WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

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May 14, 2026

WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has reassured candidates, parents, school owners, and other stakeholders of its commitment to the smooth and successful conduct of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination for School Candidates, WASSCE, 2026, despite the ongoing protest by some members of its workforce.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the examination body said the ongoing examination had continued without disruption and that adequate measures had been put in place to safeguard the integrity, credibility, and seamless conduct of the exercise nationwide.

WAEC noted that it remained committed to delivering qualitative and reliable educational assessment services to Nigerian students, adding that the future of candidates remained its top priority.

The Council recalled that it had earlier informed stakeholders on Monday, May 11, 2026, about its preparedness and plans for the conduct of the examination before its commencement.

While acknowledging the ongoing protest by some staff members, WAEC stated that it respected the rights of unions and workers to peacefully express their grievances within the ambit of the law.

The Council, however, clarified some of the concerns raised by the protesting union, particularly issues surrounding the adjustment in the examination schedule, disciplinary procedures, and the engagement of contract staff.

According to WAEC, the reduction in examination days became necessary following the streamlining of subjects from 76 to 38, noting that the revised schedule was designed to align with the new subject structure and the hybrid mode of examination conduct.

The Council also dismissed allegations of incessant dismissals and inappropriate sanctions against staff, insisting that disciplinary and career progression matters are handled strictly in line with the WAEC staff handbook and relevant statutory provisions.

On the engagement of contract Examination Officers and Assistant Examination Officers, the Council explained that the measure was introduced to manage increasing workloads and ensure the smooth operation of its examination processes across the sub-region.

WAEC further disclosed that its management was already engaging with the union to address the issues raised while maintaining uninterrupted conduct of the ongoing examinations.

The examination body urged members of the public to disregard rumours and misinformation capable of causing confusion or panic regarding the conduct of the examination, adding that verified information would continue to be made available through its official communication channels.

The Council also appreciated Nigerians for their continued confidence and support over the past 74 years.

Lagos NSCDC Felicitates Officer on ICAN Induction as Associate Chartered Accountant

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May 14, 2026

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Lagos NSCDC Felicitates Officer on ICAN Induction as Associate Chartered Accountant

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Lagos State Command has congratulated Assistant Superintendent of Corps II, Shittu Taiwo Adebisi, on her induction as an Associate Chartered Accountant.

This was done at the 77th Induction Ceremony of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria held on Wednesday in Amuwo-Odofin, Lagos.

The Lagos State Commandant of the Corps, Adedotun Keshinro, described the achievement as a major milestone in the officer’s professional career and commended her dedication, hard work, and commitment to self-development.

According to the Command, the induction reflects the vision of the Lagos NSCDC leadership to encourage professionalism, capacity building, and continuous learning among personnel of the service.

The Command noted that professional accomplishments attained by officers through reputable institutions such as ICAN align with its commitment to promoting excellence and competence within the Corps.

Prior to her induction, Adebisi was serving with the Safe School Unit of the Lagos State Command, where she has contributed to the operations and activities of the unit.

The Command further expressed confidence that her new professional qualification would enhance her effectiveness and contribute positively to the overall service delivery of the Corps in Lagos State.

CGC Adeniyi Advocates Human-Centred Digital Transformation at UNILORIN Conference

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May 14, 2026

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CGC Adeniyi Advocates Human-Centred Digital Transformation at UNILORIN Conference

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed his commitment to responsible digital transformation and innovation-driven governance.

He stated this while delivering the keynote address at the 4th Biennial International Conference organised by the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences, University of Ilorin, in collaboration with the Faculty of Philology, RUDN University.

The international conference, themed “Disruptive Technology: Human and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Economy,” was held on Wednesday at the University of Ilorin Main Auditorium and brought together academics, technology experts, researchers, communication scholars, policymakers, and heads of sister agencies to examine the impact of digital innovation and artificial intelligence on governance, education, trade, and economic development.

Speaking during the conference, Adeniyi stressed the need for institutions to balance technological advancement with human responsibility, noting that the future of the digital economy would depend not only on artificial intelligence but also on ethics, leadership, and institutional competence.

“The digital age is, in the end, a human story, and the real test of our generation is not how powerful our machines become, but how wisely our societies choose to use them,” he stated.

He observed that disruptive technologies such as digital payments, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and smart systems have already transformed global operations, adding that the world is no longer preparing for disruption but already functioning within it.

According to him, government institutions must ensure that innovation strengthens transparency, public trust, and operational efficiency rather than weakening accountability systems.

Drawing from the experience of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adeniyi highlighted ongoing digital transformation initiatives within the Service, particularly the deployment of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, which he said has improved trade facilitation, cargo processing, and inter-agency collaboration.

He disclosed that the platform generated over N230 billion at the PTML Command within its first eight months of deployment, while cargo clearance timelines for compliant traders had been reduced to less than eight hours.

“The partnership, not the rivalry, between human and artificial intelligence is where the real value lies,” he said, adding that technology delivers the best results when guided by clear institutional objectives and ethical standards.

The Customs boss further emphasised that while artificial intelligence can improve efficiency, risk management, and decision-making processes, human expertise and leadership remain indispensable to effective governance and enforcement operations.

“Technology changes processes; leadership and expertise still deliver the results,” he added.

Adeniyi also called for stronger collaboration between universities, research institutions, and public agencies to develop practical solutions to emerging governance and digital challenges.

He urged universities to move beyond theoretical learning and become active contributors to innovation, policy formulation, and technological advancement.

The Comptroller-General identified areas where academia could support Customs modernisation efforts, including digital compliance systems, AI-driven risk targeting, public trust communication strategies, and governance of cross-border data flows.

He further advocated the development of locally relevant digital governance frameworks tailored to African realities, legal systems, and developmental priorities, stressing that technological progress must remain accountable to the people it serves.

On the sidelines of the conference, Adeniyi engaged with scholars, institutional leaders, traditional rulers, communication professionals, and heads of government agencies on opportunities for collaboration in digital innovation, research, capacity development, and community advancement.

FirstBank Highlights Step by Step Process to Install, Register FirstMobile App

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May 14, 2026

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FirstBank Highlights Step by Step Process to Install, Register FirstMobile App

Gone are the days when banking meant long queues, crowded banking halls and rushing to beat closing hours. With the rise of digital banking, customers can now perform transactions instantly from the comfort of their homes or offices using their smartphones.

One of such solutions is FirstMobile, the official mobile banking application of FirstBank, designed to give customers seamless access to banking services anytime and anywhere.

The app allows users to transfer funds, pay bills, monitor account activities, check balances and manage beneficiaries securely without visiting a physical branch.

According to the bank, the app is equipped with multiple security layers including PIN authentication, One-Time Passwords (OTP), and biometric features to ensure safe and protected transactions.

To get started, customers are required to download the FirstMobile app from either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and proceed with profile registration directly on the application.

After installing the app, users are to click on “Get Started” and select “Register Profile.” Customers can register using either their FirstBank debit card or Bank Verification Number (BVN).

Users will then be prompted to input their ATM card details or BVN, after which a One-Time Password will be sent via SMS for identity verification.

Once verified, customers are required to create a five-digit mobile PIN for login purposes, answer two secret questions and set up a four-digit transaction PIN for authorising transactions on the app.

After completing the registration process, customers can immediately begin using the app for transfers, bill payments and other banking services.

The bank noted that mobile banking has become increasingly important due to its convenience, efficiency and ability to provide customers with real-time updates on account activities.

With digital banking solutions such as FirstMobile, customers can now enjoy faster and more flexible banking services while maintaining full control of their finances directly from their mobile devices.

NCC Expresses Optimism Over Efforts to Improve Telecom Service Quality Amid Ongoing Network Expansion

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May 13, 2026

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The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC says ongoing industry-wide investments and regulatory interventions aimed at improving telecommunications service quality across Nigeria are beginning to deliver measurable results, even as challenges affecting network performance persist in some parts of the country.

In a statement addressing recent public concerns over dropped calls, slow internet speeds, unstable data services and other service disruptions, the Commission acknowledged the frustrations experienced by consumers and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Nigerians receive reliable and high-quality telecommunications services.

According to the NCC, improving Quality of Service has remained a major regulatory priority over the past two years, with intensified monitoring of Mobile Network Operators, Internet Service Providers and Tower Companies, alongside increased data-driven oversight and engagement with relevant institutions to address structural challenges affecting service delivery.

The Commission disclosed that the telecommunications sector is currently witnessing one of its most extensive network expansion and modernisation phases in recent years following what it described as a prolonged period of under-investment.

It revealed that Mobile Network Operators invested over N2.13 trillion in network infrastructure and upgrades in 2025, while Tower Companies committed an additional N373.8 billion towards expanding and improving telecommunications infrastructure nationwide.

The investments, according to the NCC, supported the addition and upgrade of more than 2,800 telecom sites across the country to address network coverage and capacity gaps.

The Commission explained that the interventions include deployment of additional 4G and 5G infrastructure, expansion of fibre backhaul systems, targeted upgrades in high-demand urban centres, rollout into underserved communities and general network equipment refresh.

The NCC further disclosed that the expansion drive has continued into 2026, with operators committing to the addition and upgrade of over 12,000 sites within the year, noting that nearly 3,000 of the sites have already been delivered.

It also stated that more than 730 additional 5G sites have so far been deployed across 27 states in 2026 as part of efforts to accelerate next-generation digital infrastructure deployment nationwide.

The Commission said recent Quality of Service and Quality of Experience assessments conducted through crowdsourced and field-based analytics indicate gradual improvements in network capacity, coverage and average internet download speeds across several parts of the country.

According to the NCC, national median download speeds improved from 16.5Mbps in January 2024 to 20Mbps currently, while 4G penetration increased from 45 per cent to 54 per cent within the same period as more subscribers migrated to faster networks.

The Commission also noted improvements in power availability at telecom tower sites, which rose from a national average of 99.3 per cent in January 2025 to 99.7 per cent currently.

Despite the improvements, the NCC admitted that network quality challenges remain in some areas, stressing that the pace and consistency of improvements must increase, especially in locations experiencing congestion, poor call quality and unstable data services.

The Commission identified persistent fibre cuts, vandalism, theft of telecom equipment, power-related disruptions and denial of access for maintenance as major external risks affecting service delivery.

It revealed that more than 27,000 avoidable fibre-cut incidents linked mainly to road construction activities and vandalism were recorded nationwide in 2025 alone.

The NCC said it is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser and other stakeholders to operationalise the Presidential Order on Critical National Information Infrastructure in a bid to tackle infrastructure sabotage and improve network resilience.

The Commission also disclosed that operators have now been mandated to notify consumers promptly whenever major service outages occur and restore affected services within specified timelines.

According to the NCC, enforcement actions under the updated Quality of Service Regulations 2024 commenced in November 2025, including consumer compensation measures for poor service delivery and additional obligations on Tower Companies where operational failures are identified.

The Commission warned that it would continue to enforce compliance and take further regulatory action against operators that fail to deliver measurable improvements in service quality.

The NCC reiterated its commitment to ensuring Nigerians enjoy reliable, affordable and high-quality telecommunications services while calling on governments, host communities and stakeholders to support efforts aimed at protecting telecom infrastructure and creating an enabling environment for sustained investment in the sector.

Apapa Customs Boss Charges Officers on Discipline, Revenue Generation, Trade Facilitation

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May 13, 2026

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Apapa Customs Boss Charges Officers on Discipline, Revenue Generation, Trade Facilitation

The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service Apapa Area Command, Emmanuel Oshoba, has charged officers and men of the command to intensify revenue generation efforts, strengthen anti-smuggling operations and maintain professionalism and discipline in the discharge of their duties.

Comptroller Oshoba gave the directive during the command’s monthly parade held on Tuesday at the command headquarters in Apapa.

Addressing officers at the parade, the Area Controller stressed the need for stronger operational interventions across terminals to block revenue leakages while ensuring seamless trade facilitation and prompt cargo clearance.

“Officers must protect the reputation of the Service. That is why any delay by any officer concerning any consignment will not be tolerated. Even at the gates. If a consignment is duly exited, there should be no delay at the gates,” he stated.

He also urged officers to remain accessible and professional in their interactions with stakeholders, warning against actions capable of tarnishing the image of the service.

“You must make yourself accessible to our stakeholders and we must avoid actions capable of tarnishing the good image of the Service and the good work being done by the CGC and members of his management. We should not be seen as slugs in the wheels of progress,” Oshoba added.

The Customs boss further called for increased vigilance against smuggling activities, particularly the importation of illicit drugs and prohibited items, while cautioning officers against misconduct and improper dressing.

The parade also featured the recognition of outstanding officers and operational units for exemplary performance and professionalism.

Ismail Mohammed emerged as the Most Outstanding Officer of the Month, while Augustine Ondoma, Bukola Olaleye and Olalekan Salawu were recognised for professionalism, innovation and punctuality respectively.

Similarly, officers attached to APM Terminals received the Excellence Award on Enforcement, while officers of ECO SUPPORT Terminal received the Excellence Award on Revenue Generation.

Comptroller Oshoba explained that the award initiative was introduced to encourage hard work, professionalism, excellence and healthy competition among officers and units within the command.

LNSA Boss Hails LSSTF’s Support as Agency Receives Anti-Riot Gear, Protective Equipment

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May 13, 2026

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LNSA Boss Hails LSSTF's Support as Agency Receives Anti-Riot Gear, Protective Equipment

The General Manager of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency, Ifalade Oyekan, has described the donation of anti-riot and protective equipment to the agency by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF as a major boost to community policing and security operations in the state.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony in at the Safety Arena, Oshodi Lagos, Oyekan said the support came at a critical time as Lagos continues preparations towards strengthening its security architecture and advancing conversations around state policing.

According to him, the partnership between the Lagos State Security Trust Fund and the LNSA demonstrates growing collaboration among security institutions in the state.

“It’s a good gesture to receive good things at this time. We are projecting ourselves for state policing and, like Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu always says, we are ready. We don’t need to wait until we get there before we start moving,” he said.

Oyekan noted that the equipment had already been distributed to officers for operational use, adding that the protective gear would improve safety and efficiency in the discharge of their duties.

“You saw the officers, a hundred of them dressed and ready for combat and for their work to be done. The vests and other equipment are meant to be used, and when you put them to proper use, you can receive more,” he added.

The LNSA boss explained that the agency had also established a special anti-riot and crime response unit equipped to respond to civil disturbances and security threats while protecting officers in the line of duty.

He said the agency’s primary mandate remains intelligence gathering at the grassroots level, stressing that timely intelligence helps prevent security threats from escalating.

“We are not in this because we want to carry arms. Our major job is intelligence gathering from the roots. Once you have intelligence, a lot of things can be stopped before they become bigger issues,” Oyekan stated.

He also disclosed that the agency had received approval to use BB guns, described as rubber bullet guns, as part of efforts to strengthen operational response capabilities.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of LSSTF, Ayodele Ogunsan, said the donation was in fulfilment of the agency’s mandate to provide logistics, equipment and training support for security agencies operating within Lagos State.

Ogunsan said the items donated included 100 units of anti-riot gear, 50 ballistic helmets, 50 ballistic vests and other accessories aimed at protecting officers during operations and civil disturbances.

According to him, the support was not intended to militarise the agency but to ensure officers are adequately equipped to maintain law and order while protecting themselves against attacks from criminal elements.

“We are not preparing men for war. We are preparing men that can contain the excesses of miscreants and unruly people in society so that Lagosians can sleep with their two eyes closed,” he said.

He added that security personnel must be properly equipped and valued in order to perform effectively, assuring that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund would continue to support agencies responsible for maintaining safety and security across the state.

Customs Hands Over N16.6bn Cannabis Seizure to NDLEA at Tin Can Port

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May 13, 2026

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Customs Hands Over N16.6bn Cannabis Seizure to NDLEA at Tin Can Port

The Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command, has handed over a major drug seizure to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency,NDLEA following the interception of a container loaded with illicit drugs at the Lagos port.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Customs Area Controller of the Tin Can Island Port Command, Frank Onyeka, disclosed that the 40-foot container originated from Canada and was intercepted through a joint intelligence operation involving the Nigeria Customs Service and the NDLEA.

According to him, a detailed examination of the container uncovered 8,347 packages of cannabis indica weighing over 4,173 kilograms, with an estimated street value of N16.6 billion.

Onyeka described the seizure as a calculated attempt by criminal networks to flood the country with dangerous drugs capable of endangering the lives of Nigerian youths.

He assured Nigerians that security agencies remain vigilant and committed to strengthening surveillance, intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration to prevent illicit substances from entering the country through the nation’s ports.

The Customs Area Controller also warned that individuals found collaborating with drug traffickers would be identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Meanwhile, the NDLEA formally took over the seized drugs for further investigation and prosecution.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Director of Seaport Operations, Archie-Abia Ibinabo Ogboba described the interception as a significant breakthrough in the fight against transnational drug trafficking.

She explained that the operation followed months of intelligence gathering and international collaboration involving the NDLEA Maritime Intelligence Unit, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the British Government and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Ogboba further revealed that the container departed from Toronto in March 2026 and moved through several international transit points before arriving in Nigeria in what investigators believe was an attempt to evade security scrutiny.

She commended the Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigerian Ports Authority and other security agencies for their cooperation and professionalism in safeguarding the country’s maritime corridors against criminal activities.

Ogun Police Order Investigation Into Incident Involving OGITECH Students

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May 13, 2026

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Ogun Police Order Investigation Into Incident Involving OGITECH Students

The Ogun State Police Command has ordered an immediate investigation into an incident involving students of Ogun State Institute of Technology, OGITECH and officers attached to the Igbesa Division.

In a statement issued by the command, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, directed that a comprehensive investigation be carried out to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident which occurred on Tuesday night.

The command stated that the matter was receiving urgent attention and assured members of the public that due process would be strictly followed in establishing the facts surrounding the incident.

According to the statement, appropriate disciplinary actions would be taken in line with existing regulations if any form of misconduct is established against officers involved.

The police command reiterated its commitment to professionalism, discipline and the protection of the rights of residents, including students within the state.

It also appealed to students of the institution and the wider student community to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding while investigations continue.

The command further assured that justice would be pursued without compromise and promised that the outcome of the investigation would be made public at the appropriate time.

Union Bank Gets ASBON Recognition for SME Banking Initiatives

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May 13, 2026

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Union Bank Gets ASBON Recognition for SME Banking Initiatives

Union Bank of Nigeria has received the Best SME Growth Banking Initiatives Award for 2025 at the Nigeria National SME Business Awards held in Lagos.

The award recognised the bank’s contributions towards supporting the growth and resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises through targeted financial solutions and business support initiatives designed to drive expansion and long-term sustainability.

Speaking while receiving the award on behalf of the bank, Ayokunnumi Abraham described the recognition as an endorsement of Union Bank’s commitment to empowering SMEs and improving access to banking solutions for business owners.

“We are honoured to receive this recognition, which reflects Union Bank’s continued commitment to helping SMEs grow by making banking simpler, faster, and more accessible,” he said.

According to him, the bank has continued to improve its specialised digital platforms, including Union360, to simplify onboarding processes, improve customer experience and support business growth.

“Through enhancements to our specialised platforms such as Union360, we have meaningfully reduced the time it takes for businesses to come on board and begin transacting.

”These improvements have shortened onboarding, increased digital adoption among our SME customers, and supported the acquisition of new business clients. Our focus remains on delivering practical solutions that help Nigerian businesses thrive,” Abraham added.

The Nigeria National SME Business Awards was organised by ASBON in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment.

The event brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to celebrate organisations and individuals contributing significantly to the development of Nigeria’s SME ecosystem.

Union Bank stated that it remains committed to deepening support for SMEs through customer-focused solutions, digital innovation and business-friendly processes aimed at strengthening enterprise growth across the country.