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Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed Federal Government’s support for initiatives aimed at expanding Nigeria’s hydrocarbon exploration, storage and refining.
Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, said this at the inauguration of 315 million dollars Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel on Saturday in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the vessel is owned by Nigeria’s Oriental Energy Resources Ltd.
The FPSO vessel, with a storage capacity of one million barrels, will kick off with an initial production of 17,000 barrels per day before increasing its production capacity to 30,000 per day.
It is expected to depart for Nigeria in Q1 2025 and start production at the Okwok Oil Field in the first half of 2025.
Shettima noted that the FPSO vessel symbolised a future where Nigerian ingenuity met global standards, saying “we will be here every step of the way to ensure its utility and success.”
He described the facility as more than just a maritime infrastructure project, adding that it was a pointer to the success of Tinubu’s reforms in the sector as well as Nigeria’s growing global influence.
According to him, what sets Nigerians apart is not merely the audacity of their ambition, but their unique understanding of where the world is headed.
“This FPSO vessel is more than just a technological achievement; it is a symbol of Nigeria’s ambition and our readiness to meet global energy demands.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing the transformation of the oil and gas sector, which is central to our economic revitalisation efforts,” he said.
According to him, the vessel is a critical link in Nigeria’s ambition to optimise productivity.
“This will enable the country to become a central hub for hydrocarbon demand, both domestically and globally,” Shettima said.
He commended Alhaji Mohammed Indimi, the Executive Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources Ltd., for his remarkable contributions to the industry.
“Over the decades, Alhaji Mohammed Indimi has stood as a model businessman and symbol of excellence in the oil and gas industry.
“So, it’s not surprising that his vision has transformed Oriental Energy Resources Ltd., into a global phenomenon.
“This outcome testifies to what is possible when ambition is matched with perseverance and expertise.
“His journey reminds us that Nigeria is a land of opportunity, and with dedication, there is no limit to what we can achieve,” said Shettima.
“As Nigeria’s home-based refineries come alive, vessels like this will be instrumental in maximising the nation’s production capacity and driving economic growth.
“Recently, His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, was in Paris, where he oversaw the expansion of one of Nigeria’s indigenous banks into that sphere of the European financial market.
“That historic moment reflected our collective aspiration as a nation,” he noted.
Shettima pointed out that the UAE demonstrated what could be achieved when natural resources were leveraged effectively.
Earlier, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, commended the vision and tenacity of the Chairman of Oriental Energy Nigeria.
Zulum said Indimi’s investment would stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities for many Nigerians, as well as ensure steady growth and development of the nation’s economy.
“Today is one of my happiest moments to stand before this gathering. I make my brief remark because Alhaji Indimi is from Borno State.
“I’m happy to note that the production of this vessel was born 100 per cent by his own company, which has never happened in Nigeria.
“This goes to show how committed Alhaji Mohammed Indimi is to the growth and development of not only Borno but the entire country,” said Zulum.
Also, Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, applauded Indimi, and his technical partners, saying “to truly appreciate the oil mogul, it will be best to know that he wasn’t the only person that was allocated an oil block in the 90s.
“There were so many of them. But from what we are witnessing today, he will go down as one who believes in Nigeria, who believes in investing in Nigeria, who believes in the government of Nigeria, who appreciates Nigeria.
“And that is the reason why he is investing in this baby here that is going to store one million barrels of crude oil.”
On his part, Indimi, revealed that the facility was the first FPSO to be fully funded by a Nigerian company.
The vessel named ENEM FPSO, the chairman added, heralded an effort for a Nigerian oil and gas company to independently develop a marginal field.
He stressed that it was an important milestone for Nigeria and its oil and gas sector.
“When operating at full capacity we expect the Okwok Oil Field to produce up to 30,000 barrels of oil a day, significantly enhancing Nigeria’s oil production.
“The Okwok field is just one step towards our long term ambition to deliver 100,000 barrels of oil per day of production in Nigeria.
“We have a strong set of proven assets, and a development pipeline that can deliver it,” he said.
He thanked President Tinubu, Vice-President Shettima, and the dedicated officials and civil servants in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the other agencies that provided the enabling environment for the investment.
Capt. Antolovic Rado, the Chief Executive Officer of Drydocks Dubai, assured that the vessel, when fully operational, would contribute significantly to the sustainable development of the Okwok oil field region.
He also said the facility would support economic growth and energy security, noting that the success achieved by Oriental Energy’s investment in the oil sector, had set a benchmark for operational excellence and safety. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Diageo, a global leader in premium spirits, has partnered Celebr-8 Lyfe (a Tolaram Company) to transform Nigeria’s premium spirits market.
This partnership, according to Kavita Hans, General Manager, Diageo West and Central Africa, on Tuesday in Lagos, via a statement, would enhance the availability of its iconic brands across Nigeria.
Hans said that the company’s collaboration with Celebr-8 Lyfe would redefine the market by making high-quality international brands accessible to Nigerian consumers.
She added that the development would mark a milestone in how Nigerians experience quality spirits, meeting consumer demand for globally renowned brands and raising the standards of market service and brand interaction nationwide.
Hans further said that the collaboration also provided economic benefits, as it strengthened supply chain and market innovations, supporting job creation and industry development within Nigeria.
“We are thrilled to partner with Celebr-8 Lyfe, whose local expertise complements Diageo’s vision for growth in Nigeria.
“Our goal is to connect with more Nigerian consumers, through our exceptional brands, such as Johnnie Walker, Don Julio, Tanqueray, Singleton, Ciroc, Baileys, Black & White, Ketel One, Smirnoff, Gordons, and Zacapa.
“We will do this whilst contributing to sustainable growth in the market and together, we are positioned to set new benchmarks for excellence and consistency in the Nigerian spirits industry,” she said.
Shobhit Jindal, General Manager, Celebr-8 Lyfe, said the partnership aligned perfectly with the organisation’s mission to bring the best of global brands to Nigerian consumers.
Jindal expressed excitement to work with Diageo to deliver their shared vision for premium quality and market growth.
He added that the partnership reflected both companies’ dedication to a progressive, high-standard market environment in Nigeria and reaffirms Diageo’s commitment to long-term growth in Africa.
“The first wave of brand rollouts under this partnership will begin this quarter,” he revealed.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Diageo is a global leader in alcoholic beverages, known for its premium portfolio of brands across various categories, including spirits and beer.
While Celebr-8 Lyfe (a Tolaram Company) specialises in the promotion and distribution of premium spirits in Nigeria, focusing on delivering quality, authenticity, and innovation.
The products featured in this article are from brands available in NBCUniversal Checkout. E! makes a commission on purchases.
Frizz can come for us all, no matter your hair type. You might have fine hair, thick hair, straight hair, or curly hair, and still experience frizz.
If you struggle with dry, frizzy hair, you know all too well how difficult it can be to tame.
But don’t worry, fellow frizz fighters! We’ve rounded up must-have hair care products that will help transform your mane from frazzled to fabulous.
How to fix dry, frizzy hair
The most annoying thing about frizz is that it can come from anywhere.
If you live somewhere with humidity, it can act like a magnet for moisture, causing strands to swell and separate, creating that dreaded flyaway fiesta.
Heat styling is a double whammy, sapping moisture from wet hair and from dry hair, while roughing up the hair cuticle. And don’t even get us started on bleach or hair dye—if used incorrectly, it can fry your strands into total dryness.
This is where the magic of hydrating shampoo, conditioners, hair serums, oils, and weekly hair mask treatments comes in.
These hair products act like vitamins, delivering moisture and nourishment to fight frizz and damage. With ingredients like amino acids, Argan oil, and keratin, they help repair and strengthen your hair.
We interviewed Bronwyn Newport because we think you’ll like her picks. Some of the picks are from Bronwyn’s Bedhead PJs collaboration. E! may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Learn more.
Bronwyn Newport has mastered the art of turning her nightly routine into a moment of indulgent self-care, and she’s spilling all her secrets. The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star swears by a simple yet transformative skincare hack that takes very little time: washing your face for a full 60 seconds. “It feels long, but once you get into it, it’s so luxurious and great self-care,” she shares.
Beyond elaborating on this surprisingly effective tip, Bronwyn’s nighttime routine is filled with thoughtful practices and products that help her unwind, rejuvenate her skin, and prepare for the day ahead.
From her favorite masks and cleansers to the beauty hacks she’s learned from her Bravo co-stars, Bronwyn proves that consistency and a touch of luxury can make all the difference.
Whether she’s relaxing with a lip-plumping mask or enjoying a cozy moment in her limited-edition BedHead PJs, her routine is the perfect blend of self-care and sophistication. Ready to transform your own nightly rituals? Bronwyn’s tips might just inspire you to make the most of those quiet moments before bed.
Dr Ayobami Alabi, a consultant paediatrician at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, says in this interview with SADE OGUNTOLA, that stress does not cause typhoid fever, nor does malaria progress to become typhoid fever without exposure to the germs that cause it.
How prevalent is typhoid fever in our society, and which groups of people are mostly affected?
Generally, typhoid fever is a form of blood infection. It is a life-threatening infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi that is usually spread through contaminated food or water and is still prevalent in our community. It is typically contracted through tainted food or water. Salmonella typhi bacteria proliferate and enter the bloodstream after being consumed. According to the World Health Organisation, as of 2023, typhoid fever was reported to be the cause of up to 110,000 fatalities globally each year. However, the cases are more common in Africa and Asia, particularly children and young adults. Most of the time, it occurs in children aged five to nine years.
It’s typical for people to claim that they received a diagnosis of both illnesses. Is there a connection between malaria and typhoid fever?
Well, this assumption is false. It is feasible for a person to have both infections going on at the same time. Nonetheless, distinct organisms cause typhoid and malaria. Salmonella typhi is the bacteria that causes typhoid fever, whereas Plasmodium falciparum is the main malaria parasite in our environment. The misconception is that many people believe that malaria can transform into typhoid fever if it is not treated appropriately. It is false. Typhoid fever is not created or evolved from malaria. Malaria can coexist with typhoid fever in a sick person. Naturally, fever is more than just that malaria or typhoid fever. There are many things that can cause fever, and infections are no exception.
Under what conditions can typhoid fever coexist with malaria in our own community?
Malaria is prevalent in Nigeria; in fact, the country falls into the malaria endemic region. Urbanisation, climate change, inadequate sanitation and personal hygiene, a lack of access to safe water, and rising antibiotic resistance are among the common variables that contribute to the spread of typhoid fever. It is therefore possible for someone to contract malaria from a female anopheles mosquito bite and contract typhoid fever from contaminated food or water with Salmonella Typhi bacteria. However, a weakened immune system due to any cause, inherited or acquired, can leave a person vulnerable to almost any infection, including typhoid fever.
Is the widal test still the preferred investigation in the management of typhoid fever?
The widal test used to be a popular test for management of typhoid fever. But science keeps evolving, and scientific evidence has demonstrated that it is not a reliable test for the diagnosis of typhoid fever. It might serve as a guide, but there is insufficient data supporting it as a tool to diagnose typhoid fever. Indeed, if a widal test is performed, a single test sample will not be sufficient to draw inference. A sustained rising titre will provide proof of an infection within the body system. However, as of right now, it is not advised for the diagnosis of typhoid fever. The organisms must be isolated from bodily fluids, such as blood, urine, and faeces, in order to diagnose typhoid fever.
Therefore, it is incorrect for medical professionals to diagnose typhoid fever in patients after requesting widal testing from those who have a fever. The test is not very sensitive, nor is it reliable. So it’s really not necessary.
What is the connection between water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and the transmission of germs that causes typhoid fever in Nigeria?
Poor access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene are things that make Typhoid fever prevalent in the environment. In many Nigerian communities, there is no access to drinking water, and personal and toilet cleanliness are not maintained. These variables are relevant because the typhoid fever-causing organism is transmitted through the faecal-oral route, which is when an infected person’s faeces are consumed through food or contact with the hands of another person. And from there, it begins to contaminate the different components of the body system; it gets into the blood, intestines, lymph nodes, and so on.
As a result, the issue is more severe in underdeveloped nations due to inadequate hygiene, sanitation, and access to clean water. Therefore, if there is insufficient access to drinkable water, people of all ages and socioeconomic classes—including infants—may be impacted. Nigeria cannot completely eradicate typhoid fever until we solve WASH issues.
In your opinion, how has open defecation, a common phenomenon in Nigeria, contributed to the problem of typhoid fever?
Open defecation is a highly prevalent practice in our community because many Nigerians lack access to toilet facilities. They excrete in the open and clean up with tissue paper and leaves. Naturally, they carry out their regular tasks—such as selling food and handling surfaces—without cleaning their hands with soap and water, which spread various bacteria.
It is an issue that is closely linked to the typhoid fever’s spread. In actuality, we discuss the spread of the disease through four entities whose names begin with the letter F: faeces, flies, fingers, and fomite, which is any inanimate object that might spread the disease to a new host when contaminated with or exposed to infectious substances. As a result, the Salmonella typhi bacteria can be easily transmitted to other individuals by an infected person or a carrier, either directly or indirectly.
So is it safe to eat foods from restaurants, cafeterias, or roadside buka to avoid contracting the germs that cause typhoid fever?
Particularly, in a low-middle-income country, we have a high patronage of cafeterias or roadside buka. If a person carrying the typhoid fever-causing bacterium is not practicing excellent hygiene, particularly when it comes to using the toilet, you can only increase the volume of individuals who will come to buy meals for them in a given day. Based on the location and size of cafeterias or roadside bukas, consider how many people the food vendor has managed to infect in a single day. In fact, it is advised that before becoming food vendors, people should be tested for the typhoid fever-causing bacteria. But the government must fully enforce this. Additionally, buying fruit off the street and not thoroughly cleaning it before eating it is not a good idea since it may contain various disease-causing germs.
What are the common symptoms of typhoid fever?
Its diagnosis requires expertise because it has some signs and symptoms that are common to other infectious diseases. That’s why there’s a mistaken belief that typhoid fever and malaria can switch roles and induce elevated body temperatures. On the other hand, typhoid fever symptoms include a persistent fever, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation., headache, and nausea.
Some individuals may have a rash and altered unconsciousness. Severe cases may lead to serious complications or even death. In contrast to the intermittent nature of malarial fever, typhoid fever is typically marked by a stepladder fever that can last up to three weeks.
As the disease progresses, the person is growing weaker, unable to eat, and preferring to lie down. You can be certain that trouble is approaching. Typhoid symptoms also have the potential to impact any system in the body. The patient may experience signs of heart disease, lethargy, joint discomfort, headaches, altered sleep patterns, and bleeding from the anus.
What are the risk factors for typhoid fever in Nigeria?
WASH-related infections are the most common cause of typhoid fever, particularly in areas with high densities of IDP camp residents and crowded hostels. Additionally, an individual relocating from an area where typhoid fever is endemic to one where it is not constitutes a risk factor wherever he goes. Then, insufficient vaccine coverage or immunisation rates may be an issue. Evidence is also pointing to the role that urbanisation and climate change play in the typhoid fever epidemic. Everywhere we look, there is inundation from water. Imagine a river that flows from a high hill to a plain, carrying with it all of the debris. This is becoming an important risk factor that cannot be ignored in this era.
What’s the prevalence of typhoid fever in Nigeria?
Due to our inadequate data system, I am unable to provide a specific number about the incidence of typhoid fever in Nigeria. Nonetheless, varying hospital-based research across the nation reports varying percentages, between 5 and 7 percent. Typhoid fever incidence is not only based on gender or occupation. However, when it comes to infectious diseases, girls are typically somewhat more protected than boys. It is hypothesised that due to their genetic composition, girls are less vulnerable than boys.
How successful are antibiotics in treating typhoid fever, especially in light of the fact that many bacteria are becoming more resistant to various forms of antibiotics?
Typhoid fever still responds to antibiotics, although resistance of many germs to different types of antibiotics is increasing. Studies by experts have documented typhoid fever resistance to some common antibiotics. Antibiotics are abused because they are marketed as over-the-counter medications. Inappropriate use of them is another issue. People, for example, mix antibiotics with malaria medication in hopes of treating malaria more quickly. All of these are contributing to the development of resistance to traditional antibiotics and complicating the management of typhoid fever.
How true is the claim that stress causes typhoid fever?
What most people tag stress has different interpretations. When somebody has not slept well in the previous two days or is overworked, he says that he is stressed. But the claim that stress causes typhoid fever is not true. Stress by itself does not directly cause infectious diseases like typhoid fever. Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria, which is primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water and not by psychological factors like stress.
However, stress might indirectly make someone more susceptible to infections in general by weakening the immune system. Prolonged stress can weaken the immune system, making it less effective at fighting off illnesses. If a person is exposed to Salmonella typhi when debilitated, they may be more susceptible to acquiring typhoid fever.
Common misconceptions and myths people say about typhoid fever
Common misconceptions and myths about typhoid fever include that malaria can metamorphose or progress to typhoid fever; typhoid fever is caused by cold weather or getting wet; stress causes typhoid fever; only poor hygiene and sanitation can cause typhoid; and once you’ve had typhoid fever, you can’t get it again.
Others are typhoid fever is only a problem in developing countries, typhoid can be fully prevented by vaccination, drinking only bottled water ensures typhoid prevention, typhoid carriers show symptoms and are always sick, typhoid is always a deadly disease, and typhoid fever is the same as typhus.
Cold weather can make people more prone to infection by weakening their immune systems, but it does not cause typhoid. Although they sound similar, typhoid and typhus are distinct diseases. They are caused by various bacteria, which are unrelated despite their similar names.
While poor sanitation and hygiene raise the risk of typhoid, anyone who consumes contaminated food or water can develop the disease, regardless of personal cleanliness or socioeconomic position. Even in modern environments, faulty food management can cause outbreaks.
Having typhoid once does not guarantee lifetime immunity. Typhoid fever can be contracted more than once if exposed to the bacterium again, especially in locations where the disease is prevalent.
Although typhoid vaccines are available and provide protection, they are not completely effective. Vaccination lowers the danger but does not eradicate it. Typhoid prevention also includes good hygiene habits, clean drinking water, and adequate food preparation methods.
Drinking bottled or filtered water is a vital step in preventing typhoid in locations where it is common; however, other sources of infection, such as food or poor hygiene, are also a concern. Typhoid fever is curable and has a low death rate when treated promptly and properly. Without treatment, complications can emerge, which can be fatal, but early detection and antibiotic therapy usually result in complete recovery.
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A veteran in the telecommunications industry, Oluyemi Oluwadimu P.Eng, has shared his experience and innovative approach towards telecom’s growth in Nigeria, and perhaps Africa at large.
Relying on the S.T.E.A.M solution, Oluwadimu said the solution – Strategy, Technology, Engineering, Application, and Modernization – encapsulates his approach to addressing industry challenges and opportunities in providing effective and reliable data, video and voice communications and adhering to public safety.
He said, “A well-defined strategy is the backbone of any successful telecom infrastructure project,” stating that his approach involves meticulous planning and understanding trending technology innovation, client requirements to ensure scalability and future readiness.”
Oluwadimu, who has made significant contributions across various sectors, including transportation, oil and gas, energy, utilities, and government communication infrastructures, highlighted trends such as fiber optics technology designed for reliable and high-speed data connectivity, Software-defined wide area network (SDWAN) for field assets data monitoring and control , and an innovative portable satellite technology Starlink for robust internet and industrial device remote connectivity and assets tracking and control communications.
He further noted that, “Integrating the latest innovations is crucial for delivering high-performance solutions.”
Adhering to industry standards, Oluwadimu emphasised quality engineering practices saying, “Professional measures are essential to achieving goals and meeting clients’ expectations.”
He said with extensive sector experience, he applies technical knowledge to real-world scenarios, from oil and gas pipeline leak detection, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) monitoring and control to Rail system operations and automation, adding that, “applying the right technology in the right context is key to successful projects.”
Oluwadimu is excited about modernising communication infrastructures with the latest technologies. “Modernization with cutting-edge technology excites me the most about the future of our industry,” he enthused
He further state that starting as a network engineer in Nigeria, he later transitioned into telecommunications with training in Microwave Radio communication, and had various wired and wireless technologies training and experience in Canada and United states of America.
He went further to state that he had contributed to wireless internet connectivity in Nigeria (1998-2002), eveloping and certifying CDMA and GSM technology with TELUS Canada, managing Blackberry hardware device’s qualification and certification to meet industry standard and carrier requirements, for production, designing innovative technology for oil and gas pipelines monitoring and control in Canada, achieving zero leakages and providing effective remote access across the nation, developing communication base train control (CBTC) system communications for metro / Rail systems using ethernet cabling, fiber optics and wireless radios.
Oluwadimu identified key industry challenges, including understanding issues, providing long-term solutions, and adhering to standards.
“Providing adequate processes and procedures for design and implementation is crucial,” he advised.
He concluded, “The future holds immense potential for robust and redundant communications solutions.”
Afriex, a fintech company revolutionising cross-border payments, has launched a groundbreaking new feature, Global Accounts.
This innovative solution empowers individuals and businesses across Africa to seamlessly manage multi-currency accounts, making it easier than ever to receive, send, and store funds internationally.
Speaking at the launch, co-founder and CEO of Afriex, Tope Alabi, said, “At Afriex, our mission is to unlock new economic opportunities for Africans by providing affordable, accessible, and reliable financial services.
“With the launch of Global Accounts, we are taking a significant step forward in simplifying cross-border money management and addressing a critical pain point for our users. Freelancers, remote workers, and anyone needing to receive USD directly can now receive, hold, transfer, and manage their funds seamlessly.”
Alabi added that, “global accounts represent a significant milestone in Afriex’s journey to transform the cross-border payments landscape, and we are excited to empower our customers with greater financial flexibility and control, and we look forward to continuing to innovate and deliver solutions that meet their evolving needs.”
Global Accounts by Afriex allow customers to receive and hold funds in multiple currencies, including USD, GBP, and EUR, all within a single, intuitive interface. This eliminates the need to maintain separate accounts and navigates the complexities of traditional cross-border payments.
Key features and benefits of Afriex Global Accounts are that it offers a comprehensive solution with multi-currency management, fast and low-cost international transfers, real-time visibility, and mobile access, making financial management easy and convenient.
Communications Manager, Afriex, Wuraola Abulatan, said, “The launch of Global Accounts is a game-changer for Africans, especially freelancers, remote workers, and business owners who regularly need to receive or send money across borders.
“By consolidating multi-currency account management into a single platform, Afriex is removing the complexity and reducing the costs associated with cross-border payments, ultimately driving greater financial inclusion and economic empowerment.”
Afriex’s Global Accounts feature is now available to customers across Africa, North America, and Europe, with plans to expand the service to additional markets shortly.