Business

We’re ready to crush pro-Biafra revolt, says Army

Published

10 years ago

November 17, 2015

The Nigerian Army, on Monday, warned pro-Biafra agitators that it was ready to suppress insurrection by any group across the country.

The army made it clear that it was prepared to check the activities of the secessionists, saying it would uphold its constitutional role of protecting the unity and integrity of the country.

The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, gave the warning in an address on the activities of pro-Biafra demonstrators across cities in the South-South and the South-East geopolitical zones.

The Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division Enugu, Col. Hamza Gambo, who read a statement on behalf of the General Officer Commanding, Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, during a press conference at the division’s headquarters in Enugu, noted that the ongoing protests had led to an increased sense of insecurity in the South-East and South-South.

The army spokesman further noted that although the pro-Biafra activists, like other Nigerians, have the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, such rights should not undermine other people’s freedom and safety.

Gambo said the army would not shy away from its constitutional mandate to suppress insurrection, and aid civil authority, if called upon to do so as a result of the ongoing pro-Biafra agitation.

“The truism of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly is not contestable particularly as it is guaranteed by sections 39 (1) and 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“Instructively, this constitutional guarantee does not allow for abuse of other person’s freedom and safety.

“It is, however, pertinent to note that the same constitution vide section 217 (2) mandates the Armed Forces of Nigeria to suppress insurrection and act in aid of civil authority to restore order when called upon to do so.”

Gambo assured that the army would act within it rules of engagement should it be required to check the activities of the pro-Biafra activists.

“To this end, if and when the Nigerian Army is called upon to play its legally mandated role, it shall do so with utmost sense of duty and responsibility to the nation.

“In such an instance, the Nigerian Army shall act within its rules of engagement accordingly. It is also important to reassure all law-abiding citizens that they have nothing to fear,” Gambo added.

According to him, “The Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting democratic norms while ensuring a peaceful environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.”

Gambo stressed that the ongoing agitation for Biafra was a threat to lives and property.

He said, “In the past three weeks, there has been a marked increase in the activities of pro-Biafra groups in some parts of the South-South and the South-East of Nigeria.

“These activities include protest marches, demonstrations and some reported cases of outright lawlessness and threat to lives and properties.

“These demonstrations are being orchestrated by the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, the Indigenous People of Biafra and other affiliated groups.

“These agitations and protests have led to an increased sense of insecurity across the regions.”

Renewed agitation for Biafra, which was largely triggered by the detention of the leader of IPOB, and director of Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, had led to massive protests in major cities of the South-East and South-South.

The protesters are demanding the recognition of Biafra as a sovereign state and Kanu’s immediate release.

Punch

Business

HOUSE OF BIMPE FIT GAINS ATTENTION WITH TRENDY UNISEX FASHION LINE

Published

11 hours ago

April 10, 2026

Sahara Weekly

HOUSE OF BIMPE FIT GAINS ATTENTION WITH TRENDY UNISEX FASHION LINE

LAGOS — A fast-rising fashion brand, House of Bimpe Fit, is making waves in the style scene with its collection of modern, elegant outfits designed for both men and women.

The brand, which showcases a blend of contemporary and classic designs, is quickly attracting attention for its attention to detail and quality finishing. From sharply tailored men’s native wears and suits to chic, figure-flattering outfits for women, House of Bimpe Fit is positioning itself as a go-to destination for fashion lovers seeking both style and comfort.

Speaking on the brand’s vision, the management emphasized its commitment to delivering “quality outfits for both men and women,” ensuring customers step out with confidence and class regardless of the occasion.

Fashion enthusiasts have particularly praised the brand’s versatility, as it caters to a wide range of tastes—from corporate elegance to casual sophistication.

With an active presence on social media, especially on TikTok via @house_of_bimpefit, the brand is leveraging digital platforms to reach a broader audience and showcase its latest collections.

Industry watchers say House of Bimpe Fit is one to watch, as it continues to carve a niche for itself in Nigeria’s competitive fashion industry.

For inquiries, customers can contact the brand via phone at 0802 686 6277.

Business

Jafad College of Nursing Science Showcases Excellence at Matriculation, Capping Ceremony for 158 Nursing Students

Published

13 hours ago

April 10, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Jafad College of Nursing Science Showcases Excellence at Matriculation, Capping Ceremony for 158 Nursing Students

By Agholor M.O

Jafad College of Nursing Science, Oru Ijebu Ogun State, has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence in healthcare education as it matriculated and inducted into Nursing Training, 158 students of the N.D 2025/2026 academic session in a well attended and inspiring ceremony which took place on Wednesday, 8th of April 2026 at the College premises, Oru Ijebu, Ogun State

The event began with a colourful academic procession of the matriculating students led by their Class Coordinator Mrs B.O. Okuboyejo, alongside principal officers of the college, including the Student Affairs Officer, Mrs Fijabi; College Accountant, Mrs Funmilayo Victoria Alao; Librarian, Mr Jonathan Olusola Fatokun; Registrar, Mr Mojeed Adewale Lawal; and the Acting Provost, Ms Olufunmilola Akintayo.

In her welcome address, the Acting Provost charged the new students to embrace discipline, dedication, and professionalism, noting that Jafad College provides a strong academic and moral foundation needed to thrive in the ever demanding healthcare sector.

The ceremony attracted dignitaries, including Mr Abdulhameed, JAMB Zonal Coordinator, Abeokuta, Ogun State, further underscoring the institution’s growing reputation.

Delivering the matriculation lecture, Mrs Oyelayo Toyin Adeola, a registered nurse educator from Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, spoke on the theme: *“The Journey of Admission to Graduation: Strategies for a Successful Outcome – Learner and Teacher Perspective.”* She emphasized the importance of goal-setting, effective study habits, time management, and active student teacher collaboration. She also highlighted the need for resilience, ethical conduct, and continuous self-improvement, describing nursing as both a calling and a profession that demands compassion, competence, and lifelong learning.

The ceremony reached a symbolic peak with the capping and stripping of the students by experienced registered nurses from Ogun State Hospital, Ijebu Ode, officially ushering them into the noble nursing professional Training.

Parents and guardians expressed satisfaction with the quality of organization and training standards, while the students beamed with excitement as they began their professional journey.

With its experienced faculty, structured training, and commitment to producing competent and compassionate nurses, Jafad College of Nursing Science continues to stand out as a top choice for aspiring healthcare professionals in Ogun State and beyond.

Business

FirstBank Partners Eko Hotels & KEY Academy for ChessMasters 2026 Tournament

Published

2 days ago

April 9, 2026

Sahara Weekly

FirstBank Set to Launch Tailored Financial Services for Blind and Physically Challenged Customers

FirstBank Partners Eko Hotels & KEY Academy for ChessMasters 2026 Tournament

Lagos, 30 March 2025 – FirstBank, West Africa’s premier financial institution and the leading financial inclusion service provider, has announced its strategic sponsorship of the second edition of ChessMasters, Africa’s largest school chess tournament. The announcement was made at the official press conference of the tournament held on 16 March 2026 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

ChessMasters is an annual chess tournament designed to equip the next generation with critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The competition targets children in primary school aged between 6 and 11 years old. Organised by Eko Hotels and Suites & KEY Academy , ChessMasters was created to provide thousands of children across Nigeria with opportunities to develop modern educational skills, bringing schools together on a national stage.

Speaking at the press conference, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications at FirstBank, said, “Our sponsorship of ChessMasters 2026 reflects our commitment to building talents and communities, driving inclusion, and deepening engagement through our First@Sports initiative, a platform that celebrates talent and promotes social impact through sports. With over a century of supporting legacy sports in Nigeria, we are proud of our enduring partnerships – 105 years with the Georgian Cup, 65 years with the Lagos Amateur Golf Championship and 35 years with the Dala Hard Court Tennis Championship.”

Ijabiyi further highlighted how the sponsorship aligns with FirstBank’s sustainability pillars of Education, Health, and Welfare. “We recognise the potential of chess to help school-age children challenge themselves, think critically, and compete at the highest level, hence we see the tournament as a launchpad for a pan-African movement leveraging chess as a tool for education, empowerment, and leadership development. We are utilising this platform as another avenue to promote social impact and drive positive change in the community.”

Caline Chagoury Moudabar, Director and Co- Founder of ChessMasters and her partner Damilola Okonkwo of Key Academy, expressed appreciation for FirstBank’s support, noting that the partnership will help scale the impact of ChessMasters and inspire more schools to participate. “We are happy to welcome FirstBank on board. This collaboration will boost chess development in Nigeria and promote critical thinking among young minds. With support from partners like FirstBank, we are opening the doors of participation to more children and more schools in this year’s edition.”

Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, commended the initiative, emphasising its role in nurturing future chess talents. “Chess connects people, ideas, and opportunities. It teaches children to be analytical, patient, and manage their time and resources effectively. Chess also improves concentration and has been particularly beneficial for children with autism.”

The second edition of ChessMasters will be held on Saturday, 2 May 2026 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. The competition is open to 150 schools across Lagos, with over 700 students expected to participate and vie for a total prize pool of N10 million.

FirstBank’s involvement in the 2026 edition of the tournament reinforces the potential of ChessMasters to become a launchpad for African children, leveraging chess as a tool for education, empowerment, and leadership development.