Category: News

  • Lagos Police Command Congratulates Dr. Ayo Ogunsan on Appointment as LSSTF Executive Secretary

    Lagos Police Command Congratulates Dr. Ayo Ogunsan on Appointment as LSSTF Executive Secretary

    The Lagos State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has extended warm congratulations to Dr. Ayo Ogunsan on his well-deserved appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

    In a statement released by SP Abimbola Adebisi, ANIPR, MIPRA, the Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, the Command described Dr. Ogunsan’s appointment as a reflection of the Governor’s confidence in his integrity, leadership capacity, and long-standing contributions to the security framework of Lagos State.

    The statement noted that Dr. Ogunsan has consistently demonstrated selfless service, commitment, and strategic insight toward improving the State’s security architecture through his active role as a member of the LSSTF Board.

    “The Commissioner of Police is confident that Dr. Ogunsan will bring his wealth of experience, institutional knowledge, and proven dedication to bear in this new role,” the statement reads. “His appointment comes at a time when Lagos State continues to strengthen its multi-agency approach to safety and security.”

    The Command further commended Dr. Ogunsan’s valuable partnership with the Police and other security agencies, which has significantly enhanced operational capacity and community safety across the State. It expressed optimism that his leadership will drive greater efficiency and innovation within the LSSTF.

    Reaffirming its commitment to partnership and collaboration, the Lagos State Police Command assured Dr. Ogunsan of its continued support in the collective effort to safeguard lives and property in Lagos.

    “The Command celebrates this milestone achievement and looks forward to deepening its strategic collaboration with the LSSTF under Dr. Ogunsan’s stewardship,” the release concluded.

  • Notorious Commercial Driver Arrested in Lagos for Serial Rape, Assault

    Notorious Commercial Driver Arrested in Lagos for Serial Rape, Assault

    Detectives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a notorious commercial taxi driver, Adedayo Ben Adegbola, linked to multiple cases of rape, defilement, assault, and armed robbery against female passengers across the state.

    The suspect, whose photo recently went viral in online posts shared by victims, was tracked down by crack operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, following a directive from the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohunnare Jimoh.

    According to SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, detectives launched a discreet investigation after receiving complaints from several victims. Their efforts led to the suspect’s arrest on October 31, 2025, around 9:40 a.m.

    A red Toyota Corolla with registration number JJJ 226 HT, allegedly used by the suspect to carry out the crimes, was recovered and secured as evidence.

    The suspect is currently in custody while investigations continue to identify and apprehend accomplices. Police have urged other victims to come forward and assist with information, assuring that their identities will be protected.

    The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring justice for survivors and maintaining the safety and security of all residents of Lagos State. Updates on the case will be provided as investigations progress.

  • Anambra CP Honours 14 Officers, Opens Refurbished Command Hall

    Anambra CP Honours 14 Officers, Opens Refurbished Command Hall

    The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Thursday, 31st October 2025, decorated fourteen newly promoted officers of the Command in a colourful ceremony held at the Police Headquarters, Awka.

    The event also featured the unveiling of the newly renovated Commissioner of Police Hall — a project facilitated through the goodwill of His Royal Highness, Otonye Efebo, PhD (Shidi VII), the Amadabo of Shidi-Ama, Twon Brass, Bayelsa State.

    Speaking at the event, CP Orutugu congratulated the newly promoted officers, urging them to see their elevation as both recognition of their dedication and a call to higher responsibility. He charged them to sustain the ideals of professionalism, discipline, and service excellence in their duties.

    The Commissioner also commended HRH Efebo for his magnanimity and patriotic gesture in supporting the Command. He noted that the renovated hall would provide a more conducive environment for strategic meetings, training sessions, and conferences aimed at improving police operations in the state.

    In his remarks, HRH Otonye Efebo, who paid a courtesy visit to CP Orutugu—his subject from Brass Kingdom—praised the Commissioner’s leadership style, especially his commitment to community policing and security reforms in Anambra State. The Royal Father reaffirmed his continuous support for initiatives that strengthen peace and stability across communities.

    Officers decorated at the event include CSP Joy Chidimma Ikpeama (DPO Main Market), CSP Emmanuel Agbuka Asso (DPO Amanuke), CSP Nuhu Azeez (O/C Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Obosi Sector), CSP Thaddeus Onyilo (O/C Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Onitsha Sector), and ten others.

    Highlights of the ceremony included the decoration of the newly promoted officers, the unveiling of the refurbished hall, and a group photograph with dignitaries, senior officers, and family members in attendance.

  • Police Intensify Search as Medical Doctor Abducted in Nnewi, Anambra State

    Police Intensify Search as Medical Doctor Abducted in Nnewi, Anambra State

    The Anambra State Police Command has commenced an intensive investigation following the reported abduction of a medical doctor in Uruagu, Nnewi, located in the Nnewi North Local Government Area of the state.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, 31st October 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command confirmed that the incident occurred on Wednesday, 30th October 2025, under circumstances that are yet to be fully established.

    According to SP Ikenga, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, MNIPS, PhD, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive manhunt for the perpetrators. The CP also directed the Command’s tactical and intelligence units to intensify efforts towards ensuring the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of those responsible.

    “The Commissioner of Police has assured that no stone will be left unturned in unravelling the circumstances surrounding the incident. He further appeals to members of the public, particularly residents of Nnewi and surrounding communities, to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with law enforcement agencies,” the statement read in part.

    The Command urged anyone with credible or useful information that could aid ongoing investigations to contact the nearest police station or reach the Command Control Room via 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) through 08039334002 for prompt action.

    While assuring residents of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, the Anambra State Police Command reiterated that it will continue to work relentlessly to bring the perpetrators of the abduction to justice and restore public confidence in the state’s security architecture.

  • Apex AniochaOshimili Group Rejects Ned Nwoko’s Bill To Join South East, Insists On South South Identity

    Apex AniochaOshimili Group Rejects Ned Nwoko’s Bill To Join South East, Insists On South South Identity

    …Aniocha and Oshimili Leaders Denounce “Historical Fallacy,” Demand Referendum on Anioma’s Regional Affiliation

    The people of Aniocha and Oshimili under the banner of Njiko AniochaOshimili, the mouthpiece of the two localities, have strongly rejected the bill sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko, proposing the creation of Anioma State as the sixth state in Nigeria’s South East geopolitical zone.

    In a communiqué released after a strategic consultation, the group condemned the proposal as a misrepresentation of Anioma’s history, cultural heritage, and political identity, describing it as a betrayal of the vision of past Anioma leaders who championed the quest for statehood within the South South region.

    According to the communiqué signed by the leadership of Njiko AniochaOshimili, Anioma’s administrative history has never been aligned with the South East. The statement recalled that the Anioma area was historically part of Benin and Delta Provinces, later becoming part of the Midwest Region, then Bendel State, and now Delta State, firmly anchoring its ties to the South South zone.

    “Senator Ned Nwoko’s argument is founded on historical fallacy,” the group stated. “He ignores the 1989 resolution of Anioma Royal Fathers which emphatically declared: ‘Anioma is Anioma; Anioma is not Igbo.’ Our people constitute a syncretic cultural area of diverse origins Bini, Igara, Yoruba, and Igbo with a distinct identity that cannot be subsumed under any regional political convenience.”

    The statement further emphasized that not all Anioma communities speak Igbo as their native language, underscoring the heterogeneity that defines the Anioma nation.

    The communiqué referenced the position of the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Azinge, an erudite scholar and legal luminary, who alongside other Anioma traditional and opinion leaders from Offac, Onu Ika, and Ndokwa, has consistently advised against any attempt to affiliate Anioma with the South East.

    “This disregard for the counsel of our revered traditional institutions amounts to a distortion of the very foundation upon which Anioma statehood was conceived, an independent, inclusive state within the South South,” the group noted.

    Describing the proposed regional alignment as “a modern form of political slavery”, the Aniocha and Oshimili representatives accused proponents of the move of seeking to exploit Anioma’s economic viability to serve South Eastern political ambitions.

    “During the Nigerian Civil War, Anioma people faced marginalisation despite our sacrifices. We will not walk that path again,” the communiqué warned.

    “General Lucky Irabor, a proud Anioma son who is not of Igbo extraction, represents the diversity we celebrate. Our identity is not to be traded for political relevance.”

    The group alleged that the proposed alignment is being driven by South Eastern interests seeking expanded population and territory for political leverage.

    “They want your money, not your prosperity. Anioma people will not be traded as articles of appeasement to any region,” the group stated emphatically.

    The communiqué urged all Anioma sons and daughters, as well as allied ethnic groups such as Ika and Ndokwa, to close ranks and reject the move. It further called for a referendum to determine Anioma’s rightful regional placement, should the controversy persist.

    “We have written to the Presidency and the National Assembly to express our collective and unequivocal position, Anioma belongs to the South South geopolitical zone. Our history, culture, and administrative evolution affirm this reality.”

    “Anioma is Anioma. We will not be auctioned for political ambition. Let every Anioma son and daughter stand firm in defense of our distinct identity, our history, and our rightful place in the South South.”

  • COWA Ogun I Command Empowers Communities Through Free Medical Outreach for 450 Beneficiaries

    COWA Ogun I Command Empowers Communities Through Free Medical Outreach for 450 Beneficiaries

    In a demonstration of compassion and commitment to community well-being, the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Ogun I Command, has organized a two-day free medical outreach for officers, security agencies, and residents of its host communities.

    The outreach, which took place at the command headquarters, provided a range of free healthcare services including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, hepatitis screening, eye examinations, obesity assessment, medical consultations, and the distribution of free drugs and eyeglasses.

    Declaring the event open, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, commended the initiative, describing it as a key part of the association’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and an extension of the service’s people-oriented policies. He noted that the programme aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, Ph.D, which emphasizes community engagement and welfare.

    According to a statement signed by Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, Public Relations Officer for the Ogun I Command, the outreach underscores COWA’s unwavering commitment to health and safety within its host communities.

    “The association is passionate about the well-being of people in the communities where we operate. In line with the CGC’s vision of mutual cooperation, this initiative reinforces our belief that ‘Customs cares,’” the statement read.

    Speaking during the event, the COWA Chairperson, Ogun I Command, Mrs. Fausat Ajoke Otunla, who represented the National President of COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, reiterated the association’s focus on sustainability, empowerment, and the welfare of women and children.

    She explained that the initiative aligns with the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which advocates for the empowerment of widows, protection of vulnerable families, and care for children.

    “COWA remains committed to improving the health and welfare of not only customs families but also those in our surrounding communities,” Mrs. Otunla stated.

    The Command’s Medical Officer, Superintendent of Customs Dr. Abdulmalik Zakariyya, praised COWA for the initiative, stressing the importance of preventive healthcare.

    “Health is not merely the absence of disease but a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Preventive care helps us detect silent killers such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol before they cause damage,” he said.

    Dr. Zakariyya revealed that the 20-member medical team included two doctors, one pharmacist, two pharmaceutical technicians, four nurses, four medical records officers, three opticians, and four laboratory technicians.

    The outreach, which benefitted over 450 participants, was widely commended by community members and security personnel who described the exercise as timely, impactful, and a testament to COWA’s humanitarian spirit.

  • NANTA Commends FG, CBN as Aviation Moves Away from Dollar Transactions

    NANTA Commends FG, CBN as Aviation Moves Away from Dollar Transactions

    The President of the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA), Mr. Yinka Folami, has expressed optimism that the dollarisation of the aviation sector will soon become a thing of the past. According to him, the era of selling airline tickets in foreign currency is gradually coming to an end as the government works to address the underlying challenges in the sector.

    Speaking on Creative Nigeria, a cultural and tourism programme aired on Mainland 98.3 FM, Lagos, and hosted by award-winning journalist Frank Meke alongside Bunmi Bade-Adeniji, Mr. Folami reaffirmed that “there is no need to sell in foreign currency again,” describing the practice as an outdated system that will soon fade out in Nigeria’s aviation industry.

    He urged Nigerians to support Air Peace as a national pride, emphasizing that the outlook for the nation’s aviation industry remains stable and promising.

    During the engaging discussion, the NANTA president described cross-border trading in foreign currency as “a crime against the economy.” He praised Air Peace for “taking the bull by the horns” by launching its London route, calling it a patriotic responsibility for Nigerians to support and pray for the airline’s success and sustainability.

    “Those of us in the aviation space understand that until we have a strong Nigerian carrier to stand in the gap, these issues will persist. I am happy to inform Nigerians that the government is squarely addressing the issue of ticket sales in foreign currency, and that is the latest update on the matter,” Folami said.

    He commended the federal government’s ongoing reforms and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for stabilizing the naira and promoting transparency in the foreign exchange market.

    “The outlook for Nigeria is stable, and even the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) have commended the economic policies of this government. The gap between the official and parallel market rates is closing, liquidity has improved, and there is more transparency in the process,” he added.

    Folami emphasized the need for stakeholders in the aviation and travel sectors to complement government efforts through proactive collaboration.

    “We must congratulate the government, but the best way to do that is for us industry players to give life to whatever the government is doing. The government will not come into our sector to make the change; it is our responsibility to build on the progress already made,” he said.

    The NANTA president noted that the association has over 3,500 members, with 70% of them being youths. He maintained that government reforms at the micro level can translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians if more citizens are encouraged to patronize local travel agencies and airlines.

    However, he lamented that the sale of tickets in foreign currency still excludes many NANTA-certified members from direct trade with airlines despite their international qualifications.

    In his contribution, Mr. Yusuf Babalola, a journalist with expertise in the aviation industry, pointed out that the challenge has always been the implementation of government policies. He said despite reforms, several foreign airlines continue to charge in dollars, a practice the government is aware of.

    “No airline is being owed; they make their money and repatriate it. Yet, they keep doing what they’re doing,” Babalola said, sharing an example from his experience in Japan. “In Japan, it is against the law to spend foreign currency. From entry, you must exchange your money for Yen. It’s even considered a sin to spend the dollar in Japan. We need political will to enforce similar policies here.”

    Another journalist, Chinelo Agina-Obogo, cited Section 20(5) of the CBN Act of 2007, which makes it an offence for any individual or organization to accept the dollar as a means of payment within Nigeria. She emphasized that enforcement remains the key issue for relevant government agencies.

    Also speaking, Mr. Chinedu Eze commended Air Peace for its Lagos–Heathrow route, describing it as a major milestone that showcases Nigerian culture and tourism. He, however, criticized the inconsistency of government policies, which sometimes enable foreign airlines to flout local laws.

    “What makes Air Peace’s London operations special is the government’s full support. Without that, local airlines cannot attain such heights. However, some foreign airlines use public relations tactics to sway narratives in their favour. The government must remain firm in supporting local carriers,” Eze said.

    Program host Frank Meke also praised Air Peace for its resilience, calling on stakeholders to uphold fairness and transparency in the aviation sector.

    “Until we begin to name names and correct the wrongs, we will keep going in circles. Many travel agencies are frustrated by this dollarisation issue, but with Air Peace in the mix, there’s hope. If the foreign airlines can’t play by our rules, they should ship out,” Meke stated.

    He noted that the policy reform that enabled Air Peace to secure its London route was hard-won, given the international politics involved. Folami, in his closing remarks, urged airlines to improve their technology systems and review the harsh Airline Debit Memos (ADMs) and penalties imposed on agents, describing them as “outrageous and counterproductive.”

  • Navy Leadership Transition: Rear Admiral Idi Abbas Takes Helm, Vows Strategic Reforms and Renewed Maritime Vigilance

    Navy Leadership Transition: Rear Admiral Idi Abbas Takes Helm, Vows Strategic Reforms and Renewed Maritime Vigilance

    Rear Admiral Idi Abbas has officially assumed as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) of the Nigerian Navy, pledging to build on the achievements of his predecessors while strengthening maritime security, operational efficiency, and personnel welfare across the service.

    In his assumption of office remarks at the Naval Headquarters, Abuja, Rear Admiral Abbas expressed deep gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him to lead one of the nation’s most strategic military institutions.

    “It is with a profound sense of honour, humility, and gratitude to Almighty God that I stand before you today as the 23rd Chief of the Naval Staff,” he said. “I am fully aware of the immense responsibilities that come with this office, and I pledge to discharge my duties with integrity, dedication, and unwavering loyalty to the Nigerian nation.”

    Rear Admiral Abbas paid glowing tribute to his immediate predecessor, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, for his visionary leadership and the transformational progress recorded under his command, noting that his tenure laid a solid foundation for further growth and operational excellence within the Nigerian Navy.

    “Vice Admiral Ogalla’s legacy of humility, professionalism, and service to the nation will continue to inspire us. The Nigerian Navy owes him immense gratitude for his steadfast leadership,” Abbas stated.

    The new Naval Chief outlined his strategic vision for the Nigerian Navy, anchored on operational readiness, maritime domain dominance, technological innovation, and personnel development. He emphasized the need for jointness with sister services, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and strengthened regional and international partnerships to effectively tackle maritime threats in Nigeria’s waters and the Gulf of Guinea.

    Rear Admiral Abbas acknowledged the persistent threats of crude oil theft, sea robbery, illegal bunkering, piracy, unregulated fishing, and drug trafficking, describing them as serious challenges that undermine national security, economic stability, and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

    “We will confront these challenges decisively through a renewed focus on fleet modernization, intelligence-driven operations, personnel training, and improved welfare. Our aim is to ensure that Nigeria’s maritime environment remains safe, stable, and conducive for legitimate commerce and the sustainable growth of our blue economy,” he affirmed.

    He reiterated that the Nigerian Navy under his command will uphold the institution’s core values of Integrity, Professionalism, and Teamwork, while ensuring accountability and transparency in all operations.

    “The maritime domain is the lifeline of our national economy, and the Nigerian Navy is determined to safeguard it for national prosperity. I urge all officers, ratings, and civilian staff to rededicate themselves to service, discipline, and excellence. Together, we will chart a new course of progress for the Nigerian Navy,” Abbas said.

    Ogalla Bows Out with Pride, Lists Achievements in Maritime Security and Fleet Expansion

    In his valedictory speech, outgoing Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, expressed profound gratitude to God and to the Nigerian people for the opportunity to serve, marking the end of a distinguished 34-year naval career.

    He described his tenure as one defined by strategic transformation, fleet renewal, enhanced security, and improved personnel welfare, adding that he was leaving the service with a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude.

    “To have served as Chief of Naval Staff has been the greatest honour of my professional life,” Ogalla stated. “In the last two years and five months, the Nigerian Navy has made remarkable strides in maritime security operations, infrastructural development, and human capacity building.”

    Vice Admiral Ogalla highlighted key operational successes, notably Nigeria’s removal from the International Maritime Bureau’s Global Piracy List in March 2022, and the sustained effectiveness of Operation DELTA SANITY, which dismantled over 800 illegal refining sites, deactivated 5,515 storage facilities, and led to the arrest of 240 suspects and 76 vessels involved in illegal oil activities.

    He further noted that under his command, the Navy commenced fiscalization duties at major oil and gas export terminals, a move that has enhanced transparency and increased oil output to its highest level in a decade.

    Ogalla’s administration also prioritized fleet modernization, acquiring new naval assets including two survey vessels, 57 riverine boats, seven fast patrol boats, six inshore patrol craft, three tugboats, and two capital ships, alongside five transport helicopters and 23 unmanned aerial vehicles.

    He noted significant progress in the indigenous construction of Seaward Defence Boats (SDB 4 and 5) at the Naval Dockyard, Lagos, underscoring Nigeria’s growing capacity for local shipbuilding.

    In addition, extensive infrastructure renewal projects were executed across naval formations nationwide with new bases and institutions established in Kaduna, Kano, Kogi, Rivers, Ogun, Niger, Benue, Lagos, and Enugu States. These developments, he said, have strengthened operational efficiency and improved response capabilities across commands.

    Commitment To Welfare, Training, And Legacy

    On personnel welfare, Ogalla underscored initiatives designed to enhance the living conditions, medical support, and professional development of naval personnel and their families. He also highlighted the creation of the Nigerian Navy Marines and the Special Operations Command, aimed at expanding Nigeria’s capacity for littoral and amphibious warfare.

    “Our personnel remain the backbone of the Navy. Their morale, welfare, and growth were central to my policies,” he said. “The Navy I leave behind is stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to face future challenges.”

    Vice Admiral Ogalla concluded by urging naval personnel to remain loyal to the Constitution, the President, and the nation, while assuring his successor of full support from the naval community.

    “I urge all officers and ratings to extend the same cooperation and loyalty I enjoyed to the new Chief of the Naval Staff. May the Nigerian Navy continue to be the pride of our great nation,” he said.

  • Customs, NAPTIP Step Up Fight Against Human Trafficking and Illegal Trade in Endangered Species

    Customs, NAPTIP Step Up Fight Against Human Trafficking and Illegal Trade in Endangered Species

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s readiness to cement collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in combating human trafficking and the illegal trade in endangered species.

    CGC Adeniyi made this commitment on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, when a delegation from NAPTIP and MMS WoFHoF Initiative paid him a courtesy visit at the Customs House in Maitama, Abuja.

    The CGC, who appreciated the visit, commended the delegation for their continued service to the country and assured them of Customs’ unwavering support.

    He noted that Nigeria’s security challenges require joint action, stressing that the Service does not view crimes solely through the lens of smuggling but through broader national security implications.

    “We believe in the power of collaboration. We can achieve more with less when we work together.” He said.

    He revealed that the Service has intensified its work on environmental sustainability and the enforcement of international conventions regarding flora and fauna, assuring the delegation that Customs will fully collaborate on the upcoming national dialogue on human trafficking and stowaway incidents, scheduled for February 2026.

    He pledged to provide technical expertise, intelligence sharing, and access to the Service’s training curriculum to strengthen inter-agency understanding of trafficking dynamics.

    “We will accept your request for partnership unconditionally. We will work with your designated officials on the February summit and explore wider interventions that reinforce national security.” He added.

    On her part, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu, expressed delight at securing formal engagement with the Customs Service.

    She stated that NAPTIP was eager to strengthen operational partnerships, particularly in areas such as intelligence exchange, policy development, and cross-border enforcement.

    “I am happy today that I finally made it here and held this discussion with the Comptroller-General. We are a law enforcement agency with mandates to prevent, prosecute and protect. Partnership with Customs is essential for our work.” She said.

    She noted that human trafficking continues to evolve, requiring close coordination among agencies operating at Nigeria’s multiple entry and exit points.

    Speaking earlier, a Board of Trustees(BoT) member of MMS WoFHoF Initiative, Hajia Lami Tumaka, said the visit was to seek Customs’ partnership for a one-day national policy dialogue on human trafficking by sea and stowaway incidents.

    Tumaka described Customs as a “strategic player in border management and maritime enforcement,” adding that its involvement is critical to the success of the dialogue.

    “Your officers are often the first line of defence against illicit movement of goods and persons. Your expertise and nationwide presence are indispensable.” She said.

  • More Time, More Winners: Fidelity Bank Extends GAIM 6 Promo for Greater Financial Impact

    More Time, More Winners: Fidelity Bank Extends GAIM 6 Promo for Greater Financial Impact

    As Nigeria looks to opening up the economy and empowering its citizens, Fidelity Bank Plc has taken a bold step to deepen financial inclusion and reward customer loyalty by extending its flagship savings campaign, the Get Alert in Millions (GAIM) Season 6 promo. The extension adds three more months to the campaign and raises the total prize pool from ₦159 million to a record ₦189 million. This move, announced in September 2025, comes at a critical time when the country’s economic landscape demands innovative financial solutions and inclusive banking strategies.

    The Nigerian Economy and the Imperative of Financial Inclusion

    Nigeria’s economy, while resilient, faces persistent challenges including inflation, currency volatility, and limited access to formal financial services. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), recent reforms such as exchange rate unification and bank recapitalization are aimed at stabilizing the macroeconomic environment and positioning the banking sector to support a $1 trillion economy. The CBN’s Payment System Vision 2028 also underscores the importance of digital transformation and financial inclusion as tools for economic development.

    In this context, Fidelity Bank’s GAIM 6 promo is more than a marketing campaign, it is a strategic intervention that aligns with national goals. By incentivizing savings and expanding access to banking services, the promo contributes to the broader mission of empowering underserved communities and fostering economic resilience.

    World Savings Day 2025: A Global Call to Action

    The extension of GAIM 6 coincides with the upcoming World Savings Day on October 31, 2025. Celebrated annually, this global observance promotes the importance of saving as a pathway to financial security and economic stability. Fidelity Bank’s decision to extend GAIM 6 during this period amplifies the theme of the 2025 World Savings Day – “This is not a savings account”, encouraging Nigerians to cultivate smart financial habits and leverage digital banking platforms for long-term growth.

    Speaking to journalists, Osita Ede, Divisional Head of Product Development at Fidelity Bank, emphasized the bank’s commitment to listening to its customers. “They asked for more opportunities to benefit from the promo, and we listened. With management and regulatory consent, we’re thrilled to keep the excitement going for another three months,” Ede said.

    GAIM 6 vs. Other Savings Promos: What Sets It Apart

    While several Nigerian banks run savings promotions, GAIM 6 distinguishes itself through its scale, inclusivity, and strategic design. The campaign targets a wide demographic, including NYSC corps members, women, children, and market clusters—segments often excluded from formal banking. Winners are selected through electronic draws supervised by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), ensuring transparency and fairness.

    Unlike promos that focus solely on high-value deposits, GAIM 6 allows participation with deposits as low as ₦2,000. This democratizes access and encourages participation from low-income earners. Moreover, the campaign integrates financial advisory support through the Fidelity SME Hub, helping winners make informed decisions about their rewards.

    How GAIM 6 Works

    GAIM 6 is designed to be simple, accessible, and rewarding. Customers can participate by opening a Fidelity Savings Account via the bank’s mobile app, website, USSD (77001#), or at any branch. Each ₦5,000 deposit earns an entry ticket into the monthly and grand draws. The final draw will award ₦2 million to the second runner-up, ₦5 million to the first runner-up, and ₦10 million to the grand prize winner.

    The campaign also includes targeted draws aligned with national events such as Workers’ Day, Children’s Day, and Independence Day. These draws are complemented by regional activations, campus storms, and market outreach programs that drive engagement and account openings.

    A Millionaire Christmas: Transforming Lives Through GAIM 6

    With over ₦47 million still available in upcoming draws – ₦30 million in monthly draws and ₦17 million in the grand draw, Fidelity Bank is poised to create a wave of new millionaires just in time for the festive season. In the 7th and 8th monthly draws alone, 20 customers received ₦1 million each. These life-changing rewards not only boost individual financial security but also stimulate local economies through increased spending and investment.

    “We are delighted to welcome our newest beneficiaries and commend their loyalty. A million Naira is a life-changing amount, and we encourage them to make the most of it,” Ede noted.

    The bank’s financial advisory services at the SME Hub further enhance the impact of these rewards, guiding recipients on how to grow their winnings through smart investments and business development.

    A Strategic Win for Fidelity Bank and Nigeria

    The extension of GAIM 6 is a testament to Fidelity Bank’s responsiveness, innovation, and commitment to customer-centric banking. By aligning the promo with national economic goals and global observances like World Savings Day, the bank reinforces its role as a catalyst for financial empowerment.

    As the campaign enters its final phase, Nigerians have a unique opportunity to save, win, and transform their financial futures by simply inculcating a healthy savings habit.

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