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Post-Insurgency: Craftec Homes, Obtuse Tec, others to invest N10 billion into Borno Infrastructural Renaissance
Post-Insurgency: Craftec Homes, Obtuse Tec, others to invest N10 billion into Borno Infrastructural Renaissance
By Our Reporter
As part of efforts to key into Governor Babagana Zulum’s 25-year “Development Plan’’ that would drive stabilization, boost recovery efforts and stimulate growth across all sectors and the 10- Year Transformation Strategy that was unveiled in November 2020 by the Borno State Government, Craftec Homes ltd, Obtuse Tec Engineering and Construction ltd is to partner with TAJ Bank, First City Monument Bank, FCMB and other business developers to invest about N10 billion in Jere Local Government Area and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, MMC.
This was disclosed on Tuesday at Conference Hall, Prime Lodge, Maiduguri by the Project Manager of Craftec Homes ltd, Engr Grema Hamzah while unveiling ‘Borno Corporate Infrastructural Renaissance’.
He said the over-decade atrocities posed by insurgents and their attendant consequences of destruction require private investors and other development partners to support the Government in the post-insurgency era, so as to provide critical infrastructures and create job opportunities for the teaming youths in Borno.
To this end, Engr Hamzah observes that Maiduguri city’s population is growing due to rural-urban migration, and this trend is likely to continue, which is, in turn, a substantial motivation for infrastructure growth.
“Maiduguri City which is now peaceful continue to witness a rapid expansion of financial service providers, Information Technology, IT and financial technology Enterprises, as well as an increase in the number of relatively high-income buyers and tenants who require more high-quality commercial centres.
“Therefore, these companies are willing to invest in Commercial Joint Infrastructure to the tune of N10 billion. The investment will start with four Mega structures to include; Tech Mall, Renaissance Mall, Craftec Shopping Centre each with (A four-storey building with a mixed-use centre consisting of retail space and A-grade offices along the famous Ahmadu Bello Way, in addition to Exquisite Mall (A six-storey building with mixed-use Centre consisting of retail space and A-grade offices at Circular Raid, all in Maiduguri.
“The Borno Corporate Infrastructure Renaissance is a 100% transactional platform to develop projects, at-risk deals, fast track the closure of deals, and improve the business environment for investments to thrive.
“Craftec Home is not alone in this business, as we are on this platform together with our co-partners, Obtuse Tec Engineering and Construction ltd, Otec MFM, TAJ Bank and FCMB. This is aimed to fast track investments, creating wealth and unleash prosperity for Borno people”. He said.
In his keynote address, Member House of Representatives, Jere Federal Constituency, Hon, Engr Ahmed Satomi who was the former Chairman of Obtuse Tec Engineering and construction ltd, said, as a Board member of the company, this initiative is apt and timely, as it will provide an opportunity to about 70% of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) marketers who are mostly youths across the state.
Satomi pointed out that, depending on government alone is no longer visible considering the dwindling economy, adding that, with this new development, more jobless people in Borno would be taken out of the streets and become economically self-reliant.
The Lawmaker called on well-to-do individuals, and business partners to embrace this new initiative and invest heavily to develop Borno economically.
Also contributing, the Managing Director, Obtuse Tech, Engr Umar Lawan, said his construction company, was established in May 2013, which is an indigenous firm that specializes in civil engineering works and services such as infrastructural development, roads and drainage, bridges, solar installation, import and export of general civil engineering design and other related jobs.
He added that, in 2020, the company after its Annual General Meeting, AGM, decided to diversify into three sectors; Agriculture, Aviation and Banking.
“Today is another milestone in partnering with Craftec Homes to showcase our capacity in Corporate Commercial Infrastructure Development, CCID.
“We are also partnering with Otec, Financial Tech Micro Finance Bank where our core target is to fill in the 39 million gap of non-inclusion in Northern Nigeria”. Engr Lawan stated.
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued two kidnapped victims during a routine patrol in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Security sources said the operation took place at about 7:01 p.m. on April 30 when troops of 12 Brigade deployed at Okoloke Patrol Base intercepted suspected kidnappers at Ejiba community.
The sources disclosed that the troops acted swiftly, forcing the suspects to abandon their victims.
According to the sources, the two kidnapped persons were successfully rescued and later reunited with their families.
They added that security patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa following mounting concerns over a fresh wave of anti-foreigner protests and reported attacks targeting Nigerian citizens and their businesses.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that the envoy is expected at its headquarters in Abuja on Monday, May 4, 2026, where Nigerian authorities will formally register their strong displeasure over developments seen as threatening the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between both countries.
At the heart of the meeting are recent demonstrations by various groups in South Africa, which have reportedly degenerated into harassment, violence, and destruction of foreign-owned businesses—many belonging to Nigerians. The incidents have triggered widespread anger among Nigerians, amid fears for the safety of thousands living and working in South Africa.
Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa on Saturday said the government is deeply worried about the implications of the unrest on bilateral relations, stressing that Nigeria remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad while pursuing diplomatic solutions.
Despite the rising tension, the Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain calm, assuring that steps are being taken at the highest diplomatic levels to address the situation and ensure the safety and dignity of its nationals.
Nigeria and South Africa share one of Africa’s most strategic bilateral relationships, rooted in a history of solidarity dating back to Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle. However, relations have repeatedly come under strain due to recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
Notably, major incidents in 2008, 2015, and 2019 saw widespread attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians, leading to deaths, looting, and destruction of properties. The 2019 crisis, in particular, sparked a diplomatic row, with Nigeria recalling its High Commissioner and boycotting the World Economic Forum on Africa 2019 in protest.
In response to past crises, both countries established diplomatic mechanisms, including an early warning system and joint consular forums, aimed at preventing further violence and protecting citizens. Despite these measures, sporadic tensions and anti-immigrant sentiments have persisted, often fueled by local grievances over unemployment and crime.
Analysts warned that the current developments, if not swiftly contained, could once again test diplomatic ties between Africa’s two largest economies and undermine regional integration efforts under frameworks such as the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The outcome of Monday’s meeting is therefore seen as crucial in determining whether both nations can de-escalate tensions and reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect, cooperation, and the protection of citizens on both sides.
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
Troops Rescue Injured Victim After Attack by Berom militia in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Safe Haven have rescued a civilian who sustained machete injuries following an attack by Berom militia along Bachi–Werreng Road in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 7:20 p.m. on May 1 when suspected criminals attacked the victim along the road.
The sources disclosed that troops of Sector 6, deployed at Bachi, swiftly responded to a distress call and moved to the scene.
According to the sources, the attackers fled upon the arrival of the troops, abandoning the injured victim.
They added that the victim, who sustained machete cuts, was immediately evacuated to a hospital in Rachi for medical treatment.
The sources further said the assailants carted away the victim’s motorcycle during the attack.
They noted that security patrols have been intensified in the area, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
Troops Rescue Injured Victim After Attack by Berom militia in Plateau
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
Two Impostors in Military Uniform Arrested in Kaduna
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
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