A GLANCE AT THE SPECTACULAR TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE OF CHIEF MICHAEL DURU EJIOGU’S DAUGHTER: ANARA’S TALK OF THE TOWN

BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

In the vibrant Ancient kingdom of Anara, located in Isiala mbano LGA of Imo State, Chief Michael and Lolo Ijeoma Ejiogu celebrated an unforgettable event on April 27th, 2024. The occasion was the marriage of their daughter, Akudo Stephenia, to Dr. Frank Arinze. Chief Michael, a distinguished business magnate and real estate expert renowned for his leadership as the CEO of City Gate Group, orchestrated a traditional marriage ceremony that enchanted all attendees. Dr. Frank Arinze, hailing from the esteemed family of Elder Victor and Mrs. Jane Azikiwe of Onisha Town in Onisha North LGA, Anambra State, joined in this union, leaving a lasting impression on all fortunate enough to witness it.

The gathering was a convergence of dignitaries from various spheres of influence and affluence, a testament to Chief Duru’s esteemed standing in the community. Among the distinguished guests were luminaries such as the Former Governor of Imo State(Chief Ikedi Ohakim) ; Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe( Speaker of the Imo State Assembly) ; His Royal Highness Cletus Iluomuanya(Chairman of the Imo State Elders Council) ; Nze Chidi Chinasa Nwanerri( Former S.A. Special Duties to the Governor of Imo State) ; the esteemed celebrity businessman, Pascal Okechukwu (Cubana Chief Priest); and Chief Tony Chukwu, alongside His Excellency Uche Nwosu, Hon. Bar. Kingsley Ononuju(Former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Imo State), among numerous other titans of industry and notable politicians from across the nation.

In the enchanting tale of Akudo Stephenia and Dr. Frank, their love blossomed like vines reaching for the sun, culminating in a marriage that exuded elegance and grace. Their union, akin to a masterpiece painted by destiny, gathered dignitaries of high esteem, each bearing witness to a love as timeless as the stars above. Amidst the festivities, the bride’s search for her groom amidst the crowd seemed to reflect a cosmic alignment, it seemed as though the universe itself whispered secrets of eternal love, weaving their destinies into a tapestry of joy and commitment.

The ceremony unfolded with the grand entrance of the groom, a moment charged with anticipation and jubilation. As the kola nut was ceremoniously broken, marking the sacred inception of their union, all eyes eagerly awaited the radiant arrival of the bride, an embodiment of grace and sophistication.

The festivities were further enriched by captivating musical performances by over three renowned artists, adding a melodious backdrop to the celebration. Chief Michael Duru, as the Onowu, holds the esteemed position of Traditional Prime Minister within the Anara Ancient kingdom. His residence, a very sophisticated Mansion, not only stands as a testament to his legacy but also serves as the official Palace of the Onowu of Anara. During the traditional marriage ceremony of his daughter, this grand abode was dedicated, marking not only a familial celebration but also a continuation of tradition and lineage within the kingdom. Through this dual purpose, Chief Duru’s dwelling embodies both personal significance and cultural heritage, symbolizing the intertwining of familial duty and regal responsibility.

Culinary delights adorned the event, with a plethora of sumptuous dishes that tantalized the taste buds of all attendees. From traditional delicacies like fried rice to an array of fruits including apples, pineapples, oranges, and garden eggs, guests were treated to a gastronomic extravaganza that showcased both local and international flavors. The meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence in hospitality left an indelible impression, ensuring that every guest departed with fond memories of the occasion.

Amidst the gathered throng of friends and well-wishers, prayers soared heavenward, carrying blessings for the couple’s journey ahead. Each heartfelt wish resonated like a gentle melody, enveloping them in a cocoon of love and support as they stepped into the boundless expanse of married life. May their days be filled with laughter, their nights warmed by the embrace of affection, and may their love endure, perennial and ever-blooming, under the nurturing glow of the sun.

Indeed, Chief Michael Duru Ejiogu’s daughter’s traditional marriage was not just a union of two souls but a celebration of heritage, culture, and community. It was a testament to the enduring values of love, unity, and generosity that bind us together as a society. As the echoes of laughter and joy reverberated throughout Anara, it was clear that this event would be remembered as a highlight in the annals of the town’s history, a cherished memory for generations to come.

Chinedu Nsofor is a Seasoned Technocrat, Media Guru/Consultant and writes from Owerri, Imo State.

Dangote cement export of clinker, cement increase by 87.2%

Management of Dangote Cement Plc has revealed that the company dispatched seven ships of clinker- from Nigeria to Ghana and Cameroon and that the export, for the first quarter of 2024 increased by 87.2 per cent at 264kt.

While the company commissioned 10 of the 17 Alternative Fuel Projects across the Group, the local demand for cement, in the same period under review in Nigeria increased significantly by 26.1 per cent to 4.6Mt and the overall group volume rose by 12.3 per cent to 7.0Mt, for the first quarter of 2024.

Chief Executive Officer, of Dangote Cement, Arvind Pathak, in his comments on the first quarter results, said: “During the quarter, we intensified our emphasis on exports, dispatching 7 ships from Nigeria to Ghana and Cameroon. As a result, our Nigerian exports surged by 87.2%, reflecting our commitment to expanding our presence in regional markets and capitalising on our export-to-import strategy.

We continue to prioritise innovation, cleaner energy transition, and cost leadership towards achieving our vision of transforming Africa and building a sustainable future”.

The company recorded a Group revenue of N817.4 billion, even as profit after tax inched, up by 2.9 percent to N112.7 billion. Earnings per share closed the quarter at N6.68 representing an increase of 3.7 percent. As part of its sustainability programme, Dangote Cement commissioned ten of the 17 Alternative Fuel Projects across the Group.

Chief Executive Officer, of Dangote Cement, Arvind Pathak, in his comments on the results, said, “Driven by an uptick in economic activities, our Nigerian operations witnessed a strong rebound, with volumes up 26.1 percent to 4.6Mt in the quarter. Similarly, our pan-Africa operations continued an upward trajectory, with volumes up 3.1 percent to 2.7Mt, buoyed by increased sales in Zambia and Congo. Despite elevated cost pressures, increased borrowing costs, and a further currency weakening, our first-quarter results reflect our commitment to navigating challenges effectively.”

He added, “Group revenue more than doubled to ₦817.4 billion, while Group EBITDA rose 66.6 percent to ₦309.5 billion. Profit After Tax was up 2.9 percent at ₦112.7 billion. These results underscore our ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic business environment while delivering value to our stakeholders.

We continue to prioritise innovation, cleaner energy transition, and cost leadership towards achieving our vision of transforming Africa and building a sustainable future”.

Dangote Cement is Africa’s leading cement producer with 52.0Mta capacity across Africa. A fully integrated quarry-to-customer producer, Dangote Cement has a production capacity of 35.25Mta in Nigeria. Obajana plant in Kogi state, Nigeria, is the largest in Africa with 16.25Mta of capacity across five lines; Ibese plant in Ogun State has four cement lines with a combined installed capacity of 12Mta; Gboko plant in Benue state has 4Mta; and Okpella plant in Edo state has 3Mta.

Through recent investments, Dangote Cement has eliminated Nigeria’s dependence on imported cement and has transformed the nation into an exporter of cement serving neighbouring countries.

In addition, the company has operations in Cameroon (1.5Mta clinker grinding), Congo (1.5Mta), Ghana (2.0Mta clinker grinding and import), Ethiopia (2.5Mta), Senegal (1.5Mta), Sierra Leone (0.5Mta import), South Africa (2.8Mta), Tanzania (3.0Mta), Zambia (1.5Mta).

Explainer! Adesuwa Renee Ogiozee: A Victim of Profiling

Adesuwa Renee Ogiozee, popularly known as the auto queen is arguably the biggest Nigerian female auto dealer in the United States of America, USA. She has carved a niche for herself in the global auto market. And with over 2,000 exotic automobiles sold worldwide, Renee motors and Logistics LLC, which was incorporated in 2016 has become the go-to auto brand for celebrities and people of means across the world. But greatness comes with envy. And it’s really no shock that Adesuwa has had a fair share of her own moment of darkness over the last three years. The high-flying entrepreneur has been in the eye of the storm for allegations bordering on wrong doings.

The Background Story

Adesuwa became a news maker when news of her alleged involvement in a romance scam hit the social media space. It was reported that Adesuwa was alleged to have conspired with a customer who was involved in a romance scam with his lover without any evidence of her involvement.

The Truth

Simply, Adesuwa while trying to do what she knows how to do best – helping customer get the best auto money can buy around the world became a victim of a fall out between a client and his estranged lover. According to sources, Adesuwa’s interaction with the customer was strictly about a car purchase. The customer who is alleged to be involved in a relationship gone wrong situation only contacted Adesuwa for a car purchase. Sources revealed that the customer purchased a car in the region of twelve thousand dollars eight years ago. And that was the only time Adesuwa was contacted by this particular customer. There was never a conversation between the customer and Adesuwa regarding his relationship with the estranged lover. Additionally, It is out of her brief to get involved in what’s going on in the private life of her customers. For over a decade, she has successfully closed hundreds of car sales. Apart from having zero knowledge of the customer’s involvement in any activities, Investigations revealed that Adesuwa has never spoken to the woman who is the lover of her customer; or gotten any payment from the woman neither was she aware of any form of relationship between the said woman and her customer.

In what can been described as foul profiling, Adesuwa is just another victim of profiling gone wrong. She was alleged to have conspired with one of her then customer who was involved in a 560,000 usd romance scam which was reported to be a loan her then customer took from his lover. Yet there was no evidence of Adesuwa’s alleged involvement his. then the question is: Why is Adesuwa the main target in the whole charade and not the customer who is the main culprit?

According to sources, even before Adesuwa came into the picture, the customer who reportedly met his lover on eharmony already had their thing going on including exchange of funds 6months before the customer approached Adesuwa to help purchase a car. It remains a mystery how Adesuwa Rene is being punished for simply carrying out a car purchase. For over three years now, her reputation has been dragged in the mud for what is clearly a case of profiling gone wrong. However, Adesuwa is not giving up as a clear conscience fears no accusation.