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Kingston Organic, Silvex International Announces Commitment to Nigerian Farmers and Environmental Sustainability

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Kingston Organic, a USA and UK-based agribusiness firm, has entered into a long-term business partnership agreement for supply, and purchase of agricultural inputs and produce with Silvex International, Ltd., a leading commodity trading company based in Kano, Nigeria, working with local farmers to produce staple crops such as rice, groundnut, sesame, soybean, maize, and hibiscus flower.

These crops are produced by Silvex supported farmers and sold domestically and exported internationally to major markets, as well as to the United Nations World Food Program (WFP).

In February, 2022, the two companies met in London, the United Kingdom and signed the partnership agreement with a view to expanding business strategy and operations to ensure that Nigerian farmers get an appreciable premium for their produce especially those cultivated under the organic atmosphere.

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Through this strategic partnership, that is launched today, Kingston Organic will supply to Nigerian farmers and growers an innovative product that diminish the use of traditional, toxic, chemical, and synthetic NPK fertilizers with a natural and safe alternative, that could reduce global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) and improving fertility and yields of existing agricultural soils.

Kingston is introducing a Humic & Fulvic Soil Booster that will be used by Silvex International Ltd on all its Nigerian farms, agricultural projects, and third-party farmers, which lessens greenhouse gases (GHG) both by reducing nitrogen emissions and by naturally improving the soil’s ability to sequester carbon in the farmland.

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According to Sunusi Bature, Kingston’s recently hired VP of Nigerian Operations, “Our soil booster is an effective substitute for traditional chemical components although it is not a fertilizer.  It restores and condition depleted soils.  Humic and fulvic also enhances biomass production, improve the fertility and condition of the soil, and allows use of soil that otherwise would be low producing or non-arable”

In a statement issued to Nigeria media houses, Mr. Bature further explained that restoring non-arable lands is a critical need of Agricultural sector in Nigeria particularly and Africa in general, increasing the region’s production capacity is no doubt a complement against the global food crisis.

Mr. Gus Robayna, Kingston’s VP of Global Sales & Marketing, also stated that the use of fulvic soil booster accomplishes a very measurable, net negative greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions and provide eligibility for carbon credit generation.

“These credits fund recurring revenue streams that are measured and managed by our alliance partners, RegenFARM Ltd and Climate Wedge Ltd.  Using globally accepted protocols, the credits can be monetized and sold, and revenues generated by the sales are shared at a fixed percentage with the stakeholders participating in the process.” He confirmed.

Mr. Robayna added, “this means individual farmers and families share in the benefits without any cumbersome or complicated carbon credit management process and can use the funds to further improve their production efficiency and economic circumstances.”

He also explained that in addition to providing Silvex with its organic and natural soil booster, Kingston Organic will provide advisory services and financial assistance, and will purchase agricultural end-products from Silvex for sales into consumer markets in United Kingdom, the European Union, and the United States of America.

Silvex International Limited, is a Nigerian Commodity trading and logistics company undergoing significantly planned growth and is partnering to support the small-holder growers in Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna and Nasarawa states working with thousands of farmers each with an average size farm of 2 hectares or less.

These farms currently produce both conventional and organic crops, and the objective is to transform all farms to 100% organic production by the end of 2025.  This organic conversion will increase product demand and deliver higher prices sustainably to these farmers.

Other partners supporting the initiative include RegenFARM Limited, a digital design, simulation and decision-making platform for farmers, consultants, and food supply chain companies seeking ways to produce food using regenerative agriculture methods and Climate Wedge, Ltd, an independent carbon management firm pursuing principal investments and project development in the carbon markets, and providing carbon finance and emissions trading related advisory services.

For further information please contact:

Sunusi Bature, VP – Nigeria Operations  sbature@kingstonorganic.com

Gus Robayna, VP – Global Sales & Marketing  grobayna@kingstonorganic.com  www.kingstonorganic.com www.silvex.com.ng

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Galaxy Backbone Unveils Ambitious 4-Year Digital Transformation Roadmap for Nigeria

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Galaxy Backbone Limited (GBB), Nigeria’s foremost digital infrastructure and services provider, has unveiled a bold and comprehensive four-year strategic plan (2025-2028) aimed at accelerating the integrated digital transformation Strategy (|DTS) plan for government and businesses in Nigeria.

This strategy is designed to enhance digital service delivery, strengthen connectivity, and support
Nigeria’s vision of a fully integrated digital economy.

Developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, the strategy focuses on five core pillars that will drive efficiency innovation, and sustainability in Nigeria’s digital landscape.

Mr. Chidi Okpala Head, Corporate Communications in a statement said the first focuses on building a Resilient Digital Infrastructure; ensuring that govemment and businesses have access to secure, high-speed, and scalable digital platforms.

He said by building and maintaining a robust digital backbone, GBB aims to support the nation’s growing demand for seamless connectivity and data security.

He also said the second pillar, Integrated Digital Ecosystems; fosters coll aboration between
government, businesses, and local communities, creating a more connected Nigeria.

He however said, through this initiative, GBB seeks to break silos and establish a unified digital
experience that enhances communication, innovation, and service delivery.

He added that to meet the evolving demands of governance and business, the strate gy prioritizes Innovative Service Delivery; ensuring that digital solutions are tailored to address economic, social, and administrative needs.

“By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, GBB is committed to driving efficiency, economic growth, and improved public service delivery.”

“Now, recognizing the critical role of trust in the digital era, the fourth pillar of the strategy places a strong emphasis on Digital Leadership & Trust.

“GBB is dedicated to fostering a culture of cybersecurity transparency, and accountability, ensuring that Nigerias digital infrastructure is not only efficient but also secure and reliable.”

“To sustain long-term impact, the fifth pillar, Financial Sustainability; remains a key priority.”

According to him, by investing in innovative technologies and expanding its digital services, GBB aims to drive revenue growth while ensuring affordability and accessibility for all users.

He also maintained that at its core, this strategic roadmap is designed to enhance government efficiency, boost economic development, and improve the overall digital experience for Nigerians.

” So, as part of its commitment to achieving these goals, GBB is actively engaging with government agencies, private sector players, and international and local partners to foster collaboration and accelerate implementation.”

He pointed out that through strategic partnerships, the organization is poised to lead Nigeria into a new era of digital excellence, ensuring that businesses and government institutions alike are equipped for the future.

Galaxy Backbone, through its IDTS plan, remains steadfast in its mission to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation through world-class infrastructure, secure connectivity, and innovative solutions that power progress.

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GBB to Train Over 300 Civil Servants on Govmail

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Abuja, Nigeria – Galaxy Backbone (GBB), the nation’s foremost digital infrastructure and services provider, is set to train over 300 civil servants, including Email Administrators and Heads of ICT, on the adoption, management, and administration of Govmail—the secure official email platform for Nigeria’s public sector. The training, which will be conducted in batches throughout the month of March 2025, aims to ensure maximum impact and effective knowledge transfer.

This initiative is in alignment with the Federal Government’s digitalisation agenda, which prioritizes secure, efficient, and technology-driven governance. By equipping civil servants with the necessary expertise to optimize Govmail, the government is ensuring seamless communication across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) while strengthening data security and operational efficiency.

Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, the Managing Director/CEO of Galaxy Backbone, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to driving Nigeria’s digital transformation through innovative and secure technology solutions. “As the nation’s leading provider of digital infrastructure, GBB is playing a pivotal role in ensuring that government communications are secured, professional, and aligned with global best practices. This training will enhance civil servants’ ability to effectively utilize Govmail in carrying out their official responsibilities,” he stated.

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The training is being conducted in collaboration with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), who has sent out a Circular to all MDAs informing them of this specialized training aimed at providing hands on experience with GOVMAIl features and ensure uniform adoption of and compliance with government approved digital communications standards. This further reinforces the government’s commitment to a digitally-driven public service. It would be recalled that the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation recently described Govmail as a ‘game changer’ for government communication. This underscores the significance of the platform in enhancing inter-agency collaboration, data sovereignty, and information security across all MDAs.
Through this capacity-building initiative, GBB is reinforcing its role as a key enabler of Nigeria’s digital transformation journey, ensuring that public sector professionals are well-equipped to harness the full potential of digital tools in their daily operations.

 

About Galaxy Backbone
Galaxy Backbone Ltd is a digital infrastructure and services company committed to providing secure and efficient digital solutions to support governance, service delivery, and national development for public and private sector organisatuons. GBB plays a critical role in the digitalisation of government processes, ensuring efficiency, security, seamless collaboration across MDAs and providing a platform for enabling digital services across corporate and public organisations.

Signed:
Chidi Okpala
Head, Corporate Communications

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KEDCO Sees Improvement in Financial Performance Following Power Restoration, Appeals for Prompt Payment

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Kano Electricity Distribution Plc. (KEDCO) has reported steady improvements in financial and business performance following the restoration of power supply after a significant blackout during the September-October 2024 billing and collection cycle. This was disclosed in a press statement signed by Sani Bala Sani, Head of Corporate Communication at KEDCO.

According to Sani, the blackout had severely impacted KEDCO and three other distribution companies in the North East and North West regions, with KEDCO being the worst hit. “Recall that KEDCO, alongside three other distribution companies in the North East and North West had significant disruption to power supply in October, with KEDCO being the worst hit,” he stated.

The operations at KEDCO were initially affected on October 13th, 2024, with only 40% of their grid allocation being supplied after the Shiroro-Kaduna 330kV line incident. This situation was exacerbated by a total blackout on October 20th, 2024, during the peak of the revenue collection cycle. “Although the power supply was partially restored to a 40% level on 30th October, we were only availed with up to around 85% supply levels on November 14th and are anxiously awaiting the completion of the Shiroro-Kaduna repairs,” Sani explained.

The blackout resulted in KEDCO’s worst market performance of the year, posing significant financial and economic challenges for both KEDCO and its customers. “Having zero grid supply posed significant financial and economic challenges for KEDCO and its customers, with many customers resorting to costly backup sources or shutting down operations,” Sani noted.

Despite the challenges, KEDCO has seen improvements in power supply, which now stands at around 85%, leading to significant collections from last month’s arrears. Sani urged customers to cooperate by paying their current bills and outstanding arrears promptly to ensure business sustainability. “Thankfully, with the current power supply at around 85%, we have recorded significant collections from last month’s arrears and are appealing to our customers to continue to cooperate with us on prompt settlement of their current bills and arrears, for business sustainability,” he appealed.

Sani also commended the resilience of KEDCO’s customers and vowed to continue improving the performance in supplying safe and reliable electricity. “We commend the resilience of our customers and vow to continue to improve our performance in supplying them with safe and reliable electricity,” he said. He thanked the Honourable Minister of Power for his timely intervention and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) for their restoration efforts. “We equally acknowledge TCN’s restoration efforts and appreciate the Federal Government’s commitment to helping improve the redundancy and safety of the National Grid,” he added.

Looking ahead, KEDCO’s core investor and Board remain committed to driving investments and improving performance through embedded generation supply options via the Safe Grid and Utility 2.0 projects. “It remains our core investor and Board’s resolve to continue to drive investments and improved performance through embedded generation supply options in our network via the Safe Grid and Utility 2.0 projects,” Sani stated.

 

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