Strong cost control and rising demand have pushed Lafarge Africa Plc to a Profit After Tax of N97.95 billion in the first quarter of 2026, a sharp 101 per cent increase from N48.64 billion recorded in the same period last year. The company also posted a 35 per cent jump in revenue, with net sales rising to N334.88 billion from N248.35 billion year-on-year. Details of the Q1 results show that operating profit grew by 97 per cent to N141 billion, reflecting improved efficiency across operations. Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said the performance was driven by steady execution of the company’s plans. “Our Q1 2026 results reflect continued progress in executing our strategic priorities. Net Sales grew by 35 per cent year-on-year, supported by improved volumes, enhanced plant stability, and distribution efficiency,” he said. He added, “Operating Profit increased by 97 per cent to N141 billion, while Profit After Tax rose by 101 per cent to N98 billion, driven by supply assurance, disciplined cost management, and improved route-to-market.” Alade-Akinyemi said the growth was mainly driven by higher sales volume, cost discipline and prudent financial management. He noted that easing economic pressure and fewer global supply disruptions helped boost demand during the period. “We anticipate continued market expansion from Nigeria’s infrastructure and construction sector demand, underpinned by improving economic fundamentals and demand across key segments,” he said. The CEO said the company would continue to tap into the technical strength of its partner, Huaxin Building Materials Co., Ltd., to improve operations. He added that Lafarge Africa would maintain tight cost control and focus on key growth areas in its markets. “Our sustainability-led growth model continues to anchor our long-term value creation agenda, supported by effective execution of our strategic priorities and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence,” he said.
Joint Security Pressure Forces Sea Pirates to Lose Grip of 14 Kidnap Victims on Oron-Calabar Waterways
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have secured the freedom of 14 persons abducted by sea pirates along the Calabar–Oron waterways. The development was disclosed in a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, and made available in Uyo on Wednesday, indicating that the victims were recovered unharmed following sustained security operations. According to the statement, the breakthrough came after intensified intelligence gathering and coordinated inter-agency efforts aimed at dismantling criminal activities along the maritime corridor. Police said operatives deployed targeted surveillance across identified flashpoints, mounting pressure on the suspected pirates and restricting their operational movement. “The operation followed sustained intelligence-driven efforts, robust inter-agency collaboration, and relentless pressure mounted on criminal elements operating within the maritime corridor,” the statement said. Authorities noted that the sustained crackdown weakened the kidnappers’ hold, forcing them to abandon their captives without inflicting harm. The Command confirmed that all 14 victims were rescued safely, with no casualties recorded during the operation. “The rescued victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment, alongside necessary debriefing, before being reunited with their families,” the statement added. Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the joint efforts of the Police and EFCC, describing the operation as a significant success in ongoing efforts to secure the waterways. “He noted that the success recorded underscores the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in addressing complex security challenges,” the statement said. The Command further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the abduction. Police assured that those behind the crime would be identified and brought to justice, reiterating their commitment to sustaining security across the waterways. Residents and maritime operators were urged to support security agencies with credible and timely information, as authorities warned criminal elements to desist or face decisive action.
Nigeria Faces 180-Day Deadline After African Ruling on ‘Witchcraft’ Abuse of Children
The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child has given Nigeria a 180-day deadline to outline concrete steps toward ending the abuse of children accused of witchcraft, following a landmark ruling that found the country in violation of its obligations under the African Charter. The decision, delivered in Communication No. 0017/Com/001/2021 and adopted at the Committee’s 46th Ordinary Session in December 2025, was released yesterday after a petition by Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa, and the Centre for Human Rights. The Committee found that Nigeria failed to protect vulnerable children from severe abuses linked to witchcraft accusations, including torture, abandonment, starvation, and in extreme cases, killings. According to findings presented before the panel, children as young as three years old were subjected to inhumane treatment, often at the hands of family members, community leaders, and religious actors who branded them as witches. The Committee ruled that such acts constitute grave violations of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, stressing that cultural and religious beliefs cannot justify harm against minors. “We commend the Committee for its important work in addressing complex and deeply rooted violations affecting vulnerable children, including those subjected to harmful practices such as witchcraft accusations,” said Michael Gyan Nyarko. The ruling directs the Nigerian government to implement legal, social, and institutional safeguards to prevent further abuses and to ensure protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of affected children. “I have been campaigning for the rights of these children since 2000, drawing attention to the federal government without being heard. This victory proves that witchcraft accusation is real, but witchcraft itself is not real,” said Sam Ikpe Itauma.
Aproko Doctor to Lead Malaria Awareness Campaign in A’Ibom as Ibom Air Donates 50,000 Drugs
A renowned medical influencer, Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, is set to headline a major malaria awareness campaign in Akwa Ibom State as part of activities marking the 2026 World Malaria Day. The awareness drive, tagged “Walk Against Malaria,” is being organised by Ibom Air to mobilise residents and promote preventive measures against the disease. The event, scheduled for Saturday April 25, 2026, will commence at Ibom Plaza in Uyo by 6:00 a.m., featuring public sensitisation, health education, and aerobic sessions. As part of the intervention, Ibom Air has also donated 50,000 doses of anti-malaria medications to the Akwa Ibom State Government to support ongoing efforts to curb the disease. The airline, through its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, FAMPact (Fight Against Malaria in Pregnant Women and Children Today), presented the drugs to the State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP) under the Ministry of Health in Uyo. The donation includes 30,000 doses of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine, 10,000 doses of Lokmal DT, and 10,000 doses of Paracetamol DT, targeted at vulnerable groups, especially pregnant women and children under five. Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, who led the management team during the presentation, said the initiative underscores the airline’s commitment to improving public health. Receiving the items, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, described the gesture as timely and critical to strengthening malaria control efforts in the state. Ibom Air said the intervention marks the third consecutive year it is supporting malaria prevention and treatment, reinforcing health as a key pillar of its corporate social responsibility. In a statement signed by Aniekan Essienette, Group Manager, Marketing and Communication, Ibom Airlines Ltd, the airline aligned its intervention with the 2026 World Malaria Day theme, “Driven to end malaria, Now we can, Now we must.” The statement stressed the need for collective action to tackle malaria, which remains one of Nigeria’s leading causes of death. Group Manager, Corporate Services at Ibom Air, Mrs. Imelda Aba, said the initiative reflects the airline’s responsibility beyond air transportation. “At Ibom Air, we believe that our responsibility extends beyond flying passengers to their destinations. Through FAMPact, we are investing directly in the health and well-being of our communities,” she said. Programme Manager of SMEP, Dr. Ukeme John, commended the airline’s sustained commitment, noting that the support would significantly boost interventions targeted at protecting vulnerable populations. “This donation comes at a critical time and will significantly support our efforts to protect pregnant women and children. We encourage all Akwa Ibom residents to turn out for the walk and join hands with us to end malaria,” he said.
Police Nab Kidnap Kingpin With Victim’s Skull in A’Ibom
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin and cultist, Ubong Michael, popularly known as “Ubong Boy,” in possession of a human skull believed to belong to one of his victims. The 30-year-old suspect was apprehended on April 22, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m. in Ikot Aka Village, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, following credible intelligence that he had returned to the community after hiding in Port Harcourt. Police said a search conducted on the suspect at the point of arrest led to the recovery of the human skull, alongside a human bone, two live cartridges and a dagger. Investigations revealed that the suspect is a key figure in multiple kidnapping operations within the state, including the abduction of one Gabriel in 2023 and another victim, John, in 2025. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspect has confessed to his involvement in the crimes and is currently assisting operatives with information to track down other members of the syndicate. She said the arrest followed a swift, intelligence-driven operation by officers of the Command. The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, commended the operatives for the breakthrough, describing it as a significant step in the ongoing crackdown on violent crimes. “The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to rid Akwa Ibom State of all forms of violent crime,” the CP said. He warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities or face the full weight of the law, stressing that the state would remain hostile to criminals. The Command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information. Police said efforts are ongoing to recover additional weapons and arrest fleeing members of the gang.
27-Year-Old Sentenced to Death for Killing Uncle Over Alleged Witchcraft in A’Ibom
A High Court sitting in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, has sentenced a 27-year-old man, Edinyanga Samuel Akpan, to death by hanging for the murder of his uncle, Kufre Godwin Eno, following an allegation of witchcraft. Delivering judgment on Wednesday, the trial judge, Justice Pius Idiong, found the defendant guilty of a one-count charge of murder, holding that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt. The court heard that the incident occurred on December 4, 2017, at Ikot Inyang Okon, in Eket Local Government Area of the state. According to evidence presented before the court, the convict stabbed the deceased in the chest with a knife during a disagreement allegedly linked to accusations of witchcraft. The victim was subsequently rushed to Emmanuel General Hospital, Eket, where he was later confirmed dead by medical personnel. Akpan, a native of Ikot Obioro in Eket Local Government Area and a primary school dropout, had pleaded not guilty at the commencement of trial. However, at the point of judgment, he appealed to the court for leniency, expressing remorse over the incident. In his ruling, Justice Idiong held that the act of the convict was both intentional and unlawful, stressing that the ingredients of the offence of murder had been sufficiently established by the prosecution. The judge noted that, under the law, murder is a capital offence which attracts a mandatory sentence, leaving the court with no discretion to impose a lesser punishment. Consequently, he sentenced the defendant to death by hanging, while also offering prayers for mercy on his soul. The judgment brings to a close a protracted legal battle that lasted about nine years. The case was prosecuted by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice, led by U.F. Effiong, Assistant Chief State Counsel, while the defendant was represented by Victor Udeh. The matter, which experienced multiple reassignments, was initially handled by Justice Nsemeke Daniel before being transferred to Justice Ezekiel Enang, and was eventually concluded by Justice Pius Idiong after the trial commenced afresh.
A’Ibom stakeholders pass no confidence vote on Speaker, reject third term bid
Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have passed a vote of no confidence on the incumbent Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon Udeme Otong who represents Abak state constituency at the Assembly They also rejected alleged plot by the Speaker to circumvent the zoning arrangement earlier agreed and endorsed by political leaders of the constituency in 2023 and perpetuate himself in office Addressing a press conference in Abak Local Government Area on Tuesday, the spokesperson of the group,Hon Rock Dick, expressed disappointment with the Speaker whom he alleged signed the agreement and became the first beneficiary of the agreement In a press conference text stated,” Where as democracy thrives on the principles of fairness, equity, justice, and respect for collective agreements freely entered into by stakeholders. ” And where as, in 2023, stakeholders of Abak, in recognition of the need to ensure justice, peace, and even development in the Abak State Constituency, held a crucial stakeholders’ meeting at the instance of the immediate past Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Moses Ekpo. At that meeting, political leaders and representatives from all wards unanimously agreed and endorsed a zoning formula designed to ensure balance, inclusion, and justice among the clans in Abak. ”And where as, the said agreement clearly stipulated that, following the tenure of Abak Clan, which is currently producing the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Udeme Otong, the next representative for the 2027 State Constituency election shall emerge from Midim Clan. ”Where as, all parties present, including the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (the first beneficiary of the zoning arrangement), appended their signatures to the agreement as a mark of commitment to uphold its sanctity. ”Having noticed with dismay the recent moves by a beneficiary of this collective mandate to seek a third term in office, in direct violation of the subsisting zoning agreement, thereby undermining the trust and unity of our people. ”The people of Abak have, in clear terms, passed a vote of no confidence on the incumbent House of Assembly member and Speaker.” The stakeholders therefore rejected any attempt by group or individual to distort or disregard the zoning agreement , adding that the agreement remains sacrosanct representing the moral and political contract among the clans in Abak. “We unequivocally reject any attempt, by any individual or group, to distort, truncate, or disregard the duly agreed zoning formula for Abak State Constituency. ”That the 2023 zoning agreement remains binding, valid, and sacrosanct, representing a moral and political contract among the clans of Abak, which must be respected in the interest of peace, unity, and justice. ”That equity demands that Midim Clan, which has not produced a State Assembly representative since 1999 despite comprising two wards, be given the opportunity to occupy the seat in 2027, rather than perpetuate a lopsided arrangement that has seen Abak Clan dominate the position for over sixteen years.’ Efforts to speak with the Speaker, Udeme Otong was not possible as at the time of filing this report as he was not picking his calls. However, his Press Secretary, Mr Emmanuel Ebong, said the people have the right to say whatever they want to say because democracy confer the right on people to express their feelings and opinions. He said however that the Speaker has done his best in terms of delivery of democratic dividends. According to him, “They have the right to say whatever they want to say because we are in a democracy, but I know that the Speaker has done his best for the people, It’s only God that determines who becomes who in any society ” Meanwhile , the stakeholders have reaffirmed their total support for the continuation in office of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Pastor Umo Eno, citing their performances as reason for their actions
Police Deploy Tight Security, Warn Criminals to Stay Away from JAMB CBT Centres in Akwa Ibom
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has issued a strong warning to criminal elements, declaring that all examination centres hosting the ongoing JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) examinations are under strict security surveillance, with clear directives that anyone attempting to disrupt the process will be arrested and prosecuted. In a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, LLB, Anipr, for the Commissioner of Police, the Command emphasized that “adequate security measures have been put in place across all examination centres in the State to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free exercise,” The Command warned that criminal elements and unauthorized persons must steer clear of all examination venues throughout the duration of the exercise, stressing that security operatives have been fully deployed across the state to prevent any form of interference. It stated that “any person found loitering, attempting to disrupt the process, or engaging in any form of examination malpractice or criminal activity will be promptly arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” The Police further appealed to parents and guardians to avoid unnecessary gatherings around examination centres, urging them instead to drop off their wards and leave immediately to prevent overcrowding and security complications. According to the Command, only accredited candidates, examination officials, and duly authorized personnel will be allowed access into designated examination premises, as part of efforts to maintain order and discipline during the exercise. The release added that officers have been strategically stationed across all examination centres in Akwa Ibom State, while surveillance operations are ongoing to detect, deter, and respond swiftly to any security threats or suspicious movements. It also encouraged members of the public to play a supportive role by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency response lines. Reassuring residents, the Commissioner of Police CP Baba Muhammad Azare restated the Command’s readiness to maintain law and order throughout the examination period, insisting that no individual or group will be allowed to compromise the process. He also expressed confidence in the security architecture put in place, noting that the Command remains fully committed to protecting candidates and ensuring that the examinations proceed without disruption across the state. The Police Command, while wishing all candidates success in their examinations, reiterated that the ongoing deployment is part of broader efforts to protect educational processes and uphold public safety in Akwa Ibom State.
No Payment Without Performance – Gov Eno Tells Contractors
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has declared that his administration will no longer pay contractors without verified progress. The governor made the assertion in Uyo on Wednesday. while speaking to Government House correspondents after an inspection of ongoing projects. He stressed that every payment must be tied to measurable work done on site. According to him, the move is aimed at strengthening accountability and ensuring that public funds translate into tangible development outcomes across the state. “I have payment vouchers waiting for me to sign, but I have to come and see and be sure that they have reached certain levels before we can make the next set of payments,” Eno said. He explained that his administration is deliberately prioritizing due diligence in project execution, noting that contractors must meet agreed specifications and timelines before accessing government funds. Eno maintained that the policy is part of broader efforts to guarantee value for money and eliminate delays and substandard delivery in public projects. “Mine is to make sure that the work is going on, we get our money’s worth, ensure contractors are on site and that they are doing what they are supposed to do,” he stated. The governor noted that beyond financial oversight, the government is also monitoring the quality of work and the welfare of workers at project sites to ensure compliance with standards. “This inspection, for me, is to give me an on-the-spot assessment and monitor our timelines. Everywhere I went, I am satisfied with the pace and quality of work done,” he added. He commended contractors for their commitment so far but warned that the state would continue to demand strict adherence to specifications. “I believe that the contractors know that we will demand that they do the work according to our specification,” he said. The governor emphasized that the policy would help instill discipline in project delivery and ensure that only qualified and committed contractors thrive in the state’s development space. Projects visited during the exercise include the Aviation Village, Legislators’ and Executive Quarters at Dakkada Luxury Estate, the Equipment Leasing Company, and the CNG Bus Terminal.
FG Inaugurates Technical Committee On $Multi-Billion Gas, Power, Rail Project
The Federal Government of Nigeria on Thursday inaugurated a high-powered Technical Committee to evaluate and fast-track the proposed Integrated Gas, Power and High-Speed Rail Project. The inauguration, which took place at the Conference Room of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Shehu Shagari Complex, Abuja, was performed on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the SGF, George Akume. The project, being promoted by De-Sadel Nigeria Limited, is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious private-sector-driven infrastructure initiatives in Nigeria and West Africa, combining gas monetisation, power generation, high-speed rail, digital infrastructure, and real estate development under a 40-year renewable concession framework. Speaking at the event, Akume explained the strategic economic importance of the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for industrial growth, job creation, and energy security. He noted that the Federal Government is committed to supporting credible investments capable of unlocking value across key sectors of the economy. He reiterated Federal Government’s readiness to deepen partnerships with private investors, noting that projects of this scale are critical to closing Nigeria’s infrastructure gap, enhancing productivity, and driving long-term economic growth. In his words “This project aligns with our national priorities of economic growth, energy sufficiency and modern transport infrastructure. The committee has been carefully constituted to ensure a comprehensive and objective evaluation.” Akume said the project, estimated at about $200 billion, was envisioned as a multiphase programme integrating gas development, power generation and transmission, and the construction of a 4,000kilometre highspeed rail network linking major economic corridors such as Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano and Port Harcourt. “These kinds of projects have the potential to transform Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, strengthen energy security, stimulate industrial growth and deepen national integration,” Akume stated. He further charged members of the committee to deliver within a strict timeline, adding: “You are expected to submit your findings and recommendations within six weeks, in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to timely and efficient decision-making.” The Committee’s terms of reference requires it to review the integrated oil & gas–rail financing model and any proposed oil and gas asset divestments which shall avail the project speedy completion . Members were also tasked with conducting technical and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) due diligence on China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited and its proposed partners China Railway Group Limited/China Railway Engineering Corporation, while ensuring compliance with PublicPrivate Partnership (PPP) guidelines, including risk allocation, environmental and social safeguards, and resettlement issues. In his presentation, the President/Chief Executive Officer of De-Sadel Nigeria Limited, Samuel Uko, outlined the project’s financing model and projected impact, stressing that the initiative would stimulate large-scale employment, enhance infrastructure connectivity, and accelerate industrialisation. He said the integrated nature of the project could significantly reduce logistics costs, improve power supply to industrial clusters, and open up new corridors for trade and investment, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s position as a regional economic hub. According to him, the project is backed by proof of funds and designed to leverage private capital to deliver sustainable infrastructure without imposing undue fiscal pressure on government resources. The Technical Committee, chaired by a Director in the Office of the Permanent Secretary (Political and Economic Affairs), comprises representatives from key Ministries, Departments and Agencies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Debt Management Office, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and Nigerian Communications Commission, among others. Also represented are the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, and the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, alongside nominees of the project promoters.