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I Started as a Camera man.. passed through thick and thin to get to this stage – Planet TV Owner,Wale Akinlabi

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Planet TV is a musical channel on GOTV transmitting to the world from south Africa, a couple of weeks ago an affiliation kicked off in Nigeria transmitting from onward building in oregun, ikeja Lagos. The president of the planet image communications both in south Africa and Nigeria is a young Nigerian that has traveled far wide and especially through every nook and cranny of African continent promoting both Africa and Nigeria culture through selling our musical contents. Sahara weekly had the honor of speaking one on one with Mr Wale Akinlabi a man of vision and focus on how it all began and how it has been so far. Enjoy….

Sw: can we meet you sir?

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Wale Akinlabi: my name is wale akinlabi the president of planet image communications,the owner of  planet TV on GoTV channel 37 and good morning africa on africa magic

Sw: kindly tell us your background

WA:I hail from oyo alafin in oyo state and happens to be the first child in a family of seven. I studied theater arts from lagos state university,bachelor of arts(BA)visual & performing arts, I’m married with 2 beautiful kids from the most beautiful woman(smiles)

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Sw: Recently you unveiled planet T.V a music channel on cable network in nigeria apart from the planet TV in south Africa,kindly tell us how and when planet TV started?

WA: Planet TV actually originated from Nigeria. I started the company  in 1990 but as a one man business there was not much to write home about . So in year 2000 after resigning my appointment from where I was working I went into full operation.

Sw: As at that time were you still in Nigeria?

WA: I relocated to south africa in 2004,the beginning in south Africa was also not rosy. I was just there with nothing but just hoping for the best,in 2008 things started improving and I got planet image registered

Sw: earlier you talked about resigning your appointment to fully concentrating on planet TV from which company did you resign?

WA: I was working with Audio visual first( AVF) who actually owns this facility before resigning in year 2000

Sw: For you to set up planet TV in south Africa you must have recorded a huge success?

WA: (smiles) we still can not deny the fact that planet TV has come of age inspite of the fact that we still target the sky as our limit

SW: what makes planet TV different from the others ?

WA: we strive to stand ahead of others in our programming, we target both the youth and the matured audience and try to balance the two. As for our picture quality, we broadcast with HD and also transmit with the most powerful and effective transmitting machine from South Africa which is the latest technology  in terms ot transmission, we are only the only one using it in Nigeria while all others make do with satellite dish which is not always reliable, when it rains the signal becomes unstable.

Sw: that is quite wonderful!!!

WA: that is not all,we are the first cable TV channel with live interaction,so we could feel the pulse of our viewers and give it instant attention,they tell us what music to play and we put it on their screen immediately …

SW: what prompted the decision to have a live interactions while others are not so inclined….

WA: like every other youth, everybody has a vision but the way we actualise our dreams is what brings about the difference, it depends on how individual go by it. Another point of note is the fact that we all have dreams but not all are given the grace to actualise our dreams. All in all I give glory to God for making my dreams come to life.

SW: life is not always a bed of roses, along the line the road must have been rough and bumpy, what are the challenges?

WA: it has not been an easy journey all through. I passed through thick and thin to get to this stage . Like I told you earlier,1990 till 2000 when I resigned at my working place to fully concentrate on my own project,I was not getting anything but only sacrificing time, energy and capital,the situation continued till we left Nigeria’s shore in 2004

SW: once in south Africa,things turned around for good?

WA: Not immediately ,the first few years in south Africa was full of unrewarding efforts making it the same old story, it was self determination coupled with patience and lot of sacrifice that saw us through and we had an upturn in the business. My brother the challenges were tough and discouraging but above all I give all the glory to God for where we are today..

Sw: let’s get on how you found your self in the media world,was it a dream or somehow accidental?

WA: I actually started from the scratch. Its a long story but I’ll take time to tell you to the barest details

SW: Go on,I’m all ear sir?

WA: (sigh) I passed through all aspects of production
,Started as a cameraman, I later moved to Galaxy TV owned by Steeve OJO, I was working as an editor,I was one of the first set of people that built  and developed galaxy tv in ibadan, I trained virtually all the editors and also doing the broadcast. One thing I can say about steeve ojo is the fact that he would not tolerate half measure . He made me work hard and every body said he was using me but the fact remains that I was building myself morally,physically and technically. He employed me as an editor but made me understand professional camera handling. We rotate different departments,it was him that turned me into an animator, my dexterity on it with time made all my friends call me animation,it became my nick name .

SW: so you moved from minor camera operation to editing and from there to animation?

WA: you are right,it was when I moved to AVF that I became content producer

Sw: Hmmm Jack of all trades- (cuts in)

WA: master of all (General laughter) so imagine you going through all these processes,knowing almost everything in all facets of it. Setting up  your own company will no doubt be an easy thing.

Sw: so in one word experience has really worked positively for you ?

WA: exactly after knowing all the rudiments of each departments nothing should stop one from reaching the sky. When I started the planet TV because I could do everything I made myself the capital. I would do the capital work and later edit the stuff, after editing I would send the content  to where I want it to go . It was really a humble beginning.

SW: Planet TV having been on GoTV for couple of years what positive impact have you made on Africa magic?

WA: I myself have made positive impact that would linger on for quite a long time. Good morning africa which is totally one of the best breakfast show in the continent of africa is my brain child ,it started in 2009 in south africa . After watching africa magic for a long time,I conceptualized the program and started selling the content for africa magic…

SW: ok ,that was when you started selling content for them ?

WA: Nooo…I started selling content for them in 2004,before the good morning africa, I was commission to get contents for them so I started producing small small contents like the ”star zone featuring Nigerian stars on their channel, growing time, weekend plus,home trend,chillers,design & life style , design & automobile and so on …

SW: that is quite a lot sir but before I go, to every hard working and commitment there must be one or two benefits or let me say reward, have you ever been awarded before ?

WA: we give all Glory to God!to God be the glory I have been awarded the following accolades!!(1) Best television producer with the most african content 2012 by african achievers award at kings college united kingdom,  (2)media excellence 2011by leaders voice magazine south africa,(3)entrepreneur of the year 2011 by Applause magazine united kingdom,(4) Heritage award 2014, excellence media practice & profound commitment to success 2014 by supreme magazine. And by the grace Of God more are still coming our ways…

SW: Whao!!! what an achievement! So at this juncture sir what would you tell those who aspire to become a TV channel owner like you?

WA: patience,endurance and sacrifice because it can never be an instant success,it takes a whole lot of time. But with God All things are possible

SW: thank you very much sir for your quality time….

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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COURT DISMISSES LAND SUIT AGAINST NIGERIAN BREWERIES

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COURT DISMISSES LAND SUIT AGAINST NIGERIAN BREWERIES

COURT DISMISSES LAND SUIT AGAINST NIGERIAN BREWERIES

 

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The Imo State High Court of Oru Judicial Division sitting at Mgbidi and presided over by his Lordship Hon. Justice Onyekachi has dismissed Suit No. HOU/71/2019, which was instituted by Chijioke Nwadika against
Nigerian Breweries Plc in the said suit, the claimant Mr. Chijioke Nwadika prayed the court to declare that the entire Ama Ogbejelem farm land at Awo-omamma in Imo State where Nigerian Breweries Plc constructed it’s drainage for waste disposal at its Awo-omamma
Breweries plant belongs to him and his family.

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COURT DISMISSES LAND SUIT AGAINST NIGERIAN BREWERIES

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The claimant also sought the court to order Nigerian Breweries Plc. to remove the drainage system from the land and pay the sum of N500,000,000 (Five Hundred Million Naira) as damages for unpaid
royalty, and destruction of the family’s economic trees as a result of disposal of waste through the drainage that runs through the claimant’s
farm land as claimed.

The claimant Mr. Chijioke Nwadika was represented through-out the
Suit by his counsel Damian Uneze Esq. who urged the court through his
submission to grant the reliefs. Dr A.A Orunkoya Esq counsel to Nigerian Breweries Plc vehemently challenged the claims of the claimant and urged the court to dismiss the suit on grounds that the
claimant failed to prove with empirical evidence the ownership of the and where Nigerian Breweries is situate or any part of it where the
drainage system of Nigerian Breweries passed.

It was his contention
that the claim of Mr. Chijioke Nwadika is predicated on tittle; hence the onus was on him to prove ownership of the land before he can be
entitled to any other relief or claim for damages connected to the land.
Dr. A.A Orunkoya Esq. further informed the court that the claim of Mr. Chijioke Nwadika was statute barred as the entire suit was centered on
a contract he purported his father had with Nigerian Breweries in 1983
whereas the action was instituted in 2019 in breach of limitation of
Action Laws that requires actions founded on breach of contract to be
instituted within six years.
The trial judge Hon. Justice Onyedikachi after considering the argument
and evidence put before the court dismissed the suit in favour of Nigerian Breweries Plc. Dr. A.A. Orunkoya Esq defence counsel to
Nigerian Breweries Plc while addressing the press after the judgment,
reiterated that the judgment has further rekindled the hope of investors and corporate organizations to invest in rural communities.

He stated that private companies are usually sued by unscrupulous
persons in their host communities thereby discouraging investors.
Dr. A.A Orunkoya Esq. further stated that the suit of Mr. chijioke
Nwadika was capable of frustrating the continuous existence of the Nigerian Breweries in Awo- Omamma but because the claims lack
merit, the court appreciated the issues of law that was canvassed as a defence and entered judgment in favour of Nigerian Breweries by dismissing the suit.

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Palliatives: Dangote donates 80,000 bags of rice to Lagos residents

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Palliatives: Dangote donates 80,000 bags of rice to Lagos residents

 … Sanwo-Olu says Dangote prioritize Nigerians’ welfare above profit

 

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The Aliko Dangote Foundation, (ADF) has flagged off the distribution of 80,000 10kg bags of rice to the vulnerable in Lagos state.

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President of Dangote Group and Chairman of the foundation, Aliko Dangote, noted that the gesture is part of the over one million 10kg bags of rice that would be distributed to reach one million vulnerable people in the 774 local government areas of the country.

 

 

 

 

Speaking at the flag off in Alausa, Dangote, said the distribution of the 80,000 bags of 10kg rice is another demonstration of the foundation’s commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are at the core of humanity.

Noting that the distribution of the rice is in addition to the daily distribution of 12,500 loaves of bread in Lagos, Dangote stressed that with the initiative, the foundation aspires to ameliorate some of the burdens faced by vulnerable communities across Lagos State.

In his remarks, Governor of Lagos state,  Babajide Sanwo-Olu, applauded the many initiatives of Dangote to ameliorate the sufferings of Nigerians, while praiseing him for showing compassion to the needy in the society.

Sanwo-Olu said the gesture of distribution of 80,000 bags of 10kg rice shows that the leadership of the Foundation prioritize the welfare of the people beyond the pursuit of profit and accumulation of wealth.

The Governor said: “Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian that has chosen to be different. You have choices but you have made the right one which is caring for the vulnerable. I appreciate Mr. Aliko Dangote for extending his kind gestures to the people at the bottom of the pyramid and we are grateful for supporting us in government. There is a lot of global disruption in different parts of the world, and it is a tough time to be in a position of leadership,” he said.

While encouraging other wealthy Nigerians to emulate Dangote, the Governor said the distribution of the rice would support the initiative of the state in addressing the effects of the economic hardship.

Justifying the food intervention in Lagos, Dangote said: “While our traditional Ramadan food distribution has been focused on the Muslim Community, we recognize that the current circumstances where a significant proportion of Nigerians across the nation are experiencing severe hardship due to the prevailing high prices of food, require that we broaden our program to cover communities of all faiths. This is why we are extending the Ramadan initiative to cover all the thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory as a testament to our commitment to supporting our communities in line with our core values and the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan,” he said.

The CEO of the ADF, Zouera Youssoufou, said the Foundation is partnering credible NGOs, civil societies, religious bodies among others to ensure the donations go to the most vulnerable in Lagos State.

She said the Foundation is guided by a vision of empowering Africans to achieve their self-actualization and full potential as it believes that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

“In times of hardship, it is imperative that we stand together as one nation, one community, extending a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in their time of need as we have done with our female empowerment programme in Lagos State which targeted 40,000 (Forty thousand) disadvantaged women,” she added.

Group Executive Director Commercial Operations at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Fatima Aliko-Dangote, noted that the flag off in Lagos is a follow-up to the 120,000 bags distributed in Kano on Saturday, said the intervention is targeted to reach the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

“We have been doing this for a while but we didn’t publicize  it because  our chairman  believes  this is between him and God but this year we decided  to publicize  it so that we can encourage  and inspire others to do so.

“There are many other things the Dangote foundation is also doing. We are also serving 2,500 breads all over Lagos daily. We started this in 2020 during COVID-19. Also in our hometown in Kano, we have been doing breakfast, lunch and dinner for the past 35 years. The foundation has invested in many things. Years back, we gave women some money to be able to invest in their businesses,” she said.

Speaking further, Dangote noted that Lagos state holds a special place in the hearts of the Group, hosting two of its major investments – Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser Plant.

He disclosed that the Dangote Group is also working on the nutrition agenda and has made significant strides in food fortification, investing in iodized salt and vitamin A fortified sugar. He stressed that the Group actively promotes food fortification within the Nigerian food industry and is exploring fortification methods for staples like rice and wheat and bouillon cubes to help ensure improved nutrition nationwide.

“At the heart of the Aliko Dangote Foundation lies a deep-seated belief in the importance of nutrition in human capital development. We understand that access to nutritious food is not only a basic human right but also a critical determinant of good health and well-being. By providing these modest bags of rice to those in need, we are not only looking to alleviate immediate hunger, but also investing in the long-term health and prosperity of our communities,” he added.

While commending Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo Olu as a Governor with a penchant for overcoming adversity and enormous capacity in handling emergencies, Dangote urged other well-meaning individuals and corporate organisations to emulate the efforts to support the less privileged in the communities, especially during Ramadan, which is a time of self-reflection, empathy, and charity.

Palliatives: Dangote donates 80,000 bags of rice to Lagos residents

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NIFESAF ESUT Lagos Holds 4th Edition Of Business, Career Exposition

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The Lagos State Alumni Fellowship of Nigerian Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFESAF) has held the fourth edition of its Business and Career Exposition programme themed ‘Maximizing Technology and Strategic Customer Loyalty For Sustainable Business Growth In Today’s Economic Condition’ on Saturday, 23rd of March, 2024 in Lagos.

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The programme which was basically for Small and medium-sized enterprises since its inception has served as a major platform for the promotion of Nigerian-owned businesses and created several opportunities for SMEs to thrive and have access to the world through the global reach of NIFESAF ESUT.

Just like the previous editions, the fourth edition wasn’t any different; it featured an avalanche of exhibitions by several Nigerian businesses with guests who were ready to patronize them and a huge platform to publicize their businesses.

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Some of the businesses involved in the exhibition include Finet Mobile, Purch Gadgets, Congratulations Corporate Events, Exceptional Intensive Vocational Training, Farmskills Limited, Jigsimur health drink, De Luxe flour, Royal Almonds, Ifiefruit, Ihubest trading enterprise, K-shape fashion designer, Zara Caps and Hats, Chee Havillah Royal Services Ltd, Lowan Enterprises, Mace Ventures, Arif Bureau, Davis Exotic Homes, Whiztech Global Ltd, Earthblend flavours, to mention but a few.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Global Body— Nigerian Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFES) ESUT Alumni Fellowship, Mr. Fred Nnadike, said the essence of the business exhibition was to support and build a community of excellent, Christians who would be role models in their respective careers.

Nnadike who urged believers under the umbrella to keep the faith alive equally charged them to uphold ethical standards, sound corporate governance, and avoid sharp practices in their respective professions and business endeavors as ardent followers of Christ.

“We want to encourage what we produce and link our entrepreneurs to the global space. SMEs are indispensable for economic growth and development. The government across board should do something urgently to revive the economy by making the environment conducive for businesses to thrive” he implored.

On his part, the Lagos State Chapter Chairman of the Fellowship, Mr Henry Nnadike, said the leadership of NIFESAF has often reminded the government that MSMEs are still the engine room of every strong economy.

“Government must address multiple taxation, epileptic power supply, dilapidated road network, and general scorching economic environment. Governments must be transparent in their reforms and interventions. Besides, we need informed ideas, programs, and policies that must be designed by the best brains. The government should learn to put the interest of the masses above their personal interest for posterity’s sake” he urged.

Similarly, the Vice Chairman of NIFESAF, Lagos Chapter, Mrs. Chika Idalah–Allison, called on the state and federal government to partner with NIFESAF and related organizations which are poised to promote skills and craftsmanship, particularly for youths.

“Government should partner with organizations promoting skills acquisition, innovation, human capital development, and creative industry. In NIFESAF we are under the mandate to support every entrepreneur under its umbrella even beyond.

Idalah – Allison told newsmen that she was able to travel to different countries for business purposes, not by her academic certifications but by the salability of her skills in artwork and design.

“Nigeria is our only country, we must build it because the world is waiting for us to step out, and that is what we must all do collaboratively, however, our education curriculum should be designed fit- for -purpose” she asserted.

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