Category: PM News

By Oluwaseun Nubi

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Tuesday sealed the Lagos office of CASCO Electronics Co. Ltd. over alleged refusal to honour regulatory summons and compliance directives issued in connection with a consumer complaint

Mrs Olubunmi Otti, South-West Zonal Coordinator, FCCPC, said during the enforcement that the action followed a complaint lodged with the commission on Jan. 16, 2025, concerning the sale of an allegedly defective solar battery.

She said the commission began an investigation and subsequently invited the company on several occasions to respond to the allegations.

According to Otti, CASCO Electronics failed to honour the invitations, a summons and a compliance notice issued pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), 2018.

She said the compliance notice outlined the nature of the alleged violation, the remedial steps required, the timeline for compliance and the consequences of non-compliance.

“I would like to invite this undertaking, CASCO Electronics, to come before the commission to answer questions. CASCO Electronics refused.

“Again, the commission issued a summons and subsequently a compliance notice, but the company still refused to appear before the commission,” she said.

Otti said the commission’s action was based on Section 150(4)(a) of the FCCPA, 2018, which empowers the FCCPC to seal premises where an undertaking fails to comply with a compliance notice.

“Consequently, in exercise of the powers of the FCCPC under Section 150 of the FCCPA 2018, the commission has today proceeded to seal these premises.

“This enforcement action is not punitive in the first instance, but protective and corrective,” she said.

She said the premises would remain sealed until the commission was satisfied that the alleged breach had been remedied.

“The sealing will remain in force until the commission is satisfied that the prior breach has been fully remedied, at which point a compliance certificate will be issued under Section 150(3) of the FCCPA 2018,” Otti said.

She advised consumers to exercise caution when purchasing products and to always obtain receipts and transaction records.

“We urge consumers to ensure they buy from reputable organisations, collect their receipts and follow due process before committing their money,” Otti said.

She also urged businesses to respond promptly to correspondence from regulatory agencies.

“When you receive a letter from the FCCPC or any regulatory agency, you should appear and cooperate.

“The FCCPC is not against any business in Nigeria, but we want businesses to operate ethically so that consumers are satisfied while businesses continue to thrive,” she said.

Reacting to the development, President of the Industrial Material Dealers Association, Mr Opara Uchenna-Martins, said he could not fault the commission for carrying out its statutory responsibilities.

“I cannot stop the government from carrying out its duty. Whatever led to the FCCPC action, I know it has to do with protecting consumers, and consumers deserve to feel protected,” he said.

Uchenna-Martins said CASCO Electronics had built a reputation in the market but expressed concern over its alleged failure to respond to the commission’s invitations.

“CASCO is a reputable company, but I believe there may have been one or two issues. The problem, as I understand it, is that it refused to come and answer the FCCPC,” he said.

He urged traders and business owners to cooperate with government agencies whenever they receive official correspondence.

“Every businessman should comply whenever they receive letters from regulatory agencies.

“If any government agency contacts you, it is important to respond and resolve issues through the appropriate channels,” he said.

Uchenna-Martins added that the development was unfortunate and called for an early resolution of the matter.

“It is embarrassing for any company to face this kind of situation. I believe the matter should be resolved quickly and amicably,” he said.

(NAN)

Fuji music icon, Wasiu Alabi Ajibola Odetola, popularly known as Pasuma, has issued a 14-day cease-and-desist notice to several music and entertainment firms, alleging the unauthorised use and exploitation of his intellectual property.

In a notice dated June 5, 2026, the veteran musician warned that legal action would be taken against individuals and organisations found to be using his works, image, likeness, sound recordings and other intellectual property assets without his express written consent.

The document, titled “Notice to Cease and Desist from Infringing and Declare Proof of Authorization on the Intellectual Property of Wasiu Alabi Ajibola Odetola P/K/A Pasuma,” was addressed to interested parties and the general public.

Pasuma stated that his intellectual property rights cover, among others, sound recordings, musical works, visual recordings, image rights, name and likeness. He alleged that some entities have been exploiting these rights through various digital platforms and internet-based services without obtaining proper authorisation.

According to the Fuji star, the alleged infringement spans streaming platforms, video-on-demand services, app stores, lyrics websites, blogs, gaming platforms, closed digital communities and virtual aggregation sites.

He maintained that such activities amount to illegal exploitation of his intellectual property and constitute violations of the Nigerian Copyright Act 2022.

Among the demands outlined in the notice, Pasuma directed the affected parties to immediately cease all unauthorised use of his intellectual property, remove infringing content, halt the distribution or promotion of materials linked to the disputed works, and provide a statement of account detailing any exploitation of his intellectual property.

He also requested that any party claiming authorisation should submit copies of valid written agreements within the stipulated timeframe.

The singer warned that failure to comply within 14 days of the publication of the notice, with a deadline of June 19, 2026, would leave him with no option but to pursue legal remedies.

He noted that potential actions could include applications for injunctive relief, claims for damages and other remedies available under Nigerian law.

The notice was signed by Pasuma and copied to several organisations and individuals in the music and entertainment industry, including High Kay (Q) Dancent Ltd, Sarolaj Music and Films International, Role Model Entertainment Ltd, NextXtar, Stability Production, UMIDam, Moh Saheed, OgaNla TV, Monya Shau Films and Records (Q), and G3 Entertainment Limited.

By Monday Ijeh

The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has debunked and clarified reports of an alleged kidnap incident said to have occured at Phase 1 Primary School, Gbagalape community, Abuja.

This clarification is contained in a statement on Thursday in Abuja, by the command’s Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh.

Adeh explained that officers of the command attached to Nyanya Division, at about 10;30 am., received a distress call alleging an ongoing kidnapping incident at the school.

She said that on receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) immediately mobilised officers and surveillance teams to the scene.

She added that preliminary investigations revealed that the pupils suddenly started shouting “kidnappers” and running out of the school premises, creating panic among teachers and members of the community.

“Consequently, the school premises was cordoned off and thoroughly searched by responding officers.

“Following extensive search and questioning of persons within and around the school premises, no kidnapping incident was established, no suspect was sighted, and no victim was identified.

“Surrounding hills, boundaries, and adjoining areas were patrolled and searched, while nearby schools were also visited as part of precautionary security measures, yet no evidence of kidnappers,” she said.

The FCT command spokesperson therefore urged the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information, capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension within communities.

She enjoined the public to promptly report suspicious activities or emergencies to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines on 08032003913, 07057337653.

(NAN)

By Benjamin Akanji

As the Customs and Excise Tariff (Amendment) Bill (CETA) 2025 advances to third reading in the Senate, Nigeria is approaching a critical economic decision. The bill is now on the verge of passage at a time when businesses are grappling with some of the most difficult operating conditions in decades.

This is not simply a debate about taxation or public health. It is a question of economic priorities. At a time when governments around the world are strengthening domestic industries, protecting jobs, and building economic resilience, Nigeria must decide whether it wants to support production or impose additional burdens on those already producing.

The timing could hardly be more consequential.

Across the world, countries are increasingly acting in their own economic interests. Governments are subsidising manufacturing, securing supply chains, and taking deliberate steps to protect strategic sectors. Economic resilience and domestic production have become central pillars of national competitiveness.

Nigeria should be moving in the same direction.

Instead, lawmakers are considering legislation that could increase costs for one of the country’s most structured and compliant manufacturing sectors at a time when producers are already under significant pressure.

Nigeria is not an economy with deep industrial buffers. High inflation, exchange-rate volatility, rising energy costs, and elevated interest rates continue to place enormous strain on businesses. Since mid-2023, the naira has lost substantial value, significantly increasing the cost of imported machinery, raw materials, packaging, and other production inputs. Consumers are spending less, while businesses are paying more to produce.

In such an environment, policy decisions that increase pressure on productive sectors can have lasting consequences. Once factories scale down, investments are postponed, or jobs are lost, rebuilding industrial capacity becomes far more difficult.

The manufacturing sector already faces unreliable power supply, logistics challenges, multiple taxation, regulatory uncertainty, and foreign exchange pressures. These are not industries operating under ideal conditions. They are businesses striving to remain competitive while sustaining millions of jobs directly and indirectly.

Any policy that further increases costs without addressing these structural challenges risks discouraging investment, slowing production, and accelerating the shift of economic activity into the informal sector.Few sectors demonstrate what is at stake more clearly than the beverage industry.

The sector supports an extensive value chain that includes agriculture, packaging, transportation, distribution, retail, and thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises. When policies affect the beverage industry, the effects extend far beyond manufacturers and reach countless businesses and families across the country.

It is also one of the most heavily taxed sectors in Nigeria. Government tax receipts from the industry increased from 123 billion in 2022 to 127 billion in 2023, accounting for a significant share of corporate income tax and value-added tax collections. Few sectors illustrate more clearly the extent to which compliant manufacturers already contribute to government revenue.Advancing additional excise taxes under current economic conditions risks imposing immediate economic costs while offering uncertain public health outcomes.

Supporters of CETA frequently cite alignment with international health recommendations and guidance from organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). While the WHO plays an important role in global public health, Nigeria must be careful not to confuse global recommendations with local realities.

There is no conclusive evidence establishing sugar-sweetened beverages as the primary driver of non-communicable diseases, particularly in developing economies such as Nigeria. Obesity and related health conditions are influenced by a range of factors, including overall diet, physical activity, healthcare access, urbanisation, and socioeconomic conditions.Treating a complex public health challenge as though it can be addressed primarily through higher taxes on a single product category risks oversimplifying the problem.

Nigeria’s own consumption data raises further questions about proportionality. Per capita sugar consumption remains below the WHO’s recommended annual threshold and significantly lower than levels recorded in several other African countries. This raises an important question: is the proposed response proportionate to the problem it seeks to address?

International experience offers little certainty. In several countries where sugar-sweetened beverage taxes have been introduced, consumption patterns have often shifted rather than disappeared, while evidence of sustained reductions in obesity or non-communicable diseases remains mixed.

Public health outcomes are rarely achieved through isolated fiscal measures alone. They typically require coordinated action involving education, healthcare, nutrition awareness, preventive care, and lifestyle interventions.Health policy does not exist in isolation from economic policy.

Policies that are technically sound in theory can produce unintended economic consequences in practice. Increased production costs can lead to reduced investment, slower growth, and fewer employment opportunities. Ultimately, no international organisation bears responsibility for the Nigerian worker who loses a job or the local factory that scales back operations. That responsibility rests with Nigeria.

The Senate’s advancement of CETA also raises questions about policy alignment.The bill appears difficult to reconcile with the President’s Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Agenda, which seeks to broaden the tax base rather than place additional pressure on a relatively small group of compliant taxpayers. Nigeria’s challenge is not low taxation. It is a tax system in which a limited number of formal businesses carry a disproportionate share of the burden while large segments of the economy remain outside the tax net.

The contradiction becomes even more apparent when viewed alongside the Nigerian Industrialisation Policy 2025, which seeks to increase manufacturing’s contribution to GDP through competitive production, value-chain development, import substitution, and enterprise growth.

Policies that increase costs and uncertainty for manufacturers risk undermining these objectives before they have the opportunity to deliver results.As CETA reaches third reading, the window for reflection is rapidly narrowing. Yet this is precisely the moment when lawmakers must ask a fundamental question: what kind of economy does Nigeria want to build?

The issue is not whether public health matters or whether industries should be regulated. Both are important. The issue is whether Nigeria should impose additional burdens on productive sectors at a time when the country’s most urgent economic priorities are job creation, industrial growth, investment attraction, and economic recovery.

The Senate still has an opportunity to pause, reassess, and ensure that CETA aligns with Nigeria’s economic realities and long-term development goals.History rarely remembers legislation by its intentions. It remembers the consequences.

As lawmakers consider the final stages of this bill, they face a choice that extends beyond taxation. It is a choice about jobs, investment, industrial growth, and the future competitiveness of the Nigerian economy.At a time when countries around the world are fighting to strengthen domestic production, Nigeria cannot afford to weaken its own.

By Adekunle Williams

The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) has asked members in all its branches and locations across the globe to embark on special prayers as part of its spiritual response to the national challenges facing the country.

NASFAT’s National Public Relations Secretary, Alhaji Shamsideen Oseni, in a statement issued in Lagos on Sunday said the prayer sessions will seek divine intervention, protection, wisdom, and lasting peace for Nigeria and its people.

He noted that through sincere prayers, responsible leadership, effective security measures, and collective action, Nigeria would overcome insecurity and emerge stronger, safer, and more prosperous for future generations.

The official said: “This prayer remains a powerful source of hope, strength, and moral renewal, particularly during difficult times.”

“NASFAT, therefore, encouraged members, stakeholders, and well-meaning Nigerians to participate wholeheartedly in the global prayer exercise as a demonstration of unity, compassion, and national solidarity.

“This initiative reflects NASFAT’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace, harmony, justice, and sustainable development.

“The organisation reaffirms its support for all lawful and constructive measures capable of addressing insecurity and fostering greater understanding among diverse communities.

Oseni condemned the persistent wave of insecurity across Nigeria, describing the recurring attacks on innocent citizens and communities as deeply troubling.

He expressed profound concern over the continuous loss of lives, destruction of livelihoods, and the growing atmosphere of fear.

Oseni emphasised that peace, security, and social stability remained indispensable pillars for national growth, economic advancement, and collective well-being.

Oseni urged government authorities, security agencies, traditional institutions, and citizens to strengthen collaborative efforts.

He added that the collaboration was aimed at protecting lives, preserving property, and restoring confidence among communities across the country.

(NAN)

Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, former senator for Ogun Central and daughter of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, has formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the party’s Ogun State leadership of persistent disrespect, unfair treatment, and marginalisation.

Obasanjo, who recently vied for the APC governorship ticket in Ogun State, submitted her resignation in a letter dated May 31 to the state APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.

She criticised the consensus process that produced Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) as the party’s candidate, stating she was neither consulted nor involved despite pledging to abide by any party consensus arrangement.

She further alleged that some of her supporters were denied entry to the venue where Adeola was unveiled and faced intimidation. “Following his emergence, Senator Adeola requested a meeting with my supporters, during which three requests were presented. He promised a response within a week. More than two months later, no feedback has been received,” Obasanjo said. “The treatment I have received reflects a consistent pattern of rejection and disrespect. When disrespect is the only dish served, one should leave the table. I am therefore leaving the APC table where I am not welcomed.”

Despite her resignation, Obasanjo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Ogun APC Chairman Chief Sanusi, and Ogun Central Senatorial leadership for the courtesy extended to her while in the party.

Returning to active politics earlier this year after registering in Ward 11, Ibogun, Ifo LGA, Obasanjo had previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health (20032007) and in the Senate (20072011). Her political re-entry in late 2025, marked by campaign billboards in Abeokuta, had signalled her intention to contest the 2027 governorship before she abruptly exited the APC.

Nigerian-British singer and songwriter, Mark Yinka Orabiyi, popularly known as Talay Riley, has died after he was stabbed in East London.

Riley, 35, was attacked around 9 a.m. on Friday on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown, according to reports by Newham Recorder.

Emergency services were called to the scene, but the Grammy-winning songwriter could not be saved.

Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command have since launched a murder investigation into the incident.

His family confirmed his death in an emotional statement, describing the loss as one of “overwhelming sadness.”

“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the family said.

They described Riley as an accomplished artiste and songwriter whose impact extended beyond music.

“Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum selling songwriter and artiste.

“For those that knew and loved him personally, it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most,” the statement added.

The family also thanked fans, friends and colleagues for the support they had received since the tragedy.

“We are deeply grateful for the enormous outpouring of love and support that we have received through messages, calls and visits over the past hours.

“Thank you for your continued consideration and sensitivity at what is a devastating time for us all,” the family said.

Riley, who was the brother of music producer Scribz Riley, spent more than a decade contributing to the growth of contemporary RandB.

He entered the music industry at 18 after signing a publishing deal with Global Publishing.

His career gained wider attention after he featured on rapper Chipmunk’s 2009 single, before signing with Jive/Sony Records.

Over the years, Riley toured the United Kingdom and the United States with major acts including Skepta, Usher and Trey Songz.

He also worked with international stars such as Kehlani, H.E.R., Khalid and the rising American group, 2BYG.

Following his death, tributes poured in from friends, fans and industry colleagues.

His younger brother, Scribz Riley, whose real name is Michael Orabiyi Riley, paid a heartbreaking tribute to him on Instagram.

“I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that on the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA, Talay Riley, passed away,” he wrote.

“My heart is shattered. This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream. Just before he went to sleep, we spoke about the future, staying positive and about everything we still had left to do.

“I never imagined that would be our last conversation. Yinka wasn’t just my brother. He was my mother’s son, a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives.

“Even with everything you accomplished, this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again,” Scribz added.

Two more suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the alleged abduction and assault of the Chairman of Ikere-West Local Council Development Area, Rufus Olorunfemi, and another victim, Funso Ajayi, the Ekiti State Police Command has said.

The development comes days after the command announced the arrest of three suspects linked to the incident in Ikere-Ekiti.

In a statement issued on Monday in Ado-Ekiti, the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, disclosed that the latest arrests were made by operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit.

According to him, “two suspects, one Daramola Sehinde and Oluyede Dapo, were arrested on the 6th of June, 2026, by the Command Violent Crime Response Unit in addition to the three suspects arrested on June 4th 2026.

“They were arrested over the alleged conspiracy, abduction and assault occasioning harm on Ikere-West LCDA Chairman, Hon. Rufus Olorunfemi and one Funso Ajayi.

“The suspects arrested will be objectively and thoroughly investigated and charged in court, while efforts are underway to arrest other suspects mentioned in connection with the crime.”

The police said the latest arrests bring to five the number of individuals currently being investigated over the incident.

Meanwhile, the command has strongly denied allegations by the Peoples Democratic Party deputy governorship candidate, Deji Ogunsakin, who accused the police of targeting opposition members through the Rapid Response Squad ahead of the forthcoming election.

Responding to the claims, Abutu said the command acted strictly within the law and had not carried out any politically motivated arrests.

“The attention of the Ekiti State Police Command has been drawn to the press conference granted by the PDP Deputy Governorship Candidate, Deji Ogunsakin, alleging the command of intimidating, harassing and illegally arresting their members ahead of the forthcoming election through its RRS Unit.

“The Command wishes to state clearly that no illegal arrest was made and no arrest was unjustifiably targeted at any political party member for any political reason as alleged.”

The police spokesperson maintained that those arrested were being investigated solely over allegations relating to conspiracy, abduction and assault connected to the attack on the council chairman.

Reaffirming the command’s commitment to impartial law enforcement, Abutu said officers would continue to carry out their constitutional duties without fear or favour.

He stated that the command ” will never be intimidated or deterred through propaganda, emotional outbursts or usual political gimmicks from performing its statutory responsibilities of maintaining law and order irrespective of the citizens’ individual political, religious or cultural affiliations”.

Abutu also conveyed the position of the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, who urged residents to remain peaceful, reject misinformation and stay alert to security concerns.

According to him, Falade insisted that the command under his leadership would not engage in unlawful arrests, illegal detention or any form of intimidation against members of the public.

The Super Falcons of Nigeria delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat the Teranga Lionesses of Senegal 3-0 in the second of their two international friendly games at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne on Monday.

After a tense and scoreless first half, the Falcons found their rhythm to secure a convincing win in front of their home supporters.

The match kicked off with immediate intensity as Nigeria earned an early set-piece taken by Captain Rasheedat Ajibade in the first minute, but the opportunity was not converted. The Super Falcons continued to press, with forward Joy Omewa narrowly missing another opportunity moments later.

Despite sustained dominance, the deadlock remained unbroken through the opening stages. In the 13th minute, another opportunity went begging as an effort was dragged wide with the goal at the Falcons’ mercy. Gift Monday proved a constant threat, repeatedly troubling the Senegalese defence while the home crowd urged the team on.

Omewa came agonizingly close in the 15th minute when she rounded the goalkeeper, only to see her effort strike the woodwork as the first half remained locked at 0-0.

The breakthrough finally arrived three minutes into the second half. In the 48th minute, Shukurat Oladipo delivered a precise cross that Joy Omewa met with a decisive header to give Nigeria the lead their endeavour deserved. Buoyed by the opener, the Super Falcons grew in confidence and control. Omewa doubled the advantage in the 55th minute, muscling her way through the Teranga Lionesses’ backline before finishing with composure for her second of the match.

The Falcons’ dominance was further underlined in the 66th minute when Captain Rasheedat Ajibade went on a surging run and laid on an assist for substitute Asisat Oshoala, who had replaced Omewa, to slot home and make it 3-0. The result caps a strong showing for the Super Falcons, who converted their second-half superiority into goals while maintaining defensive solidity throughout.

The performance highlighted the team’s attacking depth and resilience, providing positive momentum as the Cup-holders continued their preparations for the upcoming Women Africa Cup of Nations finals to be staged in Morocco

By Joan Odafe (NAN)

Beyond the famous meeting point of warm and cold springs, journalists attending a media immersion at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort in Ekiti encountered a different story unfolding across the sprawling tourism asset.

It is one of deliberate investment, renewable energy, local job creation and a long-term vision aimed at redefining destination tourism in Nigeria.

The atmosphere is calm and serene, the smell of wet earth and vegetation hangs lightly in the air, particularly after in the early morning and after a rainfall.

Staff members greet visitors warmly and meals feel less like hotel cuisine and more like home-cooked food.

Away from the spring itself, hiking trails wind through vegetation rich with different scents and plant species, while recreational facilities such as five-a-side football pitches, volleyball, basketball and badminton courts reflect efforts to broaden the visitor experience.

The resort’s famous Tree House, decorated with board games on tables, offer another attraction. Rock speakers, not only add to the ambience but also provide music across the surrounding environment while flowerpot speakers deliver sound within the structure itself.

For many visitors, however, the most significant story at Ikogosi may not be what is visible on the surface but the business model quietly taking shape behind the scenes.

Speaking during an engagement with journalists, the General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, Lanre Balogun, says the company’s objective is not merely to operate a resort but to transform neglected tourism assets into sustainable businesses capable of generating economic and social value.

According to Balogun, Glocient Hospitality, the hospitality subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, took over a facility that was largely uninhabitable in 2022.

Balogun notes that every aspect of the transformation was executed by Nigerians.

“If you had been here four years ago, Ikogosi was not a place that was habitable.

“It will interest you to know that every transformation you see here is done by Nigerians, Nigerian expertise, Nigerian skill, Nigerian artisans, no experts. It was done by us,” he says.

His remarks reflect a recurring theme throughout discussions at the resort the belief that local expertise and long-term capital can unlock the value of Nigeria’s tourism sector.

That philosophy appears to influence investment decisions at Ikogosi.

This is evident in the resort’s energy strategy.

Like many businesses across Nigeria, Ikogosi faces mounting energy costs arising from reliance on diesel-powered generators.

Balogun discloses that diesel expenses alone reached more than N46 million in a single month at the height of recent energy price increases.

“We spent over 46 million on diesel alone.

“That is not sustainable,” he says.

The challenge prompted the company to invest about 200,000 dollars in renewable energy infrastructure, including solar panels, battery systems and supporting facilities.

According to him, the investment now provides approximately 12 hours of renewable energy daily and is projected to save the resort more than N500 million annually.

Balogun says Glocient Hospitality is investing more than two million dollars in the development of its Camp A.

The project will add new guest rooms, staff accommodation, expanded laundry facilities and additional renewable energy capacity.

The resort currently operates Camp B and Camp C, where visitors can access villas, including a presidential suite designed to attract premium leisure and corporate travellers.

According to Balogun, additional room capacity has become necessary because the resort is increasingly turning away group bookings.

“The businesses that we’re getting is 100, 120, 150 rooms and they don’t want double occupancy,” he says.

The expansion is expected to strengthen Ikogosi’s position as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination.

While tourism assets are often evaluated through profitability metrics alone, discussions at Ikogosi highlight another dimension: community impact.

The resort currently employs more than 230 workers, with about 60 per cent drawn from host communities and nearly 70 per cent being women.

Balogun says the transformation has extended beyond hospitality operations.

According to him, young people who previously lacked stable livelihoods have been trained in electrical works, plumbing, tiling, landscaping and maintenance.

One story in particular appears to resonate with participants.

Balogun recounts how a former unemployed youth from the community was able to improve his standard of living after receiving training and employment opportunities linked to the resort’s redevelopment.

Such examples underscore a broader argument increasingly advanced by tourism stakeholders: that destination development can serve as a tool for rural economic transformation.

The investment strategy also extends to agriculture and environmental sustainability.

Vegetables consumed at the resort are grown on-site, while food waste is used to support livestock operations.

He says future plans for the resort includes greenhouses, expanded farming activities and visitor experiences that allows guests engage directly with food production.

Security, another concern often raised by potential visitors, also featured prominently during discussions.

Balogun acknowledged national security challenges but says that perceptions are sometimes amplified beyond reality.

“We have security challenges. However, it’s not as bad as people portray it on social media,” he says.

To reinforce visitor confidence, the resort maintains extensive security arrangements involving security personnel; civil defence officers, hunters, police in the resort and military support within surrounding areas.

For tourism analysts, Ikogosi’s experience offers insight into a broader challenge confronting Nigeria’s tourism industry.

Many destinations possess significant natural attractions but struggle with inadequate infrastructure, energy costs, weak investment and poor maintenance.

Balogun says reversing decades of decline requires patience and a willingness to prioritise reinvestment over immediate returns.

“Our goal is not short-term.

“We are very deliberate and intentional.

“Every step that we take is a step forward in achieving sustainability and profitability,” he says.

Facility Manager at the resort, Okon John, explains that solar installations currently powers the entire resort.

He says the system includes an 80-kilowatt solar installation and a 480-kilowatt-hour battery bank capable of supporting operations for several hours after sunset.

“All the resort is on the system currently,” he says.

John adds that guests rarely notice transitions between power sources because the system automatically switches between solar, battery storage, grid electricity and generators when necessary.

Interestingly, Stephen Ademiluwa, Communications and Community Engagement Manager of Glocient Hospitality, describes the national grid as a backup rather than the primary source of power — a reversal of the traditional energy model adopted by many hospitality businesses.

As part of a broader expansion, the company plans to scale the renewable energy system to one megawatt

The expansion itself illustrates another aspect of the resort’s long-term investment approach.

That philosophy appears shared by the resort’s stakeholders as Uche Ibemere, Director, Communications, Cavista Holdings, notes during the engagement, “We are here for the long haul.”

Whether the model ultimately succeeds may depend on factors beyond the resort’s control, including economic conditions, infrastructure and national perceptions.

Yet on a rainy evening in Ikogosi, amid the scent of fresh grass, the sounds from hidden rock speakers and the steady hum of a resort increasingly powered by the sun, there are signs that a different approach to tourism development is being tested — one built on patience, sustainability and belief in local capacity.