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Soludo Calls for Preservation of Igbo Culture at Iwaji Festival

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Governor Soludo Calls for Preservation of Igbo Culture at Iwaji Festival

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has reaffirmed the importance of preserving Igbo culture and traditions, emphasising that they form the bedrock of the people’s identity and must be sustained for posterity.

Governor Soludo made the assertion at this year’s Obiora Obosi Iwaji Festival, held in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, which celebrates the cultural heritage of the Obosi community.

The annual celebration, which holds exciting moments, drew together residents, traditional leaders, and dignitaries in a colorful display of customs, music, and dance.

At the event, the governor harps on culture as a vital link between the past and the future. “Culture is the foundation of our identity as Ndigbo. We must all play an active role in preserving and promoting it for future generations,” he said.

On his part, the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council and Traditional Ruler of Obosi, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, described the festival as an important platform for fostering unity and celebrating shared heritage.

The monarch commended Governor Soludo for his presence and valuable speech, which borders on the rich cultural tapestry of the Obosi people, and prayed for his re-election into office in the November gubernatorial polls.

In recognition of his contributions and leadership, Governor Soludo was conferred with the Chieftaincy title of Olu Atu Egwu Obosi.

It would also be worthy to note that the erstwhile Central Bank Governor’s drive for innovation led to the admirable performance of Anambra State’s Cultural Troupe, which emerged as the “Most Creative Cultural Troupe in Nigeria” at the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) in Abuja, from November 22nd to 30th, 2024.

FirstBank Begins 2025 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Week

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FirstBank Begins 2025 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Week

FirstBank, the premier bank in West Africa and a leading financial inclusion service provider, has announced the commencement of its 2025 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, CR&S Week, scheduled to hold from 27 October-1 November 2025.

Now in its ninth year, the annual event is a reflection of the Bank’s commitment to community empowerment, environmental stewardship, and the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through the ‘Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness’ (SPARK) initiative, FirstBank continues to build on its legacy of sowing seeds of kindness, with a focus on uplifting communities and reducing environmental impact.

During CR&S Week, the Bank mobilises employees across the FirstBank Group, including FirstBank Nigeria, FirstBank UK, FirstBank Gambia, FirstBank Sierra Leone, FirstBank DRC, FirstBank Guinea, FirstBank Ghana, FBNBank Senegal, First Pension, and First Nominees, to dedicate their time and resources to meaningful causes aligned with the Bank’s sustainability strategy.

Commenting on the week-long event, Acting Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications at FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said, “CR&S Week is a call to action. It is about showing up for humanity, being kind to one another, and proving that even the smallest act can ripple into lasting change.

FirstBank believes that kindness is a currency that never devalues, and that is why every year since 2017, staff have gone the extra mile to give back to the communities through its SPARK initiative, while also encouraging people to perform acts of random kindness.”

The Bank plans to plant at least 20,000 trees within the week in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), in the final phase of its support for the Nigeria’s 2060 decarbonisation agenda. This effort builds on the Bank’s pledge to plant 50,000 trees by 2025, with 31,000 trees successfully planted over the past two years.

Additionally, in line with FirstBank’s commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG) of women empowerment, the Bank will collaborate with Borno and Katsina States to raise and provide medical interventions (including surgeries and post-care kits) for women living with Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF).

Throughout the week, FirstBank staff will be inspired to share messages of kindness, fostering a culture of compassion, civility, and empathy across the Bank. The programme will feature themed webinars centered on the SPARK initiative, as well as school engagements designed to instill the values of generosity and social responsibility in younger generations.

The week will culminate in visits to orphanage homes, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, and charitable organisations across Nigeria, sub-Saharan Africa, and the UK, demonstrating kindness and empowering those at the bottom of the pyramid.

These initiatives epitomise FirstBank’s care for the environment and humanity, aligning with the Bank’s sustainability strategic pillars and support for the Green Recovery Nigeria

Since the first edition in 2017, FirstBank’s CR&S Week has spotlighted the Bank’s corporate citizenship interventions driving positive social impact, sustainability, and community engagement.

Over the years, it has evolved into a platform that mobilises stakeholders and non-customers alike across its global network to champion causes that uplift lives, protect the environment, and promote inclusive development.  FirstBank is encouraging and inspiring individuals to go beyond their everyday routines and perform acts of random kindness.

Dr. Akin-Alabi Receives City People Female Achievers Award for Excellence in School Safety

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blacktalker
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Dr. Akin-Alabi Receives City People Female Achievers Award for Excellence in School Safety

Dr. Bisi Akin-Alabi (Esuruoso), an accomplished educator and passionate advocate for school safety, has been honoured with the City People Female Achievers Award in the School Safety category.

The award celebrates her outstanding contributions to promoting safe, inclusive, and sustainable learning environments across Lagos and beyond.

From her early recognition by former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair for excellence in education to her current leadership of the Safe Schools Lagos Initiative, Dr. Akin-Alabi has consistently demonstrated vision, dedication, and compassion in ensuring that schools remain secure spaces for learning and growth.

Over the years, she has spearheaded numerous projects aimed at strengthening child protection, enhancing emergency preparedness in schools, and fostering collaboration between educators, parents, and government agencies.

Receiving the award, Dr. Akin-Alabi expressed gratitude to City People Media Group for recognizing her lifelong commitment to improving school safety. She described the honour as a motivation to continue her work in building resilient educational systems where every child can learn without fear.

The City People Female Achievers Awards celebrate exceptional women who have distinguished themselves in various sectors through innovation, leadership, and service to humanity.

Dr. Akin-Alabi’s recognition underscores her decades-long impact in education and her unwavering belief that a safe school environment is the foundation for academic excellence and national development.

Apapa Gridlock Returns as Truckers Flood Port Access Roads

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Apapa Gridlock Returns as Truckers Flood Port Access Roads

The dreaded gridlock that once brought Apapa and its environs to a standstill appears to be making a disturbing comeback, sparking fears of another round of economic disruption and human suffering.

Despite years of interventions and multi-agency task forces, the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists, NNMJ reports that the port city is once again choking under evening traffic as trucks and tankers besiege major access roads.

Investigations reveal that while Apapa roads remain relatively free during daytime hours, the situation changes dramatically by evening. Long queues of articulated vehicles now stretch from both the Costain and Mile 2 entry points, with truckers allegedly paying between ₦30,000 and ₦50,000 to secure a place in the line.

From the Ijora-Olopa Bridge down to Apapa and from Coconut Bus Stop to the Tin Can Island Port gates, the scenario is the same, a chaotic mix of trucks, gridlocked lanes, and frustrated commuters.

Sources allege that officials of key government agencies, including the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigeria Police, are complicit in the illegal collection of tolls that perpetuate the disorder.

By 5 p.m. each day, commuters trapped in the gridlock often abandon their vehicles to continue their journeys on commercial motorcycles. Major roads such as Wharf Road, Warehouse Road, Commercial Road, Burma Road, and Creek Road have become daily choke points.

Residents and port workers warn that if the trend continues, port efficiency could decline sharply, reversing the gains achieved through previous traffic control reforms.

Moses Fadipe, former National Coordinator of the Port Standing Task Team (PSTT), attributed the resurgence of the gridlock to the re-emergence of vested interests who once profited from the chaos.

“The state government knows exactly what to do. The problem is that those benefiting from the disorder are back in control,” he said.

Similarly, Martins Enibeli, President of the Nigerian Institute of Shipping (NIS) and the Nigerian Licensed Ship Chandlers Association (NILSCA), blamed what he described as “government insincerity and lack of political will.”

He urged authorities to prioritize rail transport for cargo evacuation and revive the Eastern and Delta ports to ease the pressure on Apapa.

“Bonded terminals should be relocated far from the ports and linked by rail. We cannot keep concentrating port operations in Lagos while neglecting other regions,” Enibeli stated.

A senior government official, who spoke under anonymity, confirmed that a syndicate comprising both state and non-state actors is allegedly behind the illegal toll collection, using the proceeds to enrich themselves while worsening the traffic situation.

Maritime stakeholders have called for urgent federal intervention to dismantle the alleged racketeering network, restore order to Apapa’s port corridors, and ensure that Nigeria’s maritime economy does not once again grind to a halt under the weight of corruption and mismanagement.

Lagos Police Debunk Reports of Violence During Oworonshoki Demolition

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blacktalker
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CSOs Petition PSC to Probe Lagos CP Over Alleged Assault on Activist Soweto

The Lagos State Police Command has denied reports circulating on social media alleging that its officers attacked residents during a demolition exercise in the Oworonshoki area of the state.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the police described the reports as “false, misleading, and mischievously published to misrepresent the facts,” insisting that its personnel only provided security support to ensure peace and order.

According to the statement, the demolition was carried out by the Lagos State Department of Urban Development and Planning in conjunction with the Lagos State Task Force on Environmental and Special Offences, after months of due process, including the issuance of official notices and payment of compensation to affected occupants.

Adebisi emphasized that police officers deployed to the site were under strict instructions to act professionally and with restraint, maintaining respect for human rights and human dignity at all times.

“The presence of our personnel was solely to prevent a breakdown of law and order. At no point did officers engage in violence, harassment, or collaboration with hoodlums as alleged,” the statement read.

The Command reiterated that its role in such exercises is strictly to provide security coverage for government agencies and ensure that operations are conducted peacefully.

It further urged members of the public to disregard the misleading reports and verify information before sharing, assuring residents that the police under Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, remain committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting lives and property, and supporting lawful government policies aimed at promoting peace, safety, and urban development in Lagos State.

BrandNews Launches Official TikTok LIVE Series to Amplify Human Stories, Health Conversations

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blacktalker
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BrandNews Launches Official TikTok LIVE Series to Amplify Human Stories, Health Conversations

BrandNews Media, a storytelling-driven journalism platform, is set to make its debut on TikTok with the launch of its official LIVE series, “BrandNews LIVE with Aderayo”, designed to spotlight real people, real issues, and the stories that shape our communities.
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‎The interactive series, hosted by the Managing Editor of Brand News Media Aderayo Olaiya, a journalist and storyteller passionate about human-interest and health narratives, will serve as a vibrant space for open dialogue, authentic storytelling and credible information sharing, particularly on issues around health, wellness and social impact.
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‎According to Olaiya, the platform aims to bridge the gap between credible journalism and everyday conversations.
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‎“In a world flooded with misinformation and noise, BrandNews LIVE is our way of bringing truth, empathy and clarity back into the conversation. We’re creating a space where people feel seen, informed and connected.”
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‎The inaugural episode of BrandNews LIVE will introduce followers to the vision behind the platform, future program segments and how audiences can actively engage in live discussions, Q&A sessions, and community spotlights.
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‎BrandNews LIVE will hold sessions featuring journalists, medical experts and creators with inspiring stories. Viewers can participate by joining live, commenting or sharing personal experiences around the chosen topics.
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‎Date of Launch: Sunday 26th October, 2025
‎Time: 6:15pm
‎Platform: TikTok — @brandnewsng
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Lagos Police Command Mourns Festac DPO, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye

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blacktalker
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Lagos Police Command Mourns Festac DPO, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye

The Lagos State Police Command has announced with deep sorrow the passing of the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Festac Division, Chief Superintendent of Police CSP, Matilda Ngbaronye.

She died on Friday, October 24, 2025, after undergoing surgery at Mayriamville Medical Centre, Bode Thomas, Surulere, Lagos.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Command described CSP Ngbaronye as a dedicated, upright, and professional officer who served the Force with distinction and integrity.

“Until her demise, she was known for her diligence, discipline, and commitment to duty. Her friendly disposition and humane approach to policing greatly helped to bridge the gap between the Police and the public she dutifully served. At no time was she found wanting in the discharge of her responsibilities,” the statement read in part.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohuntanre Jimoh, alongside all officers and men of the Command, expressed shock and grief over the loss, noting that CSP Ngbaronye’s passing is a painful blow to the Lagos Police family.

The CP has personally reached out to her husband and elder brother, a priest, to convey the Command’s condolences and offer support to the bereaved family.

CSP Ngbaronye, who served in various capacities during her career, was widely respected for her leadership, empathy, and professionalism in maintaining peace and order within the Festac Division.

The Command stated that details of her burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.

“Her death is not just a loss to the Nigeria Police Force but also to the Lagos community she served with uncommon dedication. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.

Lagos MIRC Hosts Maiden Edition of Yoruba Debate, Quiz Competition

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blacktalker
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Lagos MIRC Hosts Maiden Edition of Yoruba Debate, Quiz Competition

Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, through the Multilingual International Resource Centre, MIRC has organized the maiden edition of a Yoruba debate and quiz competition tagged “Idije Ariyanjiyan ati Ere Opolo fun Awon Akeko.”

The colourful event, held in Lagos, featured a vibrant display of Yoruba culture through debates, drama, cultural performances, and presentations by students from various schools across the six education districts in the state.

The competition tested participants’ knowledge of Yoruba language, literature, proverbs, idioms, and traditions, as well as their understanding of the people’s rich history and mythology.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving the Yoruba language and cultural heritage among young people.

He encouraged teachers to incorporate Yoruba into classroom instruction to enhance comprehension and cultural pride. “By incorporating Yoruba into their teaching methods, teachers can help students appreciate the language and culture, and also improve their academic performance,” he said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, expressed delight at the students’ impressive mastery of Yoruba language and culture.

“It is heartwarming to see our children showcasing their knowledge and appreciation of Yoruba language and culture. I encourage parents and teachers to continue to support and guide them in embracing their cultural heritage,” she stated.

The Multilingual International Resource Centre (MIRC), based in Maryland, Lagos, serves as a hub for promoting multilingualism and cultural diversity, offering learners opportunities to engage with various local and foreign languages, including Yoruba, English, and French.

The event was widely applauded as a resounding success by students, teachers, and cultural advocates, who commended the Lagos State Government’s consistent efforts to sustain indigenous languages. Stakeholders emphasized that initiatives like the “Idije Ariyanjiyan ati Ere Opolo” will continue to inspire the younger generation to take pride in their identity and cultural roots.

LASAA Staff Faces Sanctions for Policy Breach After Viral Allegation

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LASAA Staff Faces Sanctions for Policy Breach After Viral Allegation

The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency, LASAA has announced that an internal investigation has cleared a staff member of a fraudulent transaction allegation that recently went viral on social media.

However, the employee will still face disciplinary action for violating the agency’s strict ‘no cash’ policy and using a personal account for a transaction.

The controversy according to a statement from the agency, began with a social media post alleging that LASAA staffer, Olukayode John Adetifa, had improperly collected ₦45,000 from a client, MJ Beauty Salon, via his personal Opay account but only issued a receipt for ₦7,100.

Following the initial outcry, LASAA issued a press statement acknowledging the serious allegation and immediately directing Mr. Adetifa, who is deployed to the Alimosho Branch Office, to report for an immediate investigation and disciplinary proceedings. The agency emphasized that all payments must be made only through officially designated government channels and reiterated its commitment to transparency.

The subsequent fact-finding by the Agency’s disciplinary panel, which included a visit to the business owner, paints a complex picture of the transaction.

Mr. Adetifa explained to the panel that the business had multiple unregistered signs and was slated for enforcement. During a final visit to encourage registration, the client, MJ Beauty Salon, agreed to pay. She claimed she was feeling unwell and offered him cash, which he declined. The client then requested his assistance to make the official online payment, to which he obliged in an effort to secure the long-overdue revenue.

He collected ₦40,000 from the client, which he stated covered the full fees for the three signs: the Application Processing Fee of ₦7,140, the Permit Fee of ₦28,880 and payment gateway charges.

He then registered the signs online in the client’s presence, assuring her she would receive the official notification by email. Mr. Adetifa also reported receiving threatening messages later regarding the payment balance.

The owner of MJ Beauty Salon subsequently confirmed this version of events to the LASAA Management team, admitting that she was unaware of the viral post and apologized for the misunderstanding. She specifically stated that Mr. Adetifa collected no gratification and disassociated herself from the X (formerly Twitter) handler who misrepresented the story.

Despite clearing Mr. Adetifa of fraudulent intent, LASAA confirmed that he still committed a serious offence. “It is glaring that our Staff though has no fraudulent intent as seen from his explanation and that of the client, he has still committed an offence by collecting client’s money in his personal account contrary to the Agency’s policy,” the management stated.

Mr. Adetifa will be dealt with in accordance with the Public Service Rules upon the conclusion of the disciplinary committee’s report.

LASAA used the opportunity to urge the public to always follow due process, specifically the “no cash policy or payment to personal account for no reason” as the agency’s processes are self-service, seamless and automated. They also reiterated that they do not have any agents and implored clients to transact directly via the official website.

The agency urged the public to report genuine issues responsibly and warned against spreading false information that undermines government services.

FirstBank Integrates PAPSS Into LIT App

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blacktalker
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FirstBank has announced the successful integration of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System, PAPSS into its flagship digital banking platform, the LIT App.

The integration marks a major milestone in Africa’s financial technology landscape, enabling instant, secure, and local currency-based cross-border payments across the continent, allowing customers to send and receive money conveniently within Africa without converting to major foreign currencies such as the US dollar, Euro, or Pound sterling.

PAPSS, developed by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union (AU) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, facilitates instant, low-cost payments between African countries in their local currencies.

Speaking on the innovation, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, e-Business and Retail Products at FirstBank, said the integration reflects the Bank’s long-standing commitment to pioneering digital solutions that simplify and enhance customer experiences.

“The integration of PAPSS into the LIT app is a testament to FirstBank’s commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions that simplify and enhance financial transactions. This milestone aligns with the Bank’s strategic goal of deepening digital capabilities and expanding access to seamless cross-border payment services across Africa,” Ezirim stated.

Also commenting, Mike Ogbalu, CEO of PAPSS, highlighted the transformative impact of the partnership:

“Every time an individual, an SME or a company sends money instantly within Africa in their own currency, we are not just moving funds. we are connecting ambitions, supporting livelihoods, and bridging dreams across borders. This collaboration with FirstBank and their LIT App brings us a step closer to making African borders invisible to movement of money.”

The LIT App, one of FirstBank’s most dynamic digital banking products, offers a wide range of features including virtual cards, scheduled payments, and multiple transfers in one transaction. With PAPSS integration, the app now supports real-time intra-African payments, unlocking new opportunities for individuals and SMEs engaged in regional trade.

This advancement not only reduces transaction costs and improves settlement efficiency but also promotes financial inclusion, empowers small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), and supports the objectives of the AfCFTA in fostering a unified African market.

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