News
The Body Shop Opens in Abuja
The Body Shop Opens in Abuja
… Deputy British High Commissioner Describes Nigeria as High Growth Market
By: Michael Mike
The Body Shop, 48 years after its establishment in Brighton, England has opened its first store in West Africa. The store was opened in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital on Saturday.
The latest addition to the renowned British cosmetics, skincare and perfume company which was established in 1976 by Anita Roddick was opened at the Jabi Mall by the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever.
Speaking at the opening, Lever said it was a momentous occasion showing growing economic partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria. She equally noted that the UK’s Department for Business and Trade has identified Nigeria as a high-growth market.

Lever said: “It is an absolute pleasure to join you today to celebrate the launch of The Body Shop here in Nigeria. This is a momentous occasion, not only for The Body Shop as a pioneering UK brand but also for the growing economic partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
“What better moment than International Women’s Day to celebrate the arrival of The Body Shop in Nigeria. This launch is more than just the opening of a store—it is a statement of intent. It represents the power of ethical business, the strength of UK-Nigeria collaboration, and the unwavering commitment to female empowerment.”
She added that: “The Body Shop’s arrival in Nigeria is a testament to the strength of UK-Nigeria trade relations and the immense potential of the Nigerian market. As a brand rooted in ethical values, sustainability, and community empowerment, The Body Shop aligns perfectly with the aspirations of Nigerian consumers who increasingly value quality, authenticity, and responsible business practices.”
The Deputy High Commissioner disclosed that: “In 2023, the total trade in goods and services between the UK and Nigeria was valued at £7.8 billion, representing and increase from £6.9 billion in 2022.

“Nigeria is the UK’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, and the UK is one of the largest foreign investors in Nigeria, with investments spanning sectors such as energy, finance, and retail.
“The UK’s Department for Business and Trade has identified Nigeria as a high-growth market, with a young, dynamic population of over 200 million people and a rapidly expanding middle class.”
She noted that: “The Body Shop’s entry into Nigeria is a clear signal of the confidence UK businesses have in this market. It also reflects the shared commitment of both our nations to fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
“The Body Shop is not just a beauty brand; it is a movement. Founded in the UK in 1976, it has been a trailblazer in promoting ethical consumerism, fair trade, and environmental sustainability.
“The Body Shop sources many of its ingredients through its Community Trade program, which supports over 25,000 people globally, including farmers and artisans in developing countries.
“The brand is also committed to fighting climate change, with initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.
“By bringing these values to Nigeria, The Body Shop is not only offering high-quality products but also contributing to the empowerment of local communities and the protection of our planet.
“The launch of The Body Shop in Nigeria is a milestone, but it is also a stepping stone toward an even brighter future for UK-Nigeria trade.
Lever said: “The UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), launched in 2023, provides Nigerian businesses with preferential access to the UK market, reducing tariffs and simplifying trade rules.
“We are also working closely with Nigerian partners to address challenges such as infrastructure development, access to finance, and skills training, ensuring that trade benefits all segments of society.
“As we celebrate today, let us also look ahead to the opportunities that lie before us. Together, we can build a trade relationship that is not only prosperous but also sustainable and inclusive.”
The envoy congratulated Shalom Lloyd and The Body Shop Team on the exciting new chapter in Nigeria, stating that: “Your presence here is a symbol of the strong ties between our two nations and a reminder of the power of trade to create positive change.”
She added that: “To the Nigerian people, I say: The UK is committed to being your partner in progress. We believe in your potential, and we are here to support your aspirations.”
According to a pre-launch statement, the people behind the franchise not just entrepreneurs—they are changemakers. Their commitment to female empowerment extends beyond the beauty industry into healthcare, economic development, and sustainability.
Edward Nnadi (CEO) and Shalom Lloyd (MD) are British Nigerians whose businesses are built on purpose and impact before profit. Some of their businesses that span across the UK and Nigeria are Jean Edwards Consulting (UK and Nigeria); Naturally Tiwa Skincare (UK); Naturally Tribal Nigeria; eMQT (UK); Jean Edwards Oils Limited Abuja; and The IVY League Abuja.
A Strong and Meaningful Partnership
It is clear why this partnership between The Body Shop and its franchisees in Nigeria is such a good match. Both share a passion for ethical business, sustainability, and women’s empowerment. This launch is just the beginning, and there is no doubt it will inspire even more impactful collaborations between the UK and Nigeria.
The statement revealed that the franchises have been offering free cervical cancer screening across Nigeria, actively working to save lives through early detection; they are deeply involved in creating employment opportunities for Nigerian women in the shea industry, ensuring fair wages and ethical sourcing for an industry that supports 16 million rural women across Africa.
The Body Shop Nigeria is more than a beauty business—it is a movement that uplifts, empowers, and transforms lives; according to the statement.
The Body Shop Opens in Abuja
News
NDLEA Warns Nigerians Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names
NDLEA Warns Nigerians Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names
By: Michael Mike
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has alerted Nigerians to a fraudulent scheme in which scammers are impersonating senior officials of the agency to deceive unsuspecting members of the public with fake offers of forfeited vehicles purportedly being sold at discounted auction prices.
In a disclaimer issued on Friday, the agency said the fraudsters have been circulating forged private letters and messages, particularly in the name of the NDLEA’s Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, claiming that seized vehicles are available for purchase through private arrangements.
The agency described the offers as entirely fraudulent, warning that they are designed solely to swindle victims out of their money.
According to the NDLEA, no official of the agency has the authority to privately allocate, sell or offer forfeited vehicles or any other seized assets to individuals under any circumstance.
It explained that assets forfeited as proceeds of drug-related offences are disposed of only through publicly advertised auctions conducted by government-appointed and registered auctioneers, in accordance with extant legal provisions and public procurement regulations.
The agency stressed that whenever such auctions are approved, they are widely publicised through national newspapers and the NDLEA’s official communication platforms to ensure transparency and equal access for interested members of the public.
The anti-narcotics agency therefore urged Nigerians to disregard any private letters, text messages, emails or social media posts claiming to offer forfeited vehicles for sale on behalf of Barrister Haruna or any other NDLEA official.
It also advised anyone approached with such offers to report the matter immediately to the nearest NDLEA command or through the agency’s official communication channels.
The statement, signed by NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to transparency, accountability and due process in the disposal of forfeited assets, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to the activities of fraudsters exploiting the agency’s name.
NDLEA Warns Nigerians Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names
News
Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue District Head, Recover Arms in Katsina, Zamfara
Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue District Head, Recover Arms in Katsina, Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have repelled multiple terrorist attacks, rescued an abducted district head and recovered arms and other combat equipment during coordinated operations across Katsina and Zamfara states.
The military disclosed that the operations, conducted on July 2, demonstrated the sustained offensive against terrorist groups operating in the North-West.

In Katsina State, troops of Sector 2 on a fighting patrol engaged terrorists between Amara and Chakau Junction in Danmusa Local Government Area after the fleeing criminals opened fire on the advancing troops.
The troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee and abandon their mission.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, one magazine loaded with eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and two motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists.
In another operation on the outskirts of Sabon Garin and Dantakeri villages in Dutsinma Local Government Area, troops, in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes, responded to a terrorist attack and engaged the assailants in a firefight.

One terrorist was neutralised during the encounter, while the remaining attackers fled with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, according to military sources.
Also in Katsina, troops of Sector 2, working with other security agencies, responded to intelligence that terrorists had invaded Farin Hawa Village in Malumfashi Local Government Area and abducted the District Head, Mr. Mubarak Sharin.
The troops immediately pursued the fleeing terrorists, made contact with them and engaged them in a gun battle, killing one of the kidnappers and forcing the others to abandon the abducted traditional ruler.
The district head was rescued unhurt and reunited with his family.
Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2 successfully repelled a terrorist attack on their position at Dauran in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

Military sources said reinforcement troops joined the battle, forcing the terrorists to retreat in disarray.
A subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 35 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, a bandolier and a hydration pack (CamelBak).
The military commended the courage, professionalism and resilience displayed by the troops as well as the support of other security agencies and local vigilantes during the operations.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist groups while working closely with local communities to improve security and protect lives and property across the North-West.
Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue District Head, Recover Arms in Katsina, Zamfara
News
MAJOR SETBACK FOR IBUSA AS COURT REFUSES EXECUTION ORDER, STRENGTHENS OGWASHI-UKU’S POSITION IN LAND BATTLE
MAJOR SETBACK FOR IBUSA AS COURT REFUSES EXECUTION ORDER, STRENGTHENS OGWASHI-UKU’S POSITION IN LAND BATTLE
The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, on behalf of the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, has recorded what community leaders have described as a significant legal victory in the long-running land dispute involving the Esemese Community of Ibusa.
In a ruling delivered on 15 June 2026 in Suit No. A/M/62/2015, the Delta State High Court, presided over by Hon. Justice Flora Ngozi Azinge, declined the principal application by the Esemese Community of Ibusa seeking an order for the execution of the judgment arising from the earlier litigation between the parties.
The applicants, through their counsel, Barrister P. U. Lotobi, had sought, among other reliefs, an order permitting the execution of the judgment and the substitution of several deceased parties to the proceedings. While the Court granted the applications relating to the substitution of deceased parties in the Esemese community, it declined the principal relief seeking an order of execution.
The Court also approved the substitution of the late HRM Obi Professor Chukwuka Okonjo with the present Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, who is represented in the proceedings by Chief Arthur Obi Okafor, SAN.
The ruling marks an important development in a dispute that has its origins in earlier litigation in Suit No. A/28/66.
According to the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, concerns had previously arisen over the interpretation of the litigation survey plan associated with the Supreme Court judgment. The Kingdom maintained that attempts had been made to rely on a survey plan that differed from the original litigation survey relied upon by the Court.
Following applications by the Ogwashi-Uku community before the Supreme Court, the Kingdom states that the Court restored the original litigation survey plan forming part of the earlier proceedings. In the present proceedings, the High Court further directed that a registered surveyor interpret the litigation survey plan.
Leaders of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom have welcomed the ruling, describing it as an important safeguard against what they contend were attempts to extend the earlier judgment beyond the land actually litigated.
Speaking after the ruling, the Chief of Aboh Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Barrister Jude Obidi, described the decision as a landmark development and that the boundary between Ogwashi-Uku and Ibusa remains at the Oboshi River.
According to him, the ruling reinforces the principle that court judgments must be enforced strictly within the boundaries of the land actually determined by the courts and not beyond them.
He further noted that the broader boundary dispute between Ogwashi-Uku and Ibusa remains pending before the Delta State High Court in a separate action instituted by the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku to determine the precise boundary between the two neighbouring communities.
Chief Obidi commended the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku for what he described as his steadfast commitment to protecting the territorial interests of the Kingdom through lawful means and the judicial process.
The latest ruling is expected to have significant implications for future attempts to enforce the earlier judgment pending the final determination of the boundary dispute between both communities. With this ruling, the claims by Ibusa for the areas around Admiralty University have been thrown into serious doubt.
The Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku through the Chief of Staff to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Prince Onyema Okonjo when contacted welcomed the rejection of the request by the Ibusa community by the Delta State High Court in Ogwashi-Uku but also maintained that the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku reserves the right to seek appellate review of any portion of the ruling it wasn’t happy with. He also cautioned members of the Ibusa community from resorting to self help in using thugs and attempting to enter Ogwashi-Uku land any further to make illegal claims outside any court approved enforcement.
MAJOR SETBACK FOR IBUSA AS COURT REFUSES EXECUTION ORDER, STRENGTHENS OGWASHI-UKU’S POSITION IN LAND BATTLE
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