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Woodhall Capital unveils UAE-Nigeria investors’ forum

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4 months ago

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Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are eagerly making plans to explore the limitless business opportunities present in both countries.
This was the talking point at an exclusive business forum organised by Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates in Lagos and the leading financial advisory firm in Nigeria, Woodhall Capital, at the prestigious Lagos Continental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, recently.
Themed “UAE-Nigeria: Investors’ 1st Meeting”, the objective of the forum was to create a platform for the government of the UAE to meet with top and carefully selected members of the Nigerian business community.
The founder of Woodhall Capital, Moji Hunponu-Wusu, revealed to the top business leaders that the government of The UAE believes in Africa and is willing to continue supporting the continent.
“Woodhall Capital is a financial services firm, which raises international funding for banks, corporates and governments. We set up in 2014 and the story of why we’re here began in 2020, when we took the leap to open an office in Dubai.
“And the reason why we thought we should pull you into what we feel has been a monumental leap in the history of Woodhall Capital is what happened after we decided we were going to open in Dubai. I was reluctant because I’m European-based; I grew up in Europe.
“We then decided at one point during COVID-19 to set up in Dubai, and just look at what it has taken us—four years under that; we raised just under half a billion dollars from the support that Dubai and Middle East banks have given to Woodhall Capital, believing in this Africa that so often the rest of the world has pulled out on. As a matter of fact, we closed a $150 million transaction last Friday with a corporate here in Nigeria.
“The UAE government has decided that it would collaborate, not only with Woodhall Capital, but they are looking for captains of industry. And when we were given the brief to put this forum together, they wanted to show that if they can collaborate with us, they’re willing to have discussions not only with us, but they are also interested in the clients we represent,” she stated.
While adding that the forum is an avenue for an open discussion about the best of Nigeria and Africa, Hunponu-Wusu also announced that the UAE government has welcomed the firm to open in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE.
In his speech, the Consul General of the UAE in Lagos, His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Al Mandoos, revealed that Nigeria is a key West African country with many opportunities and challenges.
“I firmly believe that with the esteemed individuals gathered here today, we have an opportunity to accomplish significant achievements for both the UAE and Nigeria. Our vision is to engage with Nigeria and explore how we can contribute further to the growth and development of both countries,” Dr. Al Mandoos stated.
The Consulate General of the UAE in Lagos also stated that its government has prioritised humanitarian activities and attracting FDI (Foreign Direct Investment). It has also identified Nigeria as a key and strategic partner because of esteemed investors like yourselves and several investment indicators, thus making the Consulate in Lagos and the Embassy in Abuja an extension of this objective.”
While, the Consulate General is the official contact point assigned by the UAE government to help carry out its activities in Lagos, Nigeria, which include economic, cultural and humanitarian endeavours. However, it was emphasised that the consulate is also tasked with facilitating investment between Lagos- Nigeria and the UAE.
While outlining reasons the UAE should be the preferred investment destination, it was mentioned that the UAE has a very strategic geographical location with access to over 200 cities, more than 400 direct shipping lines for import and export, and top-notch infrastructure.
“The UAE is also the first in the region to achieve macroeconomic stability, earning an Aa2 Moody’s rating. This became more evident in 2022, when we attracted over $20 billion in terms of FDI” he said.
During the open discussion, the industry leaders as well as Woodhall Capital were given the opportunity to present their capabilities, their concerns and deliberations on how they would want the Consulate General of the UAE in Lagos to support the establishment and operations of their businesses in the UAE.
In his words, the founder of A2Energy Limited, Abdul Abiola, believed that the forum provided a platform for the exchange of ideas from masters in different industries, and that the UAE’s partnership with Nigerian businesses would go a long way in fostering innovations useful to both countries.
“We focus on clean energy and our goal is to accommodate innovation for energy transition. For Africa to grow, we need energy, and as much as we’re still focusing on fossil fuels, climate change is real. For A2Energy, our focus is on how we can develop innovation for the growth of Africa, and coming to this event has been really exciting because we’ve received different ideas from different counterparts from different industries to unlock investments,” he added.
Akinsola Akeredolu-Ale, Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange (LCFE), believed that the efforts of the Nigerian government in attracting investments into the country are beginning to bear fruit.
“Market infrastructure, where we operate, is a particular sector of the market that allows you to use templates and mediums for people to engage in trades with each other, which is called a commodity exchange; and that’s why we are here today.
“What the UAE delegates have been able to do underscores the fact that some of the roadshows the federal government has held are bearing fruit now, and they are coming home to establish that the UAE is ready to do business with Nigeria. They have a consulate and embassy that handle their economic affairs here.
“I’m happy to be part of this conversation because for the market infrastructure that creates enablement for capital mobilisation, particularly in the agricultural and solid minerals sectors, we’ve been able to move the conversation to a very high level today,” Akeredolu-Ale emphasised.
For Woodhall Capital, having benefited so much from establishing its roots in Dubai by telling the African story to the international community, Nigerian businesses can dare and be bold enough to set up in the financial markets of the world, connecting the world to Nigerian captains of industry with integrity as its primary objective.
“We proudly say to the world that there are Nigerians we can showcase—Nigerians with integrity and serious about doing business. And that there are global captains of industry emerging from the continent of Africa, and particularly my home country, Nigeria,” Hunponu-Wusu announced.
The resumption of Emirates Airline’s daily flights in and out of Nigeria is further evidence that the business communities of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are ready and willing to explore the limitless business opportunities present in both countries.

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Audullahi Saheed Mosadoluwa: Visionary Leader Redefining Real Estate, Community Development

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3 days ago

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January 27, 2025

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Hon. (Dr.) Audullahi Saheed Mosadoluwa, fondly known as “Mr. Ibile,” embodies the spirit of innovation, resilience, and purpose. His journey from a young entrepreneur to one of Nigeria’s most revered real estate developers is an inspiring testament to visionary leadership and a deep commitment to societal transformation.
Born into an entrepreneurial family, Mosadoluwa developed a sharp business acumen at an early age, a foundation that set the stage for his remarkable career. His ambition and forward-thinking approach eventually led him to establish Harmony Gardens and Estate Development Limited, a company now synonymous with excellence and innovation in Nigeria’s real estate sector.
Under his guidance, Harmony Gardens has flourished into a household name, delivering projects that cater to both luxury seekers and everyday Nigerians. One of the company’s standout developments, the Lekki Aviation Town Estate, is a masterfully designed residential hub strategically located near the upcoming Lekki-Epe International Airport. Spanning over 1,400 hectares, this ambitious project offers state-of-the-art amenities and positions Harmony Gardens as a key player in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit.
In addition to Lekki Aviation Town, Harmony Gardens boasts other groundbreaking projects such as HarmonyVille Estate, CrestView Estate, and Granville by Harmony. Each of these developments is a testament to Mosadoluwa’s dedication to creating inclusive, sustainable communities that elevate the living standards of Nigerians.
Recently, Mosadoluwa expanded his influence by launching Ibile Holdings Global Limited, a new venture focused on optimizing construction practices and property management in Nigeria. This move underscores his commitment to diversifying the economy, creating jobs, and setting new benchmarks in quality and efficiency.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Mosadoluwa is a devoted philanthropist. He has funded scholarships for underprivileged students, supported affordable housing initiatives for low-income families, and spearheaded free healthcare outreach programs in underserved communities. His generosity and advocacy for equity have touched countless lives, solidifying his reputation as a compassionate leader who prioritizes people over profit.
Mosadoluwa’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades, including an Honorary Doctorate from the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management & Politics (CIPRMP), Ghana, for his efforts in democracy, education, and affordable housing. His leadership and advocacy have also earned him the Outstanding Real Estate Leader Award and the Pan-African Housing Leadership Award.
While his journey has not been without challenges, including allegations of land disputes that he has consistently addressed through legal channels, Mosadoluwa remains steadfast in his mission to operate transparently and uphold ethical standards in the real estate industry.
Looking ahead, Mosadoluwa envisions a Nigeria where housing is accessible to all. With ambitious plans to build over 750,000 affordable homes by 2030 and attract foreign investments into the country’s housing sector, he is committed to driving sustainable development and economic growth.
Hon. (Dr.) Audullahi Saheed Mosadoluwa is more than a businessman—he is a visionary leader, a philanthropist, and a symbol of hope for countless Nigerians. Through his groundbreaking projects, unwavering dedication to ethical practices, and relentless pursuit of excellence, he continues to inspire and transform lives across the nation.
-Written by Sunday Adebayo

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Oil Tycoon, Wale Tinubu, Begins the New Year with Positive Momentum

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1 week ago

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January 23, 2025

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Oil tycoon and highflying businessman, Jubril Adewale Tinubu, has started the year 2025 on a very good and brighter note as he has just led Oando to secure a major oil block in Angola.

The  integrated energy solutions provider this week secured a major win by emerging as the operator of Angola’s Kwanza Basin Block KON 13.

This milestone marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to increase its oil production capacity to 100,000 barrels per day as part of its broader global expansion plans.

Over the weekend, the National Agency for Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels (ANPG), Angola’s upstream petroleum regulator, announced the results of the Limited Public Tender for Block KON 13, located in the Kwanza Onshore Basin.

The tender process began on May 24, 2024, with bidding held on September 3, 2024.

According to ANPG, Oando Energy has been designated the operator with a 45 percent stake in the block.

An additional 10 percent interest remains available for non-operating companies, to be awarded through a restricted competition involving unsuccessful bidders from the operator selection round.

The Angolan regulator stated that the bid process adhered to the requirements outlined in Presidential Decree No. 86/18, which governs criteria for financial and technical capacity for operators and financial capability for non-operators.

Oando’s success in Angola reflects its decade-long ambition to establish a presence in the country’s hydrocarbon sector.

In 2014, Tinubu revealed that Oando had signed joint ventures in Angola and Mozambique. However, financial challenges over the years cast doubt on the company’s ability to sustain its pan-African vision.

That narrative shifted with Oando’s recent acquisition of 100 percent ownership of Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited (NAOC Ltd) from Eni S.p.A., an Italian oil giant.

This acquisition increased Oando’s stake in four key oil mining leases —OMLs 60, 61, 62, and 63—from 20 percent to 40 percent.

Oando has outlined plans to enhance output through new drilling projects and improved security measures.

The acquisition has also bolstered investor confidence, with a notable rise in the company’s share price and market value.

Definitely, it is not too early to conclude that the world the world class serial investor  has achieved prompt success and  positive developments, while setting a favourable tone for the rest of the year.

 

 

 

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Nigerian born, Serumu Igberadja, Makes history, assumes  office as IVETA President

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3 weeks ago

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January 11, 2025

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Nigerian born Serumu Igberadja has  made his history as he assumed office as   President of the International Vocational Education and Training Association (IVETA) USA.  Igberadja who was  also the former Vice President of IVETA  East and West Africa, and the CEO of Think TVET Global Consult and Edu Tour Global Limited assumed office January 1st 2025.

With his assumption as the president  of IVETA he becomes the first from West Africa to assumed such position.

The Delta State born is also the Director of International Relations and Business Development at Whitecloud TVET Solutions Ltd.

Igberadja who has  Bachelor of Science  (Ed) and M.Sc in Technical Education and Industrial Technology respectively is a youth leader and a community development advocate who  has special interest in good governance, non-violence, community development, quality education, vocational skills development, sustainable livelihood, and economic development.

Igberadja  is also an Alumnus of the Prestigious International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) of the United States Department of State Bureau for Educational and Cultural Affairs.

He has an interest in contributing his expertise to the growth and development of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for sustainable development across the globe. He is a member of the UNESCO UNEVOC Forum and Skillman International Forum (SIF) Italy. As well, an Assistant Journalist in the Lucubrate Magazine and the Coordinator for the Lucubrate Project Nigeria.

Serumu Igberadja has facilitated several workshops, conferences, and partnerships to promote and advance TVET for sustainable livelihood and development. Notable partnerships with  Lucubrate NKB Norway and University of Nigeria Nsukka(UNN), IVETA and National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), IVETA and UNN UNEVOC Centre, IVETA and Ese Odo Local Government Council, and Linkages with TVET Equipment Manufacturers in Europe, Asia, and America such as Delorenzo Italy, Labtech International, Tesca India, Lucas-Nülle Germany, Lexsolar Germany, and Edibon Spain.

He has featured as Keynote Speaker in several TVET and Youth Development Workshops and Conferences, his recent outing was his participation as Moderator for   ‘Socio Professional Integration in TVET’ at the 2022 WorldSkills Africa Conference held at Swakopmund Namibia organised by the Namibia Training Authority, Keynote Speaker at the 2022 IVETA Las Vegas Conference, the US Africa Institute side event of the 2023 US Africa Leaders’ Summit Washington DC, Official Observer at Worldskills Lyon.

He is expected to rule over  the affairs of IVETA for the next 12 months.

 

During his inaugural speech he promised to enhance global TVET systems by promoting collaboration, sharing best practices, and addressing diverse needs to create impactful, sustainable outcomes. While he also highlighted his strategic priorities for IVETA in the next one year, such as Global Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with governments, institutions, industries, and global organizations like UNESCO, ILO, and World Bank to drive TVET advancements worldwide, Quality Improvement: Enhancing TVET programs to prepare graduates for the global workforce, focusing on teacher training, student outcomes, and institutional excellence.

  1. Advocacy and Awareness: Promoting positive perceptions of TVET through targeted campaigns, workshops, and community engagement across all regions.
  2. Resource Mobilization: Securing grants and funding to support initiatives that benefit diverse member regions.
  3. Governance and Representation: Ensuring balanced regional representation, strong governance, and efficient resource management to align with IVETA’s mission.

 

IVETA is a network of vocational educators. Its  network includes vocational skills training organisations, business and industrial firms, and individuals and groups interested or involved in vocational education and training worldwide.

It is dedicated to the advancement and improvement of high-quality vocational education and training throughout the world.

 

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