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Dangote Fertilizer Signs Technology Licensing Deal to Expand Urea Production Capacity to Over 8 Million Tons Annually

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Dangote Fertilizer Signs Technology Licensing Deal to Expand Urea Production Capacity to Over 8 Million Tons Annually

Dangote Fertilizer Limited (DFL) has signed a major technology licensing agreement with Thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology (UFT), a subsidiary of thyssenkrupp Uhde, to deploy its advanced UFT Fluid Bed Granulation Technology in the development of four new urea granulation units in Nigeria.

According to a statement made available to Nairametrics, the partnership will see Thyssenkrupp UFT provide the technology license, a comprehensive Process Design Package (PDP), and key proprietary equipment — including granulators and scrubbers — for the new facilities.

Each of the planned units will have a nameplate production capacity of 4,235 metric tons per day, representing a combined total of 16,940 metric tons per day once operational. This expansion is set to raise Dangote Fertilizer’s annual urea output from its current level of approximately 2.65 million tons to more than 8 million tons per year.

The new granulation units will be constructed in Lekki, Lagos State, adjacent to DFL’s existing fertilizer plants, which have been operating with the same UFT technology since 2021 and currently produce 3,850 metric tons per day each.

The expansion strengthens Dangote Fertilizer’s position as one of the world’s leading urea producers and is expected to enhance Nigeria’s role as a key supplier of fertilizer across Africa and global export markets.

Industry analysts note that the increased output could support agricultural productivity on the continent, reduce fertilizer shortages, and further position Nigeria as a major player in global agro-industrial value chains.

 

Wike Condemns Military Takeover Of Abuja Land, Orders Halt To Illegal Development …Says Former Naval Chief Behind Encroachment, Vows to Resist Intimidation

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Wike Condemns Military Takeover Of Abuja Land, Orders Halt To Illegal Development …Says Former Naval Chief Behind Encroachment, Vows to Resist Intimidation

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has condemned the alleged illegal takeover of a disputed land in Abuja by military personnel reportedly acting on the orders of a former Chief of Naval Staff, describing the act as lawless and unacceptable.

Wike, who personally visited the site on Tuesday after receiving reports that soldiers had driven away FCTA officials enforcing development control directives, said no individual no matter their former position would be allowed to intimidate government authorities or obstruct enforcement of the law.

“You are aware that the land departments and the Development Control have the mandate to monitor illegal development and land grabbing,” the minister said.

“When this was brought to my attention, I instructed them to ensure that nothing takes place there, as there were no legal documents—no regional approval, no valid acquisition.”

According to Wike, while officials of the Department of Development Control were on site to implement his directive, they were chased away by armed soldiers allegedly acting under the instruction of a retired senior officer.

“I was informed that the soldiers of the military had to chase them away, and I thought they were acting illegally,” Wike said. “Today, while I was in the office, I was called again that the military had taken over the place. I had to come myself to see things. It’s really unfortunate.”

He expressed shock that a person who once held a top military position could resort to such intimidation rather than follow due process.

“I don’t understand how somebody who attained that position cannot approach my office to say, ‘Look, this is what is going on.’ But simply because he’s a military man, he thinks he can use that to intimidate Nigerians. I am not one of those that will succumb to blackmail or intimidation,” the minister said firmly.

Wike also disclosed that when the FCTA officials demanded documents to justify the occupation, none were produced.

“The Director of Development Control said, ‘Bring the documents’ they don’t have them. ‘Bring approval for building’ they don’t have it. How can we continue to allow lawlessness to prevail? What about those who don’t have the military behind them? What about ordinary Nigerians?”

The minister maintained that the FCT Administration would not tolerate the misuse of military power to obstruct legitimate urban regulation, stressing that the rule of law must apply to all.

“I have spoken to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff. They assured me that the matter will be resolved. We’re not here to have a shootout with anybody or cause chaos,” Wike said.

“But I will not allow this to happen. The same way we enforce our laws in other areas is the same way it will be done here. Nobody whether a former Chief of Naval Staff or anyone else will be allowed to carry out illegal development on government land.”

Wike reaffirmed his commitment to restoring order and accountability in Abuja’s land administration, warning that the FCTA would continue to reclaim encroached areas, no matter how powerful those involved may be.

Federal Government FG Engages U.S. Diplomatically Following Reported Trump Remarks on Nigeria

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Federal Government FG Engages U.S. Diplomatically Following Reported Trump Remarks on Nigeria

The Federal Government has confirmed that diplomatic discussions are underway with the United States following reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a military threat over alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, disclosed on Monday that the government has activated official communication channels to address the situation and prevent any escalation in bilateral tensions. He noted that statements and perceptions surrounding Nigeria’s internal security situation have been misinterpreted in some international circles.

Idris emphasized that Nigeria remains a multi-faith, multi-ethnic nation, where freedom of religion is constitutionally protected.

“Nigeria is and will continue to be a country that respects religious diversity. The situation has been misunderstood. We have opened diplomatic channels to clarify matters and ensure continued cooperation,” he said.

The Minister also highlighted ongoing counterterrorism and peacebuilding efforts, stressing that Nigeria values its longstanding partnership with the United States, especially in areas of security, intelligence support, and regional stability.

He urged global partners to rely on credible intelligence and cooperation frameworks, rather than isolated narratives that may distort the nation’s complex security dynamics.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to protecting all communities, regardless of religious or ethnic affiliation, as part of its broader strategy to address terrorism and violent extremism across the country.

Nigeria’s Maritime Export Earnings Rise 12% in H1 2025, Driven by FX Reforms and Refinery Output

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Nigeria’s Maritime Export Earnings Rise 12% in H1 2025, Driven by FX Reforms and Refinery Output

Nigeria’s maritime export sector recorded a 12% growth in the first half of 2025, with export values rising from ₦38.27 trillion to ₦42.87 trillion, according to new industry data. The increase reflects stronger foreign exchange earnings and improved trade efficiency across port corridors.

Analysts attribute the expansion primarily to the Federal Government’s foreign exchange reforms, which have unified exchange rates and enhanced pricing transparency in export transactions. The reforms are also credited with attracting more private-sector players into export value chains.

A major contributor to the growth is the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Complex, whose ramped-up industrial output has boosted exports of refined petroleum products and chemical derivatives, including fertiliser and urea.

Industry observers say the refinery’s operations are enabling Nigeria to replace some fuel imports with locally refined products, while simultaneously expanding export capacity into regional and global markets.

They add that a more competitive exchange-rate regime is making Nigerian exports more attractive, improving revenue flows for both government and private operators.

The maritime sector is expected to maintain its upward trajectory through the second half of the year, supported by:

  • Expanded petrochemical and fertiliser output
  • Increasing private-sector participation in logistics and shipping
  • Ongoing port modernization and digitization reforms

Ranks Africa will continue to monitor export performance as Nigeria works to position itself as a regional manufacturing and shipping hub.

New Zealand to Introduce National Occupation List for Work Visa Processing in 2025

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New Zealand to Introduce National Occupation List for Work Visa Processing in 2025

Immigration New Zealand has announced plans to introduce a new National Occupation List (NOL) in November 2025, marking a major shift in how work visa applications are evaluated and approved.

The new framework will replace the long-standing Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) system, which has served as the reference point for job categorization and skill assessment in visa processing for several years.

According to immigration officials, the transition is designed to simplify application procedures, provide clearer skill benchmarks, and ensure that the country’s migration policy is more closely aligned with current labour market needs.

Under the new structure, occupations will be grouped by shared functions and responsibilities, with each category assigned a skill level ranging from one to five:

  • Level One: Highly skilled roles, typically requiring advanced qualifications or extensive professional experience.
  • Level Five: Positions requiring minimal formal education or shorter training periods.

Authorities say the NOL will offer greater clarity for employers, reduce processing delays, and make it easier to match overseas talent with sectors experiencing labour shortages.

The shift comes amid ongoing reforms to New Zealand’s immigration framework, as the government seeks to balance workforce demand, economic resilience, and domestic employment priorities.

Further guidance for employers and visa applicants is expected to be released ahead of the November 2025 rollout.

Warren Buffett Retires After Six Decades, Greg Abel Named New CEO of Berkshire Hathaway

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Warren Buffett Retires After Six Decades, Greg Abel Named New CEO of Berkshire Hathaway

Legendary investor Warren Buffett has announced his retirement as Chief Executive Officer of Berkshire Hathaway, bringing to a close an extraordinary 60-year tenure that reshaped global investing and corporate leadership. Buffett, now 95, will hand over executive leadership to long-time deputy Greg Abel, who has been widely regarded as his successor in waiting.

The announcement was accompanied by Buffett’s final annual letter to shareholders, a tradition that has influenced generations of investors and business leaders. In the letter, he reflected on Berkshire’s evolution from a struggling textile company into a global powerhouse with interests spanning insurance, energy, manufacturing, retail, and technology.

Buffett also used the moment to reaffirm his lifelong commitment to philanthropy. He pledged to accelerate charitable giving, bringing his total lifetime donations to over $60 billion, much of it directed toward public health, education, and global poverty alleviation.

“I have been extraordinarily fortunate in business and in life,” Buffett wrote. “It is only right that the resources created over this journey return to society in meaningful and lasting ways.”

Incoming CEO Greg Abel, who has overseen Berkshire Hathaway’s energy and utility operations, is expected to maintain the company’s core philosophy of disciplined, long-term value investing. Analysts note that while Berkshire enters a “new era,” the transition has been carefully planned, minimizing uncertainty among shareholders.

Market reaction has remained steady, reflecting investor confidence in the firm’s succession strategy and corporate governance.

Buffett will continue to serve on the company’s board in a supporting and advisory role.

Ranks Africa will monitor updates on leadership strategy and market performance as Berkshire Hathaway enters its post-Buffett chapter.

South Africa’s Unemployment Rate Declines to 31.9%, Lowest Since Late 2024

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South Africa’s Unemployment Rate Declines to 31.9%, Lowest Since Late 2024

South Africa has recorded a notable decline in its unemployment rate, which fell to 31.9% in the third quarter of 2025, down from 33.2% in the previous quarter. This marks the lowest unemployment level the country has experienced since late 2024.

Data released by Statistics South Africa indicates that the improvement in employment was largely driven by growth in the construction, community services, and trade sectors. Analysts note that these gains reflect a gradual but steady recovery in key areas of the economy, offering a positive signal for broader economic stability.

Despite the decline, experts caution that unemployment remains a major challenge, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations, underscoring the need for continued policy interventions to sustain job creation.

South Africa’s latest employment figures come amid ongoing efforts by the government to stimulate industrial growth, enhance skills development, and expand access to economic opportunities across the nation.

 

Civil Society Groups Urge Federal Government to Suspend Proposed 15% Fuel Tariff Increase

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Civil Society Groups Urge Federal Government to Suspend Proposed 15% Fuel Tariff Increase

A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) has called on the Federal Government to halt the proposed 15% fuel tariff increase, warning that the measure would worsen economic hardship for millions of Nigerians already struggling with rising living costs.

In a joint statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the groups said that any additional levy on fuel would trigger further spikes in transportation, food prices, and essential goods, deepening the burden on households and small businesses.

The CSOs argued that with inflation at record highs, unemployment still elevated, and disposable incomes declining, Nigerians “cannot afford any additional cost pressures.”

They urged policymakers to explore alternative revenue measures, improve efficiency in the oil sector, and intensify efforts to stabilize the naira rather than shifting the economic strain onto citizens.

The statement read:

“Our position is clear: the proposed 15% tariff will aggravate suffering and widen inequality. The government must reconsider and prioritize policies that protect livelihoods.”

The coalition also called for broader consultation with labour unions, market associations, and consumer groups before any final decision on energy pricing reforms.

Watch Full video here:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQ7ZAD8iE2s/?igsh=ZWdhajJkNmQ1bXps

 

Ranks Africa will continue to monitor developments as government officials and stakeholders respond to the concerns raised.

 

 

AMAA 2025: Burna Boy’s 3 Cold Dishes and South Africa’s The Heart Is a Muscle Dominate Awards Night

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AMAA 2025: Burna Boy’s 3 Cold Dishes and South Africa’s The Heart Is a Muscle Dominate Awards Night

The 21st edition of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) highlighted outstanding achievements in African filmmaking on Sunday, with Burna Boy’s co-produced feature 3 Cold Dishes and South Africa’s The Heart Is a Muscle emerging among the night’s biggest winners. The ceremony took place at the Balmoral Convention Centre in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, bringing together filmmakers, actors, cultural leaders, and entertainment executives from across the continent.

Produced by the Africa Film Academy, this year’s event celebrated excellence in storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship, continuing AMAA’s legacy of uplifting African voices in global cinema.

Burna Boy’s 3 Cold Dishes Wins Two Major Awards

3 Cold Dishes, co-produced by Grammy-winning Afrobeats star Burna Boy and actress Osas Ighodaro, secured Best Nigerian Film and Best Young/Promising Actor for Ruby Akubueze.

The multilingual thriller follows three women from Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Benin who reconnect years after surviving human trafficking, joining forces to take revenge on those who exploited them. The film has been praised for its emotional intensity, cross-cultural narrative, and strong female-led performances.

Acting Honors for Lateef Adedimeji and Tina Mba

Nollywood actor Lateef Adedimeji won Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of the historical figure in Lisabi: The Uprising.

Veteran actress Tina Mba received Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in The Serpent Gift, further cementing her reputation as one of Nollywood’s most respected character performers.

South Africa’s The Heart Is a Muscle Takes Top Prize

The night’s highest honor, Best Film, went to South Africa’s The Heart Is a Muscle. The film also won Cinematography, Editing, and Best Debut Feature for director Imran Hamdulay — marking a standout continental achievement.

Burkina Faso’s Katanga: Dance of the Scorpions also made a strong showing, winning Best Film in an African Language, Best Screenplay, and Best Costume Design.

Ceremony Highlights

The five-hour ceremony opened with a performance by the Ebony Band and later featured musical sets by Made Kuti, Rizyn Band, and DJ Kenchello. Made Kuti’s soulful performance of Palava, originally by his grandfather Fela Anikulapo Kuti, was a major highlight of the evening.

A short theatrical presentation starring Pete Edochie and Tony Umez added a dramatic interlude, exploring themes of fate, identity, and ancestral memory.

In his address, AFA Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe, acknowledged the growth of African cinema on the global stage, praising collaboration as a driving force in the industry’s progress.

“We salute Nollywood and all creatives whose accomplishments have earned African cinema international recognition. Nigeria’s strength lies in collaboration, not competition,” he said.

A tribute segment honored industry practitioners who passed away between January and November 2025.

Notable Guests

The ceremony was attended by notable industry figures, including Bukky Wright, Keppy Ekpeyong Bassey, Lancelot Imasuen, Jide Achufusi, and former Lagos Commissioner Uzamat Yusuf.

Selected Winners — AMAA 2025

Category Winner
Best Nigerian Film 3 Cold Dishes
Best Young/Promising Actor Ruby Akubueze – 3 Cold Dishes
Best Actor (Lead) Lateef Adedimeji – Lisabi: The Uprising
Best Actress (Lead) Florence Mariserena – Small Gods
Best Actress (Supporting) Tina Mba – The Serpent Gift
Best Film The Heart Is a Muscle (South Africa)
Best Film in an African Language Katanga: Dance of the Scorpions (Burkina Faso)
Best Director Dany Kouyaté – Katanga: Dance of the Scorpions
Best Debut Feature The Heart Is a Muscle – Imran Hamdulay
Best Short Film The Missing Piece – Kenya
Best Animation Dawn – Cameroon

(Additional categories follow as listed in the official awards release.)

 

Nigeria Participates in 26th UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh Amid Historic Milestones

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Nigeria Participates in 26th UNWTO General Assembly in Riyadh Amid Historic Milestones

Nigeria is making its mark on the global tourism stage at the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Riyadh. The event has brought together ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders from around the world to discuss the future of tourism, with a focus on technology, sustainability, and inclusivity.

A historic highlight of the Assembly was the appointment of Shaikha Al Nowais as the first woman to lead the UN Tourism organization, signaling a progressive shift in global tourism leadership. The Assembly’s agenda emphasized leveraging innovation and digital technology to drive the industry forward while ensuring environmental sustainability and equitable growth.

Representing Nigeria, the delegation included Honourable Minister of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, The DG Nigeria Tourism Development Mr. Olayiwola Awakan alongside Permanent Secretary Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad (MFR, mni). Their participation reflects Nigeria’s commitment to aligning national tourism policies with global best practices and positioning the country as a key player in the international tourism ecosystem.

The Nigerian delegation engaged in high-level discussions on tourism innovation, cultural preservation, and sustainable development, highlighting the nation’s rich cultural heritage and its potential to attract global travelers. Officials stressed the importance of creating a more connected, inclusive, and environmentally responsible tourism industry.

Nigeria’s active participation at UNWTO GA26 underscores the country’s ambition to strengthen its tourism sector, enhance international collaboration, and promote “Naija Flavour” to the world while contributing to sustainable global tourism initiatives.

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