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BREAKING NEWS: Group Chair of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu urges African govts to improve infrastructure development

Published

6 months ago

August 1, 2025

Prominent African businessman and philanthropist, and Group Chair of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, has called on African governments and private sector leaders to prioritise resilient infrastructure, human capital development, and green assets to drive the continent’s economic growth.

Elumelu, who also Chairs UBA and Transcorp, made this call in his keynote address at the African Caucus Meeting in Bangui, Central African Republic. His address was made available to The PUNCH in Lagos.

According to Elumelu, Africa’s infrastructure gap is a major obstacle to the continent’s progress. He emphasised the need for African governments to strengthen their fiscal capacity, drive efficiency, and unlock innovative financing to bridge this gap. “We cannot achieve prosperity without the foundations of modern development,” he said.

Elumelu also highlighted the importance of energy access in driving Africa’s industrialisation and economic growth. He noted that up to 70 per cent of Africans lack electricity, and that his home country, Nigeria, generates less than 7,000 megawatts for over 200 million people.

“If we are to industrialise, create jobs, and participate meaningfully in the global AI revolution, we must invest aggressively in energy — from renewables to cleaner gas-based solutions,” he said.

Through his company, Heirs Holdings, Elumelu’s investments in Transcorp and Heirs Energies are working to solve Africa’s energy challenge. “We are generating power, exporting it through the West African Power Pool, and using gas from our oil operations to power our plants,” he explained. This, he said, is an example of Africapitalism in action — private capital solving public challenges.

Elumelu also emphasised the importance of investing in Africa’s youth. “No resource is more valuable than our people — especially our youth,” he said. Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, he has empowered over 24,000 young entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries, trained 1.5 million youth, and catalysed 1.2 million jobs.

In his call to action, Elumelu urged African leaders to take responsibility for the continent’s development. “Africa’s development is our responsibility. No one else will do it for us,” he said.

He also emphasised the need to prioritise energy and invest in youth. “Power is everything. No industrial revolution can happen without electricity. We must prioritise energy. Without power, there can be no progress,” he said.

Elumelu commended the growing focus of global institutions on Africa and applauded initiatives such as the IMF’s Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth and the World Bank’s “Mission 300” initiative to connect 300 million Africans to power.

In conclusion, Elumelu said, “Africa is ready. Let’s seize this moment — and build the prosperous, empowered continent our people deserve.” With the right investments in infrastructure, human capital, and green assets, Africa can unlock its full potential and drive economic growth and development.

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Politics

Say Goodbye To These Diseases By Eating Sugarcane Regularly

Published

3 months ago

October 21, 2025

Naijacoaded

Say Goodbye To These Diseases By Eating Sugarcane Regularly

Sugarcane is often enjoyed as a sweet, refreshing treat, especially on hot days.

But beyond its natural sweetness, sugarcane is packed with nutrients and health benefits that can help your body fight off and even prevent several diseases.

Eating sugarcane regularly—or drinking its fresh juice—can be a simple, natural way to boost your health and say goodbye to some common illnesses.

One of the biggest benefits of sugarcane is its ability to support liver health.

Sugarcane juice is a natural detoxifier, helping to flush out harmful toxins from the liver and bloodstream.

It’s especially beneficial for people suffering from jaundice, as it helps restore the liver’s function and maintain the right levels of electrolytes in the body.

Regular consumption can keep your liver healthy and improve digestion.

Sugarcane is also a great friend to your digestive system.

It contains potassium and natural fiber, which help prevent constipation, bloating, and stomach acidity.

Drinking sugarcane juice after meals can improve bowel movements and support the growth of good gut bacteria, making your digestive system stronger and more balanced over time.

Another major health benefit is its positive effect on the kidneys and urinary system.

Sugarcane juice acts as a natural diuretic, encouraging urine flow and helping to keep your kidneys clean.

This can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

It also helps maintain proper hydration, which is crucial for kidney function.

For those concerned about infections and low immunity, sugarcane offers a natural boost.

It is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which fight free radicals and strengthen the immune system.

This can help your body ward off infections like colds, flu, and fever.

Lastly, sugarcane supports healthy skin and prevents acne.

Its detoxifying properties clear impurities from the blood, leading to a clearer, glowing complexion over time.

In short, sugarcane is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a natural medicine.

By eating sugarcane regularly or drinking its fresh juice, you can protect your liver, boost digestion, improve kidney health, strengthen immunity, and even achieve healthier skin.

It’s a simple, affordable, and tasty way to say goodbye to several common diseases naturally.

Lifestyle

What Your Urine Color Says About Your Kidney Health

Published

3 months ago

October 21, 2025

Naijacoaded

What Your Urine Color Says About Your Kidney Health

The color of your urine can tell a lot about your kidney health and overall well-being. It is often the first sign that something may be off in your body. Paying attention to it can help you catch problems early.

Clear or light yellow urine is usually a good sign. It means you are well-hydrated, and your kidneys are working properly to filter waste. Drinking plenty of water often leads to this healthy color.

Dark yellow or amber urine may indicate dehydration. Your kidneys are concentrating urine to save water. Drinking more water usually helps return it to a lighter color. However, some vitamins and supplements can also darken urine.

Orange or brown urine can be a warning. It may be caused by certain foods, medications, or liver problems. It can also indicate bile buildup or a kidney issue. If it persists, seeing a doctor is important.

Red or pink urine can be alarming. Sometimes it is caused by eating beets or berries, but it can also indicate blood in the urine. This could result from kidney stones, infections, or more serious kidney problems. Immediate medical attention is advised.

Foamy or bubbly urine may indicate protein in the urine. This can be a sign of kidney damage. Persistent foaminess should not be ignored.

Very dark, almost black urine is rare but serious. It may suggest severe dehydration, liver problems, or a rare kidney disorder. Urgent medical evaluation is needed.

In summary, normal urine color ranges from pale yellow to light amber. Changes in color, especially if persistent, should not be ignored. Monitoring your urine and staying hydrated helps maintain kidney health. If unusual colors continue, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.