Sahara Weekly Magazine

Tag: Featured

  • EndSARS: I’ll join Sanwo-Olu for peace walk, says Segun Awosanya

    EndSARS: I’ll join Sanwo-Olu for peace walk, says Segun Awosanya

    EndSARS: I’ll join Sanwo-Olu for peace walk, says Segun Awosanya  

     
    A rights activist and member of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on the Consolidated Report on General Police Brutality Cases and Report of Lekki Incident Investigation, Mr. Segun Awosanya on Thursday said he will join Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in the proposed Peace Walk, which is one of the steps being taken by the Governor to herald the healing of Lagos to bring closure to the last year’s EndSARS protests and the Lekki toll gate incident.
     
     

    Awosanya who is currently in London, said he will join Governor Sanwo-Olu for the Peace Walk if he is Nigeria at the time of the walk because he is more concerned about a peaceful society.

     

     

    “Because I am an advocate for peace, justice, equity and fairness, I will walk with anybody who wants peace,” Awosanya, popularly known as Segalink told Seun Okinbaloye during a live interview on Channels Television when he asked whether he would join the Peace Walk proposed by Governor Sanwo-Olu to kick start the healing process.

     

     
    Awosanya while speaking on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television on Thursday, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration is doing  everything possible to ensure peace in Lagos and the government should be encouraged for a peaceful society. 

     

     

    He said the decision of Lagos State Government based on its White Paper to accept 11 recommendations, reject one, accepted six with modifications and forwarded 14 to the Federal Government for consideration out of the 32 recommendations made by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry, is a good development that should be encouraged. 

     

     

    Awosanya said “injustice is what we should insist must be corrected” and going by the White Paper released by the Lagos State Government, some of the issues raised in the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry have been addressed. 
     

    He said the decision of the Lagos State Government to forward to the Federal Government, the recommendation of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry that October 20 should be made a national day is commendable. 
     

    Awosanya, who started the #EndSARS online, also advised that those who are dissatisfied with the Lagos State Government’s White Paper should approach the court to express their grievances against the government decision. 
     

    Also speaking during the programme, a Constitutional lawyer, Mr. Wahab Shittu, said the White Paper released by Lagos State Government is commendable because it shows that the State Government only rejected only one out of the 32 recommendations made by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry. 
     

    He said the claim by the White Paper in respect to the deceased at the tollgate as against the the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry is in order because evidence can only be based on facts.

  • We have anti-bullying policies, consequences well spelt out – Dowen College

    We have anti-bullying policies, consequences well spelt out – Dowen College

     

    By Ifeoma Ikem

     

    The principal, Mrs Adebisi Layiwola and school authority of Dowen college at 18, Adebayo Herty Road, Phase 1, Lekki, have expressed shock and sadness at the news of the death of its JSS student.

    Layiwola in a statement said the 12year old boy was injured while playing football in the school premises.

    “The school authority was immediately alerted by one of the Hostel Parents and the resident registered nurse administered first aid medication on him after which he felt relief and returned to his hostel room.

    “The following day being Monday, November 22, 2021 he was inside the classroom receiving lectures until during school break hours when one of his friends accompanied him to the Sick Bay where he complained of some pain in his hip.

    “The doctor examined him and prescribed Ibuprofen for the pain, while the nurse massaged his leg, after which he felt a bit better.

    According to the principal, ‘in accordance with the school policy, the resident doctor called his mother reporting the incident and requesting that his mother should come for him so that he could get further medical attention.

    However, his mother said she was not around that she traveled out of Lagos, but she spoke and prayed on the phone and promised to send his guardian to pick him up immediately for further medical attention.

    “The guardian did not come as promised based on what his mother told us, the next day November 23, 2021, the doctor called the mother again and this time, she assured that his guardian would pick him from the school.

    “His guardian showed up and took him for X-ray after which the guardian informed the school management that the results of the investigation revealed that no part of his body was broken or injured.

    “The resident doctor also called the mother later in the week to check up on his progress but she informed the doctor that he was sleeping at that time.

    “The Principal also spoke with the mother on the phone to enquire about his progress and she reported that he was having a massage and gave the phone to him to speak with the Principal.

    “It is therefore shocking to read on the social media that he was beaten up by some students and that he specifically mentioned some names”.

    She said that the school authority immediately commenced investigations and invited the students allegedly mentioned for interview.

    “His guardian was also present during the interviews, which revealed that nothing of such happened.

    “The whole incident was strange and unbelievable because:

    1 The school has effective anti-bullying policies and consequences that are well spelt out to all the students.

    2. The preliminary investigation showed that there was no fighting, bullying or any form of attack on the boy.

    3. He made no such reports, neither his sister who is also a student of the school nor any other students, prefects, house parents, medical staff or any of the management staff.

    4. The school has two regular nurses and a qualified medical doctor that promptly attend to students’ medical needs.

    5 The resident doctor followed the laid down procedure by inviting his mother to take him home for further treatment after initial treatment by the school’s medical staff.

    She said the school has a very cordial relationship with the family as he is the fifth child of the family Dowen College has the privilege to train, including his elder sister who is currently a student at the school.

    “Furthermore, we state categorically that Dowen College is built on core values of godliness and excellence and will not tolerate any acts of cultism, which is why there is nothing like that and there has never been such deviant activities going on, as this is a faith based school and effective policies are in place to prevent such occurrence.

    “We are deeply saddened by the death of this young man who had such a bright future ahead of him.

    “We extend our deepest sympathy and heart-felt condolences to his beloved family, relatives, friends, classmates and the alumni family at this very difficult time.

  • ENABLING DREAMS WITH FIRST BANK ‘DECEMBER IS A VYBE’

    ENABLING DREAMS WITH FIRST BANK ‘DECEMBER IS A VYBE’

     

    ENABLING DREAMS WITH FIRST BANK ‘DECEMBER IS A VYBE’

    One of the most fascinating quotes of popular British business magnate and author, Sir Richard Brandson is that “A great business is simply an idea to make other people’s lives better.” This vital nugget aligns with a global view that a critical element of successful brands is the ability to beyond functional products benefits become a visible partner in customers lives, enabling them live better and happier, aim higher and achieve their dreams.

    For businesses, this means seeing beyond financial gains into becoming a true ally and partner who make life worth living. This is a core hallmark of the few enduring global brands and FirstBank appears focused on towing the path.

    Beyond business promotion and marketing engagements solely for commercial value, the premier bank in its 127th year is assisting Nigerians to live happier and create awesome memories of good time with cherished ones through some cool initiatives.

    Globally, December heralds the holiday season during which people love to celebrate, unwind and relax with loved ones. Though checkered by Covid-19 disruptions in 2020, FirstBank is giving a new expression and meaning to ‘December in Nigeria’ with the high-octane and life enriching #FirstBankIssaVybe, #DecemberIssaVybe campaign.

    The campaign which started in 2018 is already generating ripples across the cities with Nigerians across ages anticipating the new trick FirstBank will pull out from the hat this year.

    Through the annual FirstBankIssaVybe campaign, FirstBank sponsors of an array of the hottest and coolest entertainment platforms across music, fashion and arts during the month of December, with massive ticket giveaways to premium events.

    The goal is to create enthralling and memorable experience for customers in the Yuletide season as they bond with family and friends, whilst connecting with their favourite superstars.

    Commenting with much enthusiasm on the year-end campaign, global head marketing and corporate communication of FirstBank, Folake Ani-Mumuney says it’s simply FirstBank creating a ‘Wow December to Remember’ experience for all as a bank for all generations.

    For her, #FirstBankIssaVybe offers a variety performance; FirstBank is not just considering financial well-being but also the entire well-being for customers. That is why it is enabling opportunities for families to come together to celebrate and enjoy premium concerts, plays, fashion and food, and gave out over 500 mostly VIP tickets per campaign, which cost from N15,000 to N50,000.

    “We are delighted with our achievements and consider the yuletide a good way of identifying with our customers and appreciating their support. We want them to have the best of fun through this period. Through different expressions, we strive to support our heritage; the value systems we believe in and create opportunities for families to bond across generations.

    “The carefully curated experiences speak to our ethos, what we believe in and what Nigerians would appreciate. We do not just concentrate like some other brands on specific areas, or just one name; we are true enablers across the raft, and offered variety.  We also use the opportunity to further deepen support for arts and job creation.

    “We also spread the program across the nation with sponsorship of Igue Festival in Edo State, and Calabar Carnival in Cross River State. With our partners, #DecemberIssaVybe, we curate across the country as a whole. We supported Waka the Musical in 2017 which was also taken to Abuja in 2018,” she noted.

    Meanwhile, the campaign has seen customers treated to fantastic experience in previous editions and many are looking forward to the 2021 edition. From the exciting Alternative Sound 4.0, held at Terra Culture on 5 December, 2019 to the memorable Cardi B live in Lagos by Livespot Concert on 7 December 2019 and the unforgettable “An Evening with FBNHoldings” held on 13 December, 2019 to the pleasure overload of Island Block Party at Oniru Lagos on 14 December, lucky customers and followers of the Bank’s social media handles were given free tickets to have loads of fun!

    Also, in the bouquet of fun extravaganza was Teni – The Billionaire Experience musical concert held at Eko Hotel on Monday, 16 December 2019 which had many customers thrilled to the finest of tunes by the Billionaire crooner and other guest artistes present.  The annual Nativeland music festival at Muri Okunola Park was another event for the yuletide which has since its inauguration in 2016, had top class performances by A-lists artistes.

    Youth and teenage fashion lovers were not left out; as with Street Souk, they had a feel of current trends and creativity in the fashion industry. The event held on 18 December 2019. Keen on getting exposed to the best and latest designs, wears and fabrics in fashion, then the African Fashion Week Nigeria was another port of call. The event which held 20 – 21 December, 2019 attracted leading players in the fashion industry and deepened the fashion appetite and interest of participants.

    Building into Christmas was Flytime Rhythm Unplugged, starting on 20 December at the Eko Hotel and Suites. The 5-day music festival event had performances of leading and top artistes in the country. Olamide, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, MI, Ycee, Patoranking, Mayorkun, Teni, Zlatan, Joeboy, Fireboy, B Red, Tolani, Jeff Akoh, Oluwadamilola thrilled fun lovers to the best of tunes topping charts not just in Nigeria but the continent. On the wheels of steel was DJ Neptune, DJ Consequence, DJ Obi, and DJ Cuppy.

    Kizz Daniel’s Toro concert on 26 December 2019 and Tu Face’s musical show on 28 December built up to the wrap-up of the list of December events with Future, the American trap music sensation scheduled to perform live in Lagos. The Future Live in Concert held 29 December 2019 at the Eko hotel. The 80s boy band, New Edition performance at the FlyTime Music Festival in Lagos was also electrifying with Burna Boy Live, Davido Live and many more in action!

    For plays, the campaign has featured sponsorships of Moremi and Oba Eshugbayi play which focused on highlighted history of Lagos: the struggle over water tax imposed by the British on the people of Lagos and the expulsion of Oba Esugbayi, who stood against the tax, to Abeokuta. The play was from the stable of Joseph Edgar of the iconic Duke of Shomolu Production.

    Two lucky fans, Tina Ediale and Timilehin Anibaba, amongst others got to see their favourite star Davido Live in Concert; another winner, Azeez Animashaun couldn’t believe his luck when he got a VIP Rhythm Unplugged ticket while some got special treat watching ace actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde as Esumirin in Moremi The Musical.

    Some social media followers also scored invitation to parties including Island Block Party, All Black Everything; conferences Golas Grit Grind 2.0; festivals: Native Land, Plamwine Festival; and pop up sales: Mente de Moda.

    The FirstBank #DecemberIssaVybe and #FirstBankIssaVybe giveaway fest is again set to reward old, new and potential customers with tickets to premium events around Lagos.

    And Yes, we know you want to attend these events and yes you can. Just follow FirstBank on any of its social media pages – Facebook: First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Instagram: @firstbanknigeria, and Twitter: @firstbankngr – look out for the posts announcing the giveaway and follow instructions to experience maximum party #vybes this season.

  • Polaris Bank promotes SMEs, sponsors 2021 Fashion Souk

    Polaris Bank promotes SMEs, sponsors 2021 Fashion Souk

    Polaris Bank promotes SMEs, sponsors 2021 Fashion Souk

    Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion and growth of Small and Medium
    Enterprises (SMEs), especially those operating in the fashion industry in Nigeria.

    This position was emphasized in a statement issued by the Bank while disclosing plans
    to support this year’s Fashion Souk – the niche fair for fashion enthusiasts and businesses convened by Eventful Limited, Nigeria’s pioneer and leading events management company.

    The one-day business fair scheduled to hold on Sunday, December 5th, 2021 at the Harbor
    Point, Victoria Island, Lagos will provide a platform for over 100 SMEs in Nigeria’s fashion industry who will showcase their creativity, product lines and economic potentials.

    A report by the continent’s development finance powerhouse, Africa Development Bank (AfDB)
    quotes the global fashion industry as worth over $2.5 trillion with Africa’s share estimated at less than 1% of the total values in 2020, putting Africa’s entire textile/clothing market at more than $31 billion, while Nigeria’s fashion industry is valued at
    $10 billion according to statistics quoted by Fashion Association Designers of Nigeria (FADAN).

    Shedding more light on Polaris Bank’s sponsorship, the Group Head Strategic Brand Management,
    Nduneche Ezurike noted that Nigeria’s fashion sub-sector has huge and untapped potentials capable of reducing the rate of unemployment in the country.

    According to him,” Polaris Bank will be sponsoring one of the best fashion fairs in Nigeria.
    The fair is curated to facilitate exhibition from four categories of SMEs in the fashion industry including Manufacturers, Retailers, Leather and Jewelry/ accessories with over 120 SME businesses in attendance with expected 2,500+ visitors and buyers expected
    at the fair”.

    He further noted
    that Polaris Bank remains the preferred Bank in the provision of unique products and services across all the key market segments of the Nigerian economy; serving and impacting the public and private sector; including large and small corporate organizations,
    SMEs, professional groups and institutions across; health, education, trade, merchandising, utilities, hospitality etc.

    Commenting on the essence of the SOUK, the Convener, Mrs. Yewande Zaccheaus said: “Eventful Limited has been deliberate in using the platform of the Fashion Souk to create the much-needed road to market for budding fashion entrepreneurs whilst also expanding the target
    market of the more established designers. The opportunities for scaling businesses have been fully optimised by our vendors through their participation at the Souk as well as the Business Pitch. We are proud to be contributing to the growth of the nation’s
    economy through this laudable initiative”.

    Eventful Limited, is a pioneer of events management business in Nigeria and a Convener of four most-sought after industry fairs in Lagos namely: The Beauty Souk, The Food Souk, The Fashion Souk, and The Street Souk. The 2021 Beauty Souk holding on December 5, 2021 heralds the
    4th edition of the event.

    Polaris Bank’s sponsorship and partnership with Eventful to host the Fashion Souk, provides a further boost to budding entrepreneurs in the fashion industry, and by extension accelerate the growth of the SMEs in Nigeria and the nation’s economy at large.

    Polaris Bank recently won the coveted BusinessDay Digital Bank of the Year award for
    delivering VULTe, a niche digital Bank.

  • Emirates restores services to Nigeria

    Emirates restores services to Nigeria

    Emirates restores services to Nigeria

     

    Nigerian cities Abuja and Lagos will be served with daily flights from 5 December

     

     

    Emirates will resume its passenger operations between Dubai and Nigeria from 5 December 2021, offering customers enhanced connectivity to and through Dubai.

     

    The world’s largest international airline will operate to and from its Nigerian gateways with daily flights, providing travellers from Nigeria convenient access to Dubai, which remains a highly popular holiday and business destination. It’ll also enable travellers to safely connect via Dubai to the Emirates network of over 120 global destinations.

    Emirates will operate to Abuja with EK 785 and 786. EK 785 will depart Dubai at 1100hrs, arriving in Abuja at 1540hrs. The return flight, EK 786 will take off from Abuja at 1900, arriving in Dubai at 0435hrs the next day.

    Emirates flight EK 783 to Lagos will depart Dubai at 1030hrs, arriving in Lagos at 1540hrs. The return flight EK 784 will depart Lagos at 1810hrs, arriving in Dubai at 0415hrs the next day. All flights can be booked on emirates.com, with OTAs and via travel agents.

     

    Throughout the pandemic, Emirates has been helping its customers travel safely and confidently, implementing industry-leading health and safety measures at every point of the travel journey, helping communities reconnect faster and facilitating economic recovery.

    The airline has also been working hard to provide up to date, comprehensive travel information to its customers, as well as speeding up processes on the ground through digital verification for Covid-19  via the IATA Travel Pass, as well as touchless check-in and biometrics processing.

    Ensuring the safety of travellers, visitors, and the community, Covid-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all inbound passengers arriving to Dubai, including UAE citizens, residents and tourists, irrespective of the country they are coming from.

    Travellers coming from Nigeria must hold a negative Covid-19 PCR test certificate for a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Additionally, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has specified designated laboratories for passengers departing Nigeria and travellers must obtain their certificate from one of the labs listed here to be accepted on the flight. Travellers coming from Nigeria will also need to take another Covid-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai International Airport.

    Passengers flying to Nigeria have to meet the requirements of their destination.

    Dubai and Expo 2020

    Since it safely resumed tourism activity in July 2020, Dubai remains one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations, especially during the winter season. The city is open for international business and leisure visitors. From sun-soaked beaches and heritage activities to world class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai offers a variety of world-class experiences. It was one of the world’s first cities to obtain Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) – which endorses Dubai’s comprehensive and effective measures to ensure guest health and safety.

    Dubai is currently hosting the world for Expo 2020, happening between October 2021 and March 2022. Through the theme of Connecting Minds, Creating the Future, Expo 2020 Dubai aims to inspire people by showcasing the best examples of collaboration, innovation and cooperation from around the world. Its programme is packed with experiences to suit all ages and interests, including a rich line-up of themed weeks, entertainment, and edutainment. Art and culture fans as well as food and technology enthusiasts can explore exhibits, workshops, performances, live shows and more.

    Flexibility and Assurance:

    Emirates continues to lead the industry with innovative products and services and recently took its customer care initiatives further with  even more flexible booking policies which have been extended to 31 May 2022.

    Health and safety: Keeping the health and wellbeing of its passengers as top priority, Emirates has introduced a comprehensive set of safety measures at every step of the customer journey. The airline has also recently introduced contactless technology and scaled up its digital verification capabilities to provide its customers even more opportunities to utilise the IATA Travel Pass, which can now be used across 50 airports served by Emirates.

     

  • WHY THE IMMEDIATE RESTRUCTURING OF SCOAN IS A NECESSITY

    WHY THE IMMEDIATE RESTRUCTURING OF SCOAN IS A NECESSITY

    WHY THE IMMEDIATE RESTRUCTURING OF SCOAN IS A NECESSITY

    By Uche Peter AKABUDE

     

     

     

    Restructuring, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is “to change the makeup, organization, or pattern of”. In practice, it means to chart a new course for an entity, organization, etc with regards to its composition, attitude, operations, expectations and future. It also enshrines repositioning already existing structure for greater efficiency and productivity.

     

     

     

     

     

    It is a global best practice that over the ages haspositively impacted the fortunes of organizations, organized groups, entities, etc. It is a phenomenal governance measure that is usually adopted by organizations to arrest both present and projected shortfalls, thus creating a more enabling foundation upon which they can strive to attain their full potentials. It raises the stake for holders of interest in any given organization. Such is the beauty of restructuring that has made it an essential appeal to every serious-minded organization all over the world.

     

     

     

     

     


    Sa    dly, not everyone shares the same view regarding restructuring despite the numerous manifest advantages. Indeed, it will be sheer inanity to expect so given that it is very unlikely that everyone would readily buy into it.

     

     

     

     

     

     


    In the light of the above expectation, it was not surprising to see     some persons raise objectionsto current developments in The Synagogue, Church of All Nations, which founder and leader, Pastor Temitope Balogun Joshua, passed on June 5 this year.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Interestingly, the Church needs it now more than ever. It has always needed it. It may become too pedestrian to harp on the actions and inactions that necessitated the current wave, but the summary is that the reported brazen looting by some of the trusted lieutenants of the Church’s late leader would have been prevented were there in place the right restrictions. Mrs. Evelyn Joshua, the wife of the late clergyman and new leader of the church has rightly taken up the responsibility headlong with a view to addressing some of these organizational drawbacks. It is a sure needed bold move that would usually ruffles feathers, especially of those who benefit from the status quo or skewed system.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Suffice to say that     Prophet TB Joshua deserved all credits for committing himself to a fulfilling selfless life that culminated in the attainment of many unprecedented feats he achieved.Undoubtedly, there were several limiting factors, but he courageously confronted and defiantly defeated them. Nigeria, his home country and the world at large, especially the hurting populace walked in his light until his passing. His ministry brought enormous joy, succour, hope, strength, peace, direction and satisfaction to individuals, families, communities and nations alike. He was an enigma to many people especially such as could not understand how an under-lettered man of his ilk could rise and attain the height of global acclamation he had.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    TB Joshua’s ministry was not particularly different from many others; he was not just the visioner, but also the heart and soul of all its processes and operations. He was in full control of all that transpired, albeit with a very high rate of success in everything. This    , however, has notcome without its flaws which his passing has brought to the fore.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    The ongoing efforts to reposition the church are fittingly needed if the vision is to impact the global community for which ground work the prophet     laid. Over the years, the church has carved a niche of a local ministry with a global appeal.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Restructuring enables     corporate or systemic efficiency, whether of an organization or an institution. For the church of God, it is all about engendering fruitfulness by creating workable and working approaches while keeping faith with identified goals. It is a common knowledge that the charismatic leadership structure where everything evolved around the late founder can no longer sustain the church, and so cannot be sustained. Recent reports of gross misconducts among some trusted assistants easily allude to this.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    The first implication of     this reality is the complete or partial reconstitution of theleadership of the church. Everything begins and ends with the quality of leadership over an organization. Mrs. Evelyn Joshua is reputed to be one with appreciable wisdom. This would be a valuable asset in the new chapter of the Church. Thankfully, she does not appear oblivious of the enormity of both the task at hand and expectation from the thousands of people associated with the church. Her recent steps since her appointment bear indication of the kind of leadership in place.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    There are other     consequences of restructuring. These may include the likelihood of bringing on board new manpower to freshen up things, personnel pruning, especially those with unfitting profile and, in the worst case scenario, rejig the entire operations architecture with fitting personnel deployed accordingly. This is expected to raise so much dust, and some opposition, but it is a necessary sacrifice all members and partners alike must support Mrs. Evelyn Joshua to make for the future of the church.

     

     

     

     

     

     


    The recent sponsored attacks on her person in a cross section of the media     over her appointment as a member of the Church’s board of trustees by a Lagos Federal High Court and the subsequent eviction of some former workers of the church from the residential quarters over their involvement in the wanton pillaging of the church’s finances since the passing of the prophet would not serve the church any good. The church is a living organization which should be seen to be teaching, practising and upholding good governance culture, both spiritual and physical. There should be accountability, first to God and then the immediate supervising authority. This is a hallmark of a good system.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    To say the future ahead of the church is     brightermay be akin to the proverbial ‘putting the cart before the horse’, but there are indications of very positive things ahead. The general consensus is that the church is in a better stead with the right leadership team led by Mrs. Evelyn Joshua. With this understanding, the members and partners of the church would do well to uphold the new leadership in prayers.

  • UBA Group Dominates the 2021 Banker Awards, Wins ‘African Bank of the Year’

    UBA Group Dominates the 2021 Banker Awards, Wins ‘African Bank of the Year’

    UBA Group Dominates the 2021 Banker Awards, Wins ‘African Bank of the Year’

    ·       Breaks the Banker Magazine Record as it wins Best Bank in Nigeria and 12 of Its Subsidiaries

    Africa’s global bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc yet again, reaffirms its leadership position across Africa, as the bank has been globally recognised as the African Bank of the year 2021 by the Banker Magazine, a leading global finance news publication published by the Financial Times of London.

     

    UBA’s solid financial performance, its excellent service delivery to customers and its continuous role of facilitating rapid economic growth across the African continent were some of the reasons that led to the bank being named best bank in 12 of its African subsidiaries and in Nigeria. UBA Nigeria Plc, UBA Benin, UBA Burkina Faso, UBA Cameroon, UBA Chad, UBA Congo Brazzaville, UBA Cote D’Ivoire, UBA Gabon, UBA Guinea, UBA Liberia, UBA Senegal, UBA Sierra Leone and UBA Zambia all came out top as the best banks in their respective countries.

    This will not be a first for UBA.  In 2020, six of its subsidiaries in Benin, Cote D’Ivoire, Chad, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Zambia were winners of the Best Bank award. This year, the UBA Group is breaking a record with its exceptional wins as African Bank of the Year and Bank of the year in 13 countries.  The total 14 awards makes it the first time ever in the history of the almost 100 years of The banker, that any banking group will be clinching as many as 14 wins in a single year.

    At the Virtual award ceremony which was held on December 1st 2021, the Middle East and Africa Editor for The Banker, John Everington, explained at the event that a rigorous and highly analytical process is made annually to reach the decision for each Bank of the Year award and the institution’s reputation for independence, authority and integrity is thoroughly applied to each submission.

    “While several African banks impressed the judges this year, there was no doubt as to the worthiest recipient of the Bank of the Year for Africa – UBA Group – a clear winner across a wide range of criteria. UBA has performed impressively across its footprint with a strong financial performance across most of its markets,” Everington said.

    UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Kennedy Uzoka, who expressed delight over the recognition from The Banker stated “Like I always say, at UBA, we must be doing something right. Winning 14 total awards in13 subsidiaries and the Bank of the Year on the African continent is a big achievement.’

    Continuing, Uzoka said, “The recognitions come as a reassurance that we are on track in consolidating our leadership position in Africa, as we continue to create superior value for all our stakeholders. We have our millions of customers across the globe and our many thousands of staff to thank for this. They are the very reason why we keep winning’

    Since1926, the Bank of the Year awards has been celebrating the best of global banking and is regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence. The 2021 edition highlights those institutions that have outshone their peers in terms of performance, strategic initiatives and response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

    The Banker Magazine is a publication of the Financial Times – a leading global finance news publication which has been in existence since 1888. The Banker magazine is the definitive reference in international banking for high level decision makers.

    United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Pan-African financial institution, offering banking services to more than twenty-five million customers, across over 1,000 business offices and customer touch points, in 20 African countries.

    With presence in the United States of America, the United Kingdom and France, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail; commercial and corporate banking; innovative cross-border payments and remittances; trade finance and ancillary banking services

  • ASR AFRICA SUPPORTS HEALTHCARE DEVELOPMENT IN EDO STATE WITH N2.5BN GRANT TO EDO STATE GOVERNMENT

    ASR AFRICA SUPPORTS HEALTHCARE DEVELOPMENT IN EDO STATE WITH N2.5BN GRANT TO EDO STATE GOVERNMENT

    ASR AFRICA SUPPORTS HEALTHCARE DEVELOPMENT IN EDO STATE WITH N2.5BN GRANT TO EDO STATE GOVERNMENT

    The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) – brainchild of Industrialist, philanthropist and founder of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has provided a grant of 2.5billion Naira to the Edo State Government towards the equipping of the New Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City currently being reconfigured, upgraded, and expanded to a 250-bed specialist hospital. This donation makes Edo State the fourth state after Sokoto, Ogun and Kwara states to receive a 2.5billion Naira grant from ASR Africa’s 10bn Naira Tertiary Healthcare Systems Support Grants Scheme for 2021 drawn from the Annual ASR Africa $100million Fund for Social Development and Renewal.

     

    Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State receiving a N2.5billion ASR Africa Tertiary Healthcare Support grant award letter from Ubon Udoh, Managing Director, ASR Africa at the grant presentation towards the equipping of the New Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City.

     

     

    Presenting the grants award letter to Governor Godwin Obaseki in Edo State, Ubon Udoh, Managing Director, ASR Africa Initiative said the 2.5billion Naira Healthcare grant to Edo State, was in fulfilment of the pledge made by the founder of ASR Africa, Alh. Abdul Samad Rabiu, in June 2021 when he specifically set aside 10billion Naira for tertiary healthcare interventions in 4 states in Nigeria. He further added that the 2.5billion grant, which will be put towards equipping the new Stella Obasanjo Hospital, will go a long way in raising the standard of care accessible in the region. He also commended Governor Godwin Obaseki, for his commitment to healthcare development at all levels within the State.

    Edo gets N2.5bn grant from ASR Africa for equipping Stella Obasanjo hospital

    The Edo State Government has received a total of N2.5 billion grant from the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative for the Tertiary Health System Support Scheme, which according to Governor Godwin Obaseki, will be used to equip the Stella Obasanjo Hospital, in Benin City.

    After receiving the letter of award from the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative, Dr. Ubon Udoh, at the Government House in Benin City, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the healthcare system in the state.

    “We are here to present to you a letter of award for a N2.5 billion grant for tertiary healthcare support system scheme to support the Stella Obasanjo Hospital.”

    “We are going to start by putting an initial deposit of N1.25billion in a joint account between ASR Africa and Edo State Government; I want to congratulate you and your team. We want to thank you for the commitment you’ve shown towards bettering the lives of your people and the quality of leadership you’ve shown and which we have seen. I want to assure you that this is the beginning of a partnership between ASR and the Edo State Government,” he said.

    Governor Obaseki, whilst thanking the ASR Africa Initiative for the grant, stated that his government decided to improve healthcare delivery in the state by renovating, improving, and upgrading the Stella Obasanjo Hospital to a 250-bed hospital. He also added that new buildings and services are being added to complement and support the existing complex.

    According to Governor Obaseki, “We are very concerned about healthcare in Nigeria with the post-COVID-19 economy. We are determined to make Edo a healthcare hub in Nigeria. The healthcare system is really about the people. Infrastructure is important. If you don’t have the people that are properly trained, then the equipment will just be fancy for tourism. Within the Edo axis, we can muster up to five thousand doctors in different specialisations.

    “If we have access to people who can provide quality healthcare and have world-class institutions or facilities to provide that training, then we should do it. Having the right governance means an arrangement where people don’t need to travel to get the kind of care they need.

    “We are very keen and are anxious to get this started. For us as a state, we just try and execute. Hopefully, next week, we will establish a joint account and the procurement process has to be accelerated; within the next four to six weeks, let the orders be placed.

    “I want to thank and appreciate you and the people of Edo will eternally be grateful. We can now proudly say that you have one of your largest investments in Africa in Edo and this is what they are contributing to the lives of our people,” he added.

    The brainchild of African Industrialist, Philanthropist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) was established in 2021 to provide sustainable, impact-based homegrown solutions to developmental issues affecting Health, Education and Social Development within Africa.

  • Atorise Releases Latest Work Today, Warns Road Users

    Atorise Releases Latest Work Today, Warns Road Users

    Atorise

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    [contact-form][contact-field label=”Name” type=”name” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Email” type=”email” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Website” type=”url” /][contact-field label=”Message” type=”textarea” /][/contact-form]

    [contact-form][contact-field label=”Name” type=”name” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Email” type=”email” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Website” type=”url” /][contact-field label=”Message” type=”textarea” /][/contact-form]

    [contact-form][contact-field label=”Name” type=”name” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Email” type=”email” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Website” type=”url” /][contact-field label=”Message” type=”textarea” /][/contact-form]

    Releases Latest Work Today, Warns Road Users

    Atorise is the Chief Executive Officer of LTEE Records and convener of Ori oke Sioni in his home town Isara Remo in Ogun state.

    The multi talented musician is not just a Singer but a musician in the real sense of the word, as he plays some instruments as well.

    Another December is here again when Atorise usually give his fans the real treat and he has been consistent with this since his debut 21 years ago.

    That is why the act , now known as Dr. Olalanrewaju AFOLABI Teriba aka Atorise needs no introduction in the music industry with over 21years of music performance.

    Recall that his first Album released in 1999 was titled ATORISE (REFORMER) and ever since he has been very consistent till today.

    Lanre Teriba Atorise has come out with another hit in the Gospel genre of music which is generally called the inspirational genre.

    The work, titled ENIYAN WOJU is officially released today on all digital stores all over the world for the yuletide season and beyond.

    Reflecting on the new work, Atorise described it as one of the wonders of God aside the wonder of keeping him through ”in this wonderful year from January 1st till this day. Its a wonder and blessing from God Almighty”.

    He also appreciates friends, Fans and Family who stood by him through thick and thin even as he declared God’s blessings on all.

    The act thus, assured every one that no matter what ”you are passing through today God is involve” .

    He admonished all road users and travelers this season to obey the rule and regulations of the highway so ”we can all have a Wonderful Christmas and New year celebrations”.

  • Community media need support -Stakeholder

    Community media need support -Stakeholder

    Community media need support -Stakeholder

    By Ifeoma Ikem

    In a move to address the problems of negative news between the media and Ikorodu community in Lagos, the Ikorodu News Network, INN, called for synergy among both parties.

    To this effect, an interactive section organized by INN with the theme‘ Media As A Catalyst To Project Ikorodu Division As The New Face Of Lagos; was held in Ikorodu area of Lagos with the concerned parties barring their minds on the way forward.

    The Executive Chairman of Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA, spelt out strategies to address the issue of negative news coverage coming out from Ikorodu.

    Bldr Olusesan Daini Mayorkun noted that the media has a role to play in Ikorodu news reporting.

    “In this division we have good news being celebrated on daily basis but why is it only bad news that is being reported.

    He said that with the summit, they will have a new face in Ikorodu, ‘people will begin to hear good news in Ikorodu, we have industrious sons and daughters that are doing well globally but no body is hearing about this kind of people, the media need to start reporting that.

    Olusesan advised the media to balance their news by pushing out positive news especially in Ikorodu to the public.

    Fola Tinubu ,the Managing Director of Primero Transport Service, in his part noted that community media is important to the community which is the first contact to the community and public domain.

    ” They are closer than national media to the people within the community, all stakeholders need to support them to establish and grow.

    According to him, community media should make themselves relevant, their services are necessary as they give information to the community.

    “We are in a digital age, community media need to pass information to the community and people at large without them nobody will have information or news of anything within and outside the community.

    “We need to partner with them,” he added.

    Tinubu said people get their information about what is going on first through the community media, so they play vital roles in the community.

    Chairman, Ikorodu Division Resource Development Group (IDRDG) Bashorun Babatunde Rotinwa, said community media is the bedrock of any developing community.

    Bashorun advised journalist to always report the basic needs of the community.

    “With it, the people will support you because you represent their interest, once you are able to blow the news all the agencies that are responsible for making life convenient for the community will wake up.

    He pointed out that as media organisations, they must identify the pressing needs of the community.

    “After identifying it, the promotion is next which will be done by community media.’

    Identify what the problem of the government is, Why are they not developing?

    “The problem we are having in Nigeria is that the government do not fear the people, it’s the people that fear the government which is wrong, they can’t kill everyone of us we shouldn’t fear them.