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    Gov. Yahaya Bello, upgrade Mount Patti

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    Kogi state, located at the heart of Nigeria, is endowed with a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Among the many treasures it holds, Mount Patti stands out as a captivating gem, revered for its captivating landscapes, historical significance, and immense potential for tourism.

    Mount Patti is located in the confluence of the Rivers Niger and Benue. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by many ethnic communities and was previously a centre for trade. Lokoja is the first administrative capital of modern day Nigeria.

    Mount is the short form for mountain and Patti means hill in Nupe language. Therefore, it means mountain hill. Nupe is spoken by the Nupe tribe across Kogi, Niger and Kwara states for centuries.

    The view from the top of Mount Patti is a wonderful sight to behold. The confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue can be seen from the top of the mountain. The two rivers meet in a colourful Y shape with the brownish River Niger and green River Benue. It is one of Nigeria’s most beautiful natural wonders.

    Mount Patti is increasingly becoming a prominent tourist destination in Kogi state. Tourists can explore the hill, take part in trekking adventures, and immerse themselves in the local culture. The lush environment and pleasant climate make it an ideal place for picnics and leisurely outings. The view from the hill’s summit is truly mesmerising, offering a unique perspective on the confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue, a geographical point known as the “Confluence City.”

    The conservation and preservation of Mount Patti’s natural beauty and historical heritage are of paramount importance. Local and state authorities, in collaboration with environmental organisations, have taken steps to protect the hill’s ecosystem and promote responsible tourism. These efforts ensure that Mount Patti can continue to enchant generations to come.

    Mount Patti, in Kogi state, Nigeria, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and cultural significance. This enigmatic hill beckons to explorers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of adventure, heritage, and breathtaking views. Its importance extends beyond being just a geographical feature; it symbolises the essence of Kogi state’s cultural diversity and the legacy of its historical past.

    Mount Patti has a challenge of infrastructure which is the reason mount Patti is not fully utilised, but by building and providing adequate utilities, it can assist and aid the place to function as a tourist center.
    Mount Patti can be used as a place of tourism, but this can be achieved through the effort and dedication of government towards the enhancement of the Mount Patti.

    I, therefore, appeal to Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state to upgrade Mount Patti to become a prominent place of tourism in order to improve the economy of the state and the country at large.

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    Mac Folly MD Chike Ogeah Calls for National Tourism Masterplan to Boost Nigeria’s Hospitality Sector

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    Chike Ogeah tourism masterplan Nigeria

    Chike Ogeah, MD of Mac Folly Hospitality, has urged the Nigerian government to develop a comprehensive tourism masterplan to drive economic growth and elevate the nation’s tourism potential.

     

     

    Chike Ogeah, the managing director of Mac Folly Hospitality, has emphasised the need for a national tourism masterplan to unlock Nigeria’s tourism potential.

    Ogeah highlighted how a well-structured plan could transform the hospitality sector by capitalising on the nation’s natural attractions, such as the Ikogosi Warm Springs and Jankari Game Reserve.

     

    Also read: Lagos, NATOP Join forces to showcase tourism at world travel market

     

    Ogeah, formerly with Skyway Aviation Holding Company Limited (SAHCO), suggested that a partnership between government and private enterprises would enhance tourism sites by integrating top-tier hospitality services.

    Citing the Sun City model in South Africa, he proposed establishing major hospitality brands alongside key tourist sites to enhance visitor experiences.

    Emphasising Mac Folly’s commitment to growth, Ogeah shared plans to expand with two additional hotels in Lagos and Abuja, despite rising diesel prices and other operational challenges.

    This, he noted, would contribute to Nigeria’s hospitality landscape, with Marriot’s involvement aimed at elevating service standards and capacity.

    A national tourism masterplan could pave the way for more organised private sector partnerships and targeted government investments, driving Nigeria’s economic growth and job creation potential through tourism.

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    Julius Agenmonmen foundation launches first medical outreach in Nigeria, transforming lives in Edo, Delta

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    Julius Agenmonmen Foundation medical outreach

    The Julius Agenmonmen Foundation launched its first medical outreach in Edo and Delta, offering essential healthcare services to over 2,000 residents.

     

     

    The Julius Agenmonmen Foundation (JAF) has successfully launched its first community medical outreach, providing critical healthcare services to over 2,000 residents in Ubulu-Uku, Delta State, and Uromi, Edo State.

    The outreach, conducted from 13–17 September in partnership with Zuri Health, included comprehensive services such as dental and eye care, laboratory testing, general consultations, and pharmacy support.

     

    Also read: Nigerians spend $2.38m on foreign healthcare services in first half of 2024

     

    In an interview, co-founder Dr Uche Agenmonmen highlighted the importance of this outreach in addressing healthcare needs for those who often lack access to essential medical services.

    “We are reaching those in our society who don’t have access to quality healthcare. Focusing on eye care, we aim to help people enjoy good vision throughout their lives, preventing blindness in these communities,” she said.

    JAF, a non-profit established by Julius Agenmonmen and Dr Uche Agenmonmen, is committed to improving healthcare accessibility across underserved areas of Nigeria.

    The foundation’s mission took root after Julius Agenmonmen pledged during his 60th birthday to give back by improving healthcare services in local communities.

    In April 2023, this pledge led to the donation of advanced eye diagnostic equipment to St. Camillus Hospital in Uromi, where Julius was born, symbolising his journey of giving back.

    By December 2023, the foundation’s contributions had benefited over 1,000 patients, significantly impacting eye care access for the Esan community and surrounding regions.

    Reflecting on the outreach, Julius Agenmonmen expressed his deep gratitude and desire to support those less fortunate. “Last year, my wife and I founded the Julius Agenmonmen Foundation to give back to society.

    Having faced health challenges myself, I was blessed to have resources for treatment. We wanted to thank God for our blessings, and we knew that helping the underserved was the best way to do so,” he shared.

    The foundation plans to expand its reach, ensuring accessible and high-quality healthcare for more people in need across Nigeria.

    Through JAF’s ongoing initiatives, the foundation aims to bridge the healthcare gap in underserved communities, providing residents with vital resources to enhance their well-being.

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    Renovation of Ibadan’s iconic Cocoa House marks a new chapter for Nigeria’s first skyscraper

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    Cocoa House renovation Ibadan

    Cocoa House in Ibadan has undergone its first major renovation in 59 years, symbolising a renewed commitment to preserving Nigerian heritage.

     

     

    Ibadan’s historic Cocoa House, Nigeria’s first skyscraper, has undergone its first renovation in nearly six decades, a project marked as a significant milestone in the legacy of the landmark.

    The revitalised structure, located in Oyo State, was officially commissioned on Thursday, featuring a redesigned reception area, an upgraded car park, and enhanced surroundings.

     

    Also read: Leboku Festival: Gov Otu reiterates commitment to boost tourism ecosystem

     

    Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Chief of Staff Segun Ogunwuyi at the ceremony, expressed his administration’s dedication to initiatives that honour the South-West region’s legacy.

    “We must continue to uplift the legacies of our predecessors and foster progress through collaborative efforts. This building is a testament to our shared heritage and economic potential, and its renovation is a symbol of both our past achievements and our future aspirations,” Makinde said.

    Odu’a Investment Company Limited (OICL), led by Chairman Bimbo Ashiru, oversaw the renovations as part of its commitment to preserving the region’s heritage.

    Speaking at the event, Ashiru described Cocoa House as a symbol of Western Nigeria’s economic resilience and noted that the renovations, including the addition of a modern office space on the 21st floor, would ensure its relevance in a changing landscape.

    “Today, as we stand before this historic edifice, we are reminded of the importance of honouring our past while building for the future,” Ashiru stated.

    Cocoa House, originally completed in 1965, represents the economic vision of the region’s founding fathers, built from revenues generated by Nigeria’s once-thriving cocoa industry.

    The building’s modernisation preserves this symbol of agricultural and economic success, emphasised by OICL’s Group Managing Director, Abdulrahman Yinusa. He noted, “As Nigeria’s first skyscraper, Cocoa House is intertwined with the success of the agricultural sector, particularly cocoa, which was once the backbone of our economy.

    This commissioning represents our commitment to ensuring that Cocoa House remains a place of pride and a functional space for future generations.”

    The renovation ceremony attracted dignitaries from across the South-West, including representatives of the five state governors and the Chairman of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission, Seye Oyeleye.

    These leaders joined to celebrate Cocoa House’s renewal, signalling a shared vision of preserving history while adapting for future growth.

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