Business
Agbese under fire over false allegations against NNPCL, NMDPRA
Agbese under fire over false allegations against NNPCL, NMDPRA
The Energy Transparency Initiative (ETI) has expressed dismay over the recent statements made by the Deputy Spokesman of the Federal House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, concerning the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
The group in a statement by its convener, Ganzallo Gbenga, and programme officer, Chinelo Ochiaga, said the allegations by Agbese that the NNPCL and NMDPRA are involved in a deliberate attempt to undermine the Dangote refinery, is an affront to the House of Representatives.
They noted that such remarks are not only misleading but also demonstrate a concerning departure from his responsibilities as a federal lawmaker.
“While we are not willing to be mouthpiece of both regulatory authorities, being accused by Mr Agbese, we cannot but remind Nigerians that as an organization with over a decade of involvement in series of advocacy on transparency and accountability in the sector, we have full knowledge of issues that are responsible for the recent dispute between Dangote Refinery and the regulatory authorities.
“It is troubling that Agbese has chosen to abandon his duty as a representative of the people and instead assumed the role of an advocate for the Dangote Refinery.
“His position should obligate him to act impartially, especially in matters involving multiple stakeholders. By aligning himself so closely with a single business interest, he undermines the very essence of his role as an unbiased arbitrator within any relevant committee.
“In the House of Reps, his voice has never been heard, no bills sponsored, no motions moved and has also not carried out empowerment to his Constituency.
“Agbese’s actions reveal a troubling pattern of prioritizing the interests of a single entity over the broader collective welfare of Nigerians. The Dangote refinery, while a significant player in the industry, represents individual business interests that do not necessarily align with the national interest.
“The apparent bias demonstrated by Agbese risks neglecting the broader implications of the refinery’s operations on the general populace and undermines the regulatory framework designed to ensure fair play and transparency.
“It is imperative to remind the lawmaker that his call for the dismissal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL and the Authority Chief Executive of NMDPRA is not only misplaced but lacks merit.
“We had expected all parties involved in this NNPCL and Dangote feud to maintain their silence but were shocked to realise that Agbese who’s a member of the committee set up by the House to investigate surrounding allegations chose to take a side and has made statement that are uncalled for.”
The Energy Transparency Initiative said Agbese needs to be schooled on how both the NNPCL and NMDPRA works and not dabble into affairs that are beyond his literacy level.
The group noted that the era where Agbese blackmails public institutions will not fly with government agencies as they won’t succumb to such.
“The agencies targeted for blackmail and pecuniary gains by Agbese and his team have outlived governments and individuals and will continue to do so continue, no matter the corporate or legislative blackmail.
“The oil and gas sector business is too sophisticated a knowledge for Agbese to understand and meddle into. We urge him to immediately resign his position as the Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives.
“He can also chose to apply for employment in NNPCL if he choses to defend them, especially now that the recruitment exercise is ongoing.
“We call on the leadership of the House of Representatives to address this matter with the seriousness it deserves. It is crucial that members of the House focus on their legislative duties and refrain from interfering in regulatory issues they do not fully understand.
“This will ensure that the integrity of the legislative process is maintained and that public trust is upheld,” it said.
The Energy Transparency Initiative urged the House leadership to rein in Agbese and his associates.
“Their current approach not only jeopardizes the effective functioning of regulatory bodies but also risks undermining the efforts to achieve transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector.
“We further implore all stakeholders to remain vigilant and uphold the principles of fairness and transparency.
“The progress of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector depends on the collective efforts of all parties involved, and it is imperative that individual agendas do not derail this important endeavor.
“The Energy Transparency Initiative shall remain committed to advocating for due process, transparency, and security in the oil and gas sector.
“We will continue to monitor developments and ensure that all actions and policies are aligned with the national interest, free from undue influence or partisan agendas.”
Business
GTCO’s Guaranty Trust Bank Named Best Bank for Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria by Euromoney
GTCO’s Guaranty Trust Bank Named Best Bank for Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria by Euromoney
Sahara Weekly Reports That Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (“GTBank,” or “the Bank”), the flagship subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), one of the largest financial services institutions in Africa, has been named Best Bank in Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria at the prestigious Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024.
This recognition underscores GTCO’s unwavering commitment to excellence, going beyond offering innovative financial services and creating more value for its stakeholders to enriching lives and constantly exploring new opportunities to drive positive change in society.
Announcing the Award, Euromoney highlighted the range and impact of GTCO’s CSR initiatives spanning education, health, community development, and financial inclusion. Over the years, Guaranty Trust has not only led with innovation and service excellence but also consistently demonstrated steadfast dedication to making a positive impact and creating shared value through CSR. Central to these efforts are its consumer-focused events—the GTCO Food and Drink Festival and the GTCO Fashion Weekend—both of which offer free business platforms for budding as well as established entrepreneurs to showcase their talents, share their unique stories, and connect with a broader audience. The Annual GTCO Autism Programme, an offshoot of the Orange Ribbon Initiative, aims to provide ongoing support for persons with developmental disabilities, focusing on those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Commenting on the Award, Segun Agbaje, Group CEO of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, stated: “As a Proudly African institution, we recognize that our success is inextricably linked to the well-being of the society in which we operate. Our commitment to corporate social responsibility is deeply rooted in our belief that businesses must act as a force for good, driving sustainable progress, and fostering inclusive growth. Over the years, we have successfully developed several free-business platforms and continue to sponsor impactful social causes that have benefited millions of people and businesses across Africa. This recognition from Euromoney is a testament to the far-reaching impact of our initiatives, and it reinforces our resolve to create enduring value and ensure better outcomes for all.”
About GTCO
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc is the ultimate holding company of the GTCO Plc Group, one of the largest financial services institutions in Africa. Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc maintains direct and indirect investments in a network of operating entities located in 10 countries across Africa and the United Kingdom. Within these regions, the operating entities provide a comprehensive range of commercial banking and related financial services to millions of retail, institutional, private banking, and wealth management customers, in addition to asset management, pension fund administration, and payment technology businesses.
GTCO’s leadership in the banking industry and efforts at empowering people and communities have earned it many prestigious awards over the years. Guaranty Trust Bank is a Twelve-time winner of Euromoney’s Best Bank in Nigeria award and was recently named Nigeria’s Strongest Brand and Best Banking Brand in Nigeria by Brand Finance and Global Brands Magazine, respectively.GTCO’s Guaranty Trust Bank Named Best Bank for Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria by Euromoney
[Lagos, Nigeria – September 19, 2024] – Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (“GTBank,” or “the Bank”), the flagship subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), one of the largest financial services institutions in Africa, has been named Best Bank in Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria at the prestigious Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024.
This recognition underscores GTCO’s unwavering commitment to excellence, going beyond offering innovative financial services and creating more value for its stakeholders to enriching lives and constantly exploring new opportunities to drive positive change in society.
Announcing the Award, Euromoney highlighted the range and impact of GTCO’s CSR initiatives spanning education, health, community development, and financial inclusion. Over the years, Guaranty Trust has not only led with innovation and service excellence but also consistently demonstrated steadfast dedication to making a positive impact and creating shared value through CSR. Central to these efforts are its consumer-focused events—the GTCO Food and Drink Festival and the GTCO Fashion Weekend—both of which offer free business platforms for budding as well as established entrepreneurs to showcase their talents, share their unique stories, and connect with a broader audience. The Annual GTCO Autism Programme, an offshoot of the Orange Ribbon Initiative, aims to provide ongoing support for persons with developmental disabilities, focusing on those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Commenting on the Award, Segun Agbaje, Group CEO of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, stated: “As a Proudly African institution, we recognize that our success is inextricably linked to the well-being of the society in which we operate. Our commitment to corporate social responsibility is deeply rooted in our belief that businesses must act as a force for good, driving sustainable progress, and fostering inclusive growth. Over the years, we have successfully developed several free-business platforms and continue to sponsor impactful social causes that have benefited millions of people and businesses across Africa. This recognition from Euromoney is a testament to the far-reaching impact of our initiatives, and it reinforces our resolve to create enduring value and ensure better outcomes for all.”
About GTCO
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc is the ultimate holding company of the GTCO Plc Group, one of the largest financial services institutions in Africa. Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc maintains direct and indirect investments in a network of operating entities located in 10 countries across Africa and the United Kingdom. Within these regions, the operating entities provide a comprehensive range of commercial banking and related financial services to millions of retail, institutional, private banking, and wealth management customers, in addition to asset management, pension fund administration, and payment technology businesses.
GTCO’s leadership in the banking industry and efforts at empowering people and communities have earned it many prestigious awards over the years. Guaranty Trust Bank is a Twelve-time winner of Euromoney’s Best Bank in Nigeria award and was recently named Nigeria’s Strongest Brand and Best Banking Brand in Nigeria by Brand Finance and Global Brands Magazine, respectively.
Business
Adron Games 2024 Unveiled: ‘Fit to Be the Biggest’ with Sports Icons Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju Leading the Charge
Adron Games 2024 Unveiled: ‘Fit to Be the Biggest’ with Sports Icons Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju Leading the Charge
Adron Homes & Properties is excited to announce the official unveiling of the 7th edition of the Adron Games, tagged “Fit to Be the Biggest”. The 2024 edition is set to take place at the renowned Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, from November 29th-30th, 2024, marking the second time the city of Ibadan will host the prestigious sporting event.
The Adron Games is a national platform designed to promote physical fitness, wellness, and community engagement through sports. Having previously held successful editions in Ogun and Lagos states, the 2024 edition is expected to attract over 10,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across Nigeria.
The theme of this year’s Adron Games, “Fit to be the Biggest”, perfectly captures the spirit and ambition of the event. It signifies both the physical and metaphorical journey to greatness, where athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even spectators are encouraged to embrace the challenge of becoming their best selves—physically, mentally, and competitively.
The theme also promotes the idea that fitness is essential to achieving greatness, whether through competitive sports or in everyday life. It motivates participants to push their boundaries and excel, whether on the field, court, or track, and ultimately reminds them that the journey toward fitness and excellence never stops.
This year’s games will feature a wide array of sporting disciplines, including Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and the fan-favorite Tug of War.
In a special highlight, Nigerian football legends Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju have been announced as the official ambassadors of the event. Both are renowned for their contributions to Nigerian football and are expected to inspire athletes and spectators alike with their presence.
Key Event Highlights:
• Event Dates: November 29th-30th, 2024
• Venue: Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan
• Ambassadors: Daniel Amokachi, Mutiu Adepoju, Vanessa Jones and MC Relax
• Sporting Events: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and Tug of War
• Special Guests: Sports icons, fitness personalities, and celebrity appearances
• Participants: Over 10,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts
• Prizes: Cash prizes, trophies, and awards for winners in various categories
Speaking at the unveiling, Daniel Amokachi emphasized the importance of corporate sponsorship in fostering young Nigerian talents, praising Adron Homes for their commitment to promoting sports.
He said “Sports in Nigeria need more support from businesses and brands to help discover and nurture talents among our youth. Organizations like Adron Homes, through their consistent support of sports, are boosting Nigeria’s global sports performance,” Amokachi said.
Meanwhile, Mutiu Adepoju lauded the unifying and transformative power of sports and commended Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, Group Managing Director of Adron Homes, for his unwavering commitment to organizing this event annually. “Sports is a powerful tool for unity and fitness, both physically and mentally. I commend Aare Adetola Emmanuelking for his continuous support of sports by organizing this prestigious event. His dedication is vital to the development of sports and the empowerment of youth in Nigeria,” Adepoju remarked.
it will be recalled that, Adron Games is an annual sporting event organized by Adron Homes & Properties to promote physical fitness, wellness, and community engagement through sports. Since its inception, the event has grown into a major national platform, bringing together thousands of athletes, corporate teams, and fitness enthusiasts in the spirit of competition and fun.
Adron Homes, through this sporting event, encourages everyone to view fitness and sports as key to unlocking personal and communal growth, building healthier lifestyles, and fostering unity across different regions, backgrounds, and demographics. “Fit to be the Biggest” represents not only the size and scope of the event but also the opportunity for everyone involved to elevate themselves and inspire others through the power of sport.
For more information, sponsorship, vendor registration and inquiries, please contact: Abiodun 08138432335
Adeboye Abiodun
Mnipr, Acicrm
Digital Operations and Media Relations Officer
Adron Homes and Properties Limited.
08138432335
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