By David Torough, Abuja

In a bold move ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election in Taraba State, renowned entrepreneur and technocrat, Hon. Sanda Nathan Jr., has officially stepped aside from his role as Chairman/CEO of Sandalight Global Realities Ltd and FARMERSTEQ GLOBAL LTD to pursue his political ambition under the platform of the Labour Party (LP).

The transition marks a significant shift from corporate leadership to active political participation, as Sanda positions himself to lead the Labour Party to victory and champion a new era of governance in Taraba State.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony held on Friday at the companies’ corporate headquarters in Utako, Abuja, Sanda described his governorship ambition as “a continuation of service” aimed at transforming the economic and social fortunes of Taraba through credible leadership and people-oriented governance.

According to him, Taraba State has remained under the control of career politicians for years, with little progress in critical sectors such as infrastructure, job creation, agriculture, education, and healthcare.

He stressed that the time had come for the state to embrace a CEO-style leadership approach driven by innovation, accountability, and private-sector efficiency.

“Taraba deserves pragmatic leadership that understands development, economic growth, and the importance of empowering people through opportunities,” Sanda stated.

He outlined key areas his administration would prioritize if elected governor, including education revitalization, modernization of agriculture, technology and innovation, infrastructure development, and improved healthcare delivery.

Sanda pledged to replicate his corporate success across the state by implementing policies that would promote transparency, attract investment, create jobs, and improve the living standards of citizens.

As part of the transition, Mr. Jackson Kole was officially appointed as Acting Group Head/CEO to oversee the affairs of Sandalight Global Realities Ltd and FARMERSTEQ GLOBAL LTD pending board confirmation.

Kole, while accepting the appointment, promised to sustain and expand the companies’ achievements in estate development, real estate consulting, construction, and agricultural industrialization.

He assured stakeholders that the companies would continue to maintain excellence and professionalism while supporting Sanda in his political journey.
“We will continue to build on the strong foundation laid by Hon. Sanda Nathan Jr. and ensure that both companies remain leaders in the real estate and agribusiness sectors,” Kole said.

Sandalight Global Realities Ltd is widely known for its expertise in estate development, building construction, and real estate consulting, while its subsidiary, FARMERSTEQ GLOBAL LTD, has gained recognition for promoting agricultural revolution and agribusiness development across Nigeria.

Political observers believe Sanda’s entry into the Taraba governorship race could reshape the political landscape of the state, especially among youths and professionals seeking a fresh approach to governance ahead of 2027.

By Mike Odiakose, Abuja

Top-notch engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC is leading an extensive bridge rehabilitation programme in Lagos State, following its engagement by the Federal Ministry of Works in 2023.

The assignment is designed to address years of severe structural deterioration in the critical infrastructures.

Construction works commenced in January 2024, targeting four key transport links: the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, Iddo Bridge, and the Iddo Bridge Underpass.

The project focuses on addressing long-standing structural damage, particularly in underwater components impacted by marine corrosion, tidal forces, and sustained heavy traffic.

At Carter Bridge, rehabilitation works concentrated on degraded underwater sections and substructure elements to mitigate the effects of corrosion and tidal movement.

Physical works were completed in January, and the project has now entered its close-out phase.

For the Third Mainland Bridge, engineers are carrying out structural repairs on critical components, including the deck soffit, piers, and underwater pile caps.

The project is currently about 80% physically complete, with only the monitoring phase outstanding.

This phase, expected to last one year, is now in its third month. Financially, approximately 60% of the budget has been allocated, with 21% of the total project value executed to date.

At press time last week, no major construction work is outstanding on this bridge as the focus is entirely on performance validation.

Essentially, the monitoring phase acts as a quality assurance and risk management step, ensuring that the extensive rehabilitation work translates into a safe, stable, and durable bridge for years to come, said a member of the project team, Friday.

The Iddo Bridge rehabilitation involves a more intensive reconstruction due to severe deterioration.

Significant portions of the bridge have been demolished and are being rebuilt using reinforced concrete girders, enhanced reinforcement systems, and strengthened structural supports.

The project is actively ongoing and stands at 30% physical completion.

At the Iddo Bridge Underpass, the existing structure was completely removed to enable full reconstruction.

The scope includes continuous reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP), improved drainage systems, and the installation of modern street lighting and utility infrastructure. Construction progress has reached 38%.

CRCPs are designed to control cracking, not eliminate it as cracks occur at regular, closely spaced intervals. The reinforcement keeps cracks tight, preventing them from widening

Overall, these rehabilitation efforts are designed to enhance commuter safety, extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, and reduce structural risks along some of Lagos State’s busiest transport corridors.

In addition, the improvements are expected to ease traffic flow and strengthen economic activity across the state.

From Attah Ede, Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has announced immediate postponement of the planned activities marking the Benue at 50 and the Third Year Anniversary Celebrations of the present administration.

The State deputy governor, Sam Odeh disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

According to him, the decision to postpone the event was taken to allow for necessary adjustments and consultations to ensure a more successful and inclusive commemoration.

He said a new date for the celebrations will be communicated to the public in due course.

“The Benue State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia wishes to inform the general public that the activities marking the two events have been postponed.

“The Government regrets any inconvenience this postponement may have caused individuals, groups, and organisations, and appreciates the understanding, patience and continued support of the good people of Benue”, Ode intimated.