Category: News

  • Nigeria, Benin Republic Renew Commitments To Legitimate Trans-border Trade On Idiroko Route

    Nigeria, Benin Republic Renew Commitments To Legitimate Trans-border Trade On Idiroko Route

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Idiroko Command and its counterpart from the Benin Republic have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade relations and combating trans-border smuggling along the Idiroko route.

    At a strategic meeting held on Monday in Idiroko, Ogun State, officials from both nations pledged to implement practical solutions to address challenges hindering smooth trade between the two countries. The meeting was led by Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, the Area Commander of Ogun 1 Area Command, and Soglonou Jean-Paul, the Customs Area Controller of Benin Republic’s Igolo Command, alongside a six-man delegation.

    Speaking after the closed-door session, Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized the importance of Nigeria-Benin trade relations, noting that both countries share a rich history of economic cooperation. He highlighted that the meeting provided an opportunity to identify barriers, engage with stakeholders—including representatives from the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA)—and develop actionable strategies to enhance legitimate trade.

    “The economic relationship between Nigeria and Benin is vital not only to our bilateral ties but to the entire region. This session allowed us to hear firsthand from stakeholders, share insights, and engage in frank discussions that will lead to tangible outcomes,” Shuaibu stated.

    He reiterated the Nigeria Customs Service’s guiding principles of consultation, collaboration, synergy, and transformation, as outlined by the Comptroller General of Customs. The focus, he said, remains on facilitating seamless and legitimate trade while enforcing government fiscal policies against smuggling activities.

    Shuaibu further emphasized that the customs agencies of both countries operate under a shared global framework and that the cooperation between them is crucial in addressing trade-related challenges. He assured that despite the recent exit of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS, trade in the region remains unaffected due to agreements under the African Free Trade Association (AFTA) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).

    The renewed commitment by both customs administrations signals a continued effort to foster a secure and structured trade environment along the Nigeria-Benin border.

  • Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, Speaks At Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference

    Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, Speaks At Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference


    Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, the Customs Area Controller of the Seme Area Command, was a keynote speaker at the 5th Redeemer’s University International Model United Nations Conference (RUIMUN), held from March 3 to 6, 2025. The conference, themed “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” served as a platform for discussions on global development, nation-building, and security.

    Speaking at the event, Oramalugo highlighted the critical role of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in driving national development. He underscored the agency’s responsibilities in trade facilitation, revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and national security. Stressing the importance of integrity and patriotism, he warned of the devastating economic and social impact of smuggling.

    The Comptroller emphasized the need for Nigerians to support local industries, using the country’s rice production sector as an example. He noted that while Nigeria is a major producer of rice, the challenge lies in local patronage. “When we fail to buy local rice, we kill our factories,” he stated. He also warned about the dangers of smuggled goods such as counterfeit drugs, second-hand clothing, and used tyres, which pose serious health and safety risks.

    Oramalugo further explained the three core mandates of the NCS: trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations. He highlighted the service’s efforts to simplify customs processes to enhance legitimate trade, noting that the NCS contributed over ₦6 trillion to national revenue in the past year. He also reiterated the agency’s role in preventing the entry of prohibited goods and collaborating with security agencies to protect Nigeria’s borders.

    The Customs chief also spoke on global best practices, referencing the Arusha Declaration and other international conventions aimed at enhancing customs integrity, harmonizing procedures, and tackling illicit trade.

    During an interview at the event, Oramalugo commended the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, describing him as *”the best CGC in Africa.”* He lauded Adeniyi’s numerous achievements, including the *Outstanding Revenue Collection* award from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and *The Sun Newspaper’s Best Public Servant of the Year* award.

    Expressing his gratitude to Redeemer’s University for the opportunity to engage with young leaders, Oramalugo reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to fostering economic growth and national security. The event reinforced the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting sustainable development and securing Nigeria’s economic future.

  • CISLAC Applauds ‘Operation Safe Corridor’, Calls for Comprehensive Implementation

    CISLAC Applauds ‘Operation Safe Corridor’, Calls for Comprehensive Implementation

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)/Transparency International in Nigeria has commended the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, for launching Operation Safe Corridor, an initiative aimed at tackling insecurity through non-kinetic means.

    According to the governor, the special operation is designed for “disarmament, de-radicalisation, and integration of repentant bandits who surrender unconditionally, facilitating their reintegration into society.”

    In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC welcomed this bold step, emphasizing that “the shift from kinetic to non-kinetic approaches in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges aligns with the administration’s commitment to decisively tackle banditry.” The initiative, CISLAC noted, offers a safe passage for non-radicalized individuals who were drawn into banditry due to illiteracy, poverty, and other socio-economic factors.

    CISLAC believes Operation Safe Corridor will strengthen policy focus on non-kinetic measures, reducing the heavy reliance on arms and ammunition in maintaining peace. “To ensure effectiveness, CISLAC urges the government to implement comprehensive rehabilitation and socio-economic empowerment programs before reintegrating repentant bandits. This approach will help prevent re-radicalization and mitigate potential threats to communities,” the statement added.

    Additionally, CISLAC called on the Zamfara State Government to intensify efforts to disrupt the cycle of banditry at various stages, including ideation, recruitment, indoctrination, and violence. The organization also encouraged public-private partnerships to enhance community awareness and counter-extremism education.

    CISLAC further stressed the importance of providing psycho-social support, compensation, and reconstruction for victims of banditry to alleviate trauma and mitigate socio-economic losses. Finally, the group urged the Federal Government to collaborate closely with Zamfara State to ensure the successful implementation of Operation Safe Corridor.

  • Unity Bank Posts N59.3B In Gross Earnings, Grows Deposits By 23% In 2024 FY

    Unity Bank Posts N59.3B In Gross Earnings, Grows Deposits By 23% In 2024 FY

    Retail lender, Unity Bank Plc posted gross earnings of N59.3 billion for the full year ended December 31, 2024, representing a growth of 3.84% year-on-year.

    In its audited financials submitted to the NGX Group Limited, the Bank also witnessed improvements across key performance indicators, including a significant appreciation of customer deposits by 23% to N402.9 billion from N327.4 billion within the period under review – an indication of sustained retail growth and customer confidence.

    Other key highlights of the full-year results include the total assets which stood at N472.5 billion; net fee and income commission, N5.2 billion and an increase in interest income by 9.6% to 53.7 billion from N48.8 billion within the period.

    Commenting on the result, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank Plc, Mrs. Oluwatomi Somefun said the Bank had issued a profit alert to reflect revaluation loss arising from Naira devaluation which was due to the acute shortage of Forex that created an inclement business environment and, on the aggregate, set in an economic headwind. She noted, however, that in the full-year statement, this has bottomed out and the key performance indicators are rebounding from the low level of growth and negative trends that characterized the year.

    Mrs. Somefun stated: “As we begin to see the margins being closed, it is an indication that the measures being taken to revamp all aspects of the business is being well received by the market: be it workable recapitalization plan, aggressive drive for asset creation, product innovation, or digital banking”.

    “We will need to covet the improvements and further build upon it. As a corporate brand, we have a lot that is keeping us going: the positive sentiments and optimism, the growing franchise of the business and steady growth in different segments of the retail market across all the geo-political zones of Nigeria” ” she said.

    She added, “We have the right indicators to reclaim lost grounds – innovating with the development and soon to be launched an omnichannel digital app to improve reliability, customer experience, support diverse products functionality which will impact earnings, income and profitability.”

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has recently approved a business combination with another innovative Bank in Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the Bank’s growth strategy as it advances its recapitalization plans. This partnership is built on a shared vision to redefine the banking experience for our customers and will drive the transformation of the consolidated entity. By leveraging Unity Bank’s extensive branch network and strong customer relationships alongside the entity’s digital expertise and commitment to innovation, we aim to create a seamless integration of traditional and modern banking services.

    Amid a review of key highlights that support the steady growth of the retail business, analysts are of the view that the Bank has continued to reflect a good outlook in terms of perception and confidence in the market, which by and large creates an entity with remarkable resilience whilst investors’ sentiments remain positive.

  • Analyst Predict Fidelity To Meet Recaptalization Threshold Ahead Of Regulatory Deadline

    Analyst Predict Fidelity To Meet Recaptalization Threshold Ahead Of Regulatory Deadline

    Fidelity Bank Plc is making impressive strides on its path to fulfilling the recapitalization targets set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). With a successful first phase of its capital-raising initiative that recorded over 238% over subscription and share price growth of over 100% evidencing a huge surge in investor confidence for the bank.

    Following the successful completion of phase 1 of its capital raise, the bank is exceptionally well-positioned to not only meet the regulatory threshold strengthen but also fuel its growth trajectory.

    With the recent conclusion of its equity capital raise through a Public Offer and Rights Issue, collectively known as the Combined Offer. The response has been nothing short of extraordinary, with the Public Offer oversubscribed by an astounding 237.92%. This translates to 107,588 valid applications for a total of 23,768,724,000 ordinary shares, amounting to ₦231.7 billion. The Rights Issue also shone brightly, achieving a remarkable 137.73% subscription rate with 6,903 valid applications for 4,407,252,795 ordinary shares, totaling ₦40.7 billion.

    Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support from investors, stating, “The positive results recorded in our Combined Offer are a testament to the strength of the Fidelity Bank franchise in the capital market.” Such a robust response not only underscores investor confidence but also reaffirms the bank’s unwavering commitment to delivering innovative financial solutions and sustainable returns to its stakeholders.

    Following this remarkable success, Fidelity Bank has secured shareholder approval to launch the second phase of its capital-raising initiatives. This includes a significant increase in the bank’s issued share capital from ₦26.7 billion to ₦36.7 billion. Shareholders endorsed this expansion during an Extraordinary General Meeting on February 6, 2025, approving the creation of an additional 20 billion ordinary shares of ₦0.50 each.

    This strategic capital boost positions Fidelity Bank to meet the CBN’s new minimum regulatory capital requirement of ₦500 billion for banks with international authorization by March 31, 2026. This ambitious goal aligns seamlessly with the bank’s vision for sustainable growth and exceptional service delivery, setting the stage for a dynamic future.

    Fidelity Bank’s stock performance has further solidified its status as a top contender in the financial sector. From an initial offer price of ₦9.75 per share during the Public Offer, shares soared to a high of ₦21.15 on February 7, 2025, representing an impressive growth rate of over 116%. This positions Fidelity Bank as one of the best-performing financial institutions in the market, with analysts from Apel Asset Limited noting an impressive 80% return on investment for shareholders who have held shares since 2023.

    Market analysts project a considerable upside potential of 28.88%, establishing a fair value of Fidelity Bank at ₦23.15 against a reference price of ₦19.50. Such promising indicators not only enhance investor confidence but also position Fidelity Bank as a compelling investment opportunity within the Nigerian banking landscape.

    The funds raised from the initial phases of the capital-raising exercises are earmarked for several key initiatives. Fidelity Bank plans to utilize these resources for local and international business expansion, enhancing technology infrastructure, and improving customer service initiatives. This proactive approach showcases the bank’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

    As the bank gears up for the next phase of its capital-raising initiative, the primary focus remains on achieving its recapitalization targets while consistently delivering value to stakeholders. The bank’s leadership is confident that, with sustained investor support and a robust financial strategy, it will adeptly navigate the evolving landscape of the Nigerian banking sector.

    Fidelity Bank’s recent achievements in capital raising signal a pivotal moment in its journey toward strengthening its financial foundation. With robust investor backing, strategic capital allocation, and a clear vision for growth, Fidelity Bank is not just on track to meet its recapitalization target—it is poised to exceed it.

    The road ahead promises to be one of sustained growth and innovation, reinforcing Fidelity Bank’s position as a leader in the Nigerian financial sector. As the bank looks toward the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering strong relationships with investors and delivering on its promise of financial excellence and exceptional customer satisfaction.

    Fidelity Bank’s proactive measures and impressive market performance pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future—one where it continues to lead with integrity and vision in the ever-evolving financial landscape.

  • Sambo Represents Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, At Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, BOOK Launch

    Sambo Represents Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, At Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, BOOK Launch

    Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, CON, the immediate past Minister of Transportation, represented Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, at the book launch of the former Nigerian Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), ‘A Journey in Service’ in Abuja on Thursday, February 20, 2025. The event drew an elite gathering of past and present leaders who reflected on IBB’s legacy and the state of democracy in West Africa.

    The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, attracted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, top members of his cabinet, former presidents of Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone, former Nigeria Vice Presidents, State Governors, past and present, Ministers and heads of Parastatals, both former and present, military leaders, Captains of Industry, and statesmen from Nigeria and beyond.

    Muhammadu Buhari, who was unavoidably absent due to an earlier scheduled commitment, sent his warm wishes and prayed for a successful launching of the memoir, as it marks a watershed in the life of the former military president. He prayed for good health, long life, and satisfaction in all endeavours.

    Sambo delivered a congratulatory message, expressing hope that General Babangida would continue offering valuable counsel to Nigeria’s leadership.

    In his keynote address, former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasised the importance of multi-party democracy in Africa’s development. He warned against the growing wave of military takeovers, calling them a setback to democratic progress. “Multiple parties are good for our continent,” Akufo-Addo said, urging leaders to protect democratic institutions.

    Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), lauded Babangida’s rise from aide-de-camp (ADC) to head of state, describing him as a “boss of bosses.”
    Gowon also expressed gratitude for Babangida’s decision to restore his rank of General after it was stripped following the 1976 coup. “Thank you for restoring my rank,” Gowon said, reflecting on how Babangida’s leadership impacted his life.

    General Abdulsalami Abubakar, another former military president, shared anecdotes about his over 80-year-long relationship with Babangida.
    He recalled a childhood prophecy foretold Babangida’s rise to power and commended him for documenting his life’s journey.
    “Your memoir will enrich the country,” Abdulsalami remarked.

    The book launch, set against the backdrop of a presidential library fundraising event, marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s political history.

    Babangida, known for his role in the country’s military and political landscape, shares his journey through his memoir, offering insights into his years of service and the complexities of Nigeria’s past.

    The IBB Presidential Library Foundation, which oversees the event, expressed that the memoir’s launch is not just about commemorating Babangida’s legacy but also a call for support to preserve and promote Nigeria’s political history through the foundation’s library.

    As the event unfolded, a unique blend of nostalgia, reflection, and forward-looking dialogue filled the air, drawing attention to the enduring influence of the country’s past leaders in shaping the present.

  • Fidelity Bank Enhances Educational Facilities in Benin, Abuja

    Fidelity Bank Enhances Educational Facilities in Benin, Abuja

    Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to enhancing its host communities’ lifestyles. Through its dedicated education Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillar, the bank recently undertook significant projects aimed at promoting quality education delivery across the country.

    In Benin-City, Edo State, Fidelity Bank recently renovated the library at Emotan College, Wire Road. This initiative, which was executed under the auspices of the Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP), was championed by the Phoenix Inductee Class of Fidelity Bank. The FHHP allows Fidelity Bank staff to identify community needs, raise funds, and receive matching support from the bank to implement impactful projects.

    At the official handover ceremony, Ovie Mukoro, Regional Bank Head, Midwest 1, Fidelity Bank Plc, highlighted the alignment of the renovation project with the bank’s CSR pillars, emphasizing the promotion of quality education and youth empowerment. Mukoro stated, “The renovation project reflects the Bank’s commitment to enhancing the lives of its host communities through the dedication and generosity of its newly inducted staff who voluntarily contributed funds to support the project.”

    The Principal of Emotan Junior College, Mrs. Idukpaye Henrietta, expressed her gratitude, noting that the investment in the school is an investment in the nation’s future. She looked forward to a lasting partnership that would continue to uplift and empower the students. Similarly, Mrs. Sandra Iyalekhue, Acting Education Secretary, Oredo Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), commended Fidelity Bank for the kind gesture, noting that the project would contribute to the educational development of the students and promote research work.

    In Abuja, Fidelity Bank further demonstrated its CSR commitment by donating 40 tables and chairs to LEA School at the Federal Capital Territory. This initiative, also executed under the FHHP by the Prodigies Inductees Class, aims to support quality education delivery in a bid to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 – Quality Education.

    Meksley Nwagboh, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized the importance of supporting education as a tool for societal improvement. He stated, “At Fidelity Bank, we recognize the importance of supporting education as a tool for improving society. Through initiatives like this, we aim to ensure that every child has access to essential educational resources and become an asset to their family, their community and the nation.”

    The headmaster of LEA School, Mr. Mohamed Musa, expressed his gratitude for the timely intervention, noting that the donation would address the critical need for adequate classroom seating, preventing students from having to sit on the floor during classes. He encouraged other corporations to follow Fidelity Bank’s lead and support quality education delivery.

    These initiatives come to join a long list of Fidelity Bank’s interventions in the education sector. It will be recalled that the bank launched the Read2Lead Initiative last year to foster a culture of reading and writing among young people. The bank also hosted a webinar targeted at businesses operating in the education sector, themed, “Maintaining Educational Standards Amidst Current Economic Realities”, in September 2024 as part of its strategy to improve the country’s education system.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 8.5 million customers through digital banking channels, its 251 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards; the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023; and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and the Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.

  • Nigeria Customs Service, Stakeholders Highlight Cross-Border Trade, Economic Development At Idiroko Art Festival

    Nigeria Customs Service, Stakeholders Highlight Cross-Border Trade, Economic Development At Idiroko Art Festival


    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), alongside key stakeholders, has underscored the importance of cross-border trade in economic growth and cultural integration at the 4th edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development held in Idiroko, Ogun State, on February 12, 2025.

    In his welcome address, Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Area Command, emphasized that cross-border trade fosters economic expansion, cultural exchange, and business partnerships. He noted that beyond celebrating art, the festival serves as a platform to highlight the role of trade in shaping communities and sustainable development.

    Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Bonny Abisogun Botoku, executive producer of the festival and secretary-general of the Inter-Border Forum, stressed the necessity of using art as a medium to educate border communities and security personnel on trade policies and cooperation. According to him, art plays a critical role in sensitizing people about economic integration, regional cooperation, and the role of Customs in facilitating trade, generating revenue, and ensuring security.

    Dr. Botoku also pointed out the challenges of transborder communication and movement, particularly for communities divided by artificial boundaries. He noted that while ECOWAS protocols advocate for cross-border cooperation, there is a need for increased awareness among residents and security personnel to balance trade facilitation with national security concerns.

    Also speaking at the event, Avoseh Johnson Akano, chairman of Ipokia Local Government, lauded the festival’s role in fostering new development visions for the younger generation. He highlighted Ogun State’s cultural heritage, particularly its globally recognized Adire fabric, which has been officially adopted as a symbol of local identity. Akano further stressed the importance of promoting indigenous cultural practices and ensuring that local talents and traditions gain national and international recognition.

    According to hybridnewsng report, the festival, attended by traditional rulers, government officials, security agencies, and trade experts, featured exhibitions showcasing artistic expressions that reflect the economic and cultural dynamics of cross-border trade. Participants called for policies that enhance trade efficiency while preserving cultural identity and community integration.

    With its growing influence, the Festival of Art for Economic Development continues to reinforce the role of creativity in economic transformation, trade facilitation, and regional cooperation.

  • NNS BEECROFT Base Quick Response Team Reinforcing The Navy’s Commitment To Tackling Maritime Crimes

    NNS BEECROFT Base Quick Response Team Reinforcing The Navy’s Commitment To Tackling Maritime Crimes

    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft has intercepted a major smuggling operation in Lagos waters, confiscating 756kg of cannabis sativa worth ₦168 million along with illegal equipment. During the operation, security operatives arrested multiple suspects involved in the illicit trade, reinforcing the Navy’s commitment to tackling maritime crimes.

    Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Commodore Nimmyel detailed the Navy’s recent operations that led to multiple arrests and the confiscation of illegal goods. According to him, operations conducted between February 10 and 11, 2025, resulted in the interception of a large wooden boat attempting to flee towards Benin Republic.

    The vessel, detected by the Western Regional Control Centre of Falcon Eye Alignment, was carrying seven suspects along with 408 empty drums, three pumping machines, and eight Yamaha 40HP outboard engines.

    Additionally, the Base Quick Response Team (QRT), acting on credible intelligence, apprehended two suspects in the Topo, Badagry area while they were allegedly assisting smugglers. Their boat, which carried a 40HP Yamaha outboard engine, was seized, and intercepted communications confirmed their involvement in illicit activities. Furthermore, on February 11, 2025, 28 bags of cannabis sativa weighing over 756kg were discovered at Long Jetty, Ibeche Beach. The culprits fled upon sighting the QRT, leaving behind the contraband.

    Commodore Nimmyel reiterated the Navy’s commitment to enforcing the directives of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, in collaboration with other security agencies. He warned criminals engaged in illegal oil bunkering and drug trafficking to desist, as the Navy remains resolute in maintaining maritime security.

    Dosa, one of the arrested suspects, claimed he was only transporting empty drums. “I went to buy the empty drums to take them to Badagry,” he said. When asked about the pumping machines found in the boat, he insisted, “I use them to pump water out of my boat, not for illegal activities.” However, his colleagues reportedly confessed to using the machines for pumping oil, a claim he denied.

    On his part, Superintendent Amoo Kehinde, representing the Lagos State Commandant, Commandant Keshinro Adedokun, confirmed that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) had taken custody of the suspects and exhibits. “Immediately after the handover, the exhibits will be taken to our Exhibit Yard at Ijora Jetty Marine, while the suspects will be transported to our state headquarters in Alausa for investigation and prosecution,” he stated.

    The Acting Marine Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) disclosed that the seized 28 bags of cannabis sativa would be transferred to the agency’s Central Exhibit Store for safekeeping before destruction. “We will investigate further and arraign the suspects in court for prosecution,” he assured. The NDLEA estimated the market value of the seized cannabis to be around ₦6 million per bag.

    The Nigerian Navy emphasized that its operations would continue with intensified efforts to ensure that economic activities in Lagos waters remain secure and uninterrupted. “Our role is to protect the maritime sector, and criminals should be aware that we will not relent in our pursuit to rid the waters of illicit activities,” Commodore Nimmyel concluded.

  • GREEN WORSHIP CONCERT: Worship For Change Foundation’s ₦36.75 Million Donation Illuminates Lives Of Special Needs Children Across Nigeria

    GREEN WORSHIP CONCERT: Worship For Change Foundation’s ₦36.75 Million Donation Illuminates Lives Of Special Needs Children Across Nigeria

    Founder of Worship for Change, Wale Adenuga, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting vulnerable children as his organization disbursed ₦36.75 million to six charities across Nigeria. The funds, raised through the Green Worship concert held on October 1, 2023, mark an 11% increase from the ₦33 million distributed the previous year.

    The six beneficiary organizations—Agbedare Jesus Care Foundation, Bethesdial School for the Blind, Gilead Initiatives, Flora Trust Foundation, Jesus Orphanage (Port Harcourt), and Gold Gate Michika (Adamawa State)—each received ₦6.125 million to support their efforts in caring for orphans and children with special needs.

    Speaking at the distribution event, Adenuga highlighted the challenges faced by these charities, emphasizing the rising costs of education and healthcare for children with disabilities. “Things have become more difficult, and people barely have enough to care for themselves, let alone others. The support we have raised is making a significant impact, not only financially but also by creating awareness about the amazing work these organizations are doing,” he said.

    He noted that Worship for Change, which has been running since 2006, has raised approximately ₦160 million over the years to support such causes. Adenuga expressed gratitude to donors and corporate sponsors, urging them to continue their generosity as the organization plans another fundraising concert in October 2024.

    Mrs. Agbedare Beatrice Adenike, founder of Agbedare Jesus Care Foundation in Ibadan, described the donation as an answered prayer. “This money will be used to improve accommodation for children with special needs, ensuring separate spaces for boys and girls while also expanding our classrooms. It is a dream come true, and I pray that God continues to bless Worship for Change,” she said.

    Similarly, Mrs. Bisola Olufolajimi Idowu of Gilead Initiatives in Ikorodu shared her heartfelt appreciation, revealing that the funds would be instrumental in providing therapy materials, medical care, and assistive devices for children with cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome. “Our goal is for these children to live independent lives, and this support will help us equip them for a future where they can contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

    Mrs. Chika Ugochukwu of Flora Trust Foundation in Lagos, which caters to children with severe disabilities, highlighted the urgent need for expansion. “We started with four children and now have 20, but many more are on our waiting list. This fund will help us secure additional space and mobility aids, ensuring these children receive the care they deserve,” she stated.

    Evangelist James Tumba, founder of Gold Gate Mission in Michika, Adamawa State, expressed profound gratitude to the Board of Trustees, Pastor Wale Adenuga, and the entire Worship for Change team for their generous support. He shared his journey from being born into a Muslim family, converting to Christianity in 1991, and dedicating his life to mission work. After serving in various churches, he felt called to return to his hometown, Michika, to minister to communities in Gworza, Michika, Mubi, and surrounding areas.

    The emergence of Boko Haram in 2014 devastated these regions, leaving many children orphaned. During his mission work, Tumba encountered numerous children in dire need, compelling him to provide care and shelter. He recounted a poignant experience of rescuing a week-old baby found abandoned in the bush, covered in ants. Today, that child is thriving and enrolled in primary two.

    Facing challenges, Tumba relied on farming to support the orphans and his own two children, adhering to a personal conviction against soliciting funds. The recent donation will be instrumental in renovating their accommodation, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for the children. It will also alleviate the burden of school fees, a pressing concern for the mission.

    Tumba extended heartfelt thanks to all contributors, emphasizing the profound impact of their generosity on the lives of the children under his care. He prayed for abundant blessings upon everyone involved in this benevolent endeavor.

    Adenuga advised the beneficiaries to judiciously utilize the funds, ensuring they directly benefit the children under their care. “It is our collective responsibility to support these charities and make life easier for them. I am grateful to everyone who contributed to making this possible,” he added.

    With the annual Green Worship initiative gaining more traction, Worship for Change remains steadfast in its mission to uplift vulnerable children and provide a platform for more organizations to receive much-needed support.
    Source: HYACINTH NWAFOR

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