Category: International News

  • Navy Foils Impostors’ Plans To Swindle Innocent Nigerians In Lagos

    Navy Foils Impostors’ Plans To Swindle Innocent Nigerians In Lagos


    In a resolute move to protect the general public from falling victim to fraudulent schemes, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT patrol team achieved a significant feat by apprehending three impostors within the vicinity of Isolo, Lagos State.

    This operation, executed on September 1, 2023, was a direct response to alarming reports of deceptive individuals circulating printed posters featuring the image of Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

    The impostors aimed to mislead the public into believing in a false collaboration between an illegal security outfit, labeled Gallantry Intelligence Corps of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Navy.

    “The arrested suspects, identified as Oladele Opeyemi Daniel (23), Eriwole Ogunlana (24), and Mubarak Mayegun (24), are in custody and would be handed over to the appropriate agency for in-depth investigation and prosecution,” announced the Nigerian Navy.

    This operation serves as a stern reminder for the public to remain vigilant and cautious of unscrupulous individuals who seek to inflict unnecessary hardships by employing deceptive means to lure innocent youths into illegitimate employment opportunities.

    Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, leading the Nigerian Navy, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combat all forms of illegality and its dedication to providing legitimate employment opportunities for law-abiding citizens.

    The Navy recognizes that ensuring the safety and security of the public is paramount for the economic prosperity of the nation.

    In a call to action, the Navy urges citizens to maintain vigilance and promptly report any suspicious activities. Such vigilance is vital in upholding the integrity of the defense forces and protecting the public from potential scams and fraudulent activities.

  • DR. BENNETT OMALU: Nigeria’s Greatest Exports To The World @55th

    DR. BENNETT OMALU: Nigeria’s Greatest Exports To The World @55th

    Dr. Ifekandu Bennett Omalu is a native Of Urunnebo Village, Enugwu Ukwu In Njikoka Local Government Area Of Anambra State.

    Born on September 1st, 1968. He attended both primary and secondary schools in Nigeria. And for his tertiary education he proceeded to the University of Nigeria Nsukka, where he acquired MBBS degree in Medicine and Surgery.

    He is currently a Professor of medical pathology and laboratory science at the University of California.

    Subsequently he acquired his MPH from the University of Pittsburgh and his MBA from Carnegie Mellon University. He is the first person in the world to discover and publish findings of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in American football players while working at the Allegheny County Coroner’s Office. He’s now the Chief Medical Examiner for San Joaquin County, California. And a professor at UC-Davis.

    Dr. Bennet Omalu came to the United States in the 1990’s at the age of 26, to finish his Medical Residency. Through hard work that is just the nature of his Igbo race, he is today, one of the foremost Nero pathologists in the world and is best known for discovering and studying CTE, a degenerative brain condition affecting American football players.

    This doctor from Anambra, Nigeria changed the perspective about the safety of some sports through his research into the lives of former N.F.L players. Later a study in Sweden confirmed him absolutely right by revealing that if your child suffers from one concussion they are more likely to die before the age of 42 and more likely to develop psychiatric issues. The Sweden research discovered that N.F.L players were dying or killing themselves less than 20yrs after retirement-which is in their 30’s usually. Exactly something Dr. Omalu confirmed years back.

    Worried by the sad fate of some retired NFL players, Dr. Omalu went into research to find out why. In his research, he discovered that “Concussion” was the reason. Amazingly the facts where denied by NFL who felt threatened that his research will destroy their multi billion dollar industry. They fought back to make sure that his research was hidden for years. Dr. Omalu didn’t give up out of fear, getting the truth across to the world was far more important to him than his life. As a result of the Igbo courageous blood in him, that makes the average Igbo person to survive and succeed against all odds, without respect to the hearse and hardest environment, Dr Omalu fought through threats and verbal abuse to get the great scientific discovery to world.

    When his research went through, it became so popular and celebrated to the extend that Mr Will Smith, the iconic American actor had to portray him in a movie titled “Concussion”. Where he is credited with finding out the harsh repercussions of contact sports on children and adults. The movie Concussion starring Will Smith playing Dr Omalu the founder of the disease CTE that causes something he found out that messes a lot of football players heads up really bad from so much brain rocking contact was a worldwide hit.

    Dr. Bennet Omalu is equally the author of the book, Truth Doesn’t Have A Side: My Alarming Discovery About The Danger Of Contact Sports. Dr. Omalu wrote this book, to help parents answer the question ‘Do I love football more than I love my child?’

    It is our hope that sooner or later Dr Omalu will be awarded the Nobel prize in medicine for his research that is saving lives all over the globe.

    Happy Birthday to this globally acclaimed Enugwu Ukwu-Born, Award Winning Pathologist, Dr Bennett Omalu.

  • Chike’s Detention Not Illegal, He Has A Case To Answer — ACP Olumuyiwa

    Chike’s Detention Not Illegal, He Has A Case To Answer — ACP Olumuyiwa

    The Nigeria Police Force wishes to address recent concerns and malicious reports surrounding the detention of Mr. Chike Ibezim. Contrary to speculations, we affirm that Mr. Chike is in lawful custody based on a court order, and his detention is in connection with a prima facie case of malicious publication, cyberbullying, and other related offences that are still under investigation by the Police.

    According to ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra “The arrest and detention of individuals are carried out in strict adherence to legal procedures and respect for individual rights.

    “In this case, a court order was obtained following a thorough investigation, which established an indictment on Mr Chike, who has given useful information and is assisting the Police in the course of their investigation.

    The NPF takes allegations of malicious publication and cyberbullying seriously due to their potential to cause harm, distress, and damage to the reputation of individuals, institutions, as well as posing great threats to national security and stability of our dear country. These actions can also have significant legal implications. It is the duty of the Nigeria Police Force to investigate such matters thoroughly and ensure that the rule of law is upheld.

    The Police would like to emphasize that our actions are driven by a commitment to upholding the law and protecting the rights and well-being of all citizens. We encourage responsible and lawful behaviour in all forms of communication, including online interactions, to maintain a harmonious and safe society.

  • DSS Discovers Plot To Stage Violent Protests In The Country

    DSS Discovers Plot To Stage Violent Protests In The Country

    The Department of State Services (DSS) hereby informs the public that it has uncovered plans by some elements in parts of the country to stage violent protests in order to discredit the Federal Government and security agencies over sundry socio-economic matters.

    In a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Mr. Peter Afunanya, Ph.D, fsi “Intelligence reports have indicated that the plotters include certain politicians who are desperately mobilising unsuspecting student leaders, ethnic based associations, youth and disgruntled groups for the planned action.

    Meanwhile, the Service has identified the ring leaders of the plot as well as sustained monitoring around them in order to deter them from plunging the country into anarchy.

    In view of this development, University Vice-Chancellors and Heads of Tertiary Institutions are advised to discourage their students from engaging in acts capable of derailing public peace. Also, parents and guardians are enjoined to admonish their children and wards respectively to shun the lure of participating in inimical behaviours or conducts against law and order.

    While the DSS is aware of Government’s efforts and determination to resolve some of the challenges confronting the nation, it warns those desirous of subverting national security to retrace their steps. This is more so that it will not hesitate to legally come against persons and groups behind the devious plans.

  • Ecobank Remodels Branches For Enhanced Customer Experience And Service Delivery

    Ecobank Remodels Branches For Enhanced Customer Experience And Service Delivery

    “Admiralty Way, Lekki; Ajose Adeogun, V.I; Maitama, Abuja; Aba Road, Port Harcourt and seven others already wear new look”

    Ecobank Nigeria has started the remodeling of its branches across the country. This effort will see the bank turn its existing banking halls into modern smart banking arenas designed to offer a cozy experience to customers and other stakeholders of the bank who visit the branches.

    Speaking on the branch transformation exercise, Titi Olarinde , Head, Branch Network, Ecobank Nigeria Limited said it is a deliberate and strategic decision of the bank to ensure that customers transact seamlessly in an environment where they are happy to come to everyday whilst providing the best banking experience for them and our staff. She said the remodeled branches are equipped with fully functional digital service points, new ATMs, solar power for uninterrupted 24/7 electricity and other facilities for an enhanced customer experience.

    She disclosed that for the first phase, the bank has earmarked 50 branches across the nation for the redesign exercise and they will be delivered before end of the year. 10 of these branches such as: Ajose Adeogun, Ikotun, Iju and Admiralty branches in Lagos; Jabi, Garki Area 8 and Maitama in Abuja; Murtala Mohammed Way, Kano; Benin Sapele Road, Benin-City and Aba Road in Port Harcourt have been completed and are already open to customers.

    “For us as a bank, we decided to redesign and give our branches a new look and feel to tell the story of who we are as a pan African banking institution. The comprehensive renewal affects the ambience, aesthetics, internal and exterior branding of the branches. To complement the new look, the signages are also being completely changed or refurbished. We believe the remodeled branches will reflect the personality and values of the brand, raise the bar of customer experience and service delivery to our existing and prospective customers as well as all stakeholders. Visit any of our branches in Ajose Adeogun, Ikotun, Iju and Admiralty branches in Lagos; Jabi, Garki Area 8 and Maitama in Abuja; Murtala Mohammed Way, Kano; Benin Sapele Road, Benin-City and Aba Road in Port Harcourt and have a feel of the locations already completed and opened to customers”. She stated.

    Mrs. Olarinde concluded by saying that the various innovative projects by the bank in recent times are targeted at making it the most preferred financial institution in the country.

    Ecobank Nigeria Ltd is an affiliate of the Ecobank Group, the leading pan-African banking group. Ecobank Nigeria offers a comprehensive suite of financial services and solutions to its Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking clients at over 200 branches and 60,000 Xpress Point agency locations in Nigeria.

  • Fidelity records PBT of N76.3bn for H1 2023

    Fidelity records PBT of N76.3bn for H1 2023

    …Declares interim dividend of 25 kobo Per Share

    Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has recorded an impressive 204.4% growth in Profit Before Tax for the first half of 2023 to N76.3bn according to the bank’s recently issued financial result.

    A review of the results published on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) on Friday, 1 September 2023, showed a positive performance across all financial indices, reaffirming the Bank’s position as one of the fastest growing and well-managed financial institutions in Nigeria. Gross earnings for the period grew by 59.6% to ₦247.1billion from ₦154.8billion reported in June 2022. Profit After tax stood at ₦61.9billion representing a growth of 166.0% over ₦23.3billion recorded in the corresponding period. This translates to an Earning per Share of 194kobo. The Bank’s Net Loans & Advances grew by 25.1% from ₦2.1trillion recorded as of December 2022 to ₦2.6trillion in June 2023 with corresponding growth in Customer Deposits which increased by 23.2% to ₦3.2trillion from ₦2.6trillion in December 2022.

    The Bank’s balance sheet remained strong with a 27.4% growth in Total Assets from ₦3.9trillion in December 2022 to ₦5.1trillion. The Bank’s non-performing loans remained low and within regulatory threshold at 3.24% with adequate coverage of 111%. Return on Equity (ROE) and Return on Assets (ROA) closed at 34.9% and 2.8% respectively.

    On the back of the strong H1 2023 performance, the board of the bank approved an interim dividend of 25k per share making it the second consecutive year the bank would be paying interim dividends and another demonstration of its capacity to provide shareholders with sustainable value.

    Commenting on the Bank’s laudable performance, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, MD/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc noted, “We are pleased to report on another period of quality growth across all financial and non-financial indices. Our performance during the first half of the year reflects the resilience of our bank and the fundamental strength of our business to deliver long-term sustainable value at a time that has been characterized by global economic headwinds. As a bank, we remain committed to our goal of helping individuals to grow, inspiring businesses to thrive and empowering economies to prosper.

    The Bank’s impressive H1 2023 results comes to join a string of recent achievements by Fidelity Bank. It would be recalled that the Bank’s stock was reclassified from small-price stock to medium-price stock by the NGX in July 2023 on the back of a consistent impressive performance.

    Similarly, the bank recently emerged the company with the highest earnings per share on the NGX based on half year financial figures for the second year running.

    To sustain this sterling performance, the bank’s shareholders, at an Extra-Ordinary General Meeting held on 11 August 2023, unanimously approved a capital raising exercise via a Public Offer and Rights Issue.

    “We will continue to monitor and pro-actively manage the evolving risks in the economy while ensuring our commitments to our customers and shareholders are fulfilled. The interim dividend of 25kobo per share, a 150% increase compared to the 10kobo interim dividend in 2022FY, attests to the value we place on the unwavering support from our shareholders”, stated Onyeali-Ikpe.

    Fidelity Bank is a full-fledged commercial bank operating in Nigeria with over 8 million customers serviced across its 250 business offices and digital banking channels. The bank was recently recognized as the Best SME Bank Nigeria at the 28th annual Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023; and the Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking & Finance Awards. The bank has also won awards for the “Fastest Growing Bank” and “MSME & Entrepreneurship Financing Bank of the Year” at the 2021 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Project NWAFOR Igbo Steals The Spotlight At Mbaise Europe 2023

    Project NWAFOR Igbo Steals The Spotlight At Mbaise Europe 2023

    The city of Essen, Germany witnessed one of a kind show as Igbo elites, ‘the who is who’, captains of industry and men of timber and calibre in the Dispoara thronged Germany for the Mbaise Europe 4th Convention. Present at the event was Amb Wahab Adekola Akande, the Councsul General Frankfurt Germany.

    Amongst those that graced the occasion is Rowland Okorie, Chief Executive Officer of Equity Concepts Entertainment and founder of Project NWAFOR Igbo who flew in from Las Vegas, United States of America to present Project NWAFOR Igbo to his Igbo folks.

    Speaking on the event, overjoyous Okorie said; “The convention is a huge success… where would I have been if not Germany with my people?”

    Okorie, used the medium to present Project NWAFOR Igbo as Igbos all over the world gather in Germany to address the way forward to their development and epitomize other countries, unveiling the blueprint and strategy on how development can come to Igbo land.

    The convention was attended by Nigerian Ambassador to France; President Mbaise Europe, Hon. Kingsley Ajunwa; Vice Board Chairman, Mbaise Europe, Ezeji Vitus Madu; Chairman, Mbaise Europe Convention 2023, Chief (Dr.) Okwudiri Divine Nwandu and his beautiful wife; His Excellency, Chief Sam Daddy, PDP Governorship Candidate in Imo State, HRH Eze Leo Nwokocha Ato.

    The occasion also featured the founding members and delegates from US which include; SOS Echendu KSC – President Mbaise USA; Chief Charles Iwejuo – Chairman US Board of Delegates; Dr. and Mrs. Law Osondu and Chief Wilson Iwuh who was the MC of the occasion. Raymond Onyekwere a home care giant, eating into the mapping in competition of Dallas DWF/Fort Worth home heath care which is about 4 miles to one of the biggest airport in the world. Dr and Mrs Charles Iwejuo all the way from US,

    Project NWAFOR Igbo attracted interests from investors and among those that showed interests on the initiative were the Chief Executive Officer of Ikechi Global Services, an export and import guru, and Dr. Chinedu Anyawu, CEO, Pichichi Ventures, a man well known all over Europe for his business assurity.

    The event also had in attendance personalities and dignitaries of Igbo extraction like Hon. Emeka Chinedu – Member Federal House of Representatives (Ahiazu Mbaise and Ezinihitte Federal Constituency), Patron Mbaise Europe; Sir Stanley Amuche, Executive Director, Fidelity Bank; former Member of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nkem S Romanus Onyebuchi Anyanwu.

    The event was a topnotch, and it is said to be one of the biggest African gatherings in Germany as Igbos scattered all over Europe gathered at Essen, Germany for the event. Powerful women leaders like Lady Chika Chime aka Ebony.

    However, project NWAFOR Igbo is set to be launched in the city of Las Vegas, United States of America (USA) with new partnership deals coming in from Chief Osuji in Holland who was also another lover of Igbo projects.

    According to the convener, the date for Project NWAFOR Igbo launch will be announced soon, Okorie stated that before the announcements of the date that they want to finalize setting up their Secretariats in Las Vegas (USA), Nigeria and Ghana.

    Speaking further on the plans, Okorie stated that the organisers are working on the publicity plans which will involve adverts placement on key Nigerian television stations, radio jingles, social media influencers, including comedians while newspapers will also be engaged.

    Okorie said; “We will discuss with the US Embassy for those who need to attend all over the world because they will need visas to attend. We will work it out with the department responsible for that as we still have a lot of time ahead.”

    “The American standard is what we need in our land. We will utilize American companies to structure our land and organize it just like we would want it to be. We will create millions of jobs across the eastern part of Nigeria.”

    “We will capture insecurities in our land with the help of our global security outfits from the US. We will build our states and the Igbos will pay for their own development. All hands must be on deck to achieve this new vision for our states.”

    “We are using this opportunity to reach out to every NWAFOR Igbo to sign up and create a profile on our website www.projectnwaforigbo.com and be part of history. We will not wait anymore.”

    Okorie, also used the medium to appreciate the organisers of Mbaise Europe Convention for the platform provided to present Project NWAFOR project to his Igbo brothers.

    Okorie said; “I want to thank everyone especially Rev. Cannon Augustine Nwaekwe, Board Chairman – Mbaise Europe for his tireless efforts, Chairman 2023 Convention Planning Committee, Essen – Germany, Mr. Nobert Ogbonna Chikeruba, Hon. Zephrynus Zeph Ike (PRO) all the way from Ireland whose energy cannot be questioned, Emeka Ugo – Secretary Planning Committee, his works are like pregnant a woman that cannot be hidden from public recognition, Mr. Okwuudiri Ngonye, an Mbaise based Italian whose style and command in execution of his duty is admired by all and sundry.”

    It is interesting to know that Mbaise people are spread all over Europe and they have heads of various chapters representing each country in Europe. Sir Chief Albert Odoemene is the member of IC from Ireland Chapter, Chief Chima Dunstan Ezeh – member IC (Belgium Chapter), Hon. Chika Christiantus Keke – member IC (France chapter), Hon. Esther Emejuru is the assistant, E.S Mbaise Europe and member IC (Padora – Italy chapter), Hon. Okoro Philip Amaechi, member IC (Italy chapter), Hon. Paschal Chukwu, member IC (Holland chapter), Hon. Ulunma Unogu, member IC (Italy chapter), Hon. Charles Christian Ogu, member IC (Spain chapter), Hon. Sunny Uzoma Anyanwu, member IC (Austria chapter).

    Okorie, said he cannot do without thanking some individuals that gave their best to ensure that the event was a huge success.

    He said; “My greatest respect to Vice President Wise Ibeji, Co-host with the MC who turned out to be a powerful combination, Hon. Kaire Uzodimma – Treasurer Mbaise Erurope who worked alongside with the Chairman, Godson Buma – Mbaise Ruhr Germany.” I also appreciate help i got from some igbos students Egbuniwe Anwah and Chinonso Agomuoh studying in Germany their contibutions where seen all the way.

    Okorie also gave a shout out to the late Sir Warrior’s son, Ajusieugo. He said; “A shout out to big dude Chief Anthony Nwachukwu Awolowo and his family. My regards, Elu Na Ala Mbaise and his family, Chief Chidiebre Anyanwu, Chief Lady Stella Nkechi Felix, CEO/Founder of Star Home Care Foundation, based in Netherlands and Star Elderly Home Care Amsterdam.”Ike Chris and Kenneth an amiable business icons from France.

    The keynote speaker was Mrs. Ekwe who spoke on her academic seminar. Other special dignitaries present at the event were Chief Mrs. Peggy Azeez, Hon. Ben Echieh, Mazi Boniface Iwuh, former Chairman, Mbaise Europe (Austria), he is also a member, Board of Delegates, Chief Emmanuela Njoku, Lady Tina Nwanyi Chimereze, Mazi, Akakwam Jude, Mr. Godwin Okenwa, Mr. Ugochukwu Anyanwu, Mrs. Livnus Uloneme, Mr. Steven Iwuoha, Mrs. Mercy Onwuka, family of Stanley Emeka Nwachukwu, family of Chinyere Eke, Mrs. Ezinne Anngrace Achugo, family of Pastor Kenneth Funmilayo Ugoh, Stanley Achibiri, etc

  • APFFLON Boss Condemns Incessant Attack On Customs Operatives, Recommend Capital Punishment For Smugglers

    APFFLON Boss Condemns Incessant Attack On Customs Operatives, Recommend Capital Punishment For Smugglers

    Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria-APFFLON has expressed sadness over incessant attacks on men and Officers of the Nigeria Customs by smugglers.

    Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service at Kebbi Command were on the 26th of August, brutally attacked by smugglers resulting to the death of two officers while others escaped death by the whiskers in a similar attack in Katsina.

    In a statement issued by the Kebbi Command Public Relations Officer of the Service, Mubarak Mustapha, the attack on the operatives led to the death of two officers.

    In a related development, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone B, Kaduna, Isah Suleiman, said that Customs operatives who were on legitimate patrol duties to Dankama Area of Katsina State were also attacked.

    Reacting to the development, APFFLON, through its National President, Otunba Frank Ogunojemite, expressed sadness over the incessant attacks on Customs operatives. Ogunojemite urged the Federal Government to deploy technology in the fight against smuggling.

    Ogunojemite, during a media chat at APFFLON Secretariat, Ikeja, vihemently condemned what he described as avoidable loss of officers manning Nigerian borders, saying that if adequate security measures were in place, most of the crimes committed on daily basis would have been curbed drastically.

    According to Ogunojemite, “it is quite unfortunate that the Nigeria Customs keep losing its personnel in series of attacks at border points. Men and officers that have families and loved once like every other Nigerian lose their precious lives as a result of ambushment and armed attacks by smugglers.

    The world has continued to evolve as technology is being deployed in the fight against crimes. The Federal Government should do all it could to stop minimize this worrisome trend.”

    “It’s high time smugglers who brutally attack and kill officers and men of the NCS started facing capital punishment.”

    “The Federal Government should invest heavily in technology, the fight against crimes requires a whole lot, countries are deploying Artificial intelligence (AI) to curb crimes.”

    “A robust relationship between the Joint Force Border Patrol heads and border Communities is very key as intelligence gathering remains one of the most efficient measures in frustrating the activities of smugglers and curbing other security crimes.”

    “The Management of Nigeria Customs must take its insurance policy very seriously. Personnel who die in active service or sustain physical or bodily injuries at their duty posts should be adequately taken care of. They must not be abandoned to their fate, they must not be deprived of their rights and privileges while their families are left to suffer”.

    “For one to put his life in the line in service to motherland is a show of patriotism and absolute loyalty. Those who take up these huge tasks must be adequately equipped and taken care good care of”, Ogunojemite stated.

  • UBA Back2School Package Offers Exclusive Discounts, Other Benefits For Children, Parents

    UBA Back2School Package Offers Exclusive Discounts, Other Benefits For Children, Parents

    Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc is proud to announce its highly anticipated “Back2School” package, designed to provide exclusive discounts and benefits for both children and their parents.

    As the new school session kicks off, UBA continues to fulfil its commitment to fostering a seamless educational journey with innovative offerings aimed at assisting parents in nurturing their children’s educational journey with ease.

    UBA’s Head, Retail, Products and Sales, Prince Ayewoh explained that the bank recognises the pivotal role that education plays in shaping the future, which is why it developed strategic offerings and entered collaborations to enable families embrace the new school season with enthusiasm and confidence.

    He said, “We want our customers – both old and new ones – to know that we are more than just a financial institution, we are a reliable partner in their daily journey. With exclusive discounts and benefits tailored for both children and parents, we aim to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with every new school season. This initiative reflects our holistic approach to banking, where we consider not only the financial needs of our customers but also their well-being and aspirations.”

    With the UBA ‘Back2School’ package, parents are set to enjoy scholarships, affordable healthcare plans as well as a 13th-month cash reward for their wards when they open and maintain a UBA Kiddies and Teens Accounts with N5,000 for 12 months or N10,000 for six months.

    Additionally, the bank is offering a UBA Personal loan, where parents can access up to N30million to enable them give their children and wards the kind of world-class education and life they deserve.

    UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who expatiated on the array of offerings to be enjoyed by the bank’s customers this season, said that by using a UBA prepaid or debit card, customers can now access to an exciting world of discounts for their children.

    She said, “This season, UBA presents an array of exciting benefits that come with their prepaid or debit cards. Our customers now have access to a world of discounts that extend not only to their children but to themselves as well. For the students, for instance, their after-school learning is sorted with a 10% discount on ULesson packages when customers pay with their UBA card.

    Continuing, she said, “Also, the bank has partnered with i-Fitness Gym, offering an exclusive opportunity for parents to de-stress during the school year, and by paying with a UBA card, parents can enjoy up to 30% off at any of their gyms nationwide, promoting a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.”

    Ladipo shed light on the bank’s partnership with Aura by Transcorp; as she explained that using the UBA card, parents can book a rejuvenating staycation package through the Aura by Transcorp app and enjoy a generous 5% discount. “It is a perfect way for parents to recharge while entrusting their children’s education to capable hands,” she explained. She also added that parents can also get a relaxing massage at Oriki Spa, as they will enjoy a 10% discount using their UBA cards.

    United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees’ group wide and serving over 35 million customers globally. Operating in 20 African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.

  • Nigerian Navy Foils Oil Theft In Lagos, Nab 4 Suspects

    Nigerian Navy Foils Oil Theft In Lagos, Nab 4 Suspects


    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT have apprehended four individuals for their alleged involvement in an attempt to smuggle approximately 11,000 liters of suspected stolen crude oil into Lagos. The detainees, reportedly affiliated with Tantita Security Limited, have been identified as Asonja Goddey (28), Obajimi Oluwaseyifunmi (38), Awoowo Aribo (35), and Oluwadaisi Balogun (40).

    Their arrest took place on August 29 in the vicinity of Itolu community, Ibeju Lekki, along the waterways.

    In addition to the four apprehended suspects, the Chief Security Officer (CSO), Owoyele Omotuyi, was also taken into custody by the navy. Omotuyi had attempted to secure the release of the detainees on bail.

    The Nigerian Navy’s intervention was prompted by a distress call from residents of the Itolu community. The residents had reported sounds of gunfire and the alleged hijacking of an outboard engine boat owned by Ishola Ojubuyi (42). Acting swiftly in response to the distress call, the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Lekki dispatched personnel who subsequently arrested the four suspects. The individuals were found wearing black TANTITA-branded t-shirts.

    According to Commodore Kolawole Oguntuga, the Commander of NNS BEECROFT, the suspects were in the process of recovering a disassembled outboard engine from a local individual. Upon the apprehension of these four Tantita employees, the patrol team made a further discovery. They realized that the detainees were connected to the movement of a large wooden boat accompanied by two fiber boats.

    The suspects, along with the recovered materials, were presented to the public during a parade at Apapa. Oguntuga emphasized the prompt action taken by his team in response to the distress call and highlighted the circumstances leading to the arrests of the four individuals.

    “The four arrested individuals beckoned on the two fiber boats to approach them but when they noticed NN patrol teams, the boats altered courses, fled and abandoned the large wooden boat laden with 11 x 1000L Geepee tanks with products suspected to be stolen crude oil.

    “The Nigerian Navy has initiated an investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident particularly the possession of firearms used in the community, economic sabotage, how the product came from Ondo to Lagos state as well as attempting to steal a boat engine from the locals.

    “One Mr Owoyele Omotuyi, who was identified as a Tantita staff, came to secure the release of the four apprehended, claiming they are Tantita employees.

    “All suspects along with the confiscated exhibits, will be handed over to appropriate agencies for further necessary action and prosecution.

    “The Nigerian Navy under the watch of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, remains resolute towards ensuring the maritime environment is conducive for legitimate businesses necessary for economic prosperity of the nation,” he said.

    In response to the arrest, the Coordinator of TANTITA in Ondo State, Chief Idowu Asonja, issued a statement asserting that the detained individuals were not engaged in the criminal activity, but rather had intercepted the wooden boats. He expressed deep concern and dismay over the arrest of these individuals, and he alleged that the navy had initially showcased the boat publicly but subsequently released it.

    Nevertheless, one of the individuals paraded as suspects recounted to journalists that they were involved in an illicit operation.

    He further disclosed that certain personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) were accompanying them, but these individuals fled upon spotting the naval officers approaching.

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