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Gowon Onuh honoured at NUJ Correspondent’s Chapel Press Week, calls for journalistic integrity

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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Systems Ltd, Mr. Gowon Frederick Onuh, has urged journalists in Nigeria to uphold integrity and verify information before publication.

Mr. Onuh made the call after receiving the Award for Excellence in Automotive Paints Brands at the NUJ Correspondents Chapel Press Week and Awards, held on Saturday, 30 August 2025, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

The ceremony, which brought together prominent figures from the media, private, and public sectors, also featured the launch of the Chapel’s maiden official magazine, The Chapel.

Also present at the event was Mrs. Pauline Oloche, Head of Marketing and Digital Innovations at First Systems Ltd.

Support for credible journalism

Mr. Onuh, known for championing credible journalism, contributed financially to the launch of The Chapel, describing it as an investment in strengthening the Fourth Estate.

On receiving his award, he expressed gratitude to the Correspondents Chapel, saying the recognition was not just for commercial success but for a commitment to values that align with ethical journalism.

However, his speech quickly shifted into an admonition for the media.

“I enjoin journalists to uphold the highest standards of their profession by rigorously verifying information before disseminating it to the public,” he said.

Warning against misinformation

Speaking further in his goodwill message and a post-event address to journalists, Mr. Onuh stressed the dangers of misinformation to both business and society.

Using Sikkens, First Systems Ltd’s premium automotive paint brand, as an example, he explained:

“You would see a situation whereby in an attempt to go for something cheaper, they go for a low-quality product, and because we are not in line, some people would say it is original as Sikkens. That is misinformation.”

According to him, such false narratives can damage reputations and distort markets, underscoring why journalists must commit to accuracy.

A career built on integrity and innovation

At 55, Mr. Onuh has carved a reputation as a visionary leader in Nigeria’s automotive paints sector. A graduate of Benue State Polytechnic and Joseph Ayo Babalola University, he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

His career began with transforming the accounting operations at Samhays Ltd before joining First System Refinishes Ltd in 2005 as pioneer Accounts and Personnel Manager. By 2009, he rose to become MD/CEO of First Systems Ltd.

Under his leadership, the company has become the sole franchise holder of Sikkens automotive paints and representative of Italy’s Nova Verta spray booths in Nigeria, consolidating its place as a market leader.

Validation of values

For many at the NUJ event, Mr. Onuh’s award represents more than recognition of business excellence. It is a validation of a career grounded in integrity, innovation, and a commitment to truth—values he believes must guide both corporate leadership and journalism.

Business

Adron Homes Showcases Brand Power at Ibadan Cultural Festival Finale

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Adron Homes and Properties Limited took centre stage at the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival, using the event to reinforce its presence in Nigeria’s competitive real estate market.

The festival, held at Lekan Salami Stadium, brought together traditional leaders, government officials and residents, creating a high-profile platform for corporate visibility.

Among those present was the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who commended the company’s involvement in promoting culture and community development.

Why it matters

Corporate sponsorship of cultural events is becoming an increasingly important strategy in Nigeria’s business landscape.

For Adron Homes, aligning with a major festival in Ibadan one of the country’s fastest-growing urban centres offers both brand exposure and community connection.

The approach also reflects a broader trend where companies use cultural platforms to deepen trust and visibility among local audiences.

Company vision and strategy

Speaking at the event, Group Managing Director Mrs Adenike Ajobo said the company’s focus goes beyond housing.

“Adron Homes is not just building houses but creating ecosystems where heritage, lifestyle, and modern living seamlessly converge,” she said.

She added that the company’s expansion in Ibadan is aimed at reshaping the city’s residential landscape while embedding its brand within the community.

Festival highlights and engagement

A major attraction was the company’s “Adron Experience” zone, which drew large crowds through interactive activities.

Visitors participated in immersive brand engagements, including a 360-degree video booth designed to boost digital visibility.

The firm’s sales team also used the opportunity to connect with potential customers, showcasing its portfolio of estates across the city.

Industry and public perspective

Marketing analysts say such activations reflect a shift in how real estate companies engage with consumers.

By combining entertainment, culture and direct marketing, brands can create more memorable interactions compared to traditional advertising.

Residents at the event also expressed interest in property offerings, suggesting that experiential marketing can influence buying decisions.

What’s next

As competition in Nigeria’s property sector intensifies, experts expect more firms to adopt similar strategies.

Adron Homes’ presence at the festival signals a growing intersection between cultural identity and commercial expansion in urban centres like Ibadan.

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Nigeria Can Dominate Africa’s Blue Economy, NPA Says Amid Maritime Reforms

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Nigeria’s maritime sector is being reshaped by federal government reforms and increased private sector participation, according to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho.

Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, he said Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy if ongoing reforms are sustained.

Dantsoho credited the transformation to policies introduced by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, alongside broader federal government reforms.

Why it matters

Nigeria accounts for more than 60% of West Africa’s GDP but handles only about 25% of the region’s cargo traffic, highlighting a gap between economic strength and maritime performance.

Dantsoho warned that this imbalance limits Nigeria’s ability to fully benefit from global trade and logistics opportunities.

“It is worrisome that Nigeria, despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic. This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.

He added that unlocking the blue economy could boost exports, reduce freight costs and increase national revenue.

Push for economic shift

Dantsoho called for a major shift in Nigeria’s economic priorities towards marine resources.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.

He said Nigeria’s strategic location and large market position it to become a regional maritime hub, comparable to global centres like Singapore and Morocco.

Reforms driving change

According to Dantsoho, the government is implementing key reforms to modernise the port system and improve efficiency.

“We are implementing key strategic initiatives such as port modernisation, trade single window, port community system, deep seaport development and full digitalisation to reposition our ports for global competitiveness,” he stated.

He said these reforms aim to improve connectivity, attract larger vessels and expand non-oil exports.

“The ultimate goal is to improve liner connectivity, attract bigger vessels, reduce freight costs, and expand our export base, which will significantly boost revenue generation,” he noted.

Private sector role

The NPA chief stressed that private investment is essential to bridging infrastructure gaps.

“We are open to private sector participation through project financing. This approach is already improving efficiency and providing access to funding for critical infrastructure,” he said.

He added that competitiveness in the maritime sector depends on efficient operations, pricing and strong inland connections.

Minister highlights Nigeria’s advantage

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said Nigeria’s natural resources give it a strong edge.

“With over 823 kilometres of coastline, extensive inland waterways and a prime location along the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to harness the immense potential of the marine and blue economy,” he said.

He noted that the sector already accounts for more than 90% of Nigeria’s international trade by volume.

Oyetola added that reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security and boosted investor confidence.

What’s next

Dantsoho said sustained reforms and investment could position Nigeria as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa.

“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he said.

Industry perspective (Context)

Industry analysts say Nigeria’s push aligns with a global shift towards blue economy development, where coastal nations maximise ocean resources for economic growth.

However, they warn that infrastructure gaps, port congestion and regulatory bottlenecks must be addressed for reforms to succeed.

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JMG, Jamara Home Boost Workplace Culture, Showcase Cooling Innovation at Lagos HVACR Exhibition

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Employees of JMG and Jamara Home participating in a football match during the staff festival

JMG Limited and Jamara Home have hosted a staff sporting festival and showcased advanced cooling solutions at a major industry exhibition in Lagos, highlighting their dual focus on workplace culture and technological innovation.

The events, held around the Easter period, brought together employees, unions, and industry stakeholders, reflecting a broader push to strengthen both internal collaboration and external industry leadership.

Staff Sporting Festival Promotes Team Spirit

The companies, alongside branches of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria (SEWUN), organised their first Staff Sporting Festival to encourage teamwork and employee wellbeing.

Activities included football, chess, and board games, with staff divided into four teams competing in a relaxed and energetic atmosphere.

Participants described the event as a chance to reconnect outside daily work routines and build stronger relationships across departments.

“This is more than a competition, it is about connection, shared energy, and the spirit everyone brought to the day,” said Chief Commercial Officer, Rabi Jammal.

“These are the moments that strengthen not just our teams, but our entire organisation.”

Chief Human Resources Officer Gloria Ibeziako said the turnout reflected the importance of people-focused initiatives.

“At the heart of every strong organization are strong relationships,” she said.

“Events like this reinforce teamwork, boost morale, and remind us that our people are our greatest assets.”

Why It Matters

Workplace culture is increasingly seen as critical to productivity and retention, particularly in competitive industries.

Analysts say employee engagement initiatives such as sports events can improve collaboration, reduce burnout, and enhance organisational performance.

For companies like JMG and Jamara Home, the festival signals a strategic investment in human capital alongside business growth.

JMG Showcases Cooling Innovation at HVACR Exhibition

Separately, JMG’s Clima Division took part in the HVACR Exhibition 2026 in Lagos, presenting energy-efficient cooling solutions in partnership with Trane Technologies.

The three-day event, held at the Landmark Centre in Victoria Island, brought together contractors, consultants, and developers within the Big 5 Construct Nigeria platform.

Visitors to the JMG Clima stand explored advanced systems designed for performance, resilience, and sustainability in commercial and industrial settings.

Industry Conversations Focus on Energy Efficiency

Discussions at the exhibition centred on Nigeria’s growing demand for efficient climate control systems, driven by urban expansion and rising energy costs.

Stakeholders highlighted the need for smarter infrastructure solutions capable of supporting long-term development.

“Their continued trust drives us to keep innovating, to keep improving, and to deliver solutions that set new benchmarks,” said Hussam Aziz, Sales Manager, JMG Clima.

Industry Reactions

Experts say the push for energy-efficient cooling systems is timely as Nigeria faces increasing pressure on its power supply and infrastructure.

Industry observers note that partnerships with global firms such as Trane Technologies could accelerate technology transfer and improve standards in the HVAC sector.

What’s Next

JMG Limited says it plans to continue investing in both employee engagement and technical innovation.

The company aims to expand its role in Nigeria’s energy and infrastructure sectors, with a focus on sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

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