Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • Nigerian Navy Arrests Two Suspected Military Impersonators in Calabar, Hands Them Over to Police

    Nigerian Navy Arrests Two Suspected Military Impersonators in Calabar, Hands Them Over to Police

    A brazen impersonation plot unravelled in Calabar last week as the Nigerian Navy transferred two suspected military impostors to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and prosecution. The suspects were arrested by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY after allegedly parading themselves as naval officers.

    The suspects, identified as David Novert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, were apprehended on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, during a routine security operation. Naval authorities said the duo were dressed in military camouflage and found with counterfeit military identification cards at the time of their arrest.

    Preliminary investigations indicated that Aleji allegedly presented himself as a Lieutenant in the Navy, while Isaac reportedly posed as a Midshipman. Both men allegedly claimed they were serving personnel aboard Nigerian Navy Ship SAGBAMA, a claim investigators later discovered to be false.

    Naval officials said the discovery raised suspicion among security personnel who subsequently subjected the suspects to questioning and further checks. The inconsistencies in their claims triggered a deeper investigation by the naval unit.

    Following the interrogation, a search was conducted at the suspects’ residence, where additional military-style items were recovered. Among the items reportedly found were a jungle hat and a pair of military boots believed to have been used to reinforce their false identities.

    Investigators further uncovered that Aleji was allegedly the mastermind behind the impersonation scheme. He was said to have had prior exposure to maritime training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria located in Oron, which may have enabled him to convincingly mimic naval personnel.

    Authorities also revealed that Aleji allegedly recruited Isaac, who lived with him at his father’s residence. The arrangement, according to investigators, provided a base from which the duo operated their impersonation activities.

    During questioning, the suspects reportedly admitted that the camouflage vest, jungle hat and boots were purchased from civilian sources. They also allegedly confessed that the fake military identity cards used in the operation were produced by them.

    The Nigerian Navy maintained that the arrest underscores its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the armed forces and preventing criminal elements from exploiting military identity for unlawful purposes.

    In line with established procedures, the suspects were formally handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department of the Nigeria Police Force in Calabar for further investigation and possible prosecution. Authorities say the case will proceed in accordance with the law.

  • Educationist, entrepreneur and philanthropist continues to shape Nigeria’s learning landscape and empower communities

    Educationist, entrepreneur and philanthropist continues to shape Nigeria’s learning landscape and empower communities

    For more than two decades, Chief (Dr.) Yeye Afolashade Shona Aluko has quietly but profoundly influenced Nigeria’s education and business landscape, earning recognition as a formidable entrepreneur, educationist and philanthropist whose impact continues to resonate across the country.

    Born in Kaduna over five decades ago, Aluko’s early life reflected the diversity and dynamism that would later define her career. Her educational journey took her from Queen Elizabeth School in Ilorin to the Federal College of Education, Kabuga in Kano, before she proceeded to Ogun State University, now Olabisi Onabanjo University, where she obtained a degree in Education Management.

    Her professional life began in the classroom, where she built a reputation as a disciplined teacher and mentor. Many of her former students, now accomplished professionals, continue to acknowledge the strong moral foundation and academic discipline she instilled in them.

    Driven by a passion to improve early childhood learning, Aluko ventured into the provision of educational aids and playground equipment designed to stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity. This vision led to the establishment of DLA Children Playground Equipment and Toys Limited, a company she has led successfully for more than two decades.

    Through the company, she has collaborated with government institutions such as the Universal Basic Education Commission and various State Universal Basic Education Boards to supply safe and innovative learning materials to schools nationwide.

    Her entrepreneurial footprint extends beyond educational tools. Aluko has diversified into amusement parks and food manufacturing, reinforcing her reputation as a resilient and forward-thinking business leader.

    Widely known as the “Iron Lady,” she has cultivated a reputation for discipline, diligence and a zero tolerance for mediocrity, qualities that have helped her build thriving enterprises while inspiring many aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Her commitment to service has earned her numerous awards and recognitions. Among them are the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN) Sterling Award in 2023 and a commendation from the Lagos State Ministry of Education for her support to special education development.

    In recognition of her advocacy for women’s development, the Association of Female Artisans Nigeria appointed her National Matron in 2023, acknowledging her continuous efforts to mentor women and young people across the country.

    With honorary doctorate degrees, traditional honours and numerous humanitarian initiatives to her credit, Chief (Dr.) Yeye Afolashade Shona Aluko stands today as a symbol of purposeful leadership, an example of how passion for education and commitment to community can transform lives and shape the future of a nation.

  • Royal Endorsement for NANTA @50 as Alake of Egbaland Confirms Attendance at Ibadan Gathering

    Royal Endorsement for NANTA @50 as Alake of Egbaland Confirms Attendance at Ibadan Gathering

    The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, has assured the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) of his royal presence at the association’s Golden Jubilee celebration and Annual General Meeting scheduled to hold in Ibadan, Oyo State, in April.

    The revered monarch gave the assurance on Thursday when he received members of the NANTA AGM Planning Committee, led by Mrs. Lola Adewole, at the Ake Palace in Abeokuta.

    Oba Gbadebo commended the association for its resilience and unity over the past five decades, noting that sustaining a professional body for 50 years reflects commitment, strong leadership, and shared vision among its members.

    He also prayed for the continued growth and impactful contributions of the association to Nigeria’s cultural tourism sector.

    According to the monarch, NANTA has consistently promoted Nigerian culture and the travel trade industry, earning an exemplary status that other professional associations and groups should emulate.

    The Alake further assured the delegation that he would personally attend and grace the anniversary event, adding that Egbaland and Ibadan share deep historical, cultural, and traditional ties.

    Earlier, the leader of the NANTA delegation, Mrs. Lola Adewole, who was accompanied by the association’s Second National Deputy President, Dr. Tokunbo Dagunduro, and Financial Secretary, Mr. Yinka Ladipo, informed the monarch that NANTA has always promoted Nigeria’s cultural tourism offerings as a vital national asset.

    She explained that the association views the country’s cultural heritage as a gold mine that must be preserved and harnessed for Nigeria’s economic and social development.

    Adewole noted that the theme of the association’s 50th anniversary celebration, “Embracing Our Diverse Cultural Heritage from the City of Firsts: Redefining Our Role as Global Ambassadors,” reflects NANTA’s commitment to supporting and promoting Nigeria’s cultural tourism economy.

    As part of activities ahead of the anniversary celebration, the NANTA team also visited the Ogun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi, to formally invite him to the Ibadan conference.

    During the visit, the delegation highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Ogun State and its importance to national tourism development and economic growth.

    Meanwhile, the association, through its National President, Dr. Yinka Folami, has congratulated the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on his appointment.

    In a letter dated March 9, acknowledged by the police authorities, Folami pledged the association’s willingness to collaborate with the Nigeria Police Force in addressing fraudulent activities within the travel trade sector.

    The NANTA president also formally invited the Inspector-General to the association’s elective Annual General Meeting in Ibadan in April, noting that the gathering would provide an opportunity for the police chief to interact with travel trade professionals on ways to promote a secure and globally compliant travel industry in Nigeria.

  • How Armed Hoodlums Invaded Family In Enugu Community, Mother In Intensive Unit, Father Narrowly Escape Death

    How Armed Hoodlums Invaded Family In Enugu Community, Mother In Intensive Unit, Father Narrowly Escape Death

    Tension is high in Ofulonu community, Nsukka Local government area of Enugu state
    after a brutal attack was carried out on a family at Ofulonu area of the University town leaving the matriarch of the family in intensive care unit as a result of wounds inflicted on him while her husband escaped death by whisker.

    To worsen their plight, the attackers reportedly recorded the incident in a video, uploaded and allowed it go viral as a warning signal to other residents of the area who may try to stop them from carrying out their criminal activities.

    Vanguard learned that the incident occurred on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at about 7.30am when a group of suspected hoodlums stormed the residence of one Jude Eze Oforka and his wife, Nkechi Eze in Echara, Ofulonu area of the town and violently attacked and assaulted members of the household leaving several of them with serious injuries. They allegedly tied the hands and legs of members of the family while subjecting them to several beatings.

    Based on the development, solicitors to the family forwarded a strongly worded petition to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department, FCID, Enugu annex alleging attempted murder, armed robbery, cultism and grievous assault against them. This was after the attackers allegedly boasted openly that they have influence at the local police station in the town and that nobody can bring them to book.

    According to the petition, the incident occurred on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at about 7:30 am., when a group of suspected hoodlums allegedly stormed the residence of the family at Ofolonu, Nsukka, and attacked them. Those accused in the petition include Hillary Eze, Stella Eze, Ernest Eze, Oguejiofor Eze, Chima Eze, Christian Ezea, Simon Ezugwu and Nnaemeka Eze, alongside other alleged gang members whose identities were said to be known to the complainants.

    The victims alleged that the attackers violently assaulted members of the household, leaving several of them with serious injuries. Mrs. Nkechi Eze, wife of the principal complainant, was reportedly critically injured during the attack and is currently receiving treatment at an intensive care unit in a hospital in Enugu, where medical personnel are battling to save her life.

    The petition further stated that the attackers allegedly tied the hands and legs of the victims while beating them severely. A friend of the family, Mr. Asogwa Chibueze, who reportedly attempted to intervene during the incident, was also said to have sustained serious injuries.

    According to the complainants, a video of the incident, which has been circulating on social media, shows the victims being beaten and stabbed on the head and mouth, suggesting what they believe was an attempt to kill them.

    The petition also alleged that the attackers recorded the incident and later uploaded the footage on Facebook and other social media platforms, where it has since gone viral.
    In addition to the alleged assault, the suspects were accused of stealing a Tecno Spark 40 mobile phone belonging to the complainant, containing SIM cards with numbers 08030919039 and 08034905681, valued at about N250,000.

    They were also alleged to have taken N55, 000 in cash and damaged another mobile phone during the attack.

    The victims claimed that during the assault, the attackers boasted of having influence within the Nsukka Area Command of the Enugu State Police Command and allegedly threatened to frustrate any attempt by the family to seek justice.

    Despite their injuries, the complainant reportedly went to the Nsukka Area Command to report the incident and was issued a police medical form before being advised to seek urgent medical treatment.

    The petition further alleged that the suspects later filed what the victims described as a “frivolous” complaint against them at the FCID after believing their victims might not survive the attack. The family also accused the suspects of repeatedly engaging in violent acts within the community and allegedly using connections with certain police officers to evade accountability.

    They appealed to Police authorities to urgently investigate the matter, prosecute those found culpable and ensure the safety of the victims.“We respectfully request a thorough investigation into the attempted murder, assault and damage to property, as well as adequate protection for our clients from further threats and harassment,” the petition stated.

  • UBA Business Series Highlights ‘Gen.W: The Evolved Woman’ as Female Leaders Champion Enterprise, Innovation and Inclusive Growth

    UBA Business Series Highlights ‘Gen.W: The Evolved Woman’ as Female Leaders Champion Enterprise, Innovation and Inclusive Growth

    Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, on Thursday, hosted a captivating edition of its quarterly Business Series, bringing together accomplished female leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss the theme “Gen.W: The Evolved Woman.”

    The hybrid session which was held at the UBA House in Marina Lagos and also transmitted live to participants across the globe, is part of activities to mark the International Women’s Month and focused on the evolving role of women in leadership, business, and innovation, highlighting how African women are redefining success while also creating sustainable impact across their various spheres of operation.

    UBA’s Group Head, Customer Experience, Michelle Nwoga, who gave the opening remarks at the event, explained that the evolved woman is one who is taking charge, volunteering and making their voice heard above the noise.

    The event was moderated by popular media personality and actor, Tobi Bakre; who said, “When I think about the evolved woman, I personally do not see a checklist or a finish point. In my own opinion, it is a woman who is grounded in her own self-worth and gives room for other women to be grounded in theirs, choosing herself daily and ultimately letting other women around her know and believe that they belong here too.”

    The event featured panel conversations with leading entrepreneur and founder of ORÍKÌ Group, Joycee Awosika; celebrated media personality and digital entrepreneur Tomike Adeoye; founder of Fine-Funky, Olufunke Davies, and award-winning broadcaster, Ayo Mario-Ese who shared experiences around their struggles and eventual evolution as female business owners.

    From her point of view, Joycee Awosika, an energy economist who has been focused on promoting the African heritage, the evolved woman is one who has awareness of who she is. “That woman does not need to ask to sit at the table, she is creating her own table and adding value. As your company is growing, you must grow too, and always do an audit of where you need to become a better leader” she stated.

    To Tomike Adeoye, the question of what a woman is bringing to the table has now become obsolete, as the evolved woman is now bringing their own table. “She is now more vocal about their struggles, setting the standards and she is not ready to give up on her dreams,” she added.

    Ayo Mario-Ese expressed worry about females who are usually laidback about speaking up and sharing their achievements, and said that women need to own their own stories: “A lot of women are doing phenomenal work and are sometimes afraid of showcasing what they are doing. As an evolved woman, you have to find out what you are comfortable doing, and create your own unique offering, and also be open to collaboration.”

    “Creating unique designs that are affordable remains my driving force and something that has helped me grow as an evolved woman,” remarked Olufunke Davies, who confessed to having ventured into a lot of businesses before finding her niche. “It is important to do your research, streamline and think about relatability. But the important thing I will say is start where you are as it is a progression.”

    The Group Head, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who commended the panellists and the attendees for taking their time to join the event said, “Raising each woman up is actually not that hard; because, everyone has their community as well as their story; and so as women, we need to take position so that you can give to others.”
    Ladipo took time to speak about the Gen W platform, put together by the bank, as she explained that it is a lifestyle platform dedicated to the evolved woman, adding, “Through expert insights, real stories, and practical resources, the platform connects women who are building brands, creating businesses, growing careers, and leading across industries. They also have access to a plethora of discounted products and loans. The best part: it is open to every woman. No UBA account needed. This is Gen W, for the evolved woman,” she said.

    UBA continues to reaffirm its commitment to empowering women and entrepreneurs through platforms such as the Business Series, which continues to serve as a hub for mentorship, knowledge exchange, and thought leadership. By convening influential voices and sharing practical experiences, the bank aims to inspire a new generation of women leaders and innovators across Africa and beyond.

  • From Deck to Data: NIMASA Champions Digital Tools to Drive Women’s Maritime Inclusion

    From Deck to Data: NIMASA Champions Digital Tools to Drive Women’s Maritime Inclusion

    The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola has called for digital transformation as a catalyst for increasing the number of women participation in the maritime industry.

    According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR. Dr Mobereola said this in Lagos at a regional symposium organized by NIMASA in collaboration with the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Ghana on “Digitalization and the Empowerment of Women in the Maritime Sector of West Africa: Opportunities, Challenges and Pathways.”

    The NIMASA DG who was represented by the Agency’s Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Chudi Offodile, noted that digitalization is capable of significantly correcting the imbalance of women under representation in the maritime industry through the creation of new opportunities and removal of traditional barriers.

    According to him, “Digitalization acts as the great equalizer, shifting the industry’s centre of gravity from physical strength to intellectual agility and technical precision. Through digital platforms and e-learning systems, a young woman in a rural West African town can access the same training modules as anyone in the more advanced parts of the world”.

    Dr Mobereola noted that “Our maritime sector is undergoing profound transformation driven by digital technologies, automation, data systems and smart logistics. Across the world, digitalization is reshaping how ships operate, how ports function and how maritime administrations regulate and deliver services”.

    He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to inclusive maritime development emphasizing that Nigeria is determined to ensure that the maritime sector becomes a benchmark for gender-inclusivity and digital excellence in the region.

    In his remarks, the Deputy Commandant of KAIPTC, Brigadier General Zibrim Ayorrogo Bawah, highlighted the strategic importance of the Gulf of Guinea maritime domain and the need to ensure that women play a greater role in shaping its future, particularly in the era of digital transformation.

    He noted that “Women’s participation in maritime affairs has historically been limited by socio-cultural and institutional barriers, yet their involvement brings diverse perspectives and solutions vital for holistic maritime governance”.

    The symposium supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark and the Inter-Regional Coordination Centre for Maritime Safety and Security in the Gulf of Guinea (ICC), brought together senior government officials, maritime professionals, academics, women’s groups and members of the media from across West Africa to deliberate on strategies for strengthening women participation in the maritime industry through digital transformation.

    Participants at the symposium are expected to examine key issues including digital innovation in maritime governance, gender inclusion in maritime security operations, capacity building for women in digital maritime skills, and policy frameworks that promote gender equality and advance women empowerment across the Gulf of Guinea region.

    The engagement is also expected to strengthen collaboration among regional and international stakeholders in advancing inclusive and sustainable maritime development in West Africa.

  • Forest Hideouts Raided in Kwara as Police Arrest 32, Recover Weapons and Communication Devices

    Forest Hideouts Raided in Kwara as Police Arrest 32, Recover Weapons and Communication Devices

    The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Monday paid an operational visit to Kaiama in Kwara State following the arrest of 32 suspected bandits linked to kidnapping, cattle rustling and other violent crimes across rural communities.

    The suspects were apprehended during sustained intelligence-driven operations carried out by the Nigeria Police Force through the Kwara State Police Command in collaboration with the elite Intelligence Response Team (IRT).

    According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the arrests followed coordinated raids on criminal hideouts scattered across forest corridors and remote settlements in the state.

    Investigations revealed that the suspects belonged to multiple gangs operating within forests around Awi, Kaiama, Patigi, Gbugbu, Tsaraji and Babanla, where they allegedly planned and launched attacks on vulnerable communities.

    Police sources disclosed that the operations led to the arrest of two foreign nationals from the Niger Republic believed to be collaborating with local criminal groups in cross-border banditry and other illicit activities.

    During the raids, operatives recovered four AK-47 rifles, 38 rounds of live ammunition, five walkie-talkie communication devices and a camouflage hydration backpack suspected to have been used by the gangs to coordinate operations and evade security patrols.

    Further investigations also led to the arrest of Umar Mohammed, a suspect said to be from Jos in Plateau State, who is alleged to have supplied communication equipment to bandit groups operating within the forest belt.

    Speaking during the visit, Disu said the arrests underscored the effectiveness of coordinated security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks entrenched in forest enclaves across the region.

    The police chief commended the professionalism and resilience of officers involved in the operation, while urging residents of affected communities to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

    Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Adekimi Ojo, reaffirmed the command’s resolve to intensify its offensive against banditry and related crimes, assuring that all suspects in custody would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

  • From Skills to Enterprise: Fidelity Bank, Partners Ignite ‘Give Her Power’ Initiative for Women

    From Skills to Enterprise: Fidelity Bank, Partners Ignite ‘Give Her Power’ Initiative for Women

    Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment with the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with partner organisations at the launch of the bank’s “Give Her Power” initiative, a programme designed to equip Nigerian women with practical skills, tools, mentorship, and financial knowledge.

    The partnerships, formalised as part of activities commemorating the 2026 International Women’s Day, bring together a diverse network of stakeholders: LUSH Hair, Barbergirl Academy School of Barbering, Dee ‘n’ Ell the Shoe Architect, Inter-Bau Foundation, IVM Innoson, National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) and One Universe.

    The collaboration is anchored on the Bank’s HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme, a structured platform created to provide vocational training, business support, and sustainable enterprise opportunities for women across multiple sectors.

    Speaking during the event, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, highlighted that the bank’s ‘HerFidelity’ initiative reflects Fidelity Bank’s continued commitment to creating opportunities that empower women to achieve financial independence and build sustainable businesses.

    “At Fidelity Bank, we strongly believe that empowering women is not only a social responsibility but also a powerful economic strategy. Through the ‘Give Her Power’ initiative and the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme, we are providing women with practical tools, vocational skills and financial knowledge that will enable them to move from effort to earnings and from hustle to sustainable enterprise.”

    She explained that the programme will deliver a range of interventions throughout the month of March, including the distribution of 1,000 sewing and grinding machines to support women-led microbusinesses, as well as vocational training in automobile mechanics, interior decoration, barbing, hair making, and shoe making.

    Other components of the initiative include professional headshot sessions to strengthen women’s personal and professional brands, mentorship engagements with leading female entrepreneurs, and hands-on skill acquisition training in areas such as makeup artistry, nail care, and traditional headgear tying.

    Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe also noted that empowering women economically has ripple effects that extend beyond individual beneficiaries.
    “When women are empowered economically, the impact extends far beyond individuals. It strengthens families, grows businesses, and uplifts entire communities. Research suggests that advancing women could add up to $12 trillion to global GDP. This reinforces the need to deliberately create platforms that support women to build sustainable businesses and strengthen their economic independence,” she added.

    Applauding the bank’s initiative, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, commended Fidelity Bank for its leadership in promoting entrepreneurship and supporting women across the nation.

    “This initiative strongly aligns with the Lagos State Government’s commitment to building an inclusive economy where women have access to skills, mentorship and financial opportunities they need to thrive”, Ambrose-Medebem stated.

    Her words, “Women remain key drivers of commerce and enterprise across Lagos, from traditional markets to emerging digital sectors. This initiative by Fidelity Bank has ensured that we stayed true to the promoting and supporting women”.

    Also speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, praised Fidelity Bank for championing financial inclusion and economic independence for women.

    “Empowering women economically is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty and strengthen communities. We commend Fidelity Bank for this forward-thinking initiative and for demonstrating how collaboration between the private sector and government can create meaningful opportunities for women across the state,” she said.

    Representatives of the partner organisations also expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank for the collaboration, noting that the partnership will play a significant role in expanding vocational training opportunities and strengthening entrepreneurship among women.

    The Give Her Power initiative is expected to empower hundreds of women through skill development, mentorship, and startup support, while reinforcing the role of women as key contributors to Nigeria’s economic growth.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Union Bank of Nigeria Marks International Women’s Month 2026 with Inclusion-First “Give to Gain” Campaign

    Union Bank of Nigeria Marks International Women’s Month 2026 with Inclusion-First “Give to Gain” Campaign

    In observance of International Women’s Month 2026, Union Bank of Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to gender equity through a focused initiative centred on women living with disabilities and women raising children with disabilities.

    Aligned with the global theme “Give to Gain,” the Bank’s campaign “Give to Gain: Creating Pathways for Inclusion and Endless Opportunities” centres the lived experiences of women living with disabilities and underscores the need for intentional systems of support for social and economic advancement.

    Throughout March, Union Bank will implement targeted initiatives to expand access, foster inclusion, and unlock sustainable opportunities. Activities include a flagship event which held at The Stable, its multipurpose venue in Surulere, Lagos, on Saturday. The event convened women with disabilities, caregivers, supporting organisations, and advocates for dialogue, mentorship, and resource sharing.

    Complementary efforts include outreach to disability support facilities and collaboration with educational institutions to distribute learning materials to female students with disabilities. Tailored mentorship programmes will build confidence and capability in education, entrepreneurship, and careers. Through its women’s banking proposition alpher and strategic partnerships, the Bank will also deliver business sustainability training specifically designed for women living with disabilities and women raising children with disabilities.

    Internally, Union Bank will activate WeHub, its employee-led women’s network, to strengthen inclusive culture and support professional growth across the organisation.

    These actions reflect Union Bank’s long-standing commitment to advancing equity for underserved communities and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5 (Gender Equality) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). For Union Bank, these are not frameworks to cite; they are commitments to live out.

    Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Union Bank of Nigeria, stated that
    “At Union Bank, inclusion is not an abstract ideal; it is a deliberate choice. While many conversations around women’s empowerment are important and necessary, women living with disabilities and women raising children with disabilities are too often left out entirely. This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ reflects exactly what we believe: that when we intentionally open access, support, and opportunity to these women, the value created extends to families, communities, and society at large.”
    Union Bank’s IWD 2026 campaign is a statement of intent: that true inclusion requires us to go further, reach deeper, and serve those who have waited longest for a seat at the table. In 2026, Union Bank is committed to ensuring that a seat exists and that it is built to last.

    Union Bank of Nigeria Plc’s
    Established in 1917, Union Bank is a leading provider of financial services in Nigeria, renowned for its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” philosophy. With a nationwide network and a strong focus on digital innovation, Union Bank continues to empower individuals, businesses, and the public sector to achieve lasting success.

    The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers a range of banking services to 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:
    Olufisayo Adelekun
    +234 (02) 01 330 7100
    mediarelations@unionbankng.com

  • Ogun Police Probe Kemta Episode, Emphasise Unity Among Security Agencies

    Ogun Police Probe Kemta Episode, Emphasise Unity Among Security Agencies

    The Ogun State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident involving officers attached to Kemta Police Station at the Government Technical area, assuring the public that the matter is receiving urgent attention.

    In a statement issued recently, the command disclosed that the case has been formally transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive probe aimed at establishing the circumstances surrounding the episode.

    The command noted that the investigation would be conducted with utmost professionalism, stressing that all facts would be carefully examined before any conclusions are reached.

    According to the statement, the inquiry will be carried out in close collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), reinforcing the commitment of security institutions in the state to collective responsibility in maintaining public safety.

    Authorities emphasised that the joint review of the incident is intended to ensure that due process is strictly followed and that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action.

    The command further explained that the collaborative approach is designed not only to uncover the truth but also to forestall a recurrence of such incidents in the future.

    Police authorities reassured residents that the development should not be misconstrued as a breakdown in relations among security agencies operating within the state.

    Rather, they stressed that the police and the NSCDC continue to maintain a strong working relationship anchored on mutual respect and the shared objective of safeguarding lives and property.

    The statement reiterated that inter-agency cooperation remains a cornerstone of effective security management in the state, particularly in addressing emerging threats to peace and stability.

    Signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, the command assured the public that transparency, accountability and strict adherence to professional standards would guide the ongoing investigation.

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