LEAD Awards 2024: Laurel Leaf Communication Partner Ondo State Government, Set To Empower Student Entrepreneurs With Brand New Laptops

A leading event, media and advertising agency, Laurel Leaf Communications is proud to announce a new empowerment program in collaboration with Ondo State Government through the office of the Senior Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor on Students Affairs, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu, widely known as KSO. This initiative aims to inspire creativity and innovation by empowering student entrepreneurs in the State.

Also for the first time, the 2024 Lead Awards will be providing an opportunity for entrepreneurs in Ondo State to have a roundtable discussion on innovation and creativity.

This thirty minute panel section powered by the Growth Hub will leverage the strengths and expertise of all the organizations involved to provide a platform for community members, small businesses, and local leaders to collaborate, share knowledge, and access essential resources. The section will focus on key areas such as education, economic development, digital transformation, and social impact.

Speaking on the partnership, the SSA to Ondo State Governor on Students Affairs, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu, while showing his excitement, reaffirmed the commitment of the state government towards the welfare of every young person in Ondo State.

“We are excited to join forces with Laurel Leaf Communications to create meaningful opportunities for young people in Ondo State through their annual platform, LEAD Awards. This partnership represents the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to driving positive change and supporting sustainable development in Ondo State. Mr. Governor has mandated us to take very seriously the welfare of every student in the State. Together, we aim to build a more inclusive and empowered future for our youths, especially students” Said KSO.

The Chief Executive Officer of Laurel Leaf Communications, Ms Adebukola Oba, thanks the state government, as she urges young entrepreneurs in the state to embrace the opportunity; “I want to thank the state government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his support. I must also commend the Senior Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor on Students Affairs, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu, whose office this was powered.” For us at Laurel Leaf Communications, we prioritize the welfare of the Ondo State people, and that was why Leadership Excellence and Dignity Awards was established, so this year, we don’t just want to reward and honor our patriots, we feel the need to also empower the rising generation, especially those building an entrepreneurship career”  

Adebukola continues, “2024 LEAD Awards will feature a panel and mentorship session. This year, we don’t just want to provide an opportunity for networking, we want student entrepreneurs to have access to specialized tools and resources. 2024 LEAD Awards will offer our audience and guests the opportunity to learn from industry experts, develop critical skills, and connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. We are thrilled to have the Ondo State government and the Growth Hub on board. By combining our expertise and resources, we are confident that we can create lasting change and inspire community members to take an active role in shaping their future. We will be rolling out more information in the coming weeks. Thank you”

Kindly visit https://leadawardng.com/lead-awards-empowerment to apply

Policeman, NSCDC Personnel Exchange Blows in Osun State

 

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has accused the Nigeria Police of brutality, assault and illegal detention of its personnel.

In a statement by the State Public Relations Officer of the Corps, Kehinde Adeleke, the Police Officers in mofty and Police jackets had driven recklessly into an estate being secured by NSCDC operatives to purportedly arrest a suspect.

Kehinde Adeleke said the Police officers on arrival resorted to intimidation after being asked to produce their Identity cards by the NSCDC officers in the estate before they would be able to effect the arrest.

The NSCDC said the Police later mobilized about twenty officers to the estate to assault and inflict bodily harm on the NSCDC personnel as seen in the viral video.

According to the NSCDC, the victim was also handcuffed and taken to Ataoja Police Division before he was moved to the Police headquarters in Osogbo.

But in a statement by the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, alleged the NSCDC officers of preventing the Police from arresting a criminal suspect.

Yemisi Opalola alleged that the NSCDC officers also beat-up and injured two police officers who had come from Oyo State to effect the arrest and also deflated the tires of their vehicle.

Sterling One Foundation, PwC, and Partners to Host ESG Series 4.0 October 23, 2024

 

As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles continue to gain traction globally, Nigerian businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating sustainable practices into their operations. ESG has evolved from a trend to a strategic necessity for companies aiming to manage risks, meet regulatory requirements, and align with the expectations of investors and stakeholders.

In response to this growing significance, Sterling One Foundation, in partnership with PwC, NGX, UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) Nigeria, LBS Sustainability Centre, Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA), and Sterling Bank, is proud to host ESG Series 4.0 on October 25, 2024. The event will provide a platform for thought leaders to share insights on advancing sustainable development and driving meaningful change.

This marks the fourth installment of the ESG Series in 2024, underscoring the ongoing commitment to deepening the ESG conversation in Nigeria and across Africa. Each edition has offered practical solutions and sparked essential discussions on embedding ESG into corporate strategies. To maintain this momentum, ESG Series 4.0 will offer two key tracks focused on equipping participants with the tools and strategies needed to implement robust ESG frameworks that drive growth and resilience.

The session will convene ESG leaders, corporate executives, development experts, and sustainability advocates who are dedicated to elevating sustainable business practices. The agenda will provide valuable insights on ESG reporting, risk management, and aligning sustainability goals with organizational strategies. These discussions will benefit organizations aiming to stay ahead of evolving ESG standards and implement best practices that enhance resilience and create long-term value.

Participants will hear from leaders in the ESG and social impact space, including Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, who will play host for the 4th ESG Series. As a development advocate with a strong background in driving social change and promoting sustainable practices, Olapeju will share valuable perspectives on integrating impact-driven strategies into business operations.

Commenting on the importance of sustainability in today’s business landscape, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, said, “As businesses continue to embrace the principles of sustainability, we must move beyond discussions and focus on actionable strategies that drive real change. ESG Series 4.0 aims to equip organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to implement impactful ESG strategies that drive growth and resilience.”

The lineup also includes Bolanle Adekoya, Partner and PwC West Africa Platform Leader for ESG & Sustainability, who will provide practical strategies for navigating ESG challenges, drawing from her extensive experience in helping organizations meet regulatory standards and achieve sustainable growth. Additionally, Nana Maidugu, Head of Sustainability and ESG at NSIA, will offer insights on streamlining ESG reporting processes, providing essential guidance for businesses looking to enhance their frameworks and ensure compliance with evolving standards.

Adewale Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA), will deliver a goodwill message during the session, setting the tone for a thought-provoking and impactful discussion.

To register for the webinar session, please visit www.onefoundation.ng/ESGSeriesIV.

 About Sterling One Foundation

Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a registered non-profit focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria, and Africa through interventions and social impact programmes across five critical sectors namely: climate action, health, education and youth development, gender equality and empowerment, and food security. The Foundation’s programmes adopt a central theme of prioritizing partnerships for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For more information visit http://www.onefoundation.ng

Polaris Bank Trains More Than 5,000 Journalists Pan-Nigeria In 10 years

 

Polaris Bank Limited, Nigeria’s leading digital retail commercial bank, has empowered more than 5,000 journalists across the country through its yearly media capacity building workshops in the last 10 years.

The 2024 edition of the media workshop, which held on Thursday in a hybrid format, focused on "Integrating AITools in Contemporary Media Practices for Innovation and Excellence."

Speaking at the event, Rasheed Bolarinwa, Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communications at Polaris Bank, noted that the bank will continue to provide its unwavering support for the journalists and the media as a vital pillar of society.

"We believe that journalists and the media plays crucial role in shaping public discourse and fostering informed citizenship," Mr. Bolarinwa said. "Our commitment to training journalists across the media spectrum, is rooted in our belief that they (journalists) deserve the best possible support to excel in their profession."

He said the bank started the media training partnering journalism clinic and holding workshops in various cities across the country. The media clinic which focused on divination of the media, was facilitated by Mr. Taiwo Obe, a veteran journalist.

Bolarinwa disclosed that more than 500 journalists registered for the 2024 edition and expressed the hope that the bank will continue to do more to support journalists and the media by bringing the best faculty to facilitate contemporary issues at its subsequent media workshops.

The programme featured a diverse range of topics, including; creativity, AI tools, and critical thinking. Dr. Chike Mgbeadichie, a Senior Lecturer at the Pan-Atlantic  University, provided insights into the application of AI tools in media practices while Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director of the Media Career Development Network, discussed contemporary media trends such as multimedia journalism, fact-checking and data journalism.

Dr. Mgbeadichie noted that at the end of the seminar, participants will be able to reflect deeply on thinking, actions and processes needed to generate ideas, possibilities and actions. He added that journalists should be able to figure out how to analyze, synthesize and evaluate information; know the different AI tools available in the media space as well as understand the benefits of AI tools in contemporary media practices, among others.

Mr. Otufodunrin explained that journalists should be adept at the use of solutions journalism to enhance their investigative capabilities, using new tools such as OSINT, Geo journalism, data analysis, digital forensics, website blogs, social media, newsletters, podcasts e-publishing and social media engagements, among others.

Participants from across Nigeria, both online and in person, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to enhance their skills. Segun Adeleye, publisher of Worldstage, commended Polaris Bank for its continuous dedication to fostering media excellence in Nigeria.

Union Bank Sets New Industry Standard with Comprehensive Maternity Leave and Onsite Crèche Facility

 

Union Bank has set a new standard in Nigeria's financial sector by offering unparalleled comprehensive maternity leave to support working mothers and an on-site crèche facility to support working parents, both male and female full-time employees. The new initiative includes an industry-leading five months of fully paid maternity leave, exclusive of the applicable annual leave, and an on-site crèche facility.

According to Section 54 of the Labour Act in Nigeria, new mothers are legally entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave. However, Union Bank is leading the way with this groundbreaking comprehensive package, which is a significant step ahead of industry norms. This extended leave, coupled with the ability to take annual leave, gives new mothers more time to recover and bond with their newborns, aligning with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. Additionally, returning mothers will benefit from a one-hour late resumption for the first month, easing the transition back into work and ensuring a smoother work-life integration.

Union Bank will also be adding an onsite crèche facility to further support working parents, with a pilot programme at the Head Office set to launch in December 2024. The crèche will provide lactation rooms and family-friendly amenities, offering a convenient childcare solution, particularly for working mothers. This initiative supports SDG 5: Gender Equality by enabling women to balance their professional responsibilities with childcare needs, helping to retain top female talent and fostering an inclusive work environment.

By promoting gender diversity, Union Bank is contributing to broader economic growth; research shows that achieving gender parity in the workforce could increase global GDP by 26%. With these innovative policies, Union Bank is taking significant steps to strengthen its position as a forward-thinking employer in the financial sector.

According to Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, Chief Talent Officer of Union Bank 

“At Union Bank, we are proud to set a new standard in the banking sector with comprehensive maternity leave for working mothers and crèche facilities for the babies of both male and female full-time employees. We are committed to creating a workplace where women can thrive, and these initiatives are crucial in supporting working mothers as they balance their careers and personal lives. By providing five months of fully paid maternity leave and convenient childcare solutions, we aim to retain and empower top talent, ensuring all employees can contribute to the bank’s success.”

These progressive policies enhance work-life balance and position Union Bank as a leader in workplace inclusivity and sustainability. By prioritising gender diversity and employee well-being, Union Bank is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive workplace that aligns with global sustainability goals.

FEC Approves $618m Loan For Fighter Jets From Italy

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a loan of approximately $618 million from a consortium of financials to acquire six Italian-made M- 346 attack jets and ammunition for the Nigerian Air Force.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced this on Wednesday.

The Air Force previously stated that the first three jets are expected to arrive by early 2025, while the remaining deliveries will run through mid-2026.

Last week, Nigeria’s Air Force announced the acquisition of 24 Italian-made M-346 attack jets and ten AW-109 Trekker helicopters as part of its fleet renewal strategy.

Air Force spokesperson, Olusola Akinboyewa, had stated that a delegation, led by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, met in Rome with executives from Leonardo S.P.A. the manufacturer.

The company confirmed that the first three M-346 jets are expected to arrive by early 2025, with the remaining deliveries continuing through mid-2026.

The development is expected to provide more firepower and aerial advantage for troops in the ongoing fight against insurgents in the country.

Nigeria first initiated talks with the Italian firm in early 2024 when Claudio Sabatino, Vice President of Leonardo, met with Nigeria’s air force chief, Hasan Abubakar, in Abuja.

The Federal Government has significantly increased spending on defence and security in recent years to address various security threats nationwide.

About N3.3 trillion was allocated to the defence sector for the 2024 fiscal year.

Though there have been successes, recent developments have shown that Boko Haram and other armed groups persist in the Northeast and other parts of the country

Buy Petrol At N1,000/liter Or CNG At N200/meter: Tinubu’s Controversial Solution

 

President Bola Tinubu’s recent statement advising Nigerians to buy petrol at N1,000 per liter or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) at N200 per meter has sparked widespread outrage and a source of concern among Nigerians. This comes after fuel prices skyrocketed to N1,300 per liter at some locations, a staggering increase from the N195 per liter price when he Tinubu took office less than 18 months ago.

The fuel subsidy removal, implemented by Tinubu’s administration, has led to a surge in transportation costs, with prices increasing by over 300%. This has had a ripple effect on the economy, with inflation rising to alarming levels. I will continue to argue that due to the failure of the government to provide a proper policy framework before implementing the subsidy removal, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of the decision.

The removal of the fuel subsidy has worsened poverty levels, with the number of malnourished Nigerians increasing. The surge in fuel prices has led to increased transportation costs, affecting the livelihoods of many Nigerians. The government’s handling of the fuel subsidy removal has been criticized for lacking transparency and accountability.

instead of providing tangible solutions to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, This administration has resorted to insensitive statements. The recent launch of CNG at N230 per liter, while I see it a welcome move, does little to address the underlying issues caused by the fuel subsidy removal.

The consequences of the fuel subsidy removal are dire, with increased poverty, economic hardship, and lack of transparency. To move forward, Tinubu’s government must learn on how to prioritize the welfare of our citizens and develop policies that promote economic stability and growth in place of inconsistent and insensitive government statement.

This includes providing a proper policy framework that will ensure a robust implementation, investing in alternative energy sources, and addressing corruption surrounding the fuel subsidy. Fundamentally, Nigerians deserve better than insensitive statements and impulsive policy decisions. Tinubu’s government must demonstrate its commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians through effective governance and policy decisions.

FEC Merges Culture, Tourism Ministries, Scraps Niger Delta, Sports Development

The Federal executive council ( FEC) has scrapped the ministry of Niger Delta and the ministry of sport development.

According to the FEC, the National Sports Commission (NSC) will take over the responsibility of the sports ministry.

A newly established ministry of regional development is expected to oversee all the regional development commissions.

The commissions include Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), North West Development Commission (NWDC), South West Development Commission (SWDC), and North East Development Commission (NEDC).

The FEC, presided over by President Bola Tinubu, also approved the merger of the ministry of tourism with the ministry of culture and creative economy.

The decisions were made at the sitting of the FEC at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday.

Court Adjourns Arraignment Of Two Lawyers, Businessman Accused Of Forgery, Damage To Property Nov 28

                       Ademola Owolabi

Justice S.I. Sonaike of the Lagos High Court, TBS has adjourned the arraignment of two lawyers, Ademola Owolabi, the managing partner of Ademola Adetokunbo & Co., and Adebayo Akeju, who is a partner in a law firm called Adon Partners, Lagos, as well as a real estate developer, Alex Ochonogor, to November 28.

Ochonogor is the owner and managing director of Bluecrest Homes Limited, where Owolabi is also the company secretary.

The adjournment followed the absence of the suspects and their counsel in court on Monday, when the matter was called before justice Sonaike.

The suspects are facing a five count charge of conspiracy to commit forgery, forgery, and willful damage to property pressed against them by the Lagos State government in suit marked LD/23611C/2024.

When the matter was called, the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) of the Lagos ministry of Justice, Dr Babajide Martins announced his appearance. He told the court that the AG directed him to call a meeting on the matter. He said in view of the directive, the court should adjourn the matter.

Consequently, the court adjourned the matter till November 28, 2024 for arraignment/further report from the DPP office. Prior to this, a mild drama ensued when the matter was called. The case file was not before the court. This reporter gathered that the Deputy Chief Registrar requested for it on Friday. As a result, the judge called for it and waited until it was retrieved.

Meanwhile, while the defendants have refused to appear in court for arraignment in previous dates, instead they petitioned the Attorney General of Lagos to discontinue the charge and also induced the Police to re-investigate the case which is already in court.

In addition, the defendants are also intimidating the complainant’s witness through the Police.

In a petition to the AG dated October 11, copied to the DPP, the witness, Alao AbdulFatai explained that officers attached to General Investigation Section (G.I) of the Force CID Annex, Alagbon, Ikoyi Lagos invited him surreptitiously into the unconstitutional act of fresh interrogation on a matter before the court.

He mentioned the officers who interrogated him as CP. Ronke Okunade Nurat, CSP. Olatunbosun Olawale and

Inspr. Suleiman Umaru.

AbdulFatai, who is a lawyer wrote: “When I got there, I was staggered when confronted with the same facts that I had made a statement on and already before the court, which was different from the Letter of Invitation Police sent to me.

“Unfortunately, I had to make a statement on the same issue, under reservation of the unconstitutionality of reinvestigating a matter that is already before the court, the said re-investigation, being on the request of the accused persons.

“This is strange because all over the world, an accused and his lawyers are always happy on shoddy Police Investigation because it gives them the leeway to get exonerated in court. However, in this case, the accused asked police to reinvestigate to exoneration them.

“At the said re-investigation, the talking point of the officers from what I saw was that they were making a case for the accused, meaning that they were either influenced to conduct the investigation that way, or there was a petition to that effect, of which the intention is to intimidate me as a witness, or thwart the matter in court. no petition was shown to me.

“I had written a petition of threat to life against the trio, because I am now in fear of my life and I copied your office. kindly find your copy as attached, most especially that Bayo Akeju has gone to press to libel and defame me by stating in a publication that I have been disbarred.”

This reporter gathered that the Principal Secretary to the President of Nigeria, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, popularly called HMO, is the one pulling the strings from Abuja to aid the accused persons to evade justice, although HMO had vehemently denied the allegation too.

Counsel to the complainant, Anthony Omaghomi had also expressed concern that Ochonogor perfected titles when there was a registered caution on the property.

He has consequently asked the Registrar of Title, Lagos State Land Bureau Alausa Ikeja, Lagos State to provide him with the outcome of investigation and deregistration of consent “issued to Ochonogor registered as No: 40/40/2525 over all that parcel of land situate, lying and being at Lekki known and referred to as Plot No. 10 Block 133 Lekki Peninsula Residential Scheme 1, Eti-Osa Area of Lagos State of Nigeria containing an Area of approximately 1139.98 Square Meters with Certificate of Occupancy registered as No. 36 at page 36 Volume 1994W.”

According to charge against the trio, the statement of offence in count one says: “Conspiracy to commit a felony to wit: Forgery contrary to Section 411 of the Criminal Law,Ch.C17, Vol.3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.”

Particulars of offfence states: “Ademola Owolabi (M), Adebayo Akeju (M), Alex Ochonogor (M) and others (now at large) sometimes in year 2015 at B604, Safe court Apartments, Ikate, Lekki, Lagos State in the Lagos Judicial Division conspired among yourselves to commit a felony to wit: Forgery.”

In count 2, they were charged with forgery contrary to Section 365 (1) of the Criminal Law, Ch. C17, Vol.3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

“Ademola Owolabi (M), Adebayo Akeju (M), Alex Ochonogor (M) and others (now at large) sometimes in year 2015 at B604, Safe court Apartments, Ikate, Lekki, Lagos State in the Lagos Judicial Division with intent that it be acted upon as genuine did forge an affidavit of loss of certificate of occupancy purportedly sworn at the Registry of Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Lagos State on 23rd day of September, 2014 to falsely indicate that the original of Certificate of Occupancy Number 36/36/1994W issued to one Hamza Al- Mustapha got missing.

Also, contrary to Section 365 (1) of the Criminal Law, Ch.C17, Vol.3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015, the suspects were accused of forging a Demolition Notice Number 0000025 titled "Audit of Illegal structures within Government Schemes Acquisition and Revocation Areas" purportedly issued by the Governor's Office, Lands Bureau, Directorate of Land Regularisation, Secretariat, Alausa with the intent for it to be acted upon.

They were also accused of procuring a forged Memorandum of Loss of Certificate of Occupancy purportedly dated September 25, 2014 to falsely indicate that original of Certificate of Occupancy Number 36/36/1994W issued to one Hamza Al-Mustapha Certificate got missing as well as willfully and unlawfully destroying a bungalow located on Plot 10, Block 133, Lekki Peninsular Residential Scheme 1, Lagos State, property of one Dr. Obidigwe Eze, who resides abroad.

The background to the charge is that Owolabi and Akeju both lawyers materially aided Ochonogor a businessman, in dispossessing Dr Eze of his property known as Plot 10 Block 133, Lekki Penninsula Residential Scheme 1, Lagos State.

USP Communications Limited sold the land to Dr Eze in May 12, 2005, where he erected a bungalow and has been in peaceful possession.

Upon invasion of the property by the accused persons for land grabbing purposes, the Police waded in and investigated the root of their title.

The investigation revealed that Owolabi and Akeju had forged series of documents to establish that the property still belonged to Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, who was the original allottee, but has since sold the property in 2002 to Continental Properties, who in turn sold to USP Communications that finally sold to the current owner, Dr Eze.

Relying on the premise of alleged missing title documents to the land, Akeju allegedly approached Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, while still in Prison, on the basis of assisting him in facilitating the sale of the property to Ochonogor, who had indicated interest in purchasing the land and provided funding for all the false documentation, forgeries and demolition of Dr Eze's home.

Al-Mustapha reportedly informed Akeju that he has sold a property in that location, instructing him to confirm from his lawyer, Abdulfatai Thomas to ensure that the property is not the same he had sold, but the suspect did not contact Thomas as instructed. He went ahead to concoct documents, demolished Dr Eze’s home and sold the land to Ochonogor, who immediately began construction against court injunction to stop.

Polaris Bank Empowers Media Practitioners with 2024 Capacity Building Workshop

 

Lagos, Nigeria- October 18, 2024: As part of its ongoing commitment to continually empower the Nigerian media and enable it play the critical watchdog role in the society, Polaris Bank is organizing an open workshop for all classes of Journalist across the media spectrum as one of its critical CSR intervention meant to positively impact key stakeholders. 

The 2024 media workshop with the theme: “Integrating AI tools in Contemporary Media practices for Innovation and Excellence” falls within the Bank’s intervention programs under its Education/Capacity Building Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) pillar which deepens media relations, and contribute to the overall development of Nigeria's media landscape.

Scheduled to hold on Thursday, October 24th, 2024, the media workshop aims to equip media practitioners with the latest tools and skills to navigate evolving challenges of modern journalism. 

With a focus on available and relevant Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and use, participants will learn how to integrate these technologies into their day-to-day work, streamlining news gathering processes and ensuring accuracy in storytelling.

The workshop will also dive deep into contemporary new media tools and practices, while addressing available opportunities that enhances career development.

Focus will also be shed on key topics such as; data journalism, fact-checking, and solutions journalism—ensuring media professionals are equipped to thrive in the digital era.

Building on the success and feedback from previous workshops, especially that of 2023 edition, where hundreds of Journalists participated, the 2024 workshop promises to offer even greater value. 

This year’s event will highlight cutting-edge trends, such as media entrepreneurship and career development strategies in a competitive media landscape.

To deliver an impactful workshop, the Bank has assembled top faculty and distinguished subject experts as facilitators, including Dr. Chike Mgbeadichie, a Senior Lecturer at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos and Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director of the Media Career Development Network.

Their extensive knowledge and experience in media and communication will guide participants in understanding how to stay relevant, adapt to technological advancements, and maintain responsible journalism practices.

This initiative reflects Polaris Bank’s long-standing commitment to capacity building, particularly in empowering media practitioners to address the challenges of the digital age. 

By providing access to the latest knowledge and tools, the workshop aims to support the continuous development of the Journalists, and media landscape in Nigeria while fostering sustainable and impactful journalism.

Interested media practitioners can register to attend: Register Here.

Polaris Bank was adjudged Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year in 2023, 2022 and 2021 in Business Day’s Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Petrol Sells at N1,065 in Abuja, N998 in Lagos After NNPC-Dangote Deal Collapse

NNPC Limited retail stations and independent outlets started selling petrol as high as N1,065 per litre in Abuja, and N998 in Lagos among other new prices across Nigerian states, on Wednesday.

This price hike came after NNPCL ended its exclusive purchase deal with the Dangote Refinery, 

The decision to set these new prices was reached through a joint review between NNPCL and independent fuel marketers.

Prior to this, Premium Times had revealed  that NNPCL quit its exclusive supply deal with Dangote, paving the way for marketers to negotiate prices directly with the refinery.

The quoted prices are between N1,030 and N1,065 per litre in Abuja, N998 at NNPCL stations in Lagos, N1,025 in other southwest states, between N1,060 and N1,070 in northeastern states, and between N1,055 and N1,075 south-south states.

Since the Dangote Refinery began operations in May, its relationship with NNPCL has been rocky. According to Aliko Dangote, CEO of Dangote Group, NNPCL lost it's 20% stake in the refinery after failing to meet financial obligations.

NNPCL later claimed it intentionally reduced its stake based on internal assessments.

There has also been some back-and-forth over petrol pricing. Dangote Group initially  stated that NNPCL had full authority to set prices, but it retracted that statement.

The regulator quickly clarified that, in a deregulated market, prices are dictated by market forces, not NNPCL.

In July, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) stepped in directing both parties to resolve their differences.

By September, NNPCL estimated that petrol prices would be N950.22 in Lagos and N992.22 in Abuja based on its negotiations with the refinery.

“The estimated prices are based on negotiated terms between NNPC Ltd. and Dangote Refinery, which recognise current international gasoline prices and the prevailing foreign exchange rate in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021,” NNPCL said at the time.

“NNPC Ltd. can confirm that it is paying Dangote Refinery in US [dollars] for September 2024 PMS offtake, as naira transactions will only commence on October 1st, 2024. We reassure Nigerians that any discount from the Dangote Refinery will be passed on 100% to the general public.”

NNPCL began lifting petrol from Dangote Refinery on September 15, and the breakdown of their exclusive agreement has now influenced the latest price review.

Fidelity Bank improves ease of Revenue Collection with Tax Booths

As part of initiatives towards increasing efficiency in revenue collection in Anambra State, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has donated 10 units of tax booths to the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AIRS).

Commenting on the donation, the Regional Bank Head, Awka, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nosa Orumwense, explained that the donation is borne out of the bank’s devotion to creating solutions for its customers.

“For nearly four decades, Fidelity Bank has been dedicated to meeting the banking needs of Nigerians with customized solutions. Whether through thoughtfully designed products or exceptional services, we have established ourselves as the preferred bank for individuals looking to grow, businesses interested in prospering and economies that want to prosper.

“Today’s donation to AIRS is a first-of-its-kind initiative in Nigeria and would go a long way in smoothening the experience with tax payment and collection for individuals and the Anambra State government respectively. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the government on this project and commit to do more”, explained Dr. Orumwense.

Named the "Fidelity Bank AIRS Small-Tax Hubs," these booths are customized, secure, and user-friendly self-service terminals designed for efficient banking transactions. They are equipped with both mains and solar power sources to ensure continuous operation, and they connect to the internet for real-time transaction processing.

At the commissioning ceremony, Chairman of Anambra State Internal Revenue Service, Dr. Greg Ezeilo, FCA expressed gratitude for the donation, calling the gesture "a dream come true." An elated Dr Ezeilo praised Fidelity Bank for the groundbreaking support while promising that the hubs would be utilized effectively.

Ranked as one of the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 8.3 million customers serviced across its 251 business offices in Nigeria and the United Kingdom as well as on digital banking channels.

The bank has won multiple local and international awards including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, the Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023 and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards; Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023; and Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.

FG Gives Fresh Alert To Nigeria's On Flood ; Jebba Dam Is Spilling Excess Water

The Federal Government has issued a fresh warning to Nigeria regarding flooding in the country.

A statement by the Director General Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, informed that Jebba Dam is currently spilling excess water as regulated by Kainji Dam operators, who had kept 53cm buffer until now to allow for any change in inflow.

“NIHSA through the Director Operational Hydrology Pastor Femi Bejide, is working in close contact with the operators of Kainji and Jebba Dams on the management of the reservoirs”

“The rain is gradually shifting to the south, however, there is still some amount of water coming into Nigeria as monitored from our station at Jidere Bode and Kende” he emphasised.

Highlighting the agency’s synergy with the authorities of the Dams both nationally and internationally, he maintained that NIHSA is committed to managing great River flooding incidences to foster socio-economic growth in Nigeria.

Mohammed also revealed that the water level in the River Niger Basin has slowly receded since the beginning of October.

He called on Nigerians to continue to adhere to flood preparedness protocols, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to the overall flood management in Nigeria.

The warning comes following recent reports on the worst flooding incidents in the history of Nigeria, with the capital of Borno State, Maiduguri taking the lead.