, EIH is proud to secure a 40 per cent stake in what will be one of the world’s largest urea production facilities. The project aligns perfectly with our national development priorities and will substantially enhance our agricultural productivity while positioning Ethiopia as a regional hub for fertiliser production.

    “The utilisation of our domestic Hilal and Calub gas reserves through dedicated pipeline infrastructure ensures energy security and cost competitiveness for decades to come. We are confident that this partnership will deliver tremendous value to Ethiopian farmers, contribute to food security, and generate substantial economic benefits for our nation.”

    The Gode fertiliser complex will play a crucial role in supporting Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, which employs over 70 per cent of the country’s population.

    By ensuring reliable access to high-quality fertilisers at competitive prices, the project is expected to boost crop yields, improve farmer incomes, and contribute to national food security objectives. With its three million metric tonne annual capacity, the facility will rank among the world’s top fertiliser production complexes, while significantly exceeding the capacity of most existing facilities worldwide.

    This scale positions Ethiopia as a major player in the global fertiliser market and a key supplier for the African continent. The partnership leverages Dangote Group’s proven track record in large-scale industrial projects across Africa and Ethiopian Investment Holdings’ role as the government’s strategic investment vehicle with deep understanding of the local market and regulatory environment.

    The pipeline connection to the Hilal and Calub gas reserves ensures long-term feedstock security and cost competitiveness in global markets. The project also supports broader regional integration objectives by creating a reliable supply of fertilisers for neighboring countries, potentially reducing import costs and improving agricultural productivity across East Africa and beyond.

  • Dangote installs cameras on CNG trucks, recertifying truck drivers

    Dangote installs cameras on CNG trucks, recertifying truck drivers

    The Dangote Articulated Trucks Drivers Training School (DATDTS), in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), is implementing stricter entry requirements for aspiring drivers. This development comes as Dangote Cement Plc undertakes the recertification and screening of all its truck drivers at the company’s Obajana plant in Kogi State.

    Speaking to newsmen at the Obajana Plant, Head of Transport, Dangote Cement Plc, Murilo Silva, said as part of efforts to promote safe driving and achieve zero road crashes, the company has since begun installing cameras across its fleet of thousands of CNG trucks. He revealed that applicants must be at least 23 years of age and possess a minimum of five years’ relevant driving experience, in addition to holding a valid Class G driver’s license.

    He explained that anyone seeking employment as a truck driver must undergo a thorough examination and screening process, which includes medical evaluations and drug testing. Silva said an applicant must have a clean criminal record, with no pending legal cases.

    He added: “The Dangote Cement Plc has a Policy on Drivers Employment processes that gives the criteria on DADTS processes of engaging new drivers especially mandatory five years of experience and compulsory a class G license.”

    Read Also: How Dangote escaped multi-billion naira fraud, IGP tells court

    “FRSC conducts on regular basis certification and recertification trainings for drivers at the DATDTS Complex. The company currently has a full fledge department for health, safety and environment assessment. It also conducts drugs and alcohol test, blood pressure test, confirms drivers fit for trips and others before making trips,” Silva explained.

    He disclosed that the cement company has instituted certain measures to curb auto crashes, which include drivers’ participation in the company’s monthly training programme has grown by 60% this year, with drug and alcohol testing up by 40%, while pre-trip inspections have recorded an impressive 74% increase.

    Earlier, the Divisional Head of Transport at DCP Obajana, Hemant Rana, disclosed that the company has established a multi-million-naira Pre-Trip Inspection Bay, staffed with engineers and mechanics, to ensure thorough inspection of trucks before they embark on journeys.

    He said: “We have built a Drivers Rest House for Drivers to rest after making trips and before embarking on new trips.”

    Rana explained further that: “We have developed a monitoring system of our drivers that helps them do their jobs safely. We have Drivers Help Desk Units that follow up with drivers’ situations while on trips. We also have a Control Department that follows up with drivers’ behaviour while on trips.”

    The Manager of the Dangote Articulated Truck Drivers Training School, Daniel Akuso, said that the institution is the first of its kind in Nigeria, adding that programmes are being implemented in collaboration with the FRSC.

    He said some of the courses offered in the school include: Civic Education, English, Mathematics, Defensive Driving, Truck Handling, Maintenance Technology, DCT Administration Procedures, Root Cause Analysis, Health and Science, Road Signs and Codes, among others.

    The Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak had told newsmen in Lagos that no less than 1,500 Dangote Cement truck drivers have undergone intensive screening exercises to ascertain their mental, psychological and physical fitness for safe driving.

    He explained that the screening exercise has been made mandatory for the drivers, but it had to be more intensive given the situation on the roads across the country.

    “Every driver employed by Dangote Cement is required to undergo an extensive and rigorously structured recruitment process that includes: Valid Driver’s license class G, background verification of both the driver and their guarantors, comprehensive medical evaluation, including vision screening (eye test), blood pressure checks, BMI -body mass index, RBS – random blood sugar test as well as drug and alcohol testing,” he said.

  • 1,500 Dangote Cement truck drivers undergo screening

    1,500 Dangote Cement truck drivers undergo screening

    No fewer than 1,500 truck drivers have undergone intensive screening to ascertain their mental, psychological, and physical fitness for safe driving, Group Managing Director (GMD) of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak, confirmed at the weekend.

    The GMD, who explained that the screening was mandatory for all drivers, said it had to be more intensive given the condition of roads across the country.

    Pathak spoke with reporters after his presentation at the 2025 Annual Drivers Retreat held at Ilaro, Ogun State.

    He said:  “Every driver employed by Dangote Cement is required to undergo an extensive and rigorously structured recruitment process that includes: Valid Driver’s license class G, background verification of both the driver and their guarantors, comprehensive medical evaluation, including vision screening (eye test), blood pressure checks, BMI -body mass index, RBS – random blood sugar test as well as drug and alcohol testing.

    “In the past two months alone, over 1,500 prospective drivers have successfully completed this process. Only those who met all required standards were engaged and certified to operate any Dangote Group vehicles.

    Read Also: Nigeria to channel World Bank funds into infrastructure, jobs, investment

    “Our commitment to safety extends beyond recruitment. All drivers undergo mandatory pre-trip medical assessments, conducted by licensed nurses and doctors.”

    Pathak stated that the management of Dangote Cement Plc was irrevocably committed to training and retraining of its drivers for effective, safe, and smooth driving across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

    He emphasised that safety on the road cannot but be a priority for the management of a leading cement manufacturer with thousands of trucks in its fleet.

    The GMD stated that the company, as a regular road user, understands its commitment to the safety of other road users and its responsibility to other members of society. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to road safety, transparency, appropriate ethical conduct, and provision of detailed clarity on the comprehensive systems and procedures to mitigate against any incident along roads across the country.

    He said: “Dangote is a responsible organisation that consistently cooperates with the Nigeria Police and other relevant authorities in the investigation of reported incidents with support of all lawful processes, aimed at establishing the facts and routinely implementing recommendations that strengthen public safety.

    “Other screening covers usage within a three-month detection window, ensuring the identification of any history of substance use before employment, completion of a two-week intensive training programme, which consists of twelve safety modules, practical driving assessments, and written examinations.”

  • How Dangote escaped multi-billion naira fraud, IGP tells court

    How Dangote escaped multi-billion naira fraud, IGP tells court

    • •Court orders arrest of five Asians
    • •Freezes five accounts to which billions are traced
    • •Business tycoon remains Africa’s No.1 billionaire, says Forbes
    • •Rabiu, Adenuga, Otedola also named

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has heard how businessman, Aliko Dangote, escaped being defrauded by some foreigners engaged to provide services for one of his companies, the Dangote Refineries.

    The court also heard how one of the truck drivers, engaged by Dangote Cement, identified as Mohammed Tayiru (Tahir) and some others allegedly diverted truckloads of “thick iron pipes” estimated at billions of naira.

    These were revealed in court documents filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), with which he sought arrest warrant against the foreigners and an order freezing five bank accounts in five banks, to which proceeds of the alleged fraud by Tayiru were traced.

    The foreigners, who are mostly Asians, are identified as: He Jun,

    Sun Yuzhu, Yong Li, Dr. Feng, Jaykumar Sagar and Rajnish Gupta, were said to have been engaged to lay under-sea pipes for the movement of crude oil to the Dangote Refineries in Lagos.

    According the court documents, the Asians were said to have failed to perform the task for which they were engaged and allegedly forged a certificate of completion of contract, which they took before the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) tribunal, claiming $50million.

    Their alleged fraudulent act was said to have been discovered when Dangote Refineries presented evidence before the LCIA that the Asians did not deliver on the task for which they were engaged.

    On Friday, while arguing the application for arrest warrant, police’s lawyer, Rimamsomte Ezekiel, an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) told the court that the respondents (the five Asians) “are all foreigners who are based in Lagos, Nigeria.”

    He said a criminal charge has been filed against them before the HIgh Court of Lagos State, with charge number: 11/26401C/2025.

    Ezekiel added that the warrant of arrest was required to enable the police “to effectively secure the productions of the respondents to the court for their trial.”

    In a supporting affidavit, it was stated that the foreigners, “sometime in 2021 under false pretense and with intention to defraud their victim, who is Alhaji Dangote, conspired among themselves, forged and submitted a certificate of completion of projects to the London Court of international Arbitration Tribunal to claim sum of $50,000,000.00 (US Dollars).

    “When their evil was exposed, the court rejected their submission and called for their arrest and the investigation of the matter.

    “Since then, some of the respondents have gone into hiding to avoid police’s investigation and prosecution of the criminal offences, which they committed, while some of them submitted themselves for the investigation.

    “The respondents have case to answer on the allegations of those criminal offences which they committed.

    “Some of those respondents, who have made statements to the police, freely confessed to the allegations.

    “The Nigeria Police Force have done everything to arrest those who are at large but to no avail, as they are not within the Republic of Nigeria.

    “The arrest warrant will enable the police authority to apply for the extradition of the respondents back to Nigeria for investigation and prosecution at the court of law, even if they are out of the country and is hiding in any part of the world.

    “The Nigeria Police is desirous of prosecuting this case diligently if the respondents can be arrested. The warrant of this honourable court can be executed in any part of the country, and any part of the world if it is granted in this case.

    That the granting of the arrest warrant in this case is to enable the Nigeria Police Force invite the respondent for the completion of the investigations and their prosecution at the court of law.”

    In granting the application, Justice Emeka Nwite ordered the police to conduct its investigation within 30 days and report back on September 20.

    While moving the second application for an order freezing the five bank accounts allegedly owned by Tayiru, Ezekiel told the court that the respondents was currently at large.

    The affected accounts are:  1696193289, domiciled in Access Bank, with Mohammed Tahir as account name; 0121946277 in GT Bank, with Mohammed Tayiru as account name; 2113902271 in UBA, with Mohammed Tayiru as account name; 9129948744 in PalmPay Limited, with Mohammed Tayiru as account name, and 8033300443 in Opay Digital Services Limited, with Mohammed Tayiru as account name.

    The police states, in a supporting affidavit, that “Mohammed Tayiru (Tahir) and others for converting Dangote thick iron pipes, which were given to them to deliver to locations from Dangote Company.”

    The police added that investigation so far revealed “that Mohammed Tayiru (Tahir), who is the principal suspect in this case, was one of the Dangote trailer drivers, who sold all the thick iron pipes from Dangote Company and converted the money into the identified bank accounts.

    Read Also: ‘Dangote truck not responsible for Auchi accident’

    “Billions of naira belonging to Dangote Company are in the bank accounts, which Mohammed Tayiu (Tahir) fraudulently deposited for himself for his personal use.

    “The police investigation revealed that, the suspect has case to answer in this case. The offence in this case happened June/July 2025, Abuja, Lagos, Port-Harcourt, and other parts of the country

    “This case is one of the complicated case that the Police is investigating due to the parties that are involved and the multiplicity of the accounts involved,” the police said.

    In a ruling, Justice Nwite granted the application, but ordered that the investigation should be carried out within 60 days.

    Meanwhile, Dangote, with a net worth of $24.4 billion from his stakes in oil, cement and sugar has been affirmed as Africa’s wealthiest man, according to  the latest Forbes’ Real-Time Billionaires List.

    His fellow Nigerians on the list are Abdulsamad Rabiu whose net worth is put at $7.2 billion; Mike Adenuga at $6.3 billion (#592); and Femi Otedola at $1.5 billion (#2424).

    Dangote is No.88 in the  global ranking by Forbes.

    In the rating, South Africa’s luxury goods tycoon, Johann Rupert, is credited with a net worth of   $13.2bn, and his  compatriot, Nicky Oppenheimer, with $10.4bn.

    Others include Koos Bekker with $3.8bn, mining magnate Patrice Motsepe with $3.4bn, banker Michiel le Roux with $2.7bn, Jannie Mouton and family with $1.9bn, and retail investor Christoffel Wiese with $1.7bn.

    Egypt’s No.1 billionaire,according to Forbes is Nassef Sawiris ($8.8bn) followed by  Naguib Sawiris ($5.0bn),the Mansour brothers, Mohamed ($3.4bn), Youssef ($1.4bn), and Yasseen ($1.2bn).

    Others from the continent are  Eswatini’s Nathan Kirsh worth $8.0bn;Morocco’s  Othman Benjelloun & family ($2.0bn), Aziz Akhannouch ($1.6bn), and Anas Sefrioui & family ($1.6bn) as well as Tanzania’s Mohammed Dewji with t $2.2bn;and Zimbabwe’s Strive Masiyiwa with $1.3bn.

    Americans dominate the first eight positions in the global ranking as follows:Elon Musk ($419.1 B);Larry Ellison ($282.2B);Mark Zuckerberg ($260.3B);Jeff Bezes ($240.7B);Larry Page ($173.0B);Sergey Brin ($161.0B);Jense Huang ($154.9B);Steve Ballmer ($153.3B).

    In the ninth position are France’s Bernard Arnault & family ($150.9B) while America’s Warren Buffet is 10th with $146.2B).

    Dangote has held the position of Africa’s leading billionaire for the 14 consecutive year.

    He was first named so in 2008 but was displaced and then reclaimed it in 2011.

  • Radiogad defends Dangote over truck accidents, blames pedestrians

    Radiogad defends Dangote over truck accidents, blames pedestrians

    Media personality Radiogad has defended Dangote Industries against criticism over recent truck accidents. 

    According to Radiogad in a video, pedestrians are largely to blame for their own safety, citing their careless behavior while crossing roads. 

    He emphasizes the importance of pedestrians being vigilant and checking for oncoming vehicles before crossing.

    Radiogad also criticises some Nigerian youths, claiming they exacerbate the problem by drinking and smoking before navigating roads. 

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    “Everyone is pouring out their frustration on Dangote and not blaming the people for crossing the road carelessly

    “If you’re crossing the road as a sensible person, you’ll look left and right, ensure that there are no oncoming vehicles before you cross. 

  • ‘Dangote truck not responsible for Auchi accident’

    ‘Dangote truck not responsible for Auchi accident’

    Dangote Cement truck did not cause the tragic accident, which occurred on the Auchi-Okpella-Okene road, near Omega Fire Ministry in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, contrary to online media reports.

    An eyewitness, Audu Omale, recalled that “a third-party truck loaded with cement was moving in the opposite direction of the Dangote Cement (DCT) CNG truck on a sloppy road.

    The commercial truck driver lost control of his truck due to a suspected brake failure, ran into a moving vehicle, a motorcycle and eventually crashed into the side of the DCT truck. The DCT CNG truck caught fire.

    “Consequently, three persons from the vehicle hit by the third-party truck lost their lives, while two persons sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. The DCT truck driver escaped to avoid a mob attack,” Omale clarified.

    Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Edo State Police Command, Chief Superintendent of Police Moses Yamu, confirmed that the accident involved two trucks, one belonging to Dangote Cement, another truck, which has not been identified, and a GLK Mercedes-Benz car.

    Read Also: NOGASA denies receiving trucks from Dangote 

    The Edo PPRO noted that all three occupants in the GLK were confirmed dead in the hospital, while the Dangote truck caught fire, which was brought under control.

    “I can confirm to you that three vehicles were involved in an accident in Auchi at midday: two trucks and one GLK Benz. The police moved to the scene of the accident and evacuated three occupants of the GLK to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead.

    “Two of the vehicles involved were trucks, one belonging to Dangote Cement and another unidentified one. The Dangote truck caught fire and was brought under control,” Yamu stated. He added that the investigation was ongoing.