Billionaire Aliko Dangote Reflects on Missed Opportunity to Buy Arsenal
In a candid interview with Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in New York, Aliko Dangote, president and CEO of Dangote Group, revealed his lingering regret over not purchasing Arsenal Football Club when he had the chance. The Nigerian billionaire, valued at over $20 billion, had considered buying the prestigious club when its value was approximately $2 billion. However, Dangote’s commitment to completing his refinery project took priority, forcing him to put his football ambitions on hold. “I think that time has passed,” he said, reflecting on his past discussions about owning a football club. Dangote had previously expressed interest in buying Arsenal in 2020, after completing his refinery project. Now, with the club’s value skyrocketing to around $4 billion, he considers the purchase price prohibitive. “I don’t have the kind of surplus funds to purchase a club for $4 billion as a promotional venture,” he admitted. Despite abandoning his ambition to take over at the Emirates Stadium, Dangote remains a devoted Arsenal fan. “I make it a point to watch their games whenever they play, and I will continue to support them,” he assured. When asked if he regretted not buying Arsenal earlier, Dangote confessed, “I do wish I had purchased it earlier, but at the time, my funds were better allocated to completing my refinery project.” He rationalized his decision, saying, “It was a choice between finishing my project and acquiring Arsenal. I couldn’t have done both.” Dangote’s focus on his business empire has paid off, with the Dangote Group, founded in 1981, becoming the largest conglomerate in West Africa. Though his football dreams may be on hold, his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his business continue to drive his success. The billionaire’s honest reflection serves as a reminder that even the wealthiest individuals must make tough choices between passion and priority. For now, Dangote will remain a loyal Arsenal supporter, cheering from the sidelines rather than from the owner’s box. Source: Apexnewsgh/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
Global Peace Index 2024: Ghana Drops 55 Spots
Ghana’s peace ranking has taken a worrying hit, dropping to 55th globally from 51st in 2023 and a remarkable 40th in 2022, according to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI). Apexnewsgh reports This decline comes at a critical time, just as the country prepares for its December 7 elections, raising concerns about stability and peacefulness during the electoral process. Historically, Ghana has been a beacon of hope for democracy and peace in Africa, with relatively peaceful elections in 2012, 2016, and 2020 ¹. However, the current decline in peace ranking underscores mounting internal pressures and challenges in maintaining its peaceful reputation. Ghana has fallen to fourth in the Sub-Saharan Africa region, overtaken by Mauritius, Madagascar, and Botswana. The Global Peace Index, produced by the Institute for Economics & Peace, evaluates 163 countries across three core domains: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and militarization. With the country’s GPI ranking in decline, ensuring a peaceful electoral process in the upcoming December elections is now more critical than ever. The lower peace score points to growing concerns around democratic stability, localized conflicts, and emerging security threats that could impact the integrity of the elections. Africa continues to struggle with peace, with the Middle East and North Africa region remaining the least peaceful globally. Countries like Sudan and Yemen are ranked among the world’s ten least peaceful nations, reflecting a troubling trend across the continent. Globally, the GPI report highlights a consistent 17-year decline in peace, driven by political instability, rising deaths from conflict, and an increase in violent demonstrations. Despite these challenges, the report shows some positive developments, such as improved commitments to UN peacekeeping efforts. As Ghana heads into its December elections, all eyes are on the country’s ability to maintain its democratic stability and peaceful reputation. Will Ghana bounce back from its decline in peace ranking, or will internal pressures and regional challenges hinder its progress? Source: Apexnewsgh/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
Trafigura Threatens to Seize State Assets Over Unpaid Judgment Debt
Ghana’s government is facing mounting pressure from oil giant Trafigura over an unresolved USD134 million judgment debt. Apexnewsgh reports The dispute stems from a terminated power purchase agreement with Ghana Power Generation Company (GPGC) in 2018, which a UK tribunal ruled was a breach of contractual obligations ¹. Trafigura’s frustration has grown after Ghana made only partial payments, leaving a substantial sum outstanding. The company has acquired Regina House, a key commercial property in London, as a result of the government’s failure to settle the debt. In a recent petition to Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, Trafigura demanded immediate payment and warned of potential legal action if ignored. The situation escalated when a U.S. court added USD111.4 million in interest to the original debt due to Ghana’s failure to respond to the ruling ¹. Trafigura is now threatening to seize state assets in South Africa if payment is not made. Ghana’s waiver of sovereign immunity and commitment to international arbitration has further complicated the situation, exacerbating the country’s financial obligations. The four-year dispute has significant implications for Ghana’s financial stability and international reputation. Will the government meet Trafigura’s demands, or will the oil giant take drastic measures to recover its debt? Source: Apexnewsgh/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
Ghana’s Galamsey Menace: CLOGSAG Blames Government Interference
The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) says government interference is fueling the ongoing galamsey (illegal mining) crisis. At the 7th Nathan Annan Quao Lecture Series, Executive Secretary Dr. Isaac Bampoe Addo stressed that granting local executives autonomy would effectively combat illegal mining. Dr. Bampoe Addo noted that political influence hampers local efforts, posing environmental and resource threats. Meanwhile, Civil Service Head Dr. Aggrey Darko warned civil servants against partisan activities ahead of December 7 elections, emphasizing neutrality and professionalism. Source: Apexnewsgh/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
Binduri MP Honors Market Women with Shade-Giving Umbrellas
The scorching sun was a constant challenge for market women trading along the Bazua highway road and inner markets in Binduri. Apexnewsgh reports Their daily struggles ended when Hon. Abdulai Abanga, the Member of Parliament, stepped in to provide them with large umbrellas. These umbrellas brought much-needed shade, easing the women’s hardships and boosting their trading experiences. The market women were overwhelmed with joy and gratitude upon receiving the umbrellas. They praised Hon. Abanga for his kind gesture, acknowledging his dedication to improving their well-being. This heartfelt appreciation reflects the positive impact of his initiative. Hon. Abanga’s actions demonstrate his commitment to supporting his constituents, particularly the women who are the backbone of the local market. By addressing their everyday challenges, he has made a tangible difference in their lives. This story showcases the power of thoughtful leadership and community-focused initiatives. Hon. Abanga’s simple yet effective solution has significantly improved the lives of these market women, earning their respect and admiration. Source: Apexnewsgh/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062