Category: News

Nigeria’s leading 4G LTE broadband provider, Smile Communications has once again raised the bar in the telecommunications industry with the exciting revamp of its renowned Unlimited Plans.

Formerly known as Freedom Plans, the new and improved Smile Maxi Plans take the concept of “unlimited” to a whole new level — maximum speed, maximum value, maximum satisfaction!

The name “Maxi,” derived from the word maximum, represents Smile’s bold promise to its teeming consumers: nothing else comes close. With this rebrand, Smile is reaffirming its position as the network that delivers the most rewarding and truly unlimited experience across Nigeria.

According to Mr. ’Goke Olaleye, Head of Marketing Operations at Smile Communications, “The Smile Maxi Plans are a celebration of what true unlimited should be. We wanted to give our customers more — more value, real data, and more freedom to do all they love online without limits.

Whether for small businesses, family use, or heavy data users on the go, the Smile Maxi Plans stand tall as the ultimate choice for everyone.”
The new Maxi Plans also come with improved data value, better pricing, and an enhanced experience that ensures consumers enjoy seamless streaming, downloads, video calls, and browsing — anywhere within Smile’s 4G LTE coverage areas.

From entrepreneurs running online businesses to families working and studying from home, and to professionals constantly on the move, Smile Maxi Plans promise to power every connection, every moment, and every smile — without compromise.

Smile Communications continues to lead Nigeria’s broadband revolution, staying true to its mission of delivering world-class internet services with reliability, speed, and unmatched value.
Smile Maxi Plans — Maximum Data. Maximum Value. Maximum Smile.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, has charged newly promoted senior officers to prioritize the welfare of their troops and mentor their subordinates.

According to a press statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army “He gave the charge on 21 October 2025, during the decoration ceremony of officers elevated from the rank of Lieutenant Colonel to Colonel, held at the 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Major General Mijinyawa congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing promotion as both a divine gift and a reward for dedication, discipline, and hard work. He commended their sacrifices and contributions to the Nigerian Army, urging them to remain committed to excellence while preparing for greater responsibilities ahead.

He further advised them to pay close attention to the welfare of their troops and their families, emphasizing that true leadership is reflected in how well officers care for, and mentor those under their command.

The decorated officers include the Commanding Officer 1040 Division Workshop, Col NI Ota, Acting Commander 81 Military Intelligence Brigade, Col KE Amedu and the Acting Chief of Staff, 55 Signals Brigade, Col II Peters.

Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the newly promoted officers, the Commanding Officer, 1040 Division Workshop, Colonel NI Ota, expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede NAM, for finding them worthy of elevation. He also thanked the GOC for his mentorship and strategic guidance, pledging renewed dedication and commitment in their new roles.Colonel Ota equally appreciated their families, friends, colleagues, and subordinates for their prayers and support.

The event was attended by the President Mess Committee 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Brig Gen UD Igbokwe, Chief of Staff Headquarters 81 Division, Brig Gen MA Oloyede, Commanders 9 Brigade Brig Gen OM Oyekola, Commander 55 Signal Brigade, Brig Gen MM Mato, Command 81 Division Garrison Brig Gen GU Bukar, the Acting Commander Ordinance Services Col DC Filibus, Staff Officers, Commanding Officers, family members, and friends of the celebrants.

The Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has charged newly promoted Deputy and Assistant Comptrollers of Customs to embrace innovation, integrity, and continuous learning as they assume higher responsibilities within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

Speaking at the opening session of a special training session organized for the newly elevated officers on Wednesday, Comptroller Oshoba congratulated the participants on their career advancement, describing their promotions as both “a reward for hard work and a call to greater service.”

He emphasized that the new ranks come with increased expectations from the Service and the nation, urging the officers to exhibit excellence, discipline, and commitment to the modernization vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

“These elevations come with benefits, challenges, and responsibilities. The management of the NCS demands more commitment, innovative thinking, and an unwavering dedication to excellence in carrying out the CGC’s reform agenda.”

Highlighting the Service’s transformation drive, the Apapa CAC noted that Customs operations have become more knowledge-driven, with modernization initiatives such as the Advance Ruling System, Time Release Study, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, and the One Stop Shop mechanism redefining trade facilitation in Nigeria.

He tasked the newly promoted officers to familiarize themselves with these tools and deploy them effectively to enhance efficiency, compliance, and risk management.

“There are cases of non-compliance, either from ignorance or deliberate circumvention of procedures. This calls for greater alertness and the smart use of technology for risk assessment,” Oshoba warned.

While urging participants to leverage the training for professional development, he encouraged them to interact, exchange ideas, and build networks that will strengthen teamwork and leadership capacity across commands.

“As new leaders, some of you will be entrusted with sensitive duties, including custodianship of release passwords and supervision of junior officers,” he added. “You must uphold the tenets of Justice and Honesty, which are core values of the Service.”

Oshoba assured that capacity building remains a priority for the Service under the current leadership, with continuous training and retraining forming part of the long-term strategy for institutional excellence.

“To the glory of God and for the benefit of participants and facilitators, I hereby declare this course open,” he concluded.

The training session, hosted at the Apapa Area Command headquarters, aims to equip the newly promoted officers with advanced knowledge and leadership skills essential for driving Customs modernization and effective trade facilitation.

Since assuming duty as the Customs Area Controller of the Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, Ogun State, on April 24, 2025, Comptroller Godwin Aderounmu Otunla has continued to record significant strides in trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, officers’ welfare, and stakeholder engagement.

In just six months, Otunla has built upon existing successes of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) in the region, steering the Command with renewed energy, professionalism, and integrity. His leadership, marked by practical reforms and people-oriented administration, has further strengthened the fight against smuggling across the volatile Idiroko border corridor.

Upon resumption, one of Comptroller Otunla’s immediate priorities was to enhance efficiency by restructuring duty schedules. He reduced the guard duty rotation from one month to two weeks, allowing officers more rest and better performance. “This approach,” he noted, “enhances efficiency and morale, ensuring officers stay alert and effective.”

The Command headquarters and barracks have also witnessed significant improvements, including installation of solar-powered lighting systems and environmental upgrades. Otunla emphasized that officers’ welfare remains central to his administration’s success. Regular management meetings are held to address welfare concerns, ensure transparency, and maintain an open-door policy for all officers.

“I operate an open-door policy,” he said. “Every officer, regardless of rank, can bring issues directly to me. We also ensure decent accommodation, access to healthcare, and other incentives that boost morale and encourage professionalism.”

Comptroller Otunla has placed strong emphasis on intelligence-driven operations. He explained that the Command invests heavily in actionable intelligence to intercept smugglers and safeguard national interests. “We make use of intelligence and information to achieve results,” he said, adding that collaborative efforts with other security agencies and the Department of State Services (DSS) have enhanced the Command’s effectiveness.

While acknowledging challenges with non-functional scanning machines, the CAC said the Command effectively uses ICT systems for internal communication and coordination with the headquarters through digital platforms and surveillance technology.

Under Otunla’s leadership, Ogun 1 Command has maintained peaceful relations with border communities, a significant improvement in an area previously marked by frequent clashes between smugglers and security personnel.

Since his assumption of duty, there have been no reported cases of violent confrontation between customs officers and smugglers, a record Otunla attributes to proactive engagement with royal fathers, community leaders, and youth groups.

“We have worked closely with traditional rulers to sensitize the youths on the dangers of smuggling,” he said. “When there are legitimate activities around the border, people are less likely to engage in illegal trade.”

In alignment with the Nigeria Customs Service’s “Customs Cares” Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the Command has also intensified outreach programmes. Through the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), relief materials, mosquito nets, and empowerment tools have been distributed to local communities and hospitals.

“The Command has identified several areas needing intervention,” Otunla said. “Though we lack big stakeholders like Lagos, we are doing our best to make a difference through COWA’s ongoing empowerment programmes.”

Addressing the recurring issue of “camp boys” locally referred to as kelebe who are often accused of extorting motorists under the guise of working with Customs, Comptroller Otunla reaffirmed that such individuals are not part of the Service.

He said a task force has been set up to arrest and discipline any officer found using such unauthorized individuals. “Camp boys are not part of our system. We have warned our officers repeatedly, and there are strict sanctions for violators,” he stressed.

Despite progress, the Command continues to grapple with infrastructural challenges, including poor electricity supply and limited operational vehicles. Otunla disclosed that the Command runs largely on solar and generator power, as the national grid supply remains unreliable in the border communities.

He also appealed for more patrol vehicles from headquarters, noting that Ogun 1 is a large anti-smuggling zone that requires constant mobility. “Our patrol teams need functional vehicles to cover the vast terrain effectively,” he noted.

Comptroller Otunla acknowledged that commercial activities at Idiroko have not fully recovered since the 2022 border reopening, following years of closure. However, the Command remains committed to restoring legitimate trade and ensuring compliance among traders.

“Trade is gradually picking up,” he said. “We are optimistic that with time, full activities will return, especially if other nearby borders like Imeko and Ohunbe are reopened.”

Reflecting on his tenure so far, Otunla described his experience as fulfilling and impactful. “I have no regrets coming to Ogun 1 Command. Every day brings a new challenge, and I see it as an opportunity to serve better,” he stated.

His leadership has been described as people-oriented and reform-driven, fostering discipline, boosting morale, and promoting a culture of professionalism across the Command.

“Integrity, intelligence, and welfare that’s the tripod on which our success stands,” Comptroller Otunla emphasized.

At the 2025 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington D.C., Nigerian civil society leader Auwal Musa Rafsanjani called for urgent reforms in global financial governance and African debt management. He warned that the continent is facing a deepening fiscal crisis that requires immediate action.

Speaking during an interview on The Policy with Leah, a Nigerian current affairs programme hosted by Leah Katung Babatunde, Rafsanjani, who is the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, described Nigeria’s debt trajectory as unsustainable and reckless. He said most of the country’s borrowings are used for recurrent expenditure rather than productive investments, leaving citizens with little benefit from the rising debt burden.

“Most of the loans we take are not for development but for consumption,” Rafsanjani said. “There is little or no accountability around them. Civil society must be involved in monitoring these debts, especially when even lawmakers lack access to full disclosure.”

Rafsanjani supported calls for debt cancellation, especially in cases where borrowed funds have not resulted in tangible development outcomes. He aligned with recent positions taken by the G24, which described the debt crisis in developing countries as a trap, and stressed that much of Africa’s vulnerability comes from weak governance, corruption, and unchecked illicit financial flows.

He also backed global civil society campaigns seeking reforms at the IMF and the World Bank, criticising what he described as the disproportionate influence of powerful nations over the institutions’ governance structures. He called for greater transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness in global financial decision-making.

Turning attention to Nigeria’s economy, Rafsanjani expressed concern about the country’s overdependence on oil revenue, deteriorating infrastructure, and persistent insecurity, which he said continue to discourage foreign investment. He faulted government policies such as the withdrawal of subsidies in healthcare, education, and transportation, arguing that these measures have worsened poverty levels.

He compared Nigeria’s austerity measures with the social protections maintained in many developed countries. “It is ironic that while developed nations continue to subsidize critical services, we are removing support for the poor under the guise of reforms,” he said.

Rafsanjani also stressed the need for strategic investments in science, technology, and education, warning that Nigeria risks being left behind in the global digital economy without adequate support for research and innovation.

“Without quality and affordable education, our youths cannot compete in the digital economy,” he said. “Our universities are underfunded, research is dead, Professors and lecturers are continually finding it hard to survive and laboratories are non-functional.”

He urged government at all levels to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to strengthen accountability and transparency in public spending. According to him, AI can enhance fiscal tracking, automate auditing, and improve early detection of financial leakages. He emphasized that Nigeria must invest in energy infrastructure, digital systems, and manpower development to support this transition, as countries around the world are already integrating technology into governance and economic management.

On domestic fiscal issues, Rafsanjani urged state governors to focus more on internally generated revenue instead of relying solely on allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). He warned that the recent increase in FAAC allocations should be reflected in improved living conditions for citizens, not wasted on “elephant projects” designed to siphon public funds.

“The fuel subsidy savings must also be transparently accounted for by governors,” he said. “These funds belong to the people and must be used to improve healthcare, education, and infrastructure, not to enrich political elites.”

Rafsanjani condemned the high cost of governance in Nigeria and criticised what he called the extravagant lifestyles of public officials. He compared them unfavourably with counterparts in developed nations, who often maintain modest standards.

“You cannot expect development assistance from abroad while living lavishly at home,” he said. “Ministers abroad fly economy class; in Nigeria, one official moves with 20 cars. That kind of waste is unsustainable.”

He concluded by calling on African governments to prioritise sustainable development financing, institutional accountability, and human capital growth. He warned that without comprehensive reforms, the continent risks remaining trapped in a cycle of poverty and debt dependence.

His remarks add to the growing voices from civil society demanding structural change as global finance leaders deliberate on the challenges facing the global economy, particularly in the Global South.

Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, recently hosted a debate competition for female secondary school students as part of its activities to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

Held at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos on Thursday, 16 October 2025, the She Leads Debate Competition brought together students from six secondary schools to argue for or against the topic: “In today’s world, is digital literacy more essential for girls than traditional life skills?”

Welcoming participants, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, Osita Ede, represented by the Head of Women Banking, Harriba Harry-Pepple, emphasized the importance of equipping girls with relevant skills and support to help them thrive as adults.

“Each year, this day reminds us of the limitless potential within every girl, potential that must be nurtured, celebrated and given a platform to shine. Through HerFidelity, our Women Banking Initiative, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower girls and women to dream boldly, learn confidently and lead fearlessly,” Ede said.

He added that the debate was not merely a contest but a platform for young female voices to express their ideas, challenge societal norms and showcase their intellectual strength. “When a girl is educated and supported with opportunities for self-expression, she becomes a catalyst for positive change in her community and beyond.”

Following a spirited debate session, Chizaram Ekueme of Awesome College emerged the second runner-up, receiving N150,000. Nwatu Chidera of Brookstones and Best Brains International School took the first runner-up position with a prize of N300,000, while Chizaram Unachukwu of Cedec International School won the competition and received N500,000.

The International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, is a global movement that highlights the unique challenges girls face and promotes their empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

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

The Editor-in-Chief of RazorNews and former President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), Mr. Odita Sunday, has extolled the Publisher of National Daily Newspaper, Mr. Sylvester Ebhodaghe, describing him as a “media colossus” who has silently and consistently invested in mentoring younger media practitioners across Nigeria.

Odita made the remarks while presenting the Silent Heroes Award to Mr. Ebhodaghe at the National Daily head office in Omole Phase 1, Lagos. The honour was earlier conferred on Ebhodaghe during the Silent Heroes Awards ceremony held at the prestigious Wells Carlton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja, on June 12, 2025. However, the veteran publisher could not attend the event due to official commitments, prompting the special presentation in Lagos.

In his remarks, Odita recounted how Ebhodaghe mentored him over two decades ago at The Guardian Newspapers, describing him as a benevolent and visionary boss who provided invaluable guidance at a formative stage in his journalism career. He lauded Ebhodaghe’s enduring contributions to Nigerian media, particularly his dedication to nurturing a new generation of journalists.

He said: “Mr. Ebhodaghe is a rare gem in the media industry, a news mogul with a deep sense of purpose. Over 20 years ago, he taught me the art of cultivating a long nose for news and the discipline required to thrive in journalism. His kindness and mentorship have remained a source of inspiration”.

Responding, Mr. Ebhodaghe expressed delight at the recognition and commended Odita for his growth and leadership in journalism. He described the RazorNews boss as a worthy mentee who has mastered the craft of crime reporting, becoming a respected voice in the Nigerian media landscape.

The brief but colourful presentation ceremony was held amid fanfare, with colleagues and well-wishers celebrating two generations of media excellence and mentorship.

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, continues to demonstrate its commitment to youth empowerment and leadership development as 700 young professionals joined the bank through the Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP), signalling a major investment in the next generation of leaders who will continue to drive the continent’s economic and financial transformation.

At the graduation ceremony, which was held at Landmark Events Centre in Lagos on Sunday, October 19th, 2025, the bank celebrated graduates from Nigeria and across African countries where the bank operates.

UBA’s Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu; Deputy Group Managing Director, Chukwuma Nweke, and other Board Members, Executive Management, faculty members, were on ground to receive the newly graduated professionals into the UBA Tribe.

Since the inception of the program over three years ago, the GMAP, designed to equip entrants with the necessary skills and knowledge, has graduated well over 4,000 banking and finance professionals while providing them with mentorship, training, and hands-on experience needed to boost their career.

In his speech, Elumelu, who referred to the graduands as “lions and lionesses”, reiterated the bank’s commitment towards raising the next generation of passionate and competent leaders on the continent.

“We are happy to have you as part of this tribe. At UBA, we strongly believe in the transformative power of young people, and that is why we designed this programme that allows us to transfer the baton of knowledge and experience onto others,” he said. “A few decades ago, I started out just like you fresh out of the university, and I am glad that this organisation is providing for you that same opportunity that I got, and I look forward to seeing you guys prove your worth.”

He connected the graduates’ journey to the bank’s larger mission, emphasising that UBA’s role extends beyond profit, as it is also about being relevant to situations in the environment as well helping to catalyse economic prosperity for Africa.

Also speaking at the event, Deputy Managing Director, Chukwuma Nweke, who represented the Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, celebrated the graduates’ perseverance and reaffirmed the bank’s belief in human capital development.

“This ceremony is a celebration of potential, perseverance and purpose. You all are not just graduates; you are our next generation of innovators, leaders, and ambassadors of an enduring legacy. This program reflects our belief that Africa’s future will be shaped not by chance, but by capable and courageous Press leaders like you,” he said.

Nweke elaborated on the rigorous, six-month Graduate Management Accelerated Programme (GMAP), which, according to him, blended classroom learning, digital simulations, field assignments, and mentorship from senior executives.

The new cohorts, who now join UBA’s family of over 25,000 employees were charged to take ownership of their careers, show initiative, and be at the forefront of transformation in technology, customer experience, and sustainability.

United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees group wide and serving over 45 million customers globally. Operating in twenty African countries and the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting-edge technology.”

The 81 Division Nigerian Army has taken note of a disturbing incident circulating on social media, claiming that gunmen shot and killed a civilian, identified as Rilwan Adekunle, inside a market within the Ojo Military Cantonment. We wish to provide a clarification to set the record straight.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army “contrary to the reports, the incident did not occur within the Ojo Military Cantonment. Imperative to state that on 18 October 2025, we received a distress call about a shooting incident at a junction near the Mammy Market abattoir gate. Investigations reveal that the incident was a result of suspected cult related activities, which tragically led to the loss of life.

Own standby team responded promptly, and upon arrival, the victim was rushed to the Ojo Cantonment Medical Centre, being the closest medical facility, as the perpetrators had fled the scene. Tragically, the victim was pronounced dead by the medical team.We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased.

We, however, appeal to the public and members of the press to always verify information with relevant authorities before disseminating it to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade on 17 Oct 2025 successfully foiled an attack planned by Boko Haram terrorists around Kashimri general area of Bama Local Government Area, Borno State.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the troops had successfully located and destroyed identified Boko Haram camps in the area, thereby frustrating the terrorists’ plans to attack civilians and disrupt socio-economic activities in the area. During the operation, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun fight and neutralized several, while others suffered injuries.

However, the encounter took its toll on our side, as the Commanding Officer, 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, and a few other valiant soldiers paid the supreme price, as they fell in battle. These brave heroes fought for the peace of our great nation, and their legacies shall endure forever. The Nigerian Army will continue to honor the weight of their sacrifices as their loss comes with the reminder of our unyielding resolve to stamp out the scourge of terrorism from our great nation, Nigeria.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, on behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, hereby extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the departed. They were not just soldiers but fathers, brothers, and sons who expressed immeasurable courage by taking the last stand in the face of adversity, and we stand together in this time of grief. The Chief of Army Staff also reaffirms the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to pursue all terrorist elements relentlessly until total peace and normalcy are restored in the region and the nation by extension.

In the spirit of respect and compassion, members of the public and the media are kindly advised to refrain from sharing or publishing images of personnel who have paid the supreme price during operations generally until their next of kin may have been duly informed. This is to preserve the dignity of such fallen heroes and protecting the privacy of their families.