Category: News

Kevin Ugwuoke, Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, has formally assumed office as President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI). His leadership promises a reform-focused era anchored on policy advocacy, ethical standards, and digital innovation to deepen risk governance across sectors in the country.

Speaking during the presidential handover ceremony in Lagos over the weekend, Ugwuoke — who also doubles as acting President of the Federation of African Risk Management Associations (FARMA) — described his election as “a call to action.” He pledged to reposition CRMI as a thought leader and institutional partner in shaping the future of risk management in Nigeria’s national development.

“Our mission is more than just certification; it’s about strengthening the culture of risk governance across sectors. We will collaborate with regulators, raise awareness, and provide practical tools to help organizations embed risk discipline at all levels.”

Ugwuoke outlined a five-pronged strategy to guide his administration: strengthening professional education and certification; deepening policy and regulatory engagement; accelerating digital transformation; integrating ESG and climate risk into corporate strategies; and mentoring the next generation of risk practitioners.

He explained that CRMI will align its initiatives with key policy institutions — including the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, the National Assembly, and sub-national governments — to help embed robust risk frameworks into economic development plans.

“We must integrate risk thinking into how we plan, govern, and invest. We will advocate for more inclusive regulations to empower small and medium enterprises, improve macroeconomic stability, and foster institutional resilience.”

Ugwuoke also announced plans to revise the Institute’s curriculum, introduce specialized certifications to reflect emerging risks, and implement a new National Risk Observatory to provide real-time risk data to both the public and private sectors.
“Digital innovation will be central to how CRMI operates going forward. We are automating our backend, delivering more virtual training, and employing technology to scale our impact across the country and beyond.”

In his remarks, the outgoing President of CRMI, Ezekiel Oseni, challenged the new leadership to consolidate on the achievements made under his tenure — from securing chartered status and strengthening partnerships to gaining greater international recognition — and take the Institute to the next level.

Also speaking on the occasion, Chukwuma Nweke, deputy managing director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, described Ugwuoke as a worthy successor. “As Professor Oseni hands over the baton to Kevin Ugwuoke — a well-respected leader in the risk management ecosystem — we are assured CRMI is poised for greater achievements under his watch.”

Nweke stressed that growing economic uncertainties — from inflation and exchange rate volatility to growing debt — underscore the need for a more strategic view of risk. “Risk must be recognized not as a compliance obligation or a cost center but as a key enabler of resiliency and growth. Institutions that embed risk into their strategies will absorb shocks more effectively, unlock value, and inspire investor confidence.”

As part of the day’s ceremonies, 11 distinguished practitioners were conferred with the Fellow of Chartered Risk Manager (FCRMI) award, while 21 new members were formally inducted as Chartered Risk Managers (CRM). Furthermore, a new Governing Council was inaugurated to oversee the affairs of the Institute for the 2025–2027 term, marking a decisive step forward in institutional renewal and policy direction.

…Developer declines comment

Residents of Natufe estate and environs in Lagos on Saturday morning defied the heavy rains to protest the alleged construction of a cemetery within their community.

Natufe is located off Babs Animashaun Road in the Bode Thomas area of Surulere, mainland Lagos.

They took their protest to the construction site, a large expanse bordered by residential buildings, a school, a church and just a few meters away from the Traffic Light at Bode Thomas junction.

Chanting “no cemetery” and other slogans to register their displeasure, the protesters waved placards emphasising their disapproval of the proposed burial ground in the neighbourhood.

Speaking to journalists, the Chairperson, Natufe/Animashaun Community Development Association (CDA), Alhaja Omolabake Aminat Braimoh, said they were out to protest the construction of a cemetery in the neighbourhood.

“This man tried it over two years ago and we opposed it. Suddenly, we noticed he has started construction again and he is working day and night to achieve his purpose. So, we are out here again saying no because cemetery is not good here.

“We heard he wants to build an adult cemetery here and one for children about three blocks away. We do not want it. Look around you, this is a residential neighbourhood. We have children and elderly people here. We have schools, churches and estates here too. “Locating a cemetery will pollute our land. We are not using pipe-borne water. Our source of water is borehole which cemetery will pollute.”

Asked what steps have been taken by the CDA aside from the protest, she said letters had been written and sent to the Chairman, Coker-Aguda LCDA, adding that more letters would be sent to relevant agencies of government to stop the developer.

“We do not want to take laws into our hands and that is why we are following the due process.
“In the letter, we detailed our displeasure about the illegal construction of cemetery and reminded the chairman that we had objected same in the past.

“They commenced work here during the EID holiday and have completely disregarded the community’s disapproval. We urged the chairman to wade into the issue and order the developer to immediate stop work on the site until the intention and purpose of the construction is established,” she added.

Also speaking, a former CDA chairman, Olarenwaju Olaniyan, confirmed that the developer, Olumide Amure tried the same thing during his tenure and was fought to a standstill.

“Olumide Amure knows me very well. The first time he started this, some years ago, we fought it from the local government to the state level. We have all the documents with us. He was stopped by the government.

“But I heard now that he has permission. I am not speaking about that permission because I trust that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will never give such a permission. The developer should know the consequences of his actions and desist from such a wicked act.

“We will not allow him to pollute our land. We won’t allow him to kill us all because what he is trying to do is bring an epidemic for those of us living here.

“We do not have good water here. We are surviving on boreholes and the moment you start burying people here, you will pollute our ground and water. You will kill us all. We won’t allow that.

“We have stayed here for over 50 years. We have people who are 80 years and above among us. When do you want to kill us? Did we offend you? Mr. Olumide Amure, we do not want to fight you, we are appealing to you to do a business that will develop the community and not one that will destroy us. The community says no to turning this place to burial ground.

“You do not even live in this neighbourhood. You bought this land less than three years ago and all you can think of is to put a cemetery here?” Olaniyan queried.

According to him, 11 petitions were sent to relevant agencies and offices the first time he came up with his cemetery plans, adding that the community would do the same this time around.

The Councilor representing Natufe/Animashaun Ward at the Local Government said they were not aware of any approval to the developer to site a cemetery there. He said he received a complaint from the CDA that the developer was building a burial ground in a residential area.

“A cemetery is not suitable in such a place. They have complained that they don’t want it and as their representative at the local government, I will take their complaint forward to the relevant authorities,” he said.

Contacted for reaction on Saturday, the developer told our reporter that he would revert, pleading for time to provide a detailed response.

He asked when the reporter intended to go to press and was told his reaction was needed and that the story would stand down till Sunday afternoon to await his comments.

However, at the time of filing this report (3pm) on Sunday, Mr. Amure was yet to send his response and a reminder message to his phone number was not replied to.

As he clocks two years in office, Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transformation and inclusive governance, highlighting sweeping reforms and developmental strides across transport, healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.

In a statewide broadcast on May 29, 2025, Governor Mutfwang described his journey since May 29, 2023, as one marked by “bold steps, unshaken resolve, and a vision of restoration.” He was joined in the reflection by Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo, emphasizing gratitude and determination to further advance the state’s development agenda.

The administration’s proactive approach to security has included the revitalization of Operation Rainbow, the establishment of an Emergency Communications Centre with a toll-free line, and the creation of a tech-driven Plateau State Activity Centre for surveillance.

On public service reforms, Mutfwang noted the clearance of salary arrears, resumption of gratuity and pension payments (last done since 1984), restoration of promotions, training, and reconnecting of government offices to the national grid — all aimed at restoring dignity to Plateau’s civil workforce.

A key highlight was the expansion of the Tin City Metro transport service, now operating 30 brand-new buses and benefitting over 9,000 commuters daily. With smart travel cards and modern infrastructure, the system is seen as a model for urban transit. The governor also referenced partnerships with ValueJet Airlines and the Nigerian Railway Corporation to improve intercity air and rail travel.

In agriculture, Mutfwang said over 900 hectares of land have been recovered for IDPs, ₦16 billion worth of inputs distributed, and 20 tractors procured under the ACReSAL project. Plans are underway for agro-processing hubs and the transformation of PADP into Plateau Agri-Business Development Agency (PABDA). A Ministry of Livestock Development was also established to foster peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, beginning with a pilot in Wase.

The administration reports over 111 km of urban roads rehabilitated and more than 3,000 km of previously abandoned roads now under construction. An additional 380 km of rural access roads and 66.4 km of urban projects are being executed by various ministries. The NG-Cares initiative is also driving near-completion of 26.7 km of community roads.

In health, Plateau Specialist Hospital was transformed with equipment worth ₦2 billion and recruitment of consultants. Health insurance enrolment rose from 93,605 in 2023 to 208,550 in 2025. Over 9,000 vulnerable residents are now covered.

In education, the government slashed tuition by 50 percent for indigenes, tripled scholarship funding, upgraded Plateau State University and the College of Education, Gindiri, and increased Plateau Polytechnic’s enrollment from 3,000 to 8,000. A total of 148 classroom blocks and boreholes were delivered across the 17 LGAs.

Contracts worth ₦30 billion were awarded for Langtang North Water Project, while several isolated schemes and solar-powered boreholes are ongoing. The state’s environmental revitalization includes reviving monthly sanitation, raising stipends for street sweepers, and tackling open defecation.

Tourism and hospitality have also been targeted, with the Jos Wildlife Park and Plateau hotels undergoing revival, and cultural festivals being actively supported.

Governor Mutfwang pointed to legal reforms promoting mediation and access to justice, a commitment to inclusive appointments across religious and ethnic lines, and LGAs now empowered to execute grassroots projects.

Looking ahead, the governor announced priorities such as the rebuilding of the burnt Jos Main Market, a new state-of-the-art market at Maraban Jama’a, and the construction of agro-logistics centres and a modern abattoir.

He concluded with a call to unity and optimism: “We may not have reached the mountaintop yet, but we are no longer in the valley… Plateau is rising again — and by the grace of God, we shall all rise with it.”

As part of activities marking Democracy Day 2025, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang of Plateau State commissioned a series of transformative projects aimed at easing transportation, enhancing healthcare delivery, and strengthening the education sector.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremonies held across Jos, Nnewi, and Barkin Ladi on Wednesday, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy and improving the living conditions of Plateau residents.

Among the flagship projects inaugurated were:

* **Tin City Metro Buses 2.0** at the Old Government House, Rayfield, aimed at expanding affordable transportation with 15 additional buses joining the fleet, bringing daily commuter capacity to over 9,000, with plans to scale up to 20,000.
* **Upgraded Health Infrastructure** including a state-of-the-art laboratory, paediatric ward, and office complex at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Jos.
* **Reconstructed Utonkon Bridge and Adjoining Roads**, reviving a long-abandoned project initially awarded in 2007 and crucial for decongesting city traffic and improving access to the Central Business District.
* **New Educational Facilities** at Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi, including a one-storey administrative block and a refurbished Joshua Dariye Hall, with plans to upgrade the institution into a University of Science and Technology.

Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the projects, funded through prudent use of state allocations, were not products of federal grants but deliberate investments in the people. “Instead of luxury, we prioritized the people,” he said, adding that the transport initiative alone saves commuters up to ₦2,000 daily.

He also confirmed the signing of an MoU with FAAN to upgrade Jos Airport into an international cargo terminal and ongoing talks to reconnect Jos by rail through the Port Harcourt–Maiduguri corridor.

Commending the Metro initiative, Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Davou Jatau, called it “Plateau’s version of Conditional Cash Transfer,” while GM of Plateau Express Service, Mr. Samuel Gwot, revealed that over 60,000 Metro Travel Cards had been issued, backed by smart tech, AI analytics, and real-time tracking.

Health Commissioner Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong and Specialist Hospital CMD Prof. Christopher Yilgwan praised the governor for upgrading general hospitals across all 17 LGAs and elevating care standards through the health insurance scheme.

At the Polytechnic, Governor Mutfwang reiterated the administration’s focus on merit-based academic recruitment and quality education delivery. Acting Rector Dr. Clement Chirman hailed the day as a milestone in Plateau’s journey toward academic excellence.

Concluding the tour, the governor commissioned Dachom Road down to Nanmwa Junction and assured citizens of more people-focused development under his leadership.

In a renewed drive to promote multimodal trade facilitation, the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, convened a strategic engagement with key stakeholders to enhance the efficiency of cargo movement via rail.

The meeting, which held at the Command’s headquarters, brought together representatives of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), clearing agents, freight forwarders, and other trade facilitators. It focused on streamlining logistics operations and reducing dependence on road transport.

Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, said the meeting aligns with the directive of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to deepen trade through multimodal transport systems, particularly rail.

“Recall that rail has been in operation for quite a while,” Olomu stated. “So we want to fine-tune the process to improve our trade objectives. When we have a seamless trade process, it will benefit our stakeholders who are here today.”

He praised the strong turnout and participation of stakeholders, describing it as a “confidence booster” that underlines their shared commitment to advancing efficient and cost-effective cargo movement.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, the Head of Operations, Akin Oshinawo, affirmed the agency’s sustained partnership with Customs. “We have always found a willing partner in the Comptroller and his men, which forms part of the Standard Operating Procedure established years ago,” he said.

He added that the initiative aligns with NRC’s mandate and supports the federal government’s renewed hope agenda for reviving rail transport nationwide.

Stakeholders at the forum applauded the collaboration, noting its potential to reduce import costs and ease congestion on road networks. National Coordinator of the Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders, Importers & Exporters Coalition, Dr. Osita Chukwu, urged the government to ensure such initiatives are replicated across the country.

“With what the government is doing, we hope it will not be limited to just one region but extended across the entire country, as is the case elsewhere,” he remarked.

The event also featured an interactive session where participants discussed pressing challenges in rail cargo logistics and offered practical solutions aimed at strengthening the system.

The engagement, observers say, marks a critical step in repositioning the Apapa port corridor as a model for integrated and sustainable trade facilitation.

A new chapter in Nigeria’s financial inclusion journey is set to begin on July 1, 2025, as the National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC) officially kicks off operations. With an initial capital base of ₦100 billion announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the specialized financial institution aims to unlock access to credit for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), manufacturers, and underserved sectors of the economy.

Designed to de-risk lending and enhance credit flow across Nigeria’s real economy, the NCGC offers partial credit guarantees to banks and other financial institutions, enabling them to confidently extend credit to eligible borrowers. The company’s model does not involve direct lending. Instead, it partners with commercial banks, microfinance institutions, fintechs, and other licensed financial institutions to share the burden of credit risk.

“Too many Nigerian businesses are creditworthy but invisible to traditional lenders,” said the company in a statement. “NCGC provides the confidence and cushion needed to bring these businesses into the formal credit ecosystem.”

Through a suite of products including partial credit guarantees (covering up to 60% of a loan’s outstanding principal), co-guarantees, and technical assistance, the NCGC aims to reshape Nigeria’s credit landscape. Its beneficiaries span a wide range—from youth and women-led enterprises to export-oriented and non-interest-based businesses.

The initiative targets several key sectors, including agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing, digital technology, solid minerals, textiles, and Islamic enterprises. The company’s operational ethos centers on globally accepted principles: risk-sharing over risk-transfer, strategic issuance to maintain borrower discipline, and full regulatory alignment with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

In addition to individual and portfolio guarantees, the NCGC will provide performance bond guarantees for businesses undertaking contract-based obligations, thus supporting enterprise growth from procurement to delivery.

As part of the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the NCGC is positioned to be a powerful catalyst for economic transformation—aiming to create jobs, strengthen the MSME ecosystem, alleviate poverty, and boost national productivity.

With its headquarters at BOI House in Abuja, the NCGC invites lenders, entrepreneurs, and development partners to collaborate in what it calls “guaranteeing growth” for Nigeria’s real sector.

In furtherance of its long-standing commitment to education and youth development, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has donated a wide range of relief and academic materials to Government Junior Secondary School, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The donation was made possible by the unwavering dedication and generosity of a class of newly inducted staff, known as the Suncrest Inductee Class, under the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).

Through the FHHP, staff across Fidelity Bank’s business locations identify projects that impact their immediate community and raise funds to execute them. The bank’s management thereafter matches this contribution with an equal amount and disburses it for the selected project.

Speaking about the donation event, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, noted the bank’s dedication to fostering community development and supporting children from underprivileged backgrounds.

“We deliberately chose a public school because we understand the challenges many students face. Our aim is to provide support that not only aids academic performance but also inspires hope for a brighter future,” said Dr Nwagboh.

He highlighted that the Bank’s initiative for school and students has spanned 15 years with numerous schools as beneficiaries nationwide. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe that investing in the next generation is a direct investment in the future of our country. This initiative is deeply rooted in our philosophy of grooming responsible future leaders and promoting social equity, with our members of staff being able to significantly contribute right from their early days in the bank” he affirmed.

In her remarks, the Principal, Government Junior Secondary School, Elekahia, Dr. Ekeh Florence, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Fidelity Bank for its generous gesture.

“We are sincerely grateful that Fidelity Bank remembered the students of our school. The materials they provided – which includes exercise books, biros, socks, footwear, sanitary items such as pads and shaving sticks, and even snacks – will go a long way in boosting the morale and academic readiness of our students,” Dr. Ekeh stated.

The students expressed their joy and appreciation, describing the donation as the first of its kind from any corporate organization. Many pledged to make the best use of the materials to improve their academic performance and personal development.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

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.