News
Dangote Industries Limited, again emerges as the most valuable brand in Nigeria for 7th time
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
For the seventh consecutive years, Dangote Industries Limited, has again emerged as most valuable brand in Nigeria, leading other top brands like MTN, Airtel, Access Bank, Globacom and many others.
KANO FOCUS reports that the latest report of the TOP 50 BRANDS NIGERIA® rankings, an annual celebration of the most influential and valuable brands in the country, revealed this.
Dangote is immediately followed by MTN Nigeria, which not only ranks second overall but also emerged as the Most Popular Brand in the country for the year, according to the Top-of-Mind (TOM) survey. MTN’s strong consumer connection and widespread recognition highlight its significant impact on the telecommunications sector and beyond.
At the third place this year is Globacom Nigeria, a leading Nigerian multinational telecommunications company known for its innovative solutions and commitment to progress. Globacom’s consistent ranking among the top brands indicate its significant role in Nigeria’s digital and technological advancement. Airtel Nigeria, another key player in the telecommunications sector, secured the fourth position. Access Bank ranked in the fifth position, topping the Banking & Financial Services sector.
The organisers stated that: “This year’s list is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and enduring relevance of brands that continue to shape Nigeria’s economic, particularly in challenging times.
A significant highlight this year is that seven of the first 10 brands out of the 50 are Nigerian, emphasizing the resilience and global competitiveness of home-grown brands, most of which had spread abroad.
Additionally, it is impressive to note the consistency among the top brands, with seven of them maintaining their positions from last year. This stability reflects their continued relevance, strong market presence, and ability to navigate the complexities of the Nigerian business environment.
Nigerian brands account for 24 spots on the top brands list this year, while international brands hold 26 positions, representing 52% of the total.
The 2024 list also witnessed the entry of two new brands, these are Opay Nigeria and Flutterwave, which made their debut in the annual Top 50 evaluation. These new entrants highlight the growing influence of fintech and digital payment platforms in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
Notably, 14 brands maintained their positions from the previous year, reflecting their consistent performance and consumer trust.
Another set of notes in the presentation are the 10 Brands to Watch – These are vibrant and upcoming brands, who, though not among the 50 Top Brands yet, but with significant visibility and promises. This year, 9 of the 10 Brands to Watch are Nigerian.
During the public presentation, Taiwo Oluboyede, CEO of TOP 50 BRANDS NIGERIA®, commended the brands for their exceptional performance resilience, particularly in the face of the present economic challenges. “These brands deserve commendation, really, especially in times like this. The past year has been tough for many businesses, with some relocating out of Nigeria and others barely holding on. However, the majority of these brands have shown the resilient Naija spirit by weathering the storms and standing strong with positive projections into the future” He went on “As the saying goes, tough times never last, but tough people do. It’s in times like this that you differentiate between the boys and the men, as these brands have shown.” Concluded Oluboyede.
The 2024 TOP 50 BRANDS NIGERIA® list is a celebration of excellence, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of growth. As these brands continue to innovate and adapt, they set the standard for what it means to be a top brand in Nigeria. We look forward to witnessing their continued success and contribution to Nigeria’s economic development in the years to come.
Headlines
Kwankwasiyya movement raises concern over judicial rulings, urges NJC intervention
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kwankwasiyya Movement has expressed concern over what it described as a disturbing pattern of judicial pronouncements across Nigeria, calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to urgently intervene.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, the movement’s spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, cited a recent judgment delivered by Justice Bello Kawu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, in a matter involving the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) as part of a growing trend of controversial court rulings.
According to the statement, such developments are not isolated but reflect a broader pattern in which judicial actions appear to overstep constitutional boundaries, generate conflicting orders, and raise concerns about neutrality, due process, and adherence to the rule of law.
The movement noted that similar judicial interventions have occurred in the internal affairs of major political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC), often resulting in confusion, factional disputes, and weakened party structures.
It also expressed concern over what it described as a growing tendency for courts of coordinate jurisdiction to issue conflicting rulings on similar matters, entertain cases already under appellate review, and, in some instances, disregard principles of fair hearing and procedural integrity.
The statement warned that such trends could erode established legal doctrines, including stare decisis, thereby undermining the consistency and predictability of the legal system.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement further stated that the situation is fueling public perception that elements within the judiciary are being drawn into political contests, which could weaken confidence in the courts.
“This is a dangerous trajectory for any democracy, particularly in a country preparing for critical electoral contests,” the statement said.
The group warned that if the trend continues, it could erode trust in democratic institutions, escalate political tensions, and undermine the credibility of future elections.
It therefore called on opposition parties to unite in resisting what it described as any abuse of the judiciary aimed at undermining democratic opposition in the country.
The movement also urged stakeholders to explore lawful and peaceful measures, including engaging civil society, raising international awareness, and organising legitimate public protests where necessary.
It specifically called on the National Judicial Council to review and address concerns surrounding conflicting and controversial judicial decisions, while urging judicial officers to uphold professionalism, fairness, and due process.
The statement also cautioned political actors against resorting to forum shopping and judicial manipulation in resolving internal party disputes.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement reaffirmed its commitment to defending democratic values and advocating for a system where the rule of law prevails, justice is impartial, and the will of the people is respected.
Headlines
Kano Govt approves modified Sallah Durbar for Emir Sanusi
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Government has approved a modified Sallah durbar for the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, ahead of the forthcoming Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
KANO FOCUS reports that the approval was contained in a press statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on Tuesday.
According to the statement, the decision followed credible intelligence reports received through the State Security Council, indicating attempts by some individuals to create confusion and disrupt law and order during the festive period.
The government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, reiterated its commitment to preserving Kano’s rich cultural heritage but stressed that it would not compromise its constitutional responsibility to maintain peace and safeguard lives and property.
Following consultations with the Kano Emirate Council and other stakeholders, the government outlined specific arrangements for the celebrations.
It stated that the traditional Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) would be conducted by the Emir from the Kofar Mata Eid Praying Ground through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, terminating at Kofar Fatalwa within the Emir’s Palace.
The Hawan Nasarawa procession, the statement added, would take place in a modified form without the use of horses.
However, the government announced the suspension of Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau, and Hawan Dorayi, noting that they would be observed during subsequent Sallah celebrations.
The government directed all security agencies to intensify surveillance, ensure strict compliance with the directives, and take necessary measures to prevent any breach of peace before, during, and after the celebrations.
It also urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies, while cautioning against the spread of unverified information.
The government commended security agencies for their professionalism and dedication, assuring the public of its commitment to a peaceful and hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
It also extended best wishes to Muslims in the state for a peaceful and joyous Sallah celebration.
Headlines
FRSC deploys 1,889 personnel in Kano for Eid-el-Fitr operations
Bosede Olufunmi
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has deployed 1,889 personnel across Kano State to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhance safety during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
KANO FOCUS reports that the Kano Sector Commander, Idris Mohammed-Lawal, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by the corps’ Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Labaran.
According to the statement, the special patrol operations will run from Tuesday to Sunday, with the aim of reducing road crashes, fatalities, and injuries, while ensuring free flow of traffic across the state.
Mohammed-Lawal said the deployment comprises 1,348 regular marshals and 541 special marshals who will maintain 24-hour patrol operations across the 44 local government areas of the state.
He explained that the operation would be supported by five ambulances, one heavy-duty tow truck, and 25 patrol vehicles to ensure prompt rescue services and quick clearance of obstructions on the roads.
The sector commander added that enforcement efforts would focus on common traffic violations, including speeding, dangerous overtaking, lane indiscipline, overloading, use of mobile phones while driving, seat-belt violations, and use of mechanically deficient vehicles.
He further stated that the corps would collaborate with other security and emergency agencies to ensure effective traffic control and rapid response to incidents.
“These include the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Fire Service, and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency,” he said.
Mohammed-Lawal urged motorists and members of the public to report crashes or emergencies through the FRSC toll-free number 122 or 0700-CALL-FRSC.
He also wished Muslims a peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebration and advised motorists to obey traffic regulations, avoid speeding, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
