Category: MIL-OSI

Source: APO

After a rigorous bid and due diligence exercise, Nigeria has emerged as the successful host country of the fifth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), Africa’s premier trade and investment event that is set to be held in 2027. 

This was announced by the Chairman of the IATF Advisory Council who is also a former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo during the official opening ceremony of the fourth edition of the fair, IATF2025 that is currently underway in Algiers, Algeria.  

Presenting the IATF host’s flag to Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Aduwole as formal acceptance of the mandate as host country of IATF2027, H.E. Obasanjo said: “IATF is not just a trade fair—it is a journey across our continent and global Africa, carried forward by nations that share in the vision of Intra-African trade and regional integration. Since its inception, IATF has rotated across our continent, leaving its unique legacy and improving with each host nation. Today, we continue this proud tradition by announcing Nigeria as the country that will host IATF2027.” 

The weeklong IATF is held every two years and is co-convened by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the African Union Commission and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. It is a platform for businesses to showcase their goods and services to visitors and buyers while exploring opportunities and exchanging information. IATF aims to tap into opportunities from AfCFTA’s single market of over 1.4 billion people and GDP of over US$3.5 trillion. 

Nigeria becomes the fourth country to host IATF. Egypt hosted the maiden edition in Cairo in 2018, while the second edition was hosted by South Africa in Durban in 2021. The third edition returned to Cairo in 2023 before the fourth edition which is currently underway in Algiers. The last three editions of IATF have cumulatively generated over $118 billion in trade and investment deals and attracted more than 70,000 visitors and 4,500 exhibitors. 

Reflecting on IATF’s journey, Prof. Benedict Oramah, outgoing President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank said “The journey we began in 2017, when we started planning for the inaugural Trade Fair, which was held in November 2018, was a strategic move drawn from Afreximbank’s Intra-African Trade Strategy, launched in 2016. The herculean task of converting vision to reality, mobilising African states, thousands of exhibitors, buyers, and sponsors, among others for an event of such a magnitude was only made possible by the strong support Afreximbank received from many.” 

The official opening ceremony of IATF2025 was presided over by the President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, H.E. Abdelmadjid Tebboune. It was attended by thousands of delegates including heads of state and government from African and the Caribbean, as well as business leaders and captains of industry. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media contact: 
media@intrafricatradefair.com
press@afreximbank.com

About the Intra-African Trade Fair:
Organised by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), African Union Commission (AUC) and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is intended to provide a unique platform for facilitating trade and investment information exchange in support of increased intra-African trade and investment, especially in the context of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). IATF brings together continental and global players to showcase and exhibit their goods and services and to explore business and investment opportunities in the continent. It also provides a platform to share trade, investment and market information with stakeholders and allows participants to discuss and identify solutions to the challenges confronting intra-African trade and investment. In addition to African participants, the Trade Fair is also open to businesses and investors from non-African countries interested in doing business in Africa and in supporting the continent’s transformation through industrialisation and export development.  

For more information, please visit www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com. 

Source: APO – Report:

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The Republic of the Congo and Chinese oil and gas company Wing Wah have signed a $23 billion hydrocarbon agreement for the integrated development of the Banga Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo permits. This deal sets the stage for a transformative boost to the nation’s oil production–it targets increasing output to 200,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2030. 

The agreement was officially signed by Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons of Congo, Jean-Jacques Bouya, Minister of State of Congo and Xiao Lianping, President General, Wing Wah in August. 

Through the pact, Congo is looking to ramp up cumulative production across the three permits to more than 1.3 billion barrels by 2050. The deal is a central pillar in the country’s broader economic and financial strategy, committing over $23 billion in investment and promising substantial fiscal and para-fiscal revenues. 

The African Energy Chamber – the voice of the African energy sector – supports the signing of this agreement, which extends beyond crude extraction. The agreement advances energy sovereignty through the valorization of associated gas for domestic use which is key to reducing routine flaring. A cornerstone of the project is the creation of a training center, aimed at boosting local content by equipping Congolese citizens at all skill levels to access new job opportunities generated by the development.  

The project also includes an integrated gas monetization component, with multi-phase expansion of LNG, LPG, butane and propane production capacity–intended to satisfy both domestic demand and exports. The integrated nature of the development includes scalable gas treatment infrastructure, on-site power generation and water-management systems–all designed for efficiency and community benefit. 

Local employment is already substantial, with some 3,000–3,300 Congolese workers involved, and social benefits such as excess power and treated water provided to nearby communities.  

Wing Wah has already established a significant presence in Congo via its development of the Banga Kayo field. This onshore permit currently comprises around 237–250 drilled wells and produces approximately 45,000 bpd, approaching a peak output of 50,000–80,000 bpd.  

The Republic of Congo took a significant step towards maximizing its hydrocarbon resources with the signing of an amended Production Sharing Contract (PSC) between Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua and China’s Wing Wah Oil Company for the Banga Kayo block last year. This move marked the beginning of development at the block and underscored the country’s commitment to tapping into its untapped resources. 

The amended PSC outlined a three-phase development plan, demonstrating the importance of public-private partnerships in developing oil and gas projects in Africa, providing a clear path to resource monetization. 

“The Republic of the Congo is aggressively developing its oil and gas resources, led by its Ministry of Hydrocarbons. The country’s rapid approach to resource development serves as a model for other African nations rich in natural resources. With ambitious plans to increase production capacity, Congo is set to unlock new opportunities for sustainable economic growth through strategic oil and gas investments,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.  

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO – Report:

Nigeran independent oil and gas company FIRST Exploration and Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) announced a target of 250,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in equity production by 2030. The company is also preparing a fully developed midstream gas business and is targeting 1 billion standard cubic feet per day of gas processing and supply capacity. 

The announcement was presented on September 2 by Segun Owalabi, General Manager-Exploration and Development, FIRST E&P during the Unlocking Value in the Shallow Water: From Exploration Success to Cluster-Based Development in Nigeria’s Shallow Waters session – sponsored by FIRST E&P – during a pre-conference event at Angola Oil & Gas 2025 in Luanda. 

“We have consistently delivered transformational milestones, driving growth through safety, speed, efficiency and responsibility,” stated Owalabi. 

During the presentation, Owalabi highlighted the successful execution of the company’s flagship Anyala and Madu fields in the Niger Delta, which were delivered to first oil within two years of Final Investment Decision. Through continued exploration, appraisal and asset stewardship, FIRST E&P has tripled its petroleum reserves, which was also supported by a recent 2-trillion-standard-cubic-feet gas discovery at the Songhai field in March this year. 

“We now operate all these assets in shallow waters. We chose Nigeria’s shallow water terrain as an entry point to unlock near-term value, de-risk future growth and build operating credibility,” Owalabi concluded. 

The session also detailed FIRST E&P’s evolving approach to integrated oil and gas exploration, which reduces unit development and operating costs while accelerating value realization from marginal accumulations. 

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Source: APO – Report:

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As the radiant moon heralds the arrival of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Jokpeme Joseph Omode, the editor in chief of Alexa News Nigeria (https://www.Alexa.ng/) extends its heartfelt felicitations to our cherished readers, partners, and the entire Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the globe on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Maulud 2025. This sacred celebration, marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), is a time of profound reflection, spiritual renewal, and communal harmony. On behalf of the entire Alexa News Nigeria team, we wish you a season filled with peace, blessings, and unity as we honor the exemplary life and timeless teachings of the Prophet, whose legacy continues to illuminate the path toward compassion, justice, and brotherhood.

The Essence of Eid-el-Maulud

Eid-el-Maulud, observed on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal, is a cherished occasion for Muslims worldwide, commemorating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). This celebration is not merely a historical remembrance but a vibrant opportunity to reflect on the Prophet’s virtues—humility, kindness, tolerance, and unwavering commitment to justice—and to recommit to living these values in our daily lives. The Prophet’s life serves as a beacon, guiding humanity toward peace, empathy, and unity, principles that resonate deeply in today’s world, where division and challenges often test our collective resolve.

In Nigeria, a nation renowned for its rich cultural and religious diversity, Eid-el-Maulud is celebrated with fervor, uniting communities in prayer, charity, and communal gatherings. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene towns of Sokoto, Muslims come together in mosques, homes, and public spaces to honor the Prophet’s legacy through recitations of the Qur’an, sermons, and acts of kindness. At Alexa News Nigeria, we recognize the profound significance of this occasion and its potential to foster unity, understanding, and progress in our society.

A Message of Gratitude to Our Readers and Partners

As we celebrate Eid-el-Maulud 2025, Alexa News Nigeria takes this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to our readers and partners who have been the cornerstone of our journey. Your unwavering support, engagement, and trust have enabled us to grow as a platform dedicated to delivering accurate, insightful, and impactful news to Nigerians and the global audience. Whether you are a reader who relies on our updates to stay informed or a partner who collaborates with us to amplify critical stories, your contributions have strengthened our mission to inform, educate, and inspire.

Our readers, spanning diverse backgrounds across Nigeria’s 36 states and beyond, represent the heartbeat of our platform. Your feedback, shared on social media platforms like X and through direct engagement, fuels our commitment to excellence. Our partners, including businesses, organizations, and media stakeholders, have been instrumental in supporting our vision of fostering informed communities. On this auspicious occasion, we extend our warmest appreciation to you all, wishing you a celebration filled with joy, reflection, and renewed hope.

Reflecting on the Prophet’s Teachings

Eid-el-Maulud is a time to reflect on the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), whose exemplary character offers timeless lessons for humanity. Born in Mecca in 570 CE, the Prophet’s life was a testament to compassion, humility, and justice. His teachings emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness, upholding truth, and fostering unity across divides. In a world often marked by conflict and misunderstanding, these principles serve as a guiding light, reminding us of our shared humanity and the potential for positive change.

The Prophet’s message of peace is particularly relevant in Nigeria, a nation that thrives on its diversity but also faces challenges such as ethnic tensions, economic disparities, and security concerns. His teachings encourage us to bridge divides, extend a helping hand to the less fortunate, and work collaboratively toward a brighter future. At Alexa News Nigeria, we are inspired by these values and strive to reflect them in our reporting, focusing on stories that promote unity, highlight solutions, and celebrate the resilience of the Nigerian spirit.

A Call for Unity and Compassion

As we mark Eid-el-Maulud 2025, Alexa News Nigeria joins the call for unity and compassion across Nigeria and beyond. This celebration is an opportunity to transcend religious, ethnic, and cultural boundaries, embracing the spirit of brotherhood that the Prophet exemplified. In Nigeria, where over 250 ethnic groups coexist, unity is not just an ideal but a necessity for progress. We urge our readers and partners to use this season to strengthen community bonds, foster dialogue, and promote mutual understanding.

The Prophet’s life was marked by acts of charity and support for the vulnerable. During Eid-el-Maulud, Muslims across Nigeria engage in charitable activities, such as distributing food, clothing, and financial assistance to those in need. These acts of kindness reflect the Islamic principle of Zakat and the Prophet’s emphasis on caring for the less fortunate. We encourage all Nigerians, regardless of faith, to participate in these efforts, extending love and support to neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. By doing so, we honor the Prophet’s legacy and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Nigeria’s Challenges and Opportunities

Eid-el-Maulud 2025 comes at a time when Nigeria faces a complex array of challenges, from economic pressures to security concerns. The Central Bank of Nigeria reported that debt servicing consumed 61% of the country’s revenue (N8.93 trillion) in the first nine months of 2024, highlighting the fiscal strain that limits investments in critical sectors. Inflation, exceeding 30% in 2024, and naira devaluation have increased the cost of living, affecting millions of households. Security issues, including banditry and communal clashes, continue to disrupt communities, while incidents like the tragic loss of four lives on the Kubwa Expressway on September 4, 2025, underscore the need for improved public safety.

Yet, Nigeria is a land of immense opportunity. With a population of over 200 million, a youthful demographic, and abundant natural resources, the country has the potential to lead Africa’s economic and social transformation. The resilience of Nigerians, evident in their entrepreneurial spirit and cultural vibrancy, is a source of hope. At Alexa News Nigeria, we are committed to highlighting these opportunities, showcasing stories of innovation, community development, and individual triumphs that inspire progress.

Eid-el-Maulud provides a moment to reflect on how we can collectively address these challenges. By drawing on the Prophet’s teachings of patience, perseverance, and compassion, Nigerians can work together to build a nation that is united, prosperous, and just. We call on our readers and partners to join us in this endeavor, supporting initiatives that promote economic empowerment, social inclusion, and peace.

Alexa News Nigeria’s Commitment to Community

At Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng), our mission extends beyond reporting the news; we aim to be a catalyst for positive change in our communities. Our coverage of events like Eid-el-Maulud reflects our commitment to celebrating Nigeria’s diversity and promoting values that unite us. We strive to provide balanced, accurate, and impactful journalism that informs our readers and empowers them to make a difference.

During this Eid-el-Maulud season, we pledge to continue amplifying stories that matter—stories of compassion, resilience, and progress. Whether it’s highlighting community-led initiatives, reporting on policy reforms, or showcasing the contributions of our partners, we are dedicated to fostering a sense of shared purpose. Our platform will continue to serve as a space for dialogue, where diverse voices can come together to discuss solutions and celebrate Nigeria’s potential.

Celebrating Nigeria’s Diversity

Nigeria’s cultural and religious diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and Eid-el-Maulud is a testament to this richness. Across the country, Muslims celebrate the occasion with unique traditions, from processions in Kano to communal prayers in Lagos. In Delta State, where Senator Ede Dafinone recently extended his felicitations to the Muslim Ummah, the celebration reflects the state’s vibrant multicultural fabric. These diverse expressions of faith and community underscore Nigeria’s unity in diversity, a theme that resonates deeply with Alexa News Nigeria’s values.

We take pride in celebrating this diversity through our coverage, which spans Nigeria’s 36 states and reaches audiences worldwide. Our stories highlight the contributions of Muslims, Christians, and followers of traditional beliefs, showcasing how these communities work together to build a stronger nation. During Eid-el-Maulud, we encourage our readers to embrace this diversity, engaging with neighbors and colleagues from different backgrounds to foster mutual respect and understanding.

A Vision for a United Nigeria

Eid-el-Maulud 2025 is an opportunity to envision a united Nigeria, where the values of peace, compassion, and justice guide our actions. The Prophet’s teachings remind us that true strength lies in unity and that progress is achieved through collective effort. At Alexa News Nigeria, we believe that this vision is within reach if we work together to address our challenges and seize our opportunities.

We call on our readers and partners to join us in this vision. Whether through acts of charity, community engagement, or advocacy for positive change, every action counts. By supporting initiatives that promote education, economic empowerment, and social inclusion, we can build a Nigeria that reflects the Prophet’s ideals of fairness and compassion. Let us use this Eid-el-Maulud to renew our commitment to these goals, working hand in hand to create a brighter future.

Our Gratitude and Wishes for the Season

As we celebrate Eid-el-Maulud 2025, Alexa News Nigeria extends our deepest gratitude to our readers and partners for your continued support. Your engagement with our platform, whether through reading our articles, sharing our stories, or collaborating on projects, has made us a trusted voice in Nigerian journalism. We are honored to serve you and remain committed to delivering news that informs, inspires, and unites.

To our Muslim readers and partners, we wish you a joyous and blessed Eid-el-Maulud. May this season bring peace to your hearts, prosperity to your homes, and unity to your communities. May the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) guide your actions and inspire you to make a positive impact in your spheres of influence. To all Nigerians, we extend our warmest wishes for a season of reflection, renewal, and togetherness.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, Alexa News Nigeria remains dedicated to its mission of providing accurate, timely, and impactful journalism. We will continue to cover events like Eid-el-Maulud with the depth and sensitivity they deserve, ensuring that our reporting reflects the values of unity and compassion. We are excited about the opportunities ahead, from expanding our digital presence to forging new partnerships that amplify our impact.

We invite our readers and partners to join us on this journey, sharing your stories, insights, and ideas to help us shape a narrative that celebrates Nigeria’s strengths and addresses its challenges. Together, we can build a platform that not only informs but also inspires action and fosters hope.

Eid-el-Maulud 2025 is a moment of celebration, reflection, and renewal for the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians. At Alexa News Nigeria, we are honored to join our readers and partners in commemorating this sacred occasion, drawing inspiration from the Holy Prophet Muhammad’s (Peace Be Upon Him) teachings of peace, compassion, and unity. As we navigate Nigeria’s complex landscape, we remain committed to promoting values that unite us, amplifying stories that inspire, and fostering a sense of shared purpose.

We wish our readers and partners a blessed Eid-el-Maulud, filled with joy, peace, and prosperity. May this season be a catalyst for positive change, bringing us closer to a Nigeria that is united, equitable, and thriving. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones together.

– on behalf of Alexa News Nigeria.

Source: APO – Report:

Energy majors bp, Eni and TotalEnergies committed billions for Angolan projects during the opening ceremony of the Angola Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition – that took place in Luanda on Wednesday, 3 September. The event is held on the eve of Angola’s 50 years of independence, offering an opportunity for reflection as well as renewed commitment to the growth of the country’s hydrocarbon economy.

Eni announced plans by Azule Energy – an Eni-bp joint venture – to invest $5 billion in the market over the next several years while TotalEnergies shared plans to invest $3 billion through its Dalia Life Extension project. These commitments come as the country strengthens its fiscals with the aim of supporting production growth.

“Since its inception, Azule Energy has invested more than $5 billion in Angola, and during the next few years, we plan to invest an additional $5 billion,” stated Claudio Descalzi, CEO, Eni.

Both Eni and bp have played an instrumental role in positioning Angola as one of Africa’s biggest oil and gas producers over the last 50 years, with offshore projects spanning deepwater exploration, offshore production and inland infrastructure. Now, through their joint venture company Azule Energy, the companies are shaping the next 50 years of development, targeting greater production and local content development.

“We are advancing the New Gas Consortium project – featuring the Q&M fields – which represents the country’s first non-associated gas project. In addition, Azule’s recent gas discovery, will make even more resources available for the country’s growth and prosperity as well as economic diversification through gas utilization. As Angola turns towards its next 50 years, Eni is honored to continue this journey by your side,” Descalzi added.

The year 2025 was a major year for Azule Energy, with the company announcing first production at the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development in July 2025. The project, comprising the full field development phase of two fields, has a production capacity of 175,000 bpd.

“Five weeks ago, we saw first oil from the Agogo FPSO. It was a complex project – state of the art and fully electrified. Azule has lifted 30,000 tons of equipment onto the vessel Despite this complexity, the team achieved project startup almost one year ahead of schedule. At peak, we expect production to reach 175,000 bpd, helping Angola maintain its one million bpd target. Azule is a company that seeks to make a lasting contribution to the Angolan society,” stated Murray Auchincloss, CEO, bp.

As one of the country’s biggest producers, TotalEnergies continues to make strides towards enhancing Angolan crude production through major offshore projects. In 2025, the company brought two major projects online, adding 60,000 bpd to the market. Situated in Block 17 and Block 17/06 respectively, the CLOV Phase 3 Development and Begonia oilfields were developed in close collaboration with leading industry players. The Begonia project is also the first inter-block development in Angola.

“This year has been special for us. We achieved key milestones such as the startup of the Begonia and CLOV phase 3 development – adding 60,000 bpd. We started the construction of the Kaminho FPSO which is opening up a brand-new basin in Angola. That is a $6 billion investment. We have sanctioned the Dalia life extension project – part of the Incremental Production Initiative. We have committed about $3 billion for that development,” stated Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President: Africa, TotalEnergies.

These billion-dollar commitments underscore that the majors are here to stay in Angola, a testament to the country’s flexible and attractive investment climate. From multi-year licensing rounds to blocks available on direct negotiation to marginal fields and incremental production, Angola has positioned itself as a competitive oil and gas market.

“Over the last few years, Angola has been focused on reforms, reforms that have transformed the economy and its people. People that drive the next generation and drive the next 50 years. As we build, we look at what these reforms mean for the next 50 years. We cannot hold back on driving oil for the future of this country. We will drill, baby drill,” opened NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.