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Lagos Police Arrest Two Suspected ‘One Chance’ Robbers, Recover Tricycle and Stolen Phones

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Lagos Police Arrest Two Suspected ‘One Chance’ Robbers, Recover Tricycle, Stolen Phones

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested two suspected members of a notorious “One Chance” robbery syndicate and recovered an operational tricycle allegedly used in robbing unsuspecting passengers across parts of the State.

The suspects were apprehended during a routine stop-and-search operation conducted along Iyana Ipaja Road by officers of the Command.

According to the Police, a tricycle conveying three occupants was intercepted for a search during the operation. One of the occupants was allegedly found in possession of three Android phones suspected to have been stolen from victims.

Police said while the search was ongoing, the tricycle rider suddenly sped off, abandoning the other occupants at the scene. One of the suspects, identified as Ademola Ibrahim, was immediately arrested.

During interrogation, Ibrahim allegedly confessed to being part of a robbery syndicate popularly known as “One Chance,” which specialises in dispossessing unsuspecting commuters of their valuables, particularly mobile phones, along Idimu, Iyana-Ipaja, Egbeda and Dopemu areas of the state.

Further investigations led to the arrest of the fleeing tricycle rider, identified as Raheem Lawal, aged 26.

Police operatives also recovered the tricycle allegedly used for the operations, bearing registration number SMK 309 QP.

The Command disclosed that two victims who had earlier reported separate “One Chance” robbery incidents along the same axis positively identified the suspects as members of the gang and also identified their stolen phones recovered from the suspects.

The Police noted that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and bring them to justice.

The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention strategies and sustained raids against criminal elements to ensure public safety across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information through the Command’s emergency lines.

Polaris Bank Wins Jobberman Award for Advancing Youth Employment

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blacktalker
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Polaris Bank Wins Jobberman Award for Advancing Youth Employment

Polaris Bank has been recognised for its contributions to youth employment and workforce development, receiving the Private Sector Champion Award at the 2026 Jobberman Partners’ Convening held at Eko Hotel & Suites.

The award, presented by Jobberman, honours private sector organisations that have shown strong commitment to advancing youth employability through recruitment initiatives, graduate trainee programmes, executive hiring support, candidate assessment programmes, and strategic partnerships that create sustainable career opportunities for young Nigerians.

The annual convening brought together stakeholders from the private sector, development organisations, and industry leaders to discuss practical solutions to youth unemployment in Nigeria.

Speaking on the recognition, Cynthia Sanyaolu reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through strategic talent development initiatives.

“This recognition reflects Polaris Bank’s unwavering belief in the potential of Nigerian youths and our commitment to building platforms that enable them thrive professionally and economically,” she said.

According to her, the bank considers talent development and youth empowerment as critical drivers of national growth and sustainable development.

The 2026 convening, themed “From Impact to Action: Collectively Designing the Future of Youth Employment in Nigeria,” focused on strengthening collaboration between the private sector and other stakeholders to expand access to meaningful employment opportunities and equip young Nigerians with relevant workplace skills.

Jobberman commended Polaris Bank for delivering measurable impact within Nigeria’s employment ecosystem, describing the institution as a purpose-driven organisation committed to supporting youth employability and the future of work in Nigeria.

Over the years, Polaris Bank has continued to invest in programmes that promote career growth, workforce inclusion and economic empowerment.

Among the initiatives highlighted were the bank’s Polaris Graduate Intensive Training, PGIT and Polaris Tech Ignite Training, TechIGNITE, both designed to equip young professionals with practical skills and career opportunities within the financial services sector.

WAEC Unveils Digital Learning Platforms Ahead of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

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blacktalker
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WAEC Unveils Digital Learning Platforms Ahead of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has announced a range of digital learning and support platforms aimed at improving candidates’ performance ahead of the 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination, CB-WASSCE.

Speaking during a media briefing on preparations for the examination, the Council highlighted several technology-driven initiatives designed to help candidates better understand examination patterns, strengthen learning outcomes and address common weaknesses identified over the years.

Among the initiatives is the Examiners’ Reports, a post-examination document prepared by WAEC senior examiners to analyse candidates’ performance, identify areas of strength and highlight recurring mistakes made in examination answers.

The Council also showcased the WAEC E-Study Portal, which provides access to past examination questions, marking schemes and performance insights to assist candidates in their preparation.

In addition, the WAEC E-Learning Portal was introduced as an online resource platform developed to help students address learning gaps and improve understanding in difficult subject areas.

WAEC further highlighted WAEC Konnect, an interactive platform created to facilitate communication and engagement between the Council, candidates and other stakeholders.

On the release of results, the Council stated that results for the 2026 CB-WASSCE would be released 45 days after the last paper, while certificates would be printed and issued to schools within 90 days.

It added that digital copies of certificates would also be accessible through the WAEC Digital Certificate platform.

The Council reaffirmed its readiness for the conduct of the 2026 CB-WASSCE in Nigeria, noting that preparations are being carried out in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, state ministries of education, the Nigeria Police Force and other stakeholders.

WAEC also appealed to the media and relevant partners to continue supporting efforts aimed at ensuring a credible and successful examination process nationwide.

SIFAX Group Congratulates Onigbinde on Election as MARAN President

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blacktalker
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SIFAX Group Congratulates Onigbinde on Election as MARAN President

SIFAX Group has congratulated Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde on his election as President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN, describing his emergence as a reflection of professionalism and dedication to maritime journalism.

In a formal letter signed by the Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, the company extended congratulations on behalf of its Board, Management, and Staff.

Dr. Afolabi described Onigbinde’s election as well-deserved, noting that his long-standing contributions to maritime journalism and the wider maritime industry had earned him the trust and confidence of his colleagues.

He expressed confidence that MARAN would continue to promote professionalism, ethical journalism, unity, and constructive engagement within the maritime sector under the new leadership.

Afolabi, who also serves as Patron of MARAN, said Onigbinde’s tenure is expected to further strengthen the media’s role as a key partner in the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

He wished the new president wisdom, strength, and success as he assumes his new responsibilities.

Ogun Police Arrest Two Over Illegal Firearm Possession

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blacktalker
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Police Clarify Viral Video of Suspected Kidnappers’ Arrest in Ijebu-Igbo

Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested two suspects over alleged conspiracy and unlawful possession of firearm in Ifo area of the state.

The suspects, identified as Adeola Mathew, aged 47, and Rasheed Omoniyi, aged 48, were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out by detectives attached to the Ifo Division.

Police say the operation took place in the early hours of Friday along Ibogun Road in the NITEL area of Ifo, following credible intelligence on activities at a suspected criminal hideout.

According to the police, Adeola Mathew was arrested at the scene, while a search of the premises led to the recovery of a locally made pistol concealed within the hideout.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the firearm was allegedly handed over to the suspect by Rasheed Omoniyi, who was later tracked and arrested by the operatives.

The police say the recovered pistol has been secured as exhibit, while investigations continue to determine the source of the weapon and the suspects’ possible links to other criminal activities.

The case is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation and prosecution.

Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their swift response and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.

The command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.

Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Crack Down on Illegal Mining in Kuje

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blacktalker
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Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Crack Down on Illegal Mining in Kuje

The Nigerian Army and the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have intensified efforts against illegal mining with a joint inspection of an illegal mining site in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory.

The operation followed the arrest of 15 suspected illegal miners by the 176 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Gwagwalada, Abuja, before handing them over to the Mining Marshals for further investigation.

Authorities say the inspection was carried out in line with the Standard Operating Procedure guiding Mining Marshals operations, as security agencies move to ensure proper investigation and prosecution of suspects involved in illegal mining activities.

Residents of the area had earlier raised concerns over environmental degradation, insecurity and safety risks linked to illegal mining operations within the community.

Speaking during the operation, Commander of Mining Marshals Operations, Assistant Commandant of Corps Attah John Onoja, said the collaboration reflects the commitment of the NSCDC to stronger inter-agency cooperation in tackling economic sabotage.

He noted that the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has continued to emphasise coordination, collaboration and cooperation as key pillars for effective security operations across the country.

Onoja added that intelligence sharing and institutional partnership remain crucial in combating illegal mining and other related crimes nationwide.

At the end of investigations, one Mohammadu Sani and 14 others were charged to court.

CP Ojajuni Seeks Stronger Partnership with Surveyors, Calls for Ethical Standards, Action Against Land Fraud

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blacktalker
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CP Ojajuni Seeks Stronger Partnership with Surveyors, Calls for Ethical Standards, Action Against Land Fraud

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, has called for stronger collaboration between security agencies and professional bodies to tackle land-related fraud and enhance public safety across the state.

CP Ojajuni made the call while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors during a courtesy visit to the Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.

The delegation was led by the Chairman of the Institution, Abiodun Olufemi Liadi, who said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the professional body and the Ogun State Police Command.

During the meeting, Liadi informed the Commissioner that the Institution had developed a comprehensive directory of all registered surveyors operating in Ogun State as part of efforts to prevent impersonation and curb fraudulent activities within the profession.

He explained that registered surveyors operate under strict ethical guidelines and urged the Police Command to utilise the directory in identifying licensed practitioners and distinguishing them from impostors.

The delegation also presented copies of the Institution’s Code of Conduct and the directory of registered members to the Commissioner for official reference and institutional cooperation.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Association of Private Practicing Surveyors of Nigeria, Kayode Adekoya, assured the police of the profession’s internal disciplinary mechanisms.

According to him, any surveyor found engaging in unethical conduct or professional misconduct faces disciplinary action, including possible revocation of licence.

In his remarks, CP Ojajuni highlighted the importance of accurate surveying and mapping to infrastructural development, land administration and public security.

He reaffirmed the Command’s willingness to collaborate with the Institution, especially in intelligence sharing and public enlightenment efforts.

The police commissioner also assured the delegation that the Command would sustain existing engagements and professional relationships established with the Institution by previous administrations.

CP Ojajuni further urged the surveyors to intensify public sensitisation against land grabbing and fraudulent land transactions, describing land disputes as a major threat to peace and security in many communities.

He called on professionals in the sector to play more proactive roles in educating residents on preventive measures against land-related fraud.

The visit ended with an interactive session, renewed commitments towards deeper collaboration and group photographs.

FirstHoldCo Posts ₦3.4tn Gross Earnings in 2025 Amid Balance Sheet Reset, Capital Strengthening Drive

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blacktalker
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FirstHoldCo Posts ₦3.4tn Gross Earnings in 2025 Amid Balance Sheet Reset, Capital Strengthening Drive

FirstHoldCo Plc has released its audited 2025 financial results, describing the year as a defining period marked by disciplined execution, resilient earnings performance, aggressive balance sheet clean-up, and renewed capital strengthening efforts.

The Group recorded a 6.9 per cent year-on-year increase in gross earnings to ₦3.4 trillion, driven largely by growth in core banking operations and expanding digital transaction volumes.

Commenting on the results, the Group Managing Director of FirstHoldCo, Wale Oyedeji, said the company undertook decisive actions in 2025 to reposition the Group for sustainable growth and stronger earnings quality.

“2025 was a defining year for FirstHoldCo, characterised by disciplined execution, resilient core earnings and a comprehensive reset of our balance sheet for sustainable performance and high-quality growth,” he said.

According to him, net interest income grew by 36.8 per cent during the year, while the Group maintained strong momentum across its digital and transactional banking franchises.

Oyedeji explained that the company comprehensively de-risked its balance sheet through significant provisioning for impaired and non-performing exposures in line with the post-forbearance regulatory landscape.

“This decisive action enhances transparency and positions the Group on a far stronger foundation for future growth, improved asset quality and higher-quality earnings,” he stated.

The Group also intensified efforts to strengthen its capital position as part of moves to ensure compliance with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new minimum capital requirement for banks.

Oyedeji disclosed that under its ₦350 billion capital raising programme, the company had successfully secured ₦128.7 billion as of the reporting period.

“We remain firmly on track and continue to engage proactively with regulators and the market to deliver a further enhanced well-capitalised platform that can enhance growth and increase value creation,” he added.

The financial review showed that interest income rose by 24.9 per cent to ₦3 trillion, supported by asset repricing and improved yields, while net fees and commission income increased by 20.2 per cent to ₦294.5 billion due to higher digital transaction volumes and trade-related commissions.

Operating expenses, however, climbed by 32.1 per cent to ₦1.2 trillion, largely driven by inflationary pressures, foreign exchange volatility, rising personnel costs, regulatory charges, and increased marketing and administrative expenses.

Consequently, the Group’s cost-to-income ratio rose to 53.8 per cent.

Profit before tax declined by 70.5 per cent to ₦235 billion, primarily due to a sharp increase in impairment charges and the normalisation of foreign exchange gains recorded in previous years.

Despite this, the company said its normalised pre-provision profit rose by 36.6 per cent to ₦1.07 trillion, reflecting what it described as the Group’s strong underlying earning capacity.

Total assets increased by 2.7 per cent year-on-year to ₦27.3 trillion, while customer deposits rose by 10 per cent to ₦18.9 trillion, supported by a strong Current Account Savings Account (CASA) mix of 93.1 per cent.

The Group’s non-performing loan ratio increased to 12 per cent from 10.2 per cent in 2024 due to industry-wide exposures within the oil and gas sector. However, the coverage ratio improved significantly to 98.7 per cent from 54.8 per cent, reflecting stronger provisioning and enhanced balance sheet resilience.

Oyedeji noted that the Group continues to demonstrate leadership in the recovery of legacy delinquent loans, particularly from upstream oil and gas obligors with substantial reserve-backed collateral.

He added that the company remains focused on improving earnings quality, strengthening asset quality and capital position, driving operational efficiency, and expanding its non-banking business segments.

“With a cleaner balance sheet and a defined capital pathway, FirstHoldCo is positioned to accelerate sustainable growth and translate performance into consistent shareholder returns,” he said.

NSCDC Busts Interstate Car Theft Syndicate, Arrests Six Suspects, Recovers Vehicles

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blacktalker
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NSCDC Busts Interstate Car Theft Syndicate, Arrests Six Suspects, Recovers Vehicles

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC has cracked down on a notorious interstate car-snatching syndicate operating across several states, arresting six suspects and recovering multiple stolen vehicles and exhibits linked to the criminal network.

The operation was carried out by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, CG’S SIS, following directives from the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, after reports emerged of widespread vehicle theft activities across the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Benue, Kogi and Plateau states.

According to the Corps, the suspects arrested include Hassan Bukar, Adam Musa also known as Yellow, Ibrahim Haruna alias Biggie, Adamu Mohammed, Sahal Abdullahi Aliyu and Abubakar Yusuf, while several other members of the syndicate remain at large.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate specialised in stealing vehicles and selling them to scrap dealers and spare parts merchants, who dismantled the vehicles to erase traces of ownership before reselling the parts to unsuspecting buyers.

Speaking on the operation, Commander of the CG’s SIS, A. S. Dandaura, disclosed that five shops at the Zuba Scrap Market had been sealed and marked as exhibits in connection with the investigation.

He also confirmed the recovery of a dismantled Toyota Camry allegedly sold for ₦1.15 million.

Dandaura stated that the NSCDC had expanded investigations to track down fleeing members of the syndicate and dismantle the wider criminal network involved in vehicle theft and illegal dismantling operations.

According to findings from the investigation, one suspect, Abdulsalam Isa, allegedly confessed to acting as a courier for a fleeing suspect identified as Ismail Haruna, also known as Malam na TK.

Investigators said Isa admitted collecting stolen vehicles from suppliers in areas including Gwagwalada and Ugwako, while financial records obtained by operatives allegedly revealed regular transactions linked to the sale and movement of stolen vehicles.

The NSCDC said evidence gathered so far established prima facie offences bordering on criminal conspiracy, theft, belonging to a gang of brigands, receiving stolen property, and concealment of stolen items under relevant sections of the Penal Code.

One of the principal suspects, Hassan Bukar, was reportedly arrested with a stolen Toyota Corolla in Keffi on April 3, 2026, and allegedly confessed to involvement in the sale of more than 160 stolen vehicles since 2014.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC has cracked down on a notorious interstate car-snatching syndicate operating across several states, arresting six suspects and recovering multiple stolen vehicles and exhibits linked to the criminal network.

The Corps also named another suspect, Matthew Atsenga Aondongu from Konshisha area of Benue State, as currently at large and allegedly linked to the supply of stolen vehicles from the Benue axis.

Items recovered from the syndicate include five vehicles, eight vehicle particulars and 61 different vehicle licence plates.

The recovered vehicles include: Toyota Corolla LE 2003 model, Honda EOD 2004 model, Toyota Corolla CE, Toyota Corolla 1998 model and Honda Accord 2008 model.

Meanwhile, the NSCDC also announced the arrest of two suspects at the BUA Cement plant in Okpella, Edo State, over alleged theft of hydraulic fluid from the company’s workshop.

The suspects, identified as Goodday Okhagbe and Monday Previous, both employees of the company, were arrested on May 5, 2026, in a joint operation involving NSCDC operatives attached to the factory and the CG’s SIS.

According to the Corps, four 25-litre jerrycans of hydraulic fluid belonging to the company were recovered from the suspects.

World Bank Delegation Visits LASU to Deepen Aquaculture Research Collaboration

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blacktalker
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World Bank Delegation Visits LASU to Deepen Aquaculture Research Collaboration

A delegation from the World Bank Group on Aquaculture Development and Expansion in Nigeria has paid a courtesy visit to Lagos State University, LASU, as part of efforts to strengthen research collaboration and promote innovation in Nigeria’s aquaculture sector.

The delegation, led by Ru Jang, visited the university on Friday, May 8, 2026, following a knowledge-exchange engagement with the institution.

Speaking during the visit, Jang disclosed that the team was at the university to explore the activities of the Centre for Marine and Blue Economy Research (CEMBER), formerly known as the Centre of Excellence for Sargassum Research, with a view to advancing research and market-driven product development in aquaculture.

According to him, the visit aligns with the World Bank’s broader commitment to supporting sustainable aquaculture development and expanding opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy sector.

The Director of CEMBER, Morenike Adewolu, alongside Professor of Fisheries, Shehu Akintola, assured the visiting delegation of the Centre’s readiness to collaborate in advancing research, innovation, and development initiatives in aquaculture.

In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, expressed appreciation to the World Bank delegation for its interest in the university’s research activities.

She noted that the expertise and research capacity available within CEMBER and the university’s Department of Fisheries position LASU as a strategic partner in driving innovation and knowledge development within the aquaculture sector.

Olatunji-Bello further expressed confidence that the collaboration would contribute meaningfully to sustainable aquaculture practices, research advancement, and economic opportunities within Nigeria’s marine and blue economy ecosystem.

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