Category: News

  • Unity Advocacy Group Applauds Chief Of Defence Staff’s Commitment, Armed Forces’ Resilience

    Unity Advocacy Group Applauds Chief Of Defence Staff’s Commitment, Armed Forces’ Resilience

    The Unity Advocacy Group (UAG) has expressed its commendation for General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), for his unwavering dedication to safeguarding democracy and ensuring peaceful elections in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo States in November. This recognition was conveyed in a statement issued by Mr. Ifeanyi Aigbedion, the Convener of UAG, in Abuja on Wednesday.

    On Tuesday, the CDS reiterated the military’s commitment to upholding the nation’s democracy and creating a peaceful environment for the upcoming gubernatorial elections in the aforementioned states.

    Aigbedion also extended appreciation to the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering focus in addressing the numerous security challenges facing the country.

    The UAG additionally praised the presentation of the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ to the CDS, by both Nigerians within the country and those in the diaspora, deeming the award well-deserved.

    The group acknowledged that despite some controversy stirred by certain quarters, the armed forces have persistently reduced the ranks of the nation’s adversaries.

    In the statement, the UAG hailed the CDS’s declaration that the military’s high command under his supervision would not tolerate intimidation or acts of violence in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa States, where gubernatorial elections are slated to occur.

    The UAG considered this announcement as encouraging news, especially in light of efforts by detractors to involve the armed forces in their self-serving agendas. They urged the media not to be swayed by these detractors who profit from the prevailing security challenges and seek to embroil the military in the nation’s issues.

    The group commended the CDS for his straightforward approach and commitment to ensuring peace and stability. They viewed the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient of the Year’ conferred upon the CDS as a genuine affirmation of the fight against insurgency.

  • Navy Conducts Medical Outreach In Oriade LCDA, Lagos

    Navy Conducts Medical Outreach In Oriade LCDA, Lagos


    In a remarkable display of goodwill and commitment to fostering civil-military relations, the Nigerian Navy, led by Commodore Mohammed Danhiru, Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Wey, conducted a medical outreach in the Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos on October 26, 2023.

    The outreach event, which showcased the Navy’s dedication to its host community, was graced by various local authorities, and it aimed to enhance the well-being of the residents, promote cooperation, and contribute to environmental beautification.

    Commodore Mohammed Danhiru, during the event, conveyed the appreciation of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, to the peaceful community that has harmoniously coexisted with the Nigerian Navy Ship Wey and Navy Town.

    He noted that the initiative was in line with the directives contained in the Chief of Naval Staff’s strategic directive for 2023, which encouraged units like NNS Wey to conduct civil-military activities in host communities as a token of gratitude for their continuous support and peaceful coexistence.

    The outreach encompassed a range of activities designed to benefit the community. Medical personnel were present to conduct pre-medical checks and provide essential treatments.

    In addition, the Nigerian Navy donated drugs, mosquito nets, and chairs to expectant mothers attending ante-natal clinics. Environmental concerns were also addressed, as Navy personnel volunteered to clear the local drainages, thereby contributing to the mitigation of climate change effects and enhancing the environment’s aesthetics.

    Commodore Danhiru, in his address, highlighted the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the welfare of the community and revealed that the outreach in Oriade LCDA marked the beginning of similar endeavors that would extend to other communities within their jurisdiction.

    He expressed gratitude to the local government and traditional rulers for their support and appreciated the enthusiastic participation of community members.

    In his words: “Today, we thought it wise to come here and conduct medical rhapsody to do pre-medical checks, donate drugs, mosquito nets and donate chairs to our pregnant women that come for ante-natal. We have also come here with our personnel to clear the drainages around. All these are aimed towards enhancing the well being of members of the community and also to mitigate the effects of climate change, to beautify and to clean the environment.

    “For us the Nigerian Navy Ship Wey, we administer 10 barracks areas and this is the beginning.  We’re going to touch all other communities. I want to seize this opportunity to thank Oriade local government and the leadership of the local council and other local governments as well as the traditional rulers here for coming out. I want to thank the members of the community for coming out en-mass to participate in this programme. I also appreciate our commander Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital and his team for supporting us with this outreach” he concluded.

    In a show of unity and appreciation, the Executive Chairman of Oriade LCDA, Hon. Romotalai Akinola Hassan expressed the council’s delight in receiving the Nigerian Navy’s medical outreach team and acknowledged the strong and cordial relationship that had developed between the community and the Navy.

    Hon Akinola who was represented by the Secretary of the Council, Mr. Rasaq Akorede Olojede, encouraged residents to make the most of the primary healthcare program offered by the Nigerian Navy, underscoring the enduring support of the local council.

    “Holding here today is another landmark event of this medical outreach which has been enjoyed by other armed forces. We want to on behalf of our Executive Chairman urge all our residents around here today to seize this opportunity to benefit from this primary health care program that we are being accorded by the Nigerian Navy and we want to say emphatically that we have been enjoying a very cordial relationship in the area of security and protection of lives of property from this office of the Nigerian Navy and we wish to assure them our regular support at all time when the need arise.

    “Once again I want to enjoin the community to take their time and enjoy the benefit of these Health Care activities and I assure you that everything will go as smoothly” Akinola noted.

    On his part, the Commander of the Nigerian Navy Defence Hospital in Ojo, Surgeon Captain Ikechukwu Chukwuka emphasized the healthcare services provided during the outreach.

    He said some patients will receive immediate treatment, while those with chronic conditions will be referred to appropriate hospitals for further care.

    Surgeon Captain Ikechukwu Chukwuka also informed that surgical cases would also be considered, with advanced diagnostic tools and machines available to assess patients more comprehensively.

    ”Some of the people may require treatments so we treat them on the spot. Some that have chronic cases like Hypertension cannot be treated once. We may need further review. So we can refer you to the nearest hospital, of which Nigeria Reference Hospital is near enough or any other Hospital as the case may be for further review.

    “We may also pick specific one or two surgical cases that we may tackle, that is if a definite diagnosis is made or if there is a need for further review. We have our machines like MRI and other diagnostic tools that we use to further evaluate patients. So in such cases we may invite them to the hospital” Chukwuka said.

    The medical outreach in Oriade LCDA was a testament to the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to community welfare and its dedication to building and strengthening civil-military relations. It not only showcased the Navy’s goodwill but also illustrated the symbiotic relationship between the armed forces and the local community in ensuring security, health, and well-being.

  • Nigerian Army Set To Safely Dispose Of Unexploded Ordnances In Owode Ajilete, Ogun State

    Nigerian Army Set To Safely Dispose Of Unexploded Ordnances In Owode Ajilete, Ogun State

    The Nigerian Army has initiated the process of safely disposing of unexploded ordnances remaining from the 2002 Ikeja Cantonment Bomb Blast in a significant operation known as “EXERCISE CLEAN SWEEP.” 

    The exercise, which commenced on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, has reached an advanced stage, resulting in the recovery of various types of unexploded ordnances that require professional disposal.

    As outlined during the Inauguration press briefing and Flag Off by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja, the Nigerian Army is set to conduct the disposal of the recovered unexploded ordnances at the Nigerian Army Range in Owode Ajilete, Ogun State. 

    This crucial operation is scheduled to take place on Friday, October 27, 2023, from 10 am to 4 pm. As a part of this process, there will be the movement of unexploded ordnances from Ikeja Cantonment to the Nigerian Army Range in Owode Ajilete.

    During the disposal exercise, residents in the vicinity, particularly those in Owode, Ajilete, and the surrounding areas, may hear loud sounds. It is essential for the public to remain calm and not be alarmed, as these sounds are in line with the established disposal routine. 

    The Nigerian Army assured that all necessary safety measures have been implemented to guarantee the security of lives and property throughout the duration of the exercise.

    The Nigerian Army, therefore, urged the general public to go about their regular activities with confidence and not be concerned by the sounds of the explosions. This operation is being conducted with the utmost care and in compliance with safety standards.

    The public is kindly requested to help disseminate this information to ensure everyone is aware and informed. The Nigerian Army expresses gratitude for the usual cooperation of the public in this important safety endeavor.

  • Former Tincan Island Port Command Customs PRO Buries Father In Grand Style In Anambra State

    Former Tincan Island Port Command Customs PRO Buries Father In Grand Style In Anambra State


    Former Nigeria Customs Service, Tincan Island Port Command Public Relations Officer Chief Uche Ejesieme (0zor Ishinmili Agulu) and family members laid their father, Chief Alexander Okoye Ejesieme (Okwuotoekeneze 1 Of Agulu) in Ifiteani Village, Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, to rest. A respected businessman and a figure of inspiration in the community, Chief Alexander Ejesieme’s contributions will be cherished, and his legacy remembered.

    The entire town was enveloped with fanfare as prominent Nigerians came to honour the departed and celebrate his impactful life.

    The funeral service unfolded at St. John De Evangelist Catholic Church Agulu by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, as soon as his remains and the funeral Cortese which included an horse-drawn carriage arrived the church.

    In his sermon The Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor extolled the virtues of Pa Alexander Ejesieme who reportedly lived a life of dedication and service to God.

    According to Rev. Ezeokafor, Chief Ejesieme was a man with intimidating kind heart, whose greatness is not in the riches and wealth he has acquired, but in his unrelenting act of generosity.

    The burial attracted the presence of
    His Eminence, Peter Cardinal Ebele Okpaleke, The Catholic Bishop Of Nnewi Diocese Rt. Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, Papal Nuncio To Czech Republic Archbishop Thaddeus Okolo, The Catholic Bishop Of Awka Diocese Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, The Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, Most Rev. Fr. Professor Obiefuna, Anglican Bishops and Reverends from other Denominations, His Excellency former Governor Anambra State, Mr. Peter Gregory Obi, The Governor Anambra State Chukwuma Soludo represented by His Deputy Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, High Court Judges, Comptroller Anambra/Enugu/Ebonyi Command Comfort Senas Ukpanah, Very Senior Officers Of Nigeria Customs Service, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Nigeria Bar Association Anambra Branch, Onyechi Ikpeazu Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Distinguished Senator Victor Umeh and other Members of the National Assembly,

    Others are His Royal Highness Igwe Innocent Obodoakor Igwe of Agulu, Igwe Innocent Obelle of Nawfia, His Royal Majesty Ezeuzu III Of Awka Austine Ndigwe, Other Royal father’s and their Cabinet Members, Representatives of Ministries Departments and Agencies, Former Governor Ugwuanyi (Gburugburu) of Enugu State, Senator Tony Nwoye, Senators Ngige and Uche Ekwunife sent representatives, Chief Judge Anambra State.

    Lots of friends and well wishers from Nigeria and Diaspora. Captains of Industries, MD DONCLIMAX Shipping, MD Zenith Shipping, MD Clarion Shipping, MD Ikoro Bonded Terminals, MD Ocean Organic Services Ltd, Representative of Coscharis Motors, Representative of Innoson Motors, The Maritime Community,
    Representative of MD Ematoks Chief Akuyie of Agulu, their son in-law His Royal HighNess Chief Eunan Eke, Ezeokpo 1 of Okpo Autonomous Kingdom, not forgetting all the 20 villages in Agulu with their Traditional Cultural/Masquerade Groups, Obi Cubana Group, Groups of ObiDIENT, APC, PDP families, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association, Agulu Grammar School Old Boys Association, Igwebuike Gramnar School Old Boys Association, Boys Secondary School Old Boys, amongst other Business Moguls.

    Pa Ejesieme who died at age 93 was born in 1927 to late Chief & Mrs. Ejesieme Obikwelu of Ifiteani village Agulu in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra state.

    He attended standard school in Agulu during his formative years before on an apprenticeship to late Mr. Okeke Mgbafor of Ifiteani village Agulu, as a metal fabricator here in Agulu where he demonstrated exceptional skills endearing him to the heart of his master.

    However, as an only son of his parents, he sought an opportunity to try his hands in other business ventures, leading to his relocation to Onitsha, where he started learning the trade of kitchen utensils (Ọkapị Stainless Knives) at the popular Onitsha Main Market. Here again, he quickly learnt the trade to the admiration of his contemporaries; shortly after, he started his own business.

    He got married to Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Uzoamaka Ejesieme JP (ADADIORANMA) 1963 from Umubiala Village Agulu and the marriage was blessed with 9 children from the same mother among whom is Chief Alexander Ejesieme Jnr Senior Advocate of Nigeria amongst others.

    The highpoint of the event was the thanksgiving procession by Chief Uche Ejesieme and his immediate family members, amid soulful renditions from the St. John De Evangelist Catholic Church choir.

    He was reputed for his no nonsense stance on issues and was ready to speak truth to power irrespective of whose ox is gored. It is also instructive to note that late Chief Alexander Ejesieme, as a devout Catholic contributed very immensely to various Catholic Churches, where he had opportunity to worship but was most active in St. John’s Catholic Church Agulu, where he served at different times as the PPC Chairman and Chairman of harvest and bazaar committee. His sense of philanthropism at the time was legendary too.

    The former NCS Tin-Can Island Port Command PRO described Pa Ejesieme as his best friend and “a man who loathed dishonesty”.

    He added: “A very open-minded and passionately detribalised Nigerian, he encouraged and supported his children to see every Nigerian as one.

    “He was a natural activist, speaking up against injustice and man’s inhumanity to man, an attribute he bestowed on his children” Chief Uche Ejesieme said.

  • Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT Foils Attempted Stowaway Incident On GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA

    Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT Foils Attempted Stowaway Incident On GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA


    The vigilance and quick response of the Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT patrol team have resulted in the successful interception and arrest of 11 stowaways aboard the vessel GWANGZHOU HIGHWAY PANAMA. The incident occurred during a routine patrol on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at approximately 7:00 PM.

    According to an official statement signed by the Base Information Officer, Sub-Lieutenant H A Collins, the Western Regional Control Center (WRCC) was promptly alerted, leading to the vessel’s suspension within Lagos anchorage. Initially, four stowaways were captured from the stern of the ship. Subsequent information provided by these individuals disclosed the presence of seven more stowaways concealed within the vessel, bringing the total number to 11.

    The apprehended individuals, identified as Shedrack David, Emmanuel Godbless, Ibrahim Hassan, Solomon Francis, Bolaji Johnson, Samsom Aimy, Ayefuwei Collins, Ayo Gula, Jolomi Daniel, Abubakar Ibrahim, and Precious Uwalogho, have been handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) following established protocols.

    “Stowaways not only put their lives in peril during extended sea voyages but also pose significant safety and security challenges. The patrol team’s swift action serves as a crucial reminder of the Nigerian Navy’s indispensable role in maintaining maritime security and upholding the rule of law.

    “The Nigerian Navy remains committed to safeguarding the country’s maritime domain under the leadership of Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, the Chief of the Naval Staff” the statement noted.

  • CCC Rehabilitates Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway, Seeks Commuter Cooperation

    CCC Rehabilitates Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway, Seeks Commuter Cooperation


    …Craves for cooperation of commuters, pledge minimal disruption

    The Management of Craneburg Construction Company Limited has assured that the ongoing Rehabilitation/Re-Construction/Upgrade of the Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway (Phase IIB) from Greensprings to Abraham Adesanya in Lagos will continue to make substantial progress.

    This they noted, while assuring smoother commute for all road users by maintaining effective traffic management measures.

    In line with its commitment to minimize disruption to the daily lives of road users and the surrounding communities, Craneburg stressed its commitment to continuously collaborate closely with the Lagos State government, working alongside relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and other bodies.

    Other key partners in this endeavor include the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Neighborhood Watch.

    “Road construction of this magnitude inevitably leads to temporary traffic diversions, reducing the number of lanes available for road users.

    “Moreover, the occasional breakdowns and accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles, which are prevalent on this axis, further exacerbate traffic congestion on the already limited lanes, occasionally causing bottlenecks.

    “To mitigate these challenges, series of measures have been implemented as part of the project to ensure a smooth flow of traffic.

    “This includes the deployment of road signs and diversion barriers, ensuring that some lanes remain open and pothole-free during construction.

    “We also ensure implementation of an accelerated and strategic execution program for both daytime and nighttime works as well as deployment of well-trained and motivated traffic management personnel, among others.

    “The visual representations of the previous and current states of the road under the project are displayed, showcasing the tangible progress made in these traffic management efforts.

    “We urge all road users to continue to demonstrate patience, cooperation, and adherence to traffic regulations, as this is essential for a smooth traffic flow.

    “Actions that may adversely affect traffic management include non-compliance with road signs and regulations, disregard for the guidance and directions of traffic management personnel, vehicle breakdowns leading to road obstructions, and impatient driving” the statement noted.

    The company further noted that the Project, which is scheduled for early completion and delivery, remains a commendable and vital initiative that will benefit the entire community.

    Thus, they crave the understanding and cooperation of all road users as the Project continues to move forward.

  • NUJ, Poland Media Association Forge Agreement To Strengthen Journalistic Cooperation, Exchanges

    NUJ, Poland Media Association Forge Agreement To Strengthen Journalistic Cooperation, Exchanges


    In a significant move to bolster media cooperation and exchanges between two nations, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Poland Media Association (PMA) officially sealed an enduring partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The central objective of this historic MOU is the establishment of the “Journalists House,” which will serve as a hub for fostering collaboration and understanding between journalists from Nigeria and Poland.

    Leaders from both organizations participated in the formal signing ceremony, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the journalistic fraternity of the two countries. Dr. Christopher Isiguzo, President of the NUJ, inked the MOU on behalf of the Nigerian Union, while Mr. Marek Traczyk, President of the PMA, represented the Polish side. This landmark event was witnessed by an assembly of journalists hailing from diverse corners of the world, who were present to commemorate this significant accord.

    The momentous agreement transpired as part of the ongoing Belt and Road Journalists Forum held in Beijing, China, convening leaders from over 80 Journalists Unions and Associations spanning all six continents.

    The comprehensive MOU outlines several key elements. This entity, jointly established by the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the Polish Media Association, is intended to facilitate media exchanges and cooperation between journalists from Nigeria and Poland. Moreover, it welcomes the participation of financial intermediaries and associated institutions from other countries interested in this collaboration.

    The Nigeria-Polish House of Journalists will enhance Nigeria’s interregional cooperation with Central and Eastern European countries to jointly promote exchanges and collaboration among journalists from Nigeria, Poland, and other Central and Eastern European countries.

    The Association of Polish Media commits to providing support and assistance to Nigerian journalists residing in Poland, whether permanently or temporarily. Simultaneously, the Nigeria Union of Journalists will extend support and assistance to Polish journalists residing in Nigeria, thereby fostering a spirit of camaraderie and mutual aid.

    The press organizations of both countries are poised to actively organize bilateral and multilateral seminars, training, exchanges, and exhibitions, whether in-person or remotely. This initiative welcomes the active participation of interested journalists from other nations.

    Both the Association of Polish Media and the Nigeria Union of Journalists are determined to introduce the cooperation mechanism of the Nigeria-Polish House of Journalists to their members and partners through various channels to garner more support and engagement.

    This MOU signifies a remarkable leap forward in media collaboration between Nigeria and Poland. It holds the promise of deepening professional relationships, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting cross-border journalistic excellence. The signing ceremony at the Belt and Road Journalists Forum in Beijing serves as a testament to the commitment of both nations to advancing global media cooperation.

  • Akinwuntan, Other Experts To Speak At CBU Entrepreneurship Dev. Summit

    Akinwuntan, Other Experts To Speak At CBU Entrepreneurship Dev. Summit

    Former managing director and chief executive officer, MD/CEO, of Eco Bank Nigeria, Mr. Patrick Akinwuntan will lead seasoned financial experts to address seeming critical factors challenging entrepreneurship growth and specifically the huge number of small and medium enterprises in the country.

    Akinwuntan has confirmed to chair the 20th annual lecture and 29th anniversary of the Catholic Brothers United, CBU, of the St. Agnes Catholic Church Maryland, Lagos, with Governor Hope Uzodinma, of Imo state as chief guest of honour.

    Chairman of the conference organizing committee, Mr. Gabriel Akumhegie, said the theme of the conference, ‘Entrepreneurship Drive: A Tool For Mitigating Unemployment For National Growth, is apt given the declining growth of the country’s production sector.

    Akumhegie, said the programme scheduled to hold on Sunday 22nd of October 2023, at the Mc Govern hall St Agnes Catholic Church, by 12pm, is coming given the outlook of Nigeria’s employment conditions for the third quarter of this year which dropped to the lowest in nearly three years on the back of petrol subsidy removal and naira devaluation.

    Three industry experts, including Mr Nelson Akerele, the Chief Executive Director of Royal Exchange Prudential Life Assurance Plc, Dr. Mrs. Omotayo Omotosho, former Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Commission (NTDC) and Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Partner, Apis Partner LLP & former Chairman, Renmoney MFB Ltd, would form panel of discussants at the conference.

    Citing, the latest aggregate Manufacturers CEOs Confidence Index (MCCI) of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), employment conditions for July-September of 2023 deteriorated below the 50 benchmark points to 46.6 points from 47.8 points in the previous quarter.

    In a press statement by chairman publicity committee, Chika Izuora, the conference organizing committee in articulating the theme, duly observed that the global economy is currently facing significant challenges characterized by slow growth prospects, high inflation, and increased uncertainties.

    One key consequence of these challenges is the aggressive increase in interest rates, the most significant in decades, aimed at combating persistent inflation which has equally affected activities of entrepreneurs in the country.

    This tightening of financial conditions has also heightened concerns about mounting debt vulnerabilities in Nigeria and the Sub-Saharan Africa.

    The conference theme also recognized the most recent survey by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, MAN, which showed that employment generation of the manufacturing sector declined to 6428 in the first half of 2023. This is an indication of 32.8 per cent reduction in employment generation capacity when compared with 9559 jobs generated in the first half of 2022.

    Also, the data showed a shed of 313 jobs when compared with 6741 jobs created in the second half of 2022.

    The decline in the number of jobs created in the sector during the period further highlighted the unfriendly business environment resulting from the hasty policies and residual effect of the currency redesign policy that led to naira crunch.

    In the same vein, a total of 3567 jobs were lost in the first half of 2023, indicating 1855 more job lost when compared with the 1709 job lost in corresponding half of 2022 and 850 more jobs lost when compared with 2708 jobs lost in the last half of 2022.

    Akumhegie, also identified that one of the major hurdles confronting the manufacturing sector and indeed small scale entrepreneurs in the country is the high cost of obtaining funds.

    This challenge is substantiated by data MAN gathered during the fieldwork for the first half of 2023 report.

    According to this data, the average lending rate to the manufacturing sector from commercial banks remained high at 24 per cent when compared with what was recorded in the corresponding half of 2022.

    However, the cost of funds for the manufacturers increased by 2.0 percentage points when compared with 22.0 per cent recorded in the second half of 2022.

    The lending rates offered by commercial banks to industries are significantly influenced by the continuous upward adjustments in the Monetary Policy Rate.
    These adjustments aim to maintain a favorable real interest rate environment, with the goal of attracting foreign investment inflow, defending the domestic currency (Naira) and curbing the spiraling inflation.

    Akumhegie, said a line up of financial experts who will feature at the conference will help in addressing these challenges and proffer solutions that will help in providing jobs for the people.

  • 50 Lucky Nigerians Celebrate Victory In Polaris Bank’s Monthly “Save N Win” Promo Draw

    50 Lucky Nigerians Celebrate Victory In Polaris Bank’s Monthly “Save N Win” Promo Draw

    Polaris Bank, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, announced the emergence of another set of 50 lucky winners in the monthly draw of its ongoing “Save N Win” promo. The draw, held at the Polaris Bank Headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos last weekend, demonstrated the bank’s dedication to rewarding its valued customers.

    The event, overseen by representatives of the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), reaffirmed the transparency of the draw process. The 50 fortunate winners were chosen from diverse regions spanning Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, each receiving a cash prize of N10,000.

    Utilizing a hybrid media technology, the draw incorporated in-premises participation alongside virtual engagement of numerous customers and the public through the bank’s virtual network and social media handles. This inclusive approach highlighted the bank’s commitment to engaging customers across various platforms.

    Polaris Bank’s “Save N Win” promo has captivated the interest of customers nationwide, providing them with a unique opportunity to save money while standing a chance to win attractive cash prizes. This initiative not only encourages a culture of saving but also enables customers to pursue their financial aspirations while enjoying the excitement of winning.

    Speaking at the draw, Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO), Dele Adeyinka, expressed gratitude to the customers for their unwavering trust and support. He reiterated the bank’s commitment to enhancing the financial well-being of its customers and prospects, emphasizing the bank’s dedication to responsible banking and financial inclusion.

    The 50 fortunate individuals will have their Polaris Bank accounts automatically credited with their winning cash prizes within five (5) working days.

    For those interested in participating in the ongoing “Save N Win” promo, Polaris Bank has outlined four ways to engage:

    1. Download VULTe on iOS and the App Store to open a Polaris Savings Account.

    2. Dial USSD *833*0# on your phone or log into the Polaris Bank savings portal, and grow your account by N10,000 or more to qualify for monthly draws.

    3. Maintain a balance of N10,000 for 3 consecutive months to qualify for quarterly draws.

    4. Customers with dormant accounts can reactivate them by dialing *833*30# without visiting the bank.

    Customers are encouraged to follow Polaris Bank’s social media handles @polarisbankltd or visit the official website to stay updated on the ongoing promo and other exciting offers.

    Polaris Bank, recognized as the Digital Bank of the Year in 2021 and 2022, remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering innovative financial solutions and empowering individuals and communities through responsible banking practices.

  • Nigeria, India Strengthen Naval Ties For Maritime Security At Gulf Of Guinea

    Nigeria, India Strengthen Naval Ties For Maritime Security At Gulf Of Guinea


    Nigeria and India have taken significant steps to reinforce their maritime collaboration, aiming to bolster security in the Gulf of Guinea. This strengthened naval alliance encompasses joint training, interoperability, hardware exchanges, and port visits, marking a pivotal moment in their enduring relationship. 

    In his welcome speech during a goodwill visit by the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sumeda in Lagos, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan emphasized the importance of such visits in enhancing the friendship, cooperation, and interoperability between Nigeria and India.

    He highlighted that the collaboration between the two countries plays a crucial role in bolstering national security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea region. Rear Admiral Hassan stressed the alignment of this cooperation with the vision of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla to improve security in the maritime domain.

    “We’ve had a very beautiful relationship with India, which has spanned over five decades. The Navy, in particular, has had a good relationship encompassing training support, hardware exchanges, port visits, and joint exercises,” Rear Admiral Hassan remarked. He expressed optimism that the visit by INS Sumeda would further consolidate the security gains in the Gulf of Guinea.

    The Rear Admiral highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between Nigeria and India, extending to both navies. This relationship has been characterized by fruitful collaborations, training, interoperability, hardware exchanges, and port calls. He noted that Port calls by Indian Navy ships, such as INS Trishu and INS Takash, have been frequent, contributing to improved maritime security in Nigeria’s waters. These collaborations align with the CNS’s vision of shaping security outcomes in the maritime domain.

    Rear Admiral Hassan acknowledged the training exchanges with the Indian Navy but expressed the need for a more balanced exchange, as more Indian students could benefit from Nigerian training institutions. He encouraged the Indian Navy to consider sending more students to Nigeria for training.

    Rear Admiral Hassan expressed eagerness to discuss ways to improve interoperability, naval infrastructure, local shipbuilding, and other areas of cooperation during the visit. 

    In a demonstration of the enduring relationship between India and Nigeria, India’s Defence Attaché, Colonel Romi Singh Legha extended his heartfelt appreciation for the warm welcome and valuable interaction during his visit. The dialogue served as a testament to the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations, which spans several decades.

    Colonel Legha acknowledged the rich history of relations between Nigeria and India, with India taking the significant step of establishing its high commission in Nigeria two years before the country’s independence in 1958. 

    He informed that in the early years of collaboration, India played an instrumental role in setting up the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Naval Academy in Port Harcourt. Notably, the initial commandants of these institutions were from India, with Brigadier Verma, in particular, remembered as the pioneer commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy for its first two years.

    Under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, India and Nigeria have engaged in numerous interactions. Every year, approximately 150 courses are offered under this program, with the Nigerian Navy benefiting from around 45 to 50 courses annually. This fully funded scheme, which includes travel to and from India, has seen the training of over 75,000 officers and men from the Nigerian armed forces in India. This significant effort is regarded as one of India’s most substantial contributions to capacity building for the Nigerian armed forces.

    Regarding the current visit, Colonel Legha shared that India’s naval vessel, INS Sumedha, has been deployed in the region for approximately 20 days. This deployment goes beyond mere port calls, as operational deployment and anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea are part of the mission.

    He acknowledged that due to the collective efforts of the Nigerian Navy and other regional navies, piracy in the region has been notably reduced. In fact, the past year saw a significant decline in piracy incidents, marking a substantial achievement for all involved.

    INS Sumedha’s mission also includes exercises and interactions with navies from other countries in the region, such as Ghana, Togo, Senegal, and Algeria. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance cooperation, foster interoperability, and strengthen the bonds between Nigeria and India in the defense realm.

    The visit by Colonel Romi Singh Legha and INS Sumedha underscores the commitment of both nations to fortify their defense ties, contributing to peace, security, and maritime stability in the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.

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