Business
BUA defeats American company in US, gets £343,751 award
BUA defeats American company in US, gets £343,751 award
A US court has ordered an American company to pay BUA International Limited £343,750.91 in arbitral award.
The United States District Court for the District of Idaho gave the order to Domtec International LLC, an Idaho-based company specialising in the building of concrete domes.
According to court papers obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, Domtec has 21 days from 1 April, the date the order was issued, to comply failing which “the court will, upon notice from petitioners, issue writs of execution and/or garnishment on Domtec’s assets.”
BUA International is a trading company undertaking the importation of iron and steel on behalf of BUA Group, the conglomerate controlled by the Nigerian industrial magnate Abdul Samad Rabiu with interests in cement manufacturing, food processing, ports & terminal services, iron & steel and real estate.
The court first received a petition in April 2023 from BUA International and NOM (UK) Limited, which deals in the procurement of equipment and materials and serves as an agent to the company.
The petition requested the court to confirm a foreign arbitral award, rendered in the British Virgin Islands five months earlier, and enter an executable judgement in favour of the two and against Domtec.
On 10 November 2022, the foreign international arbitration award was originally issued in Tortola, British Virgin Islands by sole arbitrator Michael J. Fay KC in favour of the petitioners and against Domtec based on a written supply agreement between Domtec and NOM.
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According to details of court documents, the general terms and conditions of the supply agreement allowed for binding arbitration of the underlying dispute between the petitioners and Domtec.
Supply Agreement
The (supply agreement) contract required Domtec to design and build sugar domes on BUA’s property in Lagos and Port Harcourt.
NOM entered into the supply agreement as an agent for BUA, with one of the court documents noting that various disputes stemming from the agreement arose between the parties.
The document observed that on 6 April 2021, the counsel to NOM and BUA suggested that Domtec failed to comply with a clause in the supply agreement.
“In the event that the parties do not agree to mediation or the dispute has not been settled within six (6) weeks (or such other period as may be agreed in writing between the parties) after the appointment of the mediator, the dispute may be referred by either party to arbitration in accordance with the provisions of the Laws of England and Wales, with the seat of the arbitration to be based in the British Virgin Islands,” the court paper stated, quoting the supply agreement.
The agreement permitted the parties to arbitrate any dispute that could not be timely resolved through mediation before an arbitrator in the British Virgin Islands.
“When such a dispute arose in 2022, arbitration proceedings were properly initiated by Domtec against the petitioners,” the court document stated.
Domtec “did not present a claim (whether in its pleadings, its evidence or in submissions) that it complied with clause 2.2.3 by the provision of the documents sent to the respondents on 15 March 2022 and 25 March 2022,” Mr Fay KC said in the document containing the original arbitral award.
Apart from ordering Domtec to pay the petitioners £343,750.91, the arbitrator also directed the company to pay them interest compounded monthly on that amount at two per cent over the Bank of England bank rate from time to time from the arbitral award date until payment is made.
In addition, Domtec would also pay the petitioners $42,560 (for tribunal fees and costs) as well as interest compounded monthly on that sum at 2 per cent over the US Federal Reserve interest range from the date of the arbitral award until payment.
On 11 October 2023, the US District Court for the District of Idaho granted the petition to confirm the foreign arbitral award and for entry of judgment.
“Domtec must pay petitioners by the arbitral award and as outlined in the judgment in this case,” the court said.
Afterwards, BUA International and NOM filed a motion for an award of attorney’s fees, noting that Domtec should be made to pay the fees and costs involved in their effort related to the confirmation process. With the petitioners yet to receive payment of the arbitration award two months later, they filed an application for writs of execution and garnishment to compel Domtec to pay its debt.
In its 1 April ruling, the court denied the motion by BUA International and NOM, saying “there are no grounds entitling petitioners to an award of fees and costs for its efforts in this court.”
“Before issuing writs of execution and/or garnishment, the court will allow Domtec a final opportunity to comply with the court’s order and judgement,” the court said
The court ruled that failure by Domtec to meet its payment obligation in the next 21 days would leave it with no option but to issue the requested writs upon notice from the petitioners.
BUA defeats American company in US, gets £343,751 award
(PREMIUM TIMES)
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Auto
Toyota Corolla Cross: The SUV That Blends Everyday Comfort With Practicality
Toyota Corolla Cross: The SUV That Blends Everyday Comfort With Practicality

With its elevated driving position, spacious cabin, advanced safety technologies and fuel-efficient hybrid options, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers motorists a compelling blend of SUV versatility and everyday convenience.
For motorists seeking a vehicle that combines the comfort of a family car with the versatility of a sport utility vehicle, the Toyota Corolla Cross presents an attractive option in the increasingly competitive crossover market.
Developed around the familiar Corolla nameplate, the Corolla Cross brings together the practicality associated with the Corolla range and the elevated stance, generous interior space and utility expected of an SUV.
Toyota describes the model as combining spacious interior accommodation and outstanding utility with responsive performance and fuel efficiency.
The result is a vehicle designed to appeal to families, professionals and urban motorists who want a versatile vehicle for daily commuting, business engagements, weekend outings and longer journeys.
SUV styling meets everyday functionality
The Corolla Cross adopts the raised body profile and commanding road presence of an SUV while retaining proportions intended to make it manageable for everyday driving.
Its design seeks to balance visual appeal with functionality, giving buyers an alternative to conventional saloon cars without requiring them to move into a larger SUV.
The elevated seating position can provide drivers with a more commanding view of the road, while the crossover format offers flexibility for passengers, shopping, luggage and other everyday transportation needs.
For Nigerian motorists navigating a combination of busy city streets, highways and varying road conditions, these characteristics make the model worth considering as an all-round family and business vehicle.
Comfort and space for modern motorists
Interior space is an important part of the Corolla Cross proposition. Its cabin is designed to accommodate passengers comfortably while providing practical storage and luggage-carrying capability for everyday activities.
The model’s SUV-inspired layout offers an alternative for customers who need more versatility than a conventional compact saloon but do not necessarily require a full-size SUV.
Depending on the grade, Nigerian buyers should confirm the availability of specific convenience and infotainment features, including touchscreen functions, smartphone connectivity, climate control and other equipment, with an authorised Toyota dealer.
Fuel efficiency and hybrid technology
Fuel economy remains a significant consideration for Nigerian vehicle buyers, particularly households and businesses seeking to manage running costs.
Toyota’s Corolla Cross range includes hybrid versions in selected markets, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor to improve efficiency. The official Toyota Corolla Cross product information highlights fuel-saving hybrid technology as one of the model’s major strengths.
Toyota also lists an E-Four electric four-wheel-drive system on applicable hybrid versions. Availability of this drivetrain and the associated features depends on the specific version.
Actual fuel consumption will vary according to the powertrain, driving conditions, traffic, vehicle load and driving style. Prospective Nigerian buyers should therefore confirm the engine, transmission and hybrid availability of the exact vehicle being offered locally rather than assume that every international specification is available in Nigeria.
Safety and driver assistance
Safety is another important element of the Corolla Cross package.
Toyota’s international product information highlights Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies designed to support drivers in everyday traffic situations. Depending on the model grade and market, the package may include functions intended to help detect potential collisions and support safer driving.
The manufacturer’s information also identifies parking assistance and a back-guide monitor on applicable grades, helping drivers manoeuvre in confined spaces.
However, equipment can differ by market and specification. Buyers should request confirmation of the safety features fitted to the particular Corolla Cross being sold by Toyota (Nigeria) Limited or its accredited dealers.
Backed by Toyota’s Nigerian dealer network
Beyond the vehicle’s design and equipment, the availability of authorised sales, servicing and genuine spare parts is an important consideration for buyers.
Toyota (Nigeria) Limited, appointed distributor of Toyota Motor Corporation in Nigeria, operates through seven accredited dealers across the country. The company says its network supports vehicle sales, after-sales services and the supply of genuine parts.
Purchasing an eligible new vehicle through an accredited dealer also provides access to Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s stated basic warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, subject to the manufacturer’s terms and conditions.
The company says its Nigerian-market vehicles are configured with local operating conditions in mind, including a Severe User Package designed to help vehicles cope with challenging road and environmental conditions. Customers should confirm the precise specification applicable to the Corolla Cross they intend to purchase.
Where to enquire about the Toyota Corolla Cross
Customers can contact Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s accredited dealers to confirm the Corolla Cross’s availability, current price, engine and transmission options, colour choices, warranty coverage and delivery arrangements.
The seven dealers listed on Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s official website are:
Elizade Nigeria Limited, R.T. Briscoe (Nigeria), Omoregie Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Mandilas Enterprises Limited,
Kojo Motors Limited and Metropolitan Motors Limited.
Dealer contacts and locations can be checked on Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s official website at www.toyotanigeria.com/dealers/.
A versatile choice for the modern driver
The Toyota Corolla Cross brings together the elevated stance of an SUV, the everyday practicality of the Corolla nameplate and the availability of fuel-efficient hybrid technology in selected versions.
For Nigerian buyers weighing comfort, utility, safety and long-term ownership support, the model deserves consideration as a versatile vehicle for both personal and family use.
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Auto
Hyundai Unveils Mufasa, Grand Creta SUVs to Strengthen Nigeria Line-up (Updated)
Hyundai Unveils Mufasa, Grand Creta SUVs to Strengthen Nigeria Line-up (Updated)
Hyundai Motors Nigeria has expanded its sport utility vehicle (SUV) range with the introduction of the all-new Mufasa and Grand Creta, offering Nigerian motorists more choices in styling, performance, technology and passenger comfort.
The two models, unveiled in Lagos on Wednesday, are targeted at different customer segments, with the Mufasa designed for motorists seeking a stylish, five-seater SUV, while the Grand Creta offers a three-row, seven-seater configuration suited to larger families and customers requiring additional passenger space.
The launch underscores Hyundai’s efforts to strengthen its presence in Nigeria’s competitive automotive market, where demand for versatile vehicles that combine comfort, safety, performance and practicality continues to shape consumer preferences.
Speaking at the launch, Hyundai Motors Nigeria’s General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Mr Gaurav Vashisht, said the new models reflected the company’s commitment to providing vehicles that meet the changing needs of Nigerian customers.
“The SUV segment continues to attract strong interest in Nigeria, as customers increasingly prioritise comfort, safety, technology and versatility,” Vashisht said.
He also gave a rundown of the two new vehicles’ features even as he stated that the Mufasa and Grand Creta were designed to meet different lifestyle requirements while maintaining Hyundai’s global standards of quality and innovation.
Mufasa targets style-conscious motorists
The Hyundai Mufasa combines bold exterior styling with a spacious cabin and features designed for everyday driving. Its distinctive front grille, signature LED lighting and muscular bodywork give it a commanding road presence.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre Smartstream multipoint fuel injection (MPi) petrol engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the market specification, the engine produces approximately 150–160 horsepower and 193Nm of torque.
The five-seater SUV measures about 4,475mm in length, with a 2,680mm wheelbase, providing room for passengers and luggage while retaining a practical footprint for urban driving and longer journeys.
Its cabin features a modern dashboard, digital displays and storage spaces, while available equipment, depending on the variant, includes touchscreen infotainment, smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, wireless charging and selectable driving modes.
Safety and driver-support features include anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, airbags and parking assistance, subject to the vehicle specification.
The Mufasa is positioned as an option for professionals, younger motorists and families seeking a combination of contemporary design, technology and everyday usability.
Grand Creta offers seven-seat flexibility
The Grand Creta complements the Mufasa with a larger cabin and seating for up to seven occupants, making it suitable for families and motorists who prioritise passenger capacity and interior flexibility.
The SUV is powered by an available 2.0-litre Smartstream petrol engine producing approximately 159 horsepower and 191Nm of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is offered on automatic variant.
Its 2,760mm wheelbase supports a spacious three-row layout, while the flexible seating arrangement allows occupants to adjust the cabin to accommodate passengers or luggage.
Depending on the trim, convenience features include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, rear air-conditioning vents, keyless entry, push-button start and a digital instrument cluster.
Higher-specification versions may also feature leather-appointed seats, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, wireless charging and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety equipment offered across the range includes six airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points.
The model is aimed particularly at larger families seeking additional space and comfort without sacrificing the styling and versatility associated with SUVs.
After-sales support in focus
Beyond the new models, Hyundai Motors Nigeria says it is focused on delivering a comprehensive ownership experience through its authorised dealership network, after-sales services and access to genuine spare parts.
Vashisht said the Mufasa would appeal to customers seeking bold styling, modern technology and dynamic performance, while the Grand Creta would cater to those requiring greater passenger capacity, comfort and versatility.
“Our objective is not simply to introduce new vehicles but to deliver a complete ownership experience,” he said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to building long-term customer confidence in the Hyundai brand.
The two additions expand Hyundai’s existing SUV portfolio, which includes the Creta, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade.
Their introduction comes as automakers compete to attract Nigerian buyers with vehicles offering a balance of comfort, safety, technology, performance and long-term ownership value.
With the Mufasa and Grand Creta, Hyundai is seeking to broaden its appeal across different customer categories while strengthening its position in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive SUV market.

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Auto
Happening now: Hyundai unveiling of Mufasa and Grand Creta
Happening now: Hyundai unveiling of Mufasa and Grand Creta (photos)

Two latest models of Hyundai auto brands are currently being officially rolled out in Lagos. The new vehicles are Mufasa and Grand Creta.
The unveiling is taking place at the Hyundai showroom on Akin Adesola Street Victoria Island, Lagos.


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