Fidelity Bank Plc Signs the UN Principles for Responsible Banking

30 Nov. 2023, Lagos, Nigeria – Fidelity Bank Plc has become an official signatory of the UN Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) – a single framework for a sustainable banking industry developed through a collaboration between banks worldwide and the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI). 

 The Principles are the leading framework for ensuring that banks’ strategy and practice align with the vision society has set out for its future in the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. Banks who have signed the Principles commit to be ambitious in their sustainability strategies, working to mainstream and embed sustainability into the heart of their business, while allowing them to remain at the cutting-edge of sustainable finance.

Under the Principles, signatory banks identify and measure the environmental and social impact resulting from their business activities, set and implement targets where they have the most significant impact, and regularly report publicly on their progress.  The Principles provide a framework for banks to systematically understand the risks and seize the opportunities arising from the transition to more sustainable economies.

“As long-time signatories to UNEPFI, signing onto the PRB is the next step to show our commitment to sustainability.  Sustainability is central to our corporate strategy as a bank and joining the Principles further affirms our determination to increasing our positive impacts in all aspects of sustainability. The PRB aligns with our sustainability principles and the bank is delighted to join the global community of signatories championing sustainable development around the world”, commented Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc.

Signatories to the Principles take on a leadership role, demonstrating how banking products, services and relationships can support and accelerate the changes necessary to achieve shared prosperity for both current and future generations, building a positive future for both people and planet. These banks also join the world’s largest global banking community focused on sustainable finance, sharing best-practice, and working together on practical guidance and pioneering tools of benefit to the entire industry.

This is a journey of unprecedented scale and scope at a time when such ambition is urgently needed to address the major planetary crises of climate change, nature loss, pollution and social issues. Together, these collective efforts will ensure that profitability goes hand in hand with a sense of purpose.

ONDEA Unveiled as Headline Sponsor For 2023 Lead Awards

Project Lead Africa is thrilled to announce Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) as the official sponsor for the 2023 Leadership Excellence and Dignity Awards. According to the organizers, the 2023 Lead Awards ceremony promises to be bigger and better, with the support of leading organizations driving innovation and growth within and outside Ondo State.

In a press statement made available to journalists in Lagos, the Principal Consultant and Executive Director, Project Lead Africa, Mr. Abiola Alaba Peters said “We are glad of this collaboration, having Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) as our headline sponsor for this year, is such a honor, the aim is to inspire more these generations to keep doing more for our dear Sunshine state”. 

Also referred to as “Ondo State Most Prestigious” Leadership Excellence and Dignity Awards is an annual award ceremony that celebrates individuals and organizations that are proudly Ondo State indigenes.

Themed, ‘Celebrating High Achievers", “the 2023 Lead Awards aims to unearth the giants of the Sunshine state that are yet to be celebrated” says the Project Director, Adebukola Oba, who also confirmed that the event will showcase a new wave of super creative and talented individuals, including organizations that are eager to take Ondo State to the next level.

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Entrepreneurship Development, Dr. Summy Smart Francis (hc) stated that the ONDEA’s decision to sponsor the 2023 Lead Awards was borne out of the desire to inform, educate and encourage creative’s and other professionals, particularly young people in Ondo State.

Dr. Smart who is also the founder and President Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs (A.Y.E) while thanking His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, for providing the platform for young people to thrive in the state, express his enthusiasm to speak and interact with fellow compatriots at this year Lead Awards.

While Lead Awards aim to drive collaboration, foster partnerships, and provide a platform for quality leaders to share insights that can shape future generations, Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) which is an initiative of Akeredolu led administration, aimed at providing professional guidance to local entrepreneurs, empowers SMEs and MSMEs in Ondo State.

Associate sponsors for the 2023 Lead Awards include Dejavu Hotels, AutoProbe, Shaunze Royal and Aristo Games & Bristrol among others.

Sterling One Foundation Commits to the African Union Year of Education (AUYoE) Alongside African Education Ministers and Other Stakeholders

 

The Sterling One Foundation has reiterated its commitment to investing in foundational learning and working with the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) and partners to boost education in Africa.

This commitment was made at the 2023 High Level Policy Dialogue hosted in Zambia by ADEA and the Zambian Ministry of Education to inform policy and decisions on foundational learning, foster dialogue and peer learning, and share good practices on what works in foundational learning in support of the African Union Year of Education scheduled for 2024.

Over the years, development experts have bemoaned the dire situation facing Africa’s youth, given the inefficient education system in place to cater to them, coupled with the rapid rise in their population. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the State of Global Education Update reports that only 10% of 10-year-olds are able to read basic story texts or solve simple arithmetic problems, thus placing the region as the lowest in terms of numeracy skills and foundational literacy in the world.

With this challenge at the front burner, ten African Ministers of Education and some other country representatives agreed to prioritize foundational learning and develop a foundational learning starter pack model for the 2024 African Union Year of Education (AUYoE) and beyond, as an urgent step towards tackling the challenge.

The starter pack is expected to serve as a uniform resource material that will help the participating countries develop a sustainable solution for the problem. Furthermore, the model will prioritize data collection and analysis of the data in partnership with ADEA and other key policy partners to improve laws and bring to fore policies that foster more efficiency, peer learning and best practices in support of the AUYoE.

Sharing her perspective on the resolutions from the Dialogue, Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of the Sterling One Foundation hailed the ideas and strategies put forward, stating that it will strengthen the work of private sector and civil society organizations contributing to the solutions.

“Policies are crucial to sustainable development work in Africa and we are glad that the deliberations here have fashioned out ways to improve the work being done across the early childhood and primary education value chain. At our Foundation, we support the work of different stakeholders through grants, technical support and strategic engagements, and we are excited to see how the mainstreaming of the resolutions here will improve that work,” she added.

Some of the key aspects the decision-makers at the Policy Dialogue hope to address in the immediate future include adoption of structured pedagogy for the continent, introduction of more age-appropriate teaching methods and use of technology to improve teacher quality, through training and performance monitoring and improvement. 

The Minister of Education of Zambia, Hon. Douglas Munsaka Syakalima while stressing the importance of all stakeholders taking the resolutions seriously mentioned that education, especially foundational learning is at the base of what will drive Africa’s development.

“It is by building people that we will derive the resources to craft a new vision and bring such a vision to life. Without foundational skills in numeracy and literacy, there can be no further learning quality,” he said.

Participants at the High-Level Policy Dialogue got the opportunity to review some of the solutions and insights from the participating countries to see what works and where improvements and adaptations are possible. There were also school visits organized for participants to get some first hand experience of play-based learning and other important concepts made possible by the right policies.

During his remarks, the Executive Secretary of ADEA, Mr. Albert Nsengiyumva highlighted the need for a collective commitment to tackling the crisis the continent faces, stating that: “Africa is the continent most affected by the learning crisis, and it is where the solutions must be developed.”

He thanked the participating Ministers of Education and other stakeholders for the work they have done so far, and urged them to continue on that momentum to ensure the acceleration of progress. 

Some other leaders who spoke at the Policy Dialogue include Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, Founder of Human Capital Africa and Co-convener of the Foundational Learning Ministerial Coalition, and Dr Benjamin Piper, Director of Global Education at the Gates Foundation, both of whom advocated strongly for data-driven decisions and scaling what has worked. 

About ADEA

The Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) is a critical voice and a forum for policy dialogue on education in Africa. It is hosted by the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. The anticipated impact of ADEA's work is that African countries are empowered to develop education and training systems that respond to their current and emergent needs and sustainably drive Africa's social and economic transformation. 

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 www.onefoundation.ng

The Alternative Bank signs multi-sector development deal with Niger State

 

The Alternative Bank, an Africa-focused non-interest bank, has signed a multiyear deal with the Niger State government to boost the development of agriculture, transportation, energy, and infrastructural sectors in the state. 

Mohammed Bago, Governor of Niger State who signed the Memorandum of Understanding, alongside Garba Mohammed, executive director at The Alternative Bank, said the objective of the deal is to maximise the agricultural potential of the state. 

Governor Bago expressed delight with the financial institution’s readiness to partner with the state for maximum agricultural potential. He said the state plans to lease earth-moving equipment like caterpillars, bulldozers, pale loaders, and graders to prepare 4.5 million hectares of cultivable land over the next 10 years. 

The deal with The Alternative Bank provides the State Government with numerous developmental prospects including deploying solar-powered kiosks across various locations in the state for basic healthcare delivery and community convergence. The deal also encourages investing in agriculture to bolster the agro-economy value chain, aiming at food security and export enhancement. 

Another benefit of the deal is fast-tracking the shift to sustainable electric transportation in Niger State, empowering people and reducing environmental harm from fossil fuel use (PMS/AGO). It would also bridge banking service gaps in underserved areas, ensuring comprehensive financial service access and economic integration for all residents of the state. The deal will introduce a digital platform mirroring the physical setup, infrastructure, and operational model of the state’s tertiary institutions. Finally, it will bring focus to the drug supply chain and expedite health insurance to widen healthcare access in the state. 

Garba Mohammed, Executive Director of Alternative Finance said there are million-dollar opportunities from the deal. He noted that an international partner is willing to invest $65 million in a sugarcane plantation, creating job opportunities and generating electricity and other products. 

Another development partner from the UAE is ready to invest between $1 and $10 million for exporting the Alfalfa plant, requiring 100,000 hectares for cultivation. Mohammed has also advised the state government to obtain Ijarah Sukuk from the capital market for 5 to 7 years, to reduce costs and ensure a return on investment without a substantial upfront cost from the state. 

About The Alternative Bank

The Alternative Bank is the non-interest arm of Sterling Financial Holding Company. Licensed to operate as a commercial entity in 2023, the bank boasts of various product offerings and solutions such as Alt Mall, Alt Drive, and Alt Power, amongst other various diverse and innovative solutions. 

Fidelity Bank set to host 2 days of Family Entertainment, Announces maiden edition of its Fidelity Family Weekend Fiesta

In the spirit of the Yuletide, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced plans to host the maiden edition of the Fidelity Family Weekend.

Scheduled to hold on Saturday, 16 and Sunday, 17 December 2023 at the Fidelity Grounds, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos, the event is designed to create a fun and relaxed atmosphere for children to play, parents to relax and young adults to unwind during the festive season.

“The Yuletide season is all about coming together and spending quality time with loved ones especially as we wind down the year in anticipation of a new year. As a bank committed to providing memorable experiences for its clients, we pioneered the Fidelity Family Weekend to fete host our customers and clients to two fun filled days of family entertainment. We believe this is one more way of thanking our customers for a successful year,” noted the Divisional Head, Brand & Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Meksley Nwagboh, Ph.D. in a chat with journalists.

The Fidelity Family Weekend would run from 10am to 10pm daily and would feature dedicated fun activities for children including dancing competitions, bouncing castles, train rides, Santa’s Grotto, balloon games, amongst others. Similarly, the programme for the adults’ section would feature exciting activities like karaoke competitions, games arcades, couple games, musical performances and so many more fun games that are geared towards providing a memorable experience for guests.

Entry into the event is free but guests are required to pre-register at www.fidelitybank.ng/family-weekend before 12 December 2023.

Commenting further, Dr Nwagboh said, “As a bank dedicated to helping individuals grow, businesses thrive and economies to prosper, we boast of an array of products and services for our diverse client base.  These include the Fidelity SWEETA account for young children below the age of 17 years, Fidelity Flex for teenagers and undergraduates; and even the Fidelity Vintage Account for senior citizens; all tailor-made to meet our customers specific needs. The Fidelity Family Weekend is therefore another demonstration of this devotion to provide platforms for our customers to fulfill their lifestyle requirements”.

Ranked as one of the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank is a full-fledged customer commercial bank with over 8 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.

Sterling Bank Continues Support for Ake Festival

 

Sterling Bank, Nigeria's leading commercial bank, is proud to announce its continued partnership with the Book Buzz Foundation for the 11th edition of the Ake Arts and Books Festival, taking place from November 22nd to 24th, 2023, in Ikeja, Lagos. This collaboration reaffirms Sterling Bank's unwavering commitment to enriching lives and investing in the communities it serves. 

The bank firmly believes that its prosperity is intertwined with the thriving of the community it operates in.

Maurice Igugu, Chief Marketing Officer of Sterling Bank, highlighted the bank's ongoing commitment to five key sectors of the economy under its HEARTS strategy: Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation. "Through strategic investments in education," said Mr. Igugu, "we aim to empower communities with knowledge, equipping them to combat poverty and elevate their standards of living."

The Ake Festival, founded by director Lola Shoneyin, plays a vital role in nurturing the creativity of young individuals and enabling them to flourish. Sterling Bank remains steadfast in its support of the festival as part of its continued efforts to promote creativity and community growth.

The 2023 edition of the festival adopts the theme of "Blood Ties," exploring concepts of family, love, relationships, loss, and togetherness. This theme reflects the festival's commitment to inclusivity and promoting a diverse range of voices and perspectives.

Lola Shoneyin expressed her gratitude for the partnership with Sterling Bank and Luminate, organizations aligned with the festival's goal of celebrating and promoting creativity while facilitating discussions that empower the youth. She also introduced a notable addition to this year's festival, The Africa Rights Forum, which aims to train agents and editors in sub-Saharan Africa to navigate the global rights market and enable African publishers to establish a presence in the global marketplace.

Visitors to the festival can look forward to stimulating panel discussions covering a diverse range of topics and featuring some of Africa's finest thinkers. "This year," said Shoneyin, "we have eight incredible panel discussions with some of Africa's brightest minds. Everyone leaves Aké Festival feeling enriched."

Beyond panel discussions, the festival will showcase in-depth interviews with a diverse array of writers from Africa and beyond, delving into the themes they explore, their memorable characters, and the magical worlds they create for readers.

Universal Green Energy Access Programme, Union Bank of Nigeria Announce Partnership to Propel the Renewable Energy Market in Nigeria

 

Luxembourg based Universal Green Energy Access Programme (UGEAP), and Union Bank of Nigeria have formalised the basis for a strategic partnership to catalyse the development of the renewable energy market in Nigeria. 

This collaboration, marked initially by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to drive sustainable energy access for households and small and medium businesses across Sub-Saharan Africa, primarily focusing on Nigeria.

UGEAP, a 15-year blended finance facility, is dedicated to supporting the transition to sustainable energy. The United Nations Green Climate Fund (GCF) has committed the anchor investment to UGEAP, with DWS Investment S.A. as the Investment Manager. 

Union Bank of Nigeria is a venerable financial institution established in 1917. The bank brings its vast experience and a comprehensive portfolio of banking services to this partnership. With over 293 service centres and more than 937 ATMs spread across Nigeria, it is a trusted partner in the financial sector.

Recognising the critical need for energy in Nigeria and the shared ambition to increase the proportion of renewable energy in the energy mix, the Parties have identified key areas of focus, which include meeting the energy demands in Nigeria, reducing industry and corporate dependence on expensive electrical energy to align with climate targets for CO2 emissions reduction, promoting solar home solutions, mini-grids for first-time electrified communities, and both off-grid and on-grid renewable energy production for corporates and productive use of energy.

In line with this, Union Bank and UGEAP commit to cooperating on a joint initiative with the specific goal of mobilising and deploying USD 500 million in funding and technical assistance over the next five (5) years. This initiative aims to advance the renewable energy sector, benefit businesses and communities in Nigeria, and contribute to the broader sustainability goals in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Speaking about the partnership, Mudassir Amray, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank, said:

“Union Bank of Nigeria is proud to align with UGEAP in this groundbreaking initiative. Our longstanding commitment to fostering growth in Nigeria and UGEAP's expertise in renewable energy positions us to drive meaningful change. This collaboration marks a milestone in pursuing renewable energy development in Nigeria, promising a more sustainable and resilient future for our communities.”

Also commenting on the partnership, Michael Hoelter, Senior Investment Principal of the Sustainable Investments team at DWS, expressed:

Renewable energy technology is a highly flexible solution for local solutions to the global target to de-carbonise industry and the financial system. Be it pay-as-you-go or roof-top installations for corporates, customers do not have to wait for the national grid to be reinforced to obtain electrical energy reliably. Solar power beats the noise of generators and can also beat the cost. UGEAP aims to multiply its capital contribution with the strength of local partners with a strategic alignment to bring clean energy to households and industrial users. We are glad to welcome Union Bank to the already existing partners in this joint development path. 

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Note to editors:

About Union Bank Plc:

Established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1971, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc is a household name and one of Nigeria's long-standing and most respected financial institutions. The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. 

The Bank currently offers a variety of banking services to both individual and corporate clients, including current, savings and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing and trade finance. The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.

 More information can be found at:  www.unionbankng.com 

Media Enquiries: Email acomolayole@unionbankng.com

About Universal Green Energy Access Programme (UGEAP):

UGEAP is a 15-year blended finance facility that aims to contribute to the transition to sustainable energy by supporting clean energy access for households and small and medium businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. UGEAP’s anchor investment has been committed by the UN Green Climate Fund (“GCF”), with DWS acting as the Investment Manager. The initial target countries for UGEAP are Benin, Ethiopia, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda, together with any other Sub-Saharan African countries which may be determined by DWS and approved by the GCF. 

UGEAP has two components, i.e., the Fund and the Technical Assistance Facility. The Fund aims to support the debt financing needs of the renewable energy sector in Sub-Saharan Africa, primarily servicing off- and on-grid populations and businesses. The Fund provides funding through and along financial intermediaries to benefit commercial businesses that develop, build, and operate renewable energy installations, provide clean energy access to households and businesses, or provide ancillary services in the energy supply chain and serve markets in Sub-Saharan Africa. In parallel to the Fund, technical assistance resources are made available through a Technical Assistance Facility to further the objectives of UGEAP as described above. They will achieve this by developing the pipeline of viable transactions, strengthening the infrastructure for financing energy access companies, and expanding the capacity of companies in the UGEAP portfolio, among other enabling activities.

‘Nigeria Is Not Lagos’ – NNPP Chieftain Cautions Tinubu Against Gagging The Judiciary

 A chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over interference with the functions of the judiciary.

Recall that the Court of Appeal in Abuja had last Friday sacked the Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf, of the NNPP and declared the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, winner of the March 18 election.

During a solidarity visit to Yusuf on Tuesday, Oguntoyinbo, the NNPP 2023 governorship candidate in Ogun State, said Tinubu should allow the judiciary to function effectively as expected in democratic governance.

He also cautioned Tinubu against intimidating the judiciary and turning Nigeria into a one-party state like the case of Lagos.

He said, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should not interfere with the functions of the judiciary but instead allow the judiciary to function effectively as expected in democratic governance.

“The President should not cow the judiciary; he should realise that Nigeria is not Lagos, where he turned the state into an APC state with no functioning opposition parties.

“APC as a party and the President are too desperate to control all states in Nigeria, hence their resort to pushing the judiciary to achieve their aim of foisting on the country a one-party system.

“Last week, former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar warned the nation of the plan of the ruling APC and President Bola Tinubu to turn the country into a one-party state. I agree with Alhaji Atiku and want all other statesmen to rise up and caution President Tinubu not to turn the country to Lagos State, where he pockets everything.”

Breaking: Gunmen Attack Adamawa Police Headquarters

There was pandemonium as Gunmen attacked the Adamawa State Police Headquarters in the wee hours of Wednesday, sending residents of Yola into panic.

The Police headquarters is located at the heart of Jimeta community in Yola North local government area.

Sounds of gunshot rend the air for at least 30 minutes, according to a resident who preferred anonymity.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, confirmed the attack to Daily Trust, but said things were under control.

Nguroje said the attack was repelled, but the identities of those behind it was unknown.

One source said the attackers were military personnel on a revenge mission, following the alleged killing of a military officer by the police.

Although it could not be independently verified if military personnel were involved, the police said investigations were ongoing to ascertain the cause of the attack and those behind it.

The development comes some days after the stand-off between officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.

Air Force personnel had invaded EFCC head office in Kaduna state to effect the release of their colleagues arrested over alleged fraud.

The military personnel and security operatives guarding the commission almost exchanged gunfire, according to sources.

The anti-graft agency later issued a statement to say it would not be intimidated in the course of duty.

Inter-agency clash sometimes occur between operatives, and have led to blood bath in the past.

Naira Marley And Sam Larry Released After Meeting Bail Condition Over Mohbad's Death

 

The Lagos State Police Command has released singer Naira Marley and his close associate, Samson Erinfolami Balogun, known as Sam Larry, after meeting their bail conditions.

Both men were released on Friday evening November 17. Recall that a Magistrate’s Court sitting in Yaba, Lagos State, on Monday, November 6, 2023, granted the duo bail in the sum of N20m with three responsible duties.

Both men were arrested and arraigned before the court over their alleged complicity in the death of Naira Marley’s former signee, Mohbad, who died in controversial circumstances on September 12.

On November 6, the court granted them bail. The magistrate, Adeola Olatunbosun, told the defendants to submit their passports and ordered that they are to report weekly to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti.

Update: Jubilations As NLC And TUC End Nationwide Strike

 

Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have suspended their ongoing nationwide strike.

The unions made the decision on Wednesday night, November 15, following the intervention of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

The National Deputy Vice-President of the TUC, Tommy Etim, disclosed this after a member between the leaders of the organised labour and Ribadu in Abuja.

Recall that the unions last week went on a nationwide strike over the alleged brutalisation of its National President, Joe Ajaero, during a protest in Imo State.

OAU Lecturer Slumps And Dies In Office

 

Obafemi Awolowo University ( OAU), Ile -Ife, Osun State, has been thrown into mourning following the death of a 52- year- old lecturer at the Faculty of Education, Dr Ayo Ojediran

Nuella's News learnt that the deceased slumped and died in his office last week Thursday.

The Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr Abiodun Olarewaju, said the death of the lecturer was an unpalatable incident and devastating to students and colleagues of Ojediran.

One of the close friends of the deceased, Ayodeji Obisesan, in a post via Facebook, described Ojediran’s death as a great loss.

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He wrote: “Dr Ayo Ojediran, a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education at OAU, slumped and died in his office today.

“Such a nice and humble man to the core. Always willing to help. My namesake, for sure.

“May God grant us, your students, friends, colleagues, associates, and family members, the fortitude to bear this great loss. May your soul rest in perfect peace, Dr. Ojediran Isaac Ayodele.”

Some of his students also lamented the death of the lecturer and prayed to God to give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.

ASUU Joins NLC And TUC, Declares Nationwide Strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has directed its members to join the nationwide strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC)  and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, starting from Monday midnight, November 13.

The President of ASUU, Prof Emmanuel Osodeke, gave the directive in a letter sent to all the union zonal coordinators and branch chairpersons of the union on Monday evening.

“As an affiliate of NLC, all members of our union are hereby directed to join this action of NLC to protect the interest of Nigerian workers and the leadership of the union.

Zonal coordinators and branch chairpersons should immediately mobilise our members to participate in the action.

A people united cannot be defeated,” he said.

It would be recalled that NLC and the TUC embarked on a nationwide strike last week over the ill-treatment of the NLC President, Joe Ajaero during the workers’ protest in Imo State.

Five Millionaires emerge in Polaris Bank's ongoing ‘Save & Win’ Promo

Lagos, Nigeria: November 15, 2023 - Five lucky Nigerians at the weekend hit a fortune when they emerged Millionaires in the ongoing Polaris Bank Save & Win Promo.

The live quarterly draw of the ongoing Polaris 'Save & Win' promo which took place at the Bank's headquarters Annex, Alausa Ikeja at the weekend in Lagos, further underscored Polaris Bank's dedication to fairness in all its promotions and activities.

The development is in line with the Bank's commitment to rewarding its loyal customers across the nation.

The winners emerged through a draw exercise which was witnessed by its representatives and relevant Agencies of government; Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), National Lottery Commission (NLRC) and Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) who confirmed that the 5 lucky winners were selected across Nigeria's various regions spanning the geo-zones

Each winner received a cash prize of N1,000,000. During the draw, the lucky winners were called at random using a hybrid media technology which enabled in-premises event; as well as participation of over 1221 customers through the Bank’s virtual network and social media handles. 

One of the lucky millionaires commended the Bank in putting in place the promo at this time which he said was relevant saying “Thank you to Polaris Bank for making me a millionaire. I never expected this surprise. This money definitely came in at the right time, I will tell my friends to open accounts with Polaris Bank and participate in the promo so we can all become millionaires.”

Speaking at the live draw event, the representative from FCCPC; Susie Onwuka said, “We’ve been monitoring Polaris Bank since the promo started and it has been fair, they comply to rules and guidelines. Customers should feel free and confident to participate in the promo”. 

During the unveiling of the lucky millionaires, Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO), 'Dele Adeyinka also expressed the Bank's commitment to encouraging a culture of savings among its customers. "The Polaris Bank Save & Win promo is not just about rewarding customers; it's also about encouraging our customers to save for the rainy day”.

The CDO emphasized that customers can still participate in, or increase their chances of winning by depositing a minimum of N10,000 in their Savings account. He also noted that non-customers of the Bank can participate for a chance to win in the draws by opening a Polaris Savings account with N2,000 and growing same to N10,000 before the next draw date.

The representatives of the regulatory bodies commended the Bank for making good its promise to winners of the draws.

For those wishing to be part of the Campaign and stand a chance to also become millionaires, below are four (4) ways to participate in the ongoing Polaris Save & Win promo:

1. Download VULTe on iOS and the App store to open a Polaris Savings Account or dial USSD *833*0# on your phone or log into Polaris Bank savings portal.

2. Grow your account by N10,000 or more and maintain for 30 days or by N10,000 for 3 consecutive months to qualify for monthly & quarterly draws respectively.

3. If your account is dormant, you can reactivate your account without visiting the Bank by simply dialing *833*30#.

4. Follow the Bank’s handles @polarisbankltd across all social media platforms or visit the website to stay updated.

Polaris Bank was adjudged Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year in 2023, 2022 and 2021 in BusinessDay’s Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards. As a digital-forward Bank, the Bank is dedicated to forging a customer-focused future through innovative partnerships that reshape both businesses and communities.

I Inherited Great Liabilities From Buhari’s Administration’ – Tinubu

 

President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that his administration inherited Seroius liabilities from Muhammadu Buhari's government

In a statement on Tuesday by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu made this known on Monday night in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The President lamented that Nigeria has serious deficits in port, power infrastructure and agro-allied facilities, saying that his administration would ensure that all the shortcomings are addressed.

President Tinubu said even though his government also inherited assets from his predecessors, he would not make any excuses.

He said: “We inherited serious liabilities, but also assets from our predecessors. We do not make any excuses.

“There are several sectors replete with investment opportunities for smart investors. Access to finance and guarantees can be a hindrance in some cases. You can come in there. We see you as a critical enabler.

“You have partnered with us before. We want to scale it up now and do much more with greater ambition and clearer vision.”

Pastor Monday Nwajiri Laments Threat to Life by His Kinsmen Over Landed Property

 

The presiding Pastor of the World Conqueror Ministry, Monday Nwajiri has raised alarm over alleged plot by member of his kinsmen to kidnap and take his life over some of his landed properties in his hometown. The Lagos based clergyman and native of Mba in Abia State called on Nigerians, especially the Inspector General of Police and other relevant security agencies to come to his aid. Narrating his ordeal in the hands of his own relatives, who are supposed to be his own people, Nwajiri said even though he does not understand their sudden hate and jealousy, he is still trying to figure out why they wish and wants him dead at all cost, despite destroying his properties.

Speaking exclusively to journalists in Lagos, Monday Nwajiri said he had not only reported the case at the community police station, but he has also take a step further to drag his kinsmen to the state police headquarters, in his words; even though the police have asked all parties to maintain status quo, Uche Ndionyenma and his led thugs decided to dare the police by ignoring police order and went ahead to destroy properties belonging to Monday Nwajiri.

"It is important to establish that this matter have been reported to the police, the first was on the 3rd of October, 2023, statement have also been written. Following that, a letter to desist from all forms of violence against me was served to the gang leader, Mr Uche Ndionyenma. On the 5th of October 2023, Report of conspiracy, harassment, Assualt, Breach of peace, forcible entry and threat to my life was written through my layer to Assistant Inspector of Police, zone 9 police headquarters Umuahia, Abia state"

"Also last month, (October), our church lawyer wrote petitions complaining of criminal trespass, intimidation, threat to life and conduct likely to cause breach of peace which was copied to Abia State commissioner of police. In my petition, we demanded that seven people be arrested but they ended up arresting two people, who was released and allowwd to go the same day there were arrested. Their last statement was on the 7th October 2023, and I was with them, they say they will fix an appointment date for the two parties to meet, they are yet to fix and they went ahead to destroy my fence disrespecting the police order".

Giving further details on the identity of those threatening to kidnap and kill him, Monday Nwajiri said, while one Elesia Uche and Sunday Obiakor led thugs to the site of his properties, himself, Mr Chukwuma Okoronkwo Nwajiri and Mrs Rose Okoronkwo Nwajiri are constantly been harrassed and threatened by Uche Ndionyenma, Elder John Uche, Mr. Uche Emmanuel Ndionyenma, Mr Sunday Emenike Nwajiri, Mr Gabriel Uche Nwajiri, Mr Sunday Obiako Nwajiri, Mr Chibuzor Okoronkwo Nwajiri and Mr Uche Emezie among others he can't recall their names.

""This is a property that was legally and traditionally given to me, I have always been a man of peace. I don't engage in violence, and I don't understand why people who are suppose to be my own flesh and blood are waging war against me, event to the point of threatening to kidnap and kill me. I calling on Nigerians home and broad to hold Mr. Uche Ndionyenma and those names I mentioned responsible if anything happens to me or any members of my family, including Mr. Chukwuma Okoronkwo Nwajiri and Mrs Rose Okoronkwo Nwajiri. He (Uche Ndionyenma) boasted that nobody can do him anything and that he has his police his in palm; that I can take him to Tinubu, nothing will happen. I fear God and have Respect for law and as a good citizen, I demand that the police should do the needful and bring these culprits to book. I want to thank member of the Nigerian police force, they have been very steadfast in their response. I did not suspect any compromise on their part. They are doing wonderfully well. It is so unfortunate that my opponent disregarded and disrespected them by taking laws into their hands".

Nigerian Police Arrest Husband, As Mother Of ‘Mummy Calm Down’ Boy Commits Suicide

 

The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the husband of Mrs Toluige Olokoobi, mother of “mummy calm down” boy, days after news broke that she committed suicide.

An X user broke the news of Olokoobi’s death on Monday.

The X user, who said he was at the scene of the incident on Monday afternoon tweeted, “The woman in the viral Mummy Calm down video has just committed suicide here in Benin.

“She refused to speak to anyone about her problems. She left three kids for her husband including the popular Mummy Calm Down boy.”

One of the residents of the area also confirmed her death saying the deceased committed suicide in front of her one-year-old son.

She added that the deceased worked as a medicine distributor while her husband worked as taxi driver and car dealer.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, told BBC Pidgin on Thursday that the deceased’s husband has been arrested and detained for questioning.

“He came home from the market when he saw his wife hanging with rope on her neck,

“He alerted the neighbours who followed him to the hospital where she was confirmed dead,” Nwabuzor stated.

The police spokesperson added that her body was deposited at the mortuary.

“He’s still with the police and will soon be transferred to the State CID for further investigation,” the spokesman concluded.

Olokoobi and her son, Oreofeoluwa Lawal-Babalola, caught the attention of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu after the boy’s video begging his mum saying “mummy be calming down” went viral in 2020.

The boy alongside his family met with the governor, who hailed his courage and composure.

Kogi Council Chairman Slumps, Dies Few Hours To Governorship Election

 

The Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Council, Kogi State, Muhammed, is dead.

According to report, it is gathered that Muhammed was confirmed dead around 4:30 am at a hospital in Lokoja, the state capital.

 The Council Chairman was rushed to the hospital after he slumped at his residence.

He was said to have been active at a series of political meetings in preparation for the governorship election in the state on Saturday.

A family source who spoke with Daily Trust revealed that he was rushed to Shifa Hospital, Lokoja, shortly after he collapsed in the house in the late hours of Thursday.

The family member who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “Doctors confirmed him clinically dead around 4.30 am on Friday.”

The deceased was from ward B in the cantonment area of Lokoja.

He will be buried at the Unguwan Kura Muslim cemetery after the Juma’at prayer on Friday.

Sympathisers were reportedly seen trooping into his family house on Friday morning at cantonment area of Lokoja to condole the family over his sudden demise.

He is survived by his mother, wife and children.

Private Jet Conveying Minister of Power, Adebayo, Entourage Crash-Lands In Oyo State

A private aircraft, with registration number 5N-AMM, conveying the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu and his entourage, has crash-landed in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, SaharaReporters can report.

It was learnt that the incident occurred on Friday evening, while the three cabin crews and the seven passengers were all rescued from the damaged aircraft.

A preliminary report on the incident on Saturday morning noted that the aircraft was still in the bush at runway 22.

“At about 0825hrs of 03/11/2023, an aircraft with registration number 5N-AMM that convey the incumbent minister of power, Abdul Waheed Adebayo Adelabu, and his entourage crash-landed along runway 22 and skid off the runway into a nearby bush.

“The control tower reported on radio that he lost communication with the just landed aircraft and immediately called on the ARFFS, the AVSEC and other needed airport officials reported almost immediately to the scene.

“The 3 cabin crews and the 7 Passengers were all rescued from the damaged aircraft. All efforts to get details from the pilot proved abortive. Also at the scene were the NAF airport commandant and his team.

“As at time the of filling this report, the aircraft is still in the bush at runway 22 while the security personnel of both AVSEC, ARFFS, Airport Safety team and NAF team were on standby for cover,” the report said.

Officials told SaharaReporters that after a “brief emergency meeting with the HODs on ground”, the findings were that there was no loss of life.

“The runway lighting system was on as at the time of the Arrival. There was no life lost. We could not ascertain the cause of the incident as at the point of filling this report. The Aircraft skid off the runway. In conclusion we are awaiting further Investigation,” an official said.

France To Return Another $150m Abacha Loot to Nigeria

 

The French Government on Friday revealed its intention to return another $150 million stolen by former Head of State,General Sani Abacha

The late General Sani Abacha ruled Nigeria from November 17, 1993 to June 8, 1998.

The French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna, made this known when she visited President Bola Tinubu on Friday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Tinubu, who expressed his appreciation for the move to return the $150 million stolen from Nigeria by Abacha, also acknowledged the signing of a €100 million agreement between Nigeria and France to support the i-DICE programme, a Federal Government initiative to promote investment in Information and Communications Technology and Creative Arts Industries.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Technology, and the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, at an earlier event at Tafawa Balewa House, the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

President Tinubu commended the strengthening of bilateral relations between Nigeria and France, noting that this progress followed his visit to Paris after his inauguration.

He told Colonna: “Thank you for the good news on the return of Abacha loot. 

“We appreciate your effective cooperation concerning the return of Nigeria’s money. 

“It will be judiciously applied in attaining our development objectives.”

The President, while emphasising the need to reinforce collaboration on both political and economic fronts, welcomed the growing cooperation between the two countries in areas of shared interests such as climate change, economic integration, education and culture.

The French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs conveyed the goodwill of President Emmanuel Macron and expressed the readiness of France to expand mutually beneficial collaboration with Nigeria across multiple sectors.

She proceeded to extend a formal invitation to President Tinubu to attend the forthcoming Paris Peace Forum.

Speaking on the Abacha loot, the French Presidential Envoy said the repatriation followed the completion of legal processes.

She said” It was a long process, but we are glad that it was concluded. 

“Sometimes, justice may be slow, but this is a very good achievement.

Veteran Nollywood Actor Ameachi Muonagor Down With Stroke Begs For Help For Public Support

 

Veteran actor Ameachi Muonagor has cried out to the public for support after revealing that he is currently battling a stroke.

The actor known for playing a fatherly role in the movie Aki and Pawpaw disclosed this information on Thursday night in a widely shared video, claiming that he has been experiencing a stroke for the previous seven months.

Ameachi who appeared bedridden in the video, made an appeal to the public for financial support.

“I am sick, this thing that is called stroke caught up with me, and from there they rushed me to the hospital. The first hospital they rushed me to was in Nnewi, where I spent some two months and I was referred to teaching hospital Nnewi and here I am.

“In that set, I was with Emeka Ani, Patience Ozokwo, Rita Edochie, and Ebele Okaro, at the end of that moment, I was to enter my car when I was struck with this problem and since then it’s getting worse. Right now I cannot move, I can’t walk on my own. All my half of left is paralyzed, so it’s a problem to me.”

Speaking further, Ameachi Muonagor said: “I’m so sorry I didn’t make it known to the public earlier, because I didn’t know it will last this long, but as it is now, I am calling on well-minded individuals to come to my assistance, to see how they can help me. It’s paralysis, half of my body.”

Perform Or Be Sacked — President Tinubu To Warns Ministers

 

President Bola Tinubu has vowed to dismiss any of his 48 ministers who do not deliver on his/her assignments and set targets.

The president said this while speaking at the start of a three-day Cabinet Retreat at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on Wednesday, November 1.

“At the end of this retreat, you will sign a performance bond with me… I stand before you and I have claimed on several occasions and I am saying today again, as the president I can make a mistake, point it to me, I would resolve that conflict, that error. Perfection is of God almighty.

But you are there to help me succeed and success I must achieve by all means necessary.

If you are performing, nothing to fear, if you miss the objective we review, if you don’t perform, you leave us… Don’t be a clog in the wheel of Nigeria’s progress.

We can’t complain and give excuses. It is our country. We have to give hope to the near hopeless, to the Nigerians in doubt whether our economic policies are the right way to success,” he said.