WACT-APM Names First Nigerian MD in International Expansion

The WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria has revealed the selection of Courage Obadagbonyi as Chief Executive Officer, starting from 1 July, replacing Jeethu Jose and marking him as the inaugural native Nigerian to hold this role.

In a message released on Monday, the company revealed that the selection highlights the organization's ongoing commitment to cultivating robust leadership from across its international workforce, while maintaining consistent expansion and high standards of performance.

The declaration stated that, having worked as an experienced leader with more than 20 years of global expertise, Obadagbonyi has occupied managerial positions in areas such as finance, operations, and overall administration within prominent multinational companies like APM Terminals, General Electric, and Lafarge. Prior to his current role, he was the Chief Financial Officer for the APM Terminals Nigeria group, overseeing financial planning throughout Nigeria and San Pedro, Ivory Coast.

"He additionally held an interim role as Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa from 2025 until March 2026, enhancing his background in operational leadership. Having worked across industries including oil and gas, power production, transportation, and health care, Obadagbonyi offers significant knowledge in fiscal management, risk improvement, and corporate efficiency," the statement noted.

Commenting on his new position, Obadagbonyi stated, "I am eager to build upon the solid base currently established at WACT. The terminal serves an essential function in linking companies in Eastern Nigeria with international markets, and we remain committed to maintaining secure, dependable, and effective operations."

The CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, stated that this appointment highlights the company's dedication to nurturing leadership and ensuring sustained expansion.

"Throughout APM Terminals worldwide, we observe robust cooperation and employee advancement among our teams. This new role highlights the level of experience present within our company and the ongoing commitment to developing skills that drive long-term growth. Nigerians have consistently showcased outstanding work and leadership abilities. Team members from our Apapa and Onne ports have shared their knowledge on an international scale while also introducing effective methods to enhance activities in Nigeria," Klinke stated.

He mentioned that Obadagbonyi's background will aid the upcoming stage of operational efficiency and value provision at WACT.

In the meantime, the departing Managing Director, Jeethu Jose, stated, "It was an honor to head WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria through a time of significant development. The group has created a solid foundation for what lies ahead, and I have faith in the ongoing achievements of the company."

The West Africa Container Terminal operated by APM Terminals located in Onne, Rivers State, stands among Nigeria's top container facilities since starting full-scale operations in 2006. The firm keeps investing in increasing capacity and updating infrastructure, such as a $115 million terminal enhancement initiative introduced in 2020. This improvement involves installing refrigerated units capable of handling 600 plugs, expanding the existing storage area, building a new maintenance facility, implementing an advanced automated entry system, upgrading office spaces, and integrating cutting-edge technological solutions. Such efforts have improved operational effectiveness, boosted customer support quality, and solidified WACT's position as a key hub for commerce outside of Lagos.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

APC Hails Bayelsa Governor for New Secretariat Launch

The governor of Bayelsa State, Duoye Diri, has launched a highly advanced headquarters for the state branch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yenagoa.

Diri referred to the building as the "unitary headquarters," noting that it gathered essential party members under one roof for the first time in several years.

He thanked individuals who, despite losing in the latest party primary elections, continued to support the group, referring to them as the champions of the APC in Bayelsa.

Diri emphasized the significance of faithfulness in political affairs, pointing out that without supporters firmly backing him, he could not effectively guide the party.

He stated, "I believe it's important for everyone to know that no one should feel excluded since no one attempted to take over the party. Those who didn’t win in the previous primary elections are the true heroes of this party because there were neither winners nor losers. The sole victor is the APC."

We aim to maintain this gathering as robust as possible to achieve the unity essential for success. Roles represent chances and benefits meant to uplift individuals. Leading differs from being followed.

Keep asking for blessings, and you shall receive them soon. The APC in Bayelsa is more inclusive compared to other parties, as demonstrated during the recent primary elections.

This newly established secretariat is our home, and all matters we face will be addressed here. We are pleased that the party now has an environment suitable for working efficiently to boost output.

Following the inauguration, during a stakeholders' meeting, prominent figures from the party, such as the state APC chairperson, Warman Ogoriba, expressed gratitude to Diri for providing an appropriate facility on behalf of the stakeholders and members of the state working committee.

Ogoriba stated, "This is the top political party headquarters in the nation; it will enhance our party's solidarity and encourage supporters to strive for APC's success in the 2027 national elections."

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, praised Diri's outstanding leadership skills, noting that they brought together the party within the state.

He pledged to candidates from his party, especially within his Bayelsa West senatorial area, that they would win the 2027 elections, stating that certain lawmakers from other parties will step down following the vote.

Additionally, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, stated that the newly united APC group in the state is progressing rapidly, urging "those on the opposite side" to come together with the party to advance the state and nation.

Several other interested parties, such as Senator Konbowei Benson from Bayelsa Central, the representative of Sagbama Constituency 3 in the House of Assembly, Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown, and the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, Prince Ebitimi Amgbare, individually thanked the governor for the secretariat and the cohesion within the party, showing confidence that the APC will win in 2027 throughout the state.

During his speech, the Bayelsa state leader praised the solidarity between members, highlighting that the party's power came from collaboration.

Conveying a positive message, former NDDC Managing Director Chief Ndutimi Aliabe stated that he has returned to the APC and expressed gratitude to Diri for his leadership and progress within the state.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

Heirs Energies Launches Real-Time Digital Monitoring in OML 17

The Heirs Energies OML 17 Joint Venture, working together with Redtech, has introduced its Integrated Operations Monitoring Centre, a cutting-edge digital operations center aimed at changing how upstream assets are observed, controlled, and enhanced.

As per the company, the initiation represents a major achievement in the partnership's dedication to outstanding operations, creativity, and tech-based efficiency through consolidating operational insights, production tracking, safety monitoring, hydrocarbon removal, infrastructure effectiveness, and essential equipment information within one unified system.

In a press release, the firm mentioned that the control center, created as part of a partnership involving Heirs Energies—owner of OML 17—and Redtech, the tech firm under the Heirs Holdings Group, signifies the merging of energy knowledge with digital advancement. This aims to facilitate quicker decisions, better teamwork, and enhanced oversight throughout OML 17.

At the event's launch, Osa Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, stated that the center will offer immediate insight into the company's activities and enhance productivity.

"The future of early-stage activities will be shaped by information, advancements in technology, and smart choices. The Centralized Operational Surveillance Hub offers us an immediate overview of our facilities, allowing for faster decisions, better teamwork, and increased work effectiveness. This highlights our dedication to applying new ideas to ensure safer, more efficient, and stronger processes within OML 17," stated the CEO.

As per the company, the Integrated Operations Monitoring Centre acts as the digital hub of the partnership by combining operational information from various systems onto one platform, which facilitates informed decisions, enhances productivity, ensures equipment reliability, and manages operational risks.

It mentioned that the center further enhances the protection of OML 17's distant assets via an intrusion detection and monitoring system, allowing for live tracking, prompt identification of potential threats, and quicker reaction to incidents at key sites and structures.

The company stated that in addition to real-time tracking, the center serves as a basis for upcoming features such as predictive analysis, remote management, AI-driven assistance systems, and enhanced operational efficiency.

The Managing Director and CEO of Redtech, Emmanuel Ojo, stated that the initiative highlights the role of technology in overcoming operational issues.

He stated, "At Redtech, we hold the belief that technology ought to streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and generate tangible business benefits. The IOMC showcases what can be achieved when digital advancements are integrated into industrial activities. In collaboration with Heirs Energies, we've developed a system that supports interconnected operations, smart surveillance, and quicker responses to operational needs. This serves as yet another illustration of how technology can boost efficiency and effectiveness within Africa's energy industry."

It was stated that following the takeover of OML 17 in 2021, Heirs Energies has enhanced one of Nigeria's most significant onshore properties using its Brownfield Excellence approach, boosting crude output beyond 50,000 barrels daily while extending local natural gas availability to more than 135 million standard cubic feet each day and enhancing system dependability.

As per the company, the introduction of the Integrated Operations Monitoring Center marks the subsequent stage of this change by integrating digital skills into the core of on-site activities and highlighting the partnership's dedication to secure, effective, and tech-driven energy generation.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

Venezuela Earthquake Deaths Surpass 2,000 Amid Ongoing Crisis

July 2 - Pakistan: The number of fatalities caused by the severe earthquake in Venezuela, which occurred last week, has increased to 2,295, with search and rescue operations still ongoing to find those who may be alive. Thousands more individuals have either been hurt or are unaccounted for, and aid activities are continuing throughout the impacted areas.

As stated by Jorge Rodriguez, head of Venezuela's National Assembly, the count of those hurt or unaccounted for remains in the tens of thousands. The United Nations suggests that up to 6.8 million individuals could have been impacted by the catastrophe.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) stated that the city of La Guaira, situated north of the capital Caracas, was one of the most affected regions. The city is experiencing significant food scarcity, extensive destruction of critical infrastructure, and broad disruptions in communications.

Emergency crews are striving to provide food, potable water, medicinal materials, and additional aid. Nevertheless, impaired highways and facilities have complicated recovery and support efforts.

At the same time, the skies above Caracas took on a rich crimson hue at dusk, forming an intense image that captured global interest. Officials mentioned that search and recovery operations after the Venezuelan earthquake will persist as the nation strives to assist impacted areas.

U.S. Finalizes Deal for Permanent Embassy in Occupied Jerusalem

July 2 - Pakistan: The United States has finalized a deal to construct a lasting American embassy in occupied Jerusalem, representing yet another move towards increasing its diplomatic footprint in the contested city. The arrangement was officially unveiled at a gathering where high-ranking U.S. and Israeli representatives were present.

At the event, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced the land distribution deal for the upcoming embassy. During the ceremony, Huckabee stated that the United States acknowledges Jerusalem as the everlasting capital of the Jewish nation and intends to set up a long-term diplomatic facility there.

He mentioned that the new embassy will act as the primary hub for U.S. diplomatic activities in Israel, with the American flag being consistently displayed at the location. Israeli authorities expressed approval of the deal, calling it an indicator of the robust partnership shared by both nations.

As per the official statement, the long-term U.S. embassy located in the occupied area of Jerusalem will be established within the Allenby Complex in southern part of the occupied city. Nevertheless, this decision has faced disapproval from the Israeli civil liberties group Adalah, which claims that the initiative endorses what they refer to as an historical wrong.

Jerusalem continues to be among the most contested cities within the Israeli-Palestinian dispute. The Palestinians aim for East Jerusalem to serve as the capital of an upcoming Palestinian nation. In his initial presidential term, former U.S. leader Donald Trump acknowledged Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017 and directed the transfer of the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Leading Property Firm Rebrands for Global Expansion

The leading real estate company in Zimbabwe has formally changed its name to HSP Realty, abandoning its previous House of Stone Properties branding as part of an ambitious shift designed to expand into global property markets without losing its respected regional reputation.

The new branding, which takes effect right away, goes well beyond a superficial update.

As per the firm, this indicates a conscious shift to match the growing global real estate market, where investor trust and brand awareness go beyond country lines.

The simplified name aims to connect with various markets as the company increases its participation in real estate deals outside of Zimbabwe.

"Real estate's future is international," stated Leonita Mhishi, chief licensed property agent at HSP Realty.

Our new brand is briefer, more powerful, and easier to remember, symbolizing our growing global reach and dedication to exceptional service.

The company’s updated visual brand, showcasing bold red and golden hues, represents trust, luxury, quality, and possibility—values the organization claims will support its upcoming stage of expansion.

A major internal transformation underlies the new identity.

HSP Realty has improved its management frameworks, broadened its expertise, and upgraded its operational processes to serve both regional and global customers more effectively.

Collaborative alliances play a key role in the company's expansion path, especially in creating prospects for purchasers, vendors, financiers, and real estate builders.

The organization is presenting itself as an all-encompassing real estate service firm, integrating conventional brokering with support for investments and consulting services.

The company reassured clients that they need not be concerned about interruptions.

Every current agreement and active transaction will continue smoothly under the newly established HSP Realty brand.

"Although the name has changed, our promises remain the same," Mhishi said.

Based at 21 Harare Drive, Borrowdale, Harare, the company remains dedicated to serving customers with its energetic slogan: "SPOT IT. SEE IT. SECURE IT."

"This goes beyond a new brand identity; it represents a clear declaration of purpose," Mhishi mentioned.

Our aim is to establish a real estate firm that operates on an international scale while staying true to the principles that have established House of Stone Properties as a reliable brand in Zimbabwe.

Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

Pakistan Demands Release of 97 Prisoners in Exchange List Update

July 2, Pakistan – As per the bilateral agreement regarding consular access, Pakistan and India exchanged prisoner lists via diplomatic means on Wednesday. According to the agreement signed on May 21, 2008, both nations must share such lists annually on January 1st and July 1st. "The Government of Pakistan submitted a list containing 250 Indian detainees held in Pakistan (comprising 52 civilians and 198 fishermen) to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. At the same time, the Government of India shared a list of 439 Pakistani individuals or those presumed to be Pakistani detained in Indian prisons, which included 386 civilian prisoners and 53 fishermen," stated the Foreign Office spokesperson in an official news release. Furthermore, the government of India was encouraged to free and send back 97 Pakistani prisoners (including 64 civilians and 33 fishermen) who have finished their terms and whose citizenship has been verified. It was also mentioned that India should guarantee the protection, safety, and welfare of all Pakistani nationals or suspected Pakistani citizens waiting for release and repatriation. The Government of Pakistan requested prompt consular visits for all suspects identified as Pakistani to help confirm their nationalities quickly. The spokesperson emphasized that the Government of Pakistan will keep working towards the swift return of all imprisoned Pakistanis.