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HEI Intensifies Training of First Responders Across Nigeria

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HEI Intensifies Training of First Responders Across Nigeria

As part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s emergency response system, the Health Emergency Initiative, HEI has intensified its comprehensive First Responders Training Programme for secondary school students across Lagos State and Nigeria.

The training, which is being sponsored by the First Exploration and Petroleum Development Company, First E&P and in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, aims to equip young Nigerians with lifesaving skills to handle emergencies. It also forms part of HEI’s broader effort to build a nationwide network of community first responders capable of saving lives before professional medical help arrives.

According to Executive Director of the HEI,  Mr. Pascal Achunine, the student training programme is part of HEI’s larger mission to build an emergency-ready nation.

“Today we’re training 30 secondary school students from Lagos’ education districts, but overall, we’ve trained more than 149,000 first responders across Nigeria,” Achunine revealed.

“Our beneficiaries include teachers, police officers, fire service personnel, commercial transporters, and even filling station attendants, those most likely to be first at an accident scene.”

He explained that HEI’s training covers various emergencies, from fractures and burns to cardiac arrests, poison, fire outbreaks, and flooding. The organization has worked in over 12 states, including Lagos, Rivers, Kwara, Ondo, Osun, Imo, and Abuja.

“We’re excited that the Lagos State Government has approved the integration of First Responder Training into the national curriculum,” Achunine added. “This means every student will have access to this lifesaving knowledge, because emergencies do not announce themselves.”

Also speaking at the training session, Head of Social Performance at First E&P, Ayebatonye Benjamin-Basuo explained that the programme is being supported under the company’s Impact First Grant Award,  a funding initiative designed to empower local NGOs making measurable impact in Nigerian communities.

“We realized that many grassroots NGOs doing remarkable work in Nigeria often lack access to funds, especially as international funding streams are drying up,” Bassey said. “Through Impact First, we bridge that gap and support organizations like HEI to reach more people at the grassroots. 

Training first responders is particularly invaluable given Nigeria’s high rate of road accidents, limited access to equipped health facilities, and traffic constraints that often delay emergency services.”

She noted that HEI’s scope of work extends beyond first aid training, covering emergency funding for accident victims, rehabilitation of vulnerable groups, and community health sensitization.

Representing the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Aramide Shitta-Bay, who is Head of the NGO Unit, commended the initiative as a lifelong learning tool that goes beyond academic instruction.

“Emergencies don’t only happen in schools, they happen at home, in markets, and in communities,” she said. “By integrating this training into the school curriculum and establishing First Responder Clubs in secondary schools, we are raising a generation of safety-conscious young Nigerians.”

She emphasized the ministry’s commitment to sustaining the initiative beyond the current administration, noting that it aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs on health, education, and safety.

Also lending his support, Executive Secretary of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, Mr. Olufemi Akinbade lauded the programme’s grassroots approach to emergency management.

“There’s a dire need to train more Nigerians on how to respond during emergencies,” Akinbade stated. “We are glad to see this initiative starting from the cradle level. Too often, people record emergencies on their phones instead of offering help. This programme is changing that culture by equipping students and citizens with practical skills.”

He also called for stronger government collaboration with private healthcare providers in emergency response and reimbursement for emergency services rendered by private facilities.

Unity Bank Celebrates Resilient Frontline Staff, Reaffirms Commitment to Excellent Customer Service

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Unity Bank Celebrates Resilient Frontline Staff, Reaffirms Commitment to Excellent Customer Service

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank Plc, Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, has affirmed that a service culture built on responsiveness and innovation will differentiate the impact that customer service can make in any organisation.

Mr. Kolawole who spoke at the flag-off of the Customer Service Week 2025 in Unity Bank, said “apart from constantly improving the way in which better customer support can be achieved, the increasing sophistication of our customers have made the Bank to also begin to focus more on customer experience innovation with investment being made in technology, systems, and people which enable us redefine our customer journey altogether”.   

While extolling the Bank for always rising to any occasion, the Managing Director celebrated the resilient frontline staff for their unwavering dedication and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering exceptional customer service across all touch points, stating that this year’s celebration, themed “Mission: Possible,” underscores the Bank’s unwavering belief that every customer needs can be met through innovation, teamwork, and with service culture.

“The Bank’s customer service teams are well acclaimed for their passion, professionalism, and resilience in fulfilling the institution’s mission to provide exceptional service to its growing customer base”, the Unity Bank MD further stated.

In further acknowledgement, Mr. Kolawole stated: “At Unity Bank, our mission is clear, to make banking simple, accessible, and rewarding for every customer. ‘Mission Possible’ captures the spirit with which we approach every challenge and opportunity to serve; whether through our digital platforms, branch interactions, or customer support channels”.

Additionally, the Bank’s Chief Customer Service Officer, Elfrida Igebu, emphasised the significance of recognising and celebrating staff who consistently go above and beyond to serve customers.

“This year’s theme reminds us that what may seem challenging is always achievable with the right attitude, teamwork, and customer-first mindset. Our frontline teams embody this every day by demonstrating that at Unity Bank, service excellence is not just a goal, it is our mission,” Igebu said.

Throughout the week, Unity Bank organised activities across its branches and offices nationwide to reflect the Customer Service Week 2025, from customer appreciation engagements, Award of recognition for Staff, setting up festive ambience and decor, flamboyant service and cultural costumes donned by members to digital media activations.  

In time past, Unity Bank was among the first financial institutions to introduce a multilingual USSD platform, *7799#, and from then onwards, the Bank continues to upgrade features of its mobile banking platform, Unifi app, for optimisation, reinforcing customer experience innovation and convenience.

Fidelity Bank Set to Disburse NCGC N5bn Credit Guarantee Facility for MSME Financing

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Fidelity Bank Set to Disburse NCGC N5bn Credit Guarantee Facility for MSME Financing
L-R: Executive Director, South Directorate, Fidelity Bank Plc, Pamela Shodipo; Executive Director, Lagos & South West, Fidelity Bank, Dr. Ken Opara; Executive Director, Strategy and Operations, National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), Mrs. Tinuola Aigwedo; Executive Director/Chief Risk Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Kevin Ugwuoke; MD/CEO, NCGC, Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Stanley Amuchie; and Executive Director, Risk Management, NCGC, Prof Ezekiel Oseni, during the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Signing Ceremony between Fidelity Bank and NCGC in Lagos.

Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced its readiness to begin the disbursement of funds under the National Credit Guarantee Company, NCGC N5 billion Credit Intervention Scheme.

The initiative is designed to expand access to finance for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as well as businesses owned by women and youths across Nigeria.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, made this known during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the bank and NCGC.

According to Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe, the partnership with NCGC represents a significant step in the bank’s ongoing efforts to enhance financial inclusion and stimulate economic growth through increased access to credit.

“This guarantee will enable us to further expand financing opportunities for those who need it most, while strengthening our capacity to support businesses across key sectors of the Nigerian economy,” she said.

The facility will cover critical sectors including food processing, secondary agriculture (such as fish and poultry processing), fashion, green energy, light manufacturing, the agricultural value chain (feed mills and equipment fabrication), export-oriented businesses, and education.

Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe highlighted that Fidelity Bank has consistently supported diverse sectors through targeted initiatives such as the Green Energy Financing Programme for renewable energy entrepreneurs, the Fidelity SME Hub for small businesses with a special arm, Creativerse, dedicated to the creative industry and the Fidelity Bank Education Support Scheme which provides affordable financing for educational infrastructure and technology upgrades.

“With the backing of the NCGC credit guarantee, we can now extend financing to businesses that have traditionally been excluded from formal credit systems,without compromising our risk standards or operational efficiency,” she added. “While we have supported MSMEs with short-term facilities in the past, this partnership allows us to provide long-term credit facilities that empower businesses to expand sustainably.”

Over the past five years, Fidelity Bank has disbursed over N500 billion in loans to MSMEs, empowering thousands of entrepreneurs and creating sustainable livelihoods.

Also speaking at the event, Managing Director of NCGC, Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo, emphasized that the organization was established to bridge the financing gap faced by MSMEs in Nigeria by mitigating lender risks through credit guarantees.

“Although MSMEs are key contributors to Nigeria’s economic development, many of them struggle to secure funding from financial institutions due to perceived high risks,” he said. “Through the credit guarantee scheme, NCGC shares this risk with banks, making it easier for MSMEs to access much-needed capital.”

Mr. Okhaimo added that NCGC and Fidelity Bank will also collaborate to provide financial literacy and business management training to MSME beneficiaries, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their loans and achieve sustainable growth.

LAGOS EXAMS BOARD ANNOUNCES 2025 TRADE TEST FOR ARTISANS, TECHNICIANS

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Lagos Begins E-Registration, Payment for 2026 UBE by CAS, Placement Test

The Lagos State Examinations Board, under the supervision of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, has announced the conduct of the Year 2025 Trade Test for artisans and technicians across the State.

In a statement issued by the Director/Registrar of the Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo, the exercise is designed to evaluate the competence, skill, and proficiency of artisans and technicians in various trades, with the aim of promoting technical excellence and professional certification.

He emphasized that the Trade Test remains a vital instrument in enhancing productivity, employment opportunities, and socio-economic development in Lagos State.

Mr. Orunsolu said candidates will be examined in different trades such as tailoring, electrical installation, carpentry and joinery, hairdressing, barbing, catering, shoe making, among others. The test will be conducted in three Grades III, II, and I to accommodate participants at different levels of expertise.

He also noted that the proposed dates for the 2025 Trade Test are 18th October, 2025 for the Theory component and 21th October, 2025 for the Practical Test

Designated Test centres include Government Technical College, Ikotun, Government Technical College, Epe, Skill Acquisition Centre, Egbeda, and the Lagos State Examinations Board .

Mr. Orunsolu encouraged all eligible artisans and technicians to prepare adequately and take advantage of this opportunity to gain formal recognition for their skills. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to continuously support vocational and technical education as a cornerstone of sustainable development and youth empowerment.

Governor Sanwo-Olu set to Launch Omi Eko Project

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LASWA Felicitates Waterways Users on Eid-el-Adha, Emphasises Safety Compliance

The Lagos State Government is set to officially launch the Omi Eko Project, a flagship initiative aimed at revolutionizing water transportation and strengthening the state’s smart mobility network.

The grand unveiling will take place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Five Cowries Terminal, Falomo, one of Lagos’ most strategic intermodal transport hubs.

Organized by the Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA, the event will be graced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside top government officials, development partners, industry stakeholders, and members of the press.

Proceedings will commence at 10:00 a.m., featuring keynote addresses, a virtual project showcase, and the official unveiling ceremony by the Governor.

The Omi Eko Project represents a major leap toward sustainable and efficient transportation in Lagos. It will deploy over 78 high-capacity electric ferries, introduce digital ticketing platforms, and upgrade terminal infrastructure across key routes.

The initiative also prioritizes safety, technology-driven operations, and environmental responsibility, aligning with the administration’s goal of reducing road congestion and cutting carbon emissions.

According to LASWA, the project underscores the government’s vision of creating a modern, interconnected, and eco-friendly transportation system that supports both economic growth and urban livability.

The choice of Five Cowries Terminal as the launch venue is symbolic, reflecting its role as a model for intermodal connectivity, seamlessly linking land and water transport in line with the Lagos Urban Mobility Plan.

Governor Soludo Engages Non-Indigenes Ahead November Poll

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Governor Soludo Calls for Preservation of Igbo Culture at Iwaji Festival

As the November 8, 2025 election approaches, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has emphasized the importance of unity and active citizenship.

The Governor made the call while speaking to a diverse crowd, under the auspices of Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State, who converged in their thousands at the International Convention Centre (ICC) to endorse him for a second term

According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, “I am deeply humbled by the outpouring of sentiments received here,” the governor stated, acknowledging the endorsements for his second term.

He stressed the need for all Nigerians to embrace the principles of citizenship and shared responsibility, urging everyone to participate fully in the democratic process.

Soludo, who described himself as a product of Nigeria’s independence, championed the idea of a united nation, declaring that the stanza that says in the national anthem, “In brotherhood we stand… shouldn’t be taken as ‘mere words’. He emphasized the need to “Work the talk as well as Live it out every day”.

He highlighted Anambra’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “Once you live in Anambra, you are from Anambra and treated equally.”

The governor also reflected on his administration’s policies, noting that in its first nine months, it successfully recruited 8,115 teachers from 18 different states, demonstrating an inclusive approach to governance.

“The best driver I’ve ever had is not from Anambra. The finest minds I’ve dealt with are from across the Country. We are one,” he emphasized.

In his presentation, Soludo outlined key initiatives his administration has implemented, including free education for pupils and students in government primary and secondary schools and free antenatal care for pregnant women and delivery services across the state. “These services are for everybody, no matter where you are from,” he asserted, reinforcing a sense of belonging among all residents.

Looking ahead, the governor called on citizens to engage actively in the electoral process. “Wherever you live, should be your home,” he stated, urging individuals to mobilize and ensure they are ready to vote in the upcoming elections. “It is the duty of every citizen to vote, come November 8,” he implored.

Governor Soludo concluded his address with a call for a greater dedication to service, encouraging community ownership of the campaign narrative. “This is the first time in Anambra where the people themselves have taken ownership of the campaign, donating sums to the campaign.

We are only still at the introductory stage of developing Anambra,” he remarked, as he encouraged collaboration among all stakeholders to create a state that reflects their shared values and aspirations.

At the gathering, various representatives expressed their admiration for Governor Soludo’s leadership. Gidado Sadiki from the Fulani Community and Moses Agbom from Ebonyi State were among those who spoke, highlighting the governor’s commitment to fostering unity. Individuals from Akwa-Ibom and Igala, and others, also voiced their appreciation, emphasizing the importance of representation in governance.

They collectively acknowledged Governor Soludo’s efforts in recognizing and including diverse communities within the state. Their praise demonstrated the positive impact of his leadership and the sense of belonging he has cultivated among various groups, building a more inclusive political environment.

Experts Call for Institutional Reforms, Democratic Renewal as LASU Hosts Conference on Nigeria at 65

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Experts Call for Institutional Reforms, Democratic Renewal as LASU Hosts Conference on Nigeria at 65

Scholars, policymakers and university leaders have called for deep institutional reforms, inclusive leadership and a renewal of civic consciousness to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and reposition the country for sustainable development.

This call came during the International Conference on “Diversity, Democracy and International Relations” organised by the Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lagos State University (LASU), in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

The two-day event, held from October 8 to 9, 2025, at the Femi Gbajabiamila Conference Hall, LASU Main Campus, Ojo, brought together intellectuals, government officials, diplomats, and students to reflect on Nigeria’s post-independence journey and evolving place in the global order.

In his welcome address, Acting Head of Department, Abdul-Wasi Babarinde Moshood, said the 2-day conference provides a platform to discuss key national questions such as “Pax Nigeria: incentives, challenges, realities and Nigeria’s democracy.

He urged participants to critically reflect on the mistakes and lessons from 65 years of independence while reimagining the country’s future.

Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, described the gathering as a “timely reflection” on Nigeria’s democratic experiment and a reaffirmation of LASU’s intellectual leadership in the national discourse.

She noted that Nigeria’s 65-year experience had been one of “trials, triumphs, and tenacity,” stressing that universities must play a key role in shaping governance and development ideas.

“This conference sustains an intellectual tradition that keeps alive the culture of critical engagement with our national realities,” the Vice-Chancellor said. “As we mark 65 years of independence, we must not only celebrate but also interrogate how diversity, democracy and institutional integrity intersect in building a more resilient Nigeria.”

Professor Olatunji-Bello also expressed appreciation to LASU alumnus Abolaji Toheeb Alabi (Flexaago) for a symbolic contribution to the university, dedicating the gesture “to the entire LASU community.”

Delivering the keynote address, Emeritus Professor Bayo Adekanye of the University of Ibadan traced Nigeria’s institutional and political crises to its historical foundations. He described the country as a “product of imperial construction,” adding that without confronting the structural legacies of colonialism, efforts at democratic consolidation would remain fragile.

“Nigeria is a business creator. Nigeria is an artificial state,” Adekanye declared, noting that the persistence of ethnoregional fragmentation and weak state institutions stemmed from the “fragile architecture of amalgamation and elite bargaining” that shaped the country’s origin.

He urged policymakers to move beyond “ethnic arithmetic” in leadership selection and instead strengthen public institutions to serve citizens equitably, warning that continued elite dominance without institutional balance would perpetuate inequality and public distrust.

In his own address, Professor Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and former Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, urged Nigerians to re-examine the narrative of state failure. He argued that Nigeria’s problem is one of state fragility — not collapse — and that rebuilding trust between state and citizens remains crucial.

“Most of you say, ‘this house has fallen,’ but I tell you, the house is fragile, not fallen,” Osaghae said. “Our challenge is to strengthen the state, not to despair about it. Fragility is an opportunity for innovation, for redesigning systems that no longer serve their purpose.”

He linked this fragility to institutional weaknesses, elite capture, and poor accountability, insisting that reform must begin with the re-professionalization of the public service and the devolution of power to ensure better governance outcomes.

Participants at the event emphasized the need for merit-based leadership, institutional autonomy, decentralization, and civic education. Many agreed that Nigeria’s democracy could only flourish when citizens are informed, institutions are trusted, and governance is transparent.

The event featured paper presentations which further examined issues such as democratic consolidation, gender inclusion, foreign policy direction, and the impact of digital technologies on governance.

WAEC Reaffirms Readiness for CB-WASSCE, Dispels Rumours on Subject Changes

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WAEC Reaffirms Readiness for CB-WASSCE, Dispels Rumours on Subject Changes

Head of the Nigeria National Office of the West African Examinations Council, WAEC, Mr. Amos Dangut, has reaffirmed the Council’s readiness to fully implement the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination, CB-WASSCE, beginning with the examination for private candidates scheduled for November 2025.

Speaking during an awareness campaign on the upcoming digital transition, Mr. Dangut assured Nigerians that the computer-based examination was not a pilot or a future concept but a proven reality.

“Some people are still doubting, some people are still wondering whether the computer-based WASSCE is a reality or not. Even though we have conducted five of such examinations, they still think it is a dream. But it’s not a dream, it’s a reality,” he declared.

He described WAEC as a trailblazer in digital examinations, emphasizing that the Council remains the premier and foremost computer-based examination body in the world.

Addressing concerns about internet access in rural areas, he assured that every registered candidate, regardless of location, would be able to write the examination seamlessly.

“Whether the candidate is offshore or onshore, in the UK or anywhere, once they register for our exam, they will write it,” he said confidently.

The WAEC boss also took time to dispel rumours circulating on social media that the Council had arbitrarily removed some subjects from its portal. He clarified that the adjustment followed directives from the Federal Government of Nigeria, which recently reviewed and streamlined trade-related subjects in the national curriculum.

“WAEC does not act arbitrarily. We are law-abiding and responsive to stakeholders’ mandates. Some subjects have been modified, but the content and syllabus remain the same,” he explained.

Mr. Dangut further highlighted the benefits of the computer-based model, noting that it eliminates logistical delays, enhances examination credibility, and significantly reduces malpractice.

“Records from the five examinations we have conducted show lower malpractice rates and better performance by candidates,” he said.

He also justified the Council’s ongoing nationwide sensitization exercise, stressing that it was necessary to prepare candidates and schools for the new examination format.

“You cannot test a candidate without preparing them for what to expect. That’s why we are sensitizing them and giving them opportunities to try the system before the exams,” he added.

Mr. Dangut expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their support and reaffirmed WAEC’s commitment to leveraging technology to promote credible and efficient assessment processes across West Africa.

205 Recruits Graduate from Police Training School, Iperu-Remo Amid IGP’s Charge to Serve with Empathy

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205 Recruits Graduate from Police Training School, Iperu-Remo Amid IGP's Charge to Serve with Empathy

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has charged newly graduated Police Constables to uphold the values of empathy, fairness, and dedication to duty as they begin their policing careers across the country.

He gave the charge during the Passing Out Parade (POP) of 205 Recruit Constables held at the Police Training School, Iperu Remo, Ogun State.

Egbetokun who was represented by the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, commended the recruits for their courage, loyalty, and integrity, noting that their six months of intensive training had tested their endurance, discipline, and determination.

The IGP explained that the recruits underwent a comprehensive and modern training curriculum designed to strengthen their knowledge of community partnership, intelligence-led policing, respect for human rights, and responsible use of authority.

According to him, with the graduation of this batch, the Nigeria Police Force has successfully passed out 20,000 Constables under his leadership.

He noted that presidential approval has been secured for the recruitment of an additional 30,000 Constables over the next few years, in line with President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to bridging manpower gaps in the Force and enhancing national security.

He further revealed that the newly graduated officers would be deployed to their respective states of origin in accordance with the Force’s community-oriented policing policy, a strategy aimed at building local trust, improving intelligence gathering, and deepening collaboration between the police and the communities they serve.

In his address, the Commandant of the Police Training School, ACP Aderemi Yusuf, psc, praised the recruits for their diligence and commitment throughout the training period. He disclosed that the officers received instruction in professional, legal, and liberal studies, as well as drills, musketry, and physical combat training.

He emphasized that the recruits were also trained to respect citizens’ fundamental human rights, reject corruption, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

Among the 205 graduating Constables drawn from the 20 Local Government Areas of Ogun State, several were recognized for outstanding performance.

The event was graced by dignitaries including AIG Olusola Subar (rtd), Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Security; Navy Captain O.A. Adesiyan, Commandant, Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Abeokuta; and Brigadier General G.U. Nwamba, Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala Barracks, Abeokuta, represented by Major A.S. Atunwa.

Also in attendance were CP Edward Ajogun (rtd), Security Consultant to the Ogun State Governor; CP Ayodele Sonubi (rtd), Executive Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Law Enforcement; Alhaji Asimi Jamiu, Chairman, Ikenne Local Government; and heads of other security agencies across the state.

The Ogun State Police Command congratulated the newly graduated Constables and urged them to uphold the core values of discipline, integrity, and service to humanity as they commence active duty.

Verdant Zeal’s 2025 Innovention Series to Ignite Fintech Conversation

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Verdant Zeal’s 2025 Innovention Series to Ignite Fintech Conversation

Leading Marketing Communications Group, Verdant Zeal Group Limited, is set to host the 13th edition of its flagship ‘Innovention Series’ with the theme; “Fintech & Inclusion: Pushing the Boundaries for Economic Growth in Nigeria”.

Scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, 2025, the event which will hold virtually, is billed to foster thought-provoking conversations that will help shape Africa’s socio-economic development.

Since its inception in 2012, the Innovention Series has served as a trusted thought-leadership platform for challenging conventional thinking, interrogating Africa’s development trajectory, and uncovering transformative ideas that drive progress.

This year’s edition, with the overarching theme of “Fintech and the Digital Economy,” will spotlight the role of fintech and the digital economy in shaping Africa’s future—bridging the gap between invention and innovation, fostering financial inclusion, and positioning the continent as a strong player in the global digital ecosystem.

Erudite scholar and boardroom technocrat, Dr. Segun Aina, who also is the President, Africa Fintech Network, will lead the conversation for this year’s event, as the Keynote Speaker. Renowned for his thought leadership in the digital finance sector, Dr. Aina will share insights on how fintech can serve as a transformative tool for deepening inclusion and driving sustainable growth.

The event will also feature a Fireside Chat session with Dr. Ogho Okiti, CEO of ThinkBusiness Africa, and Mrs. Aderonke Shogbola, Senior Manager, Business Intelligence & Analytics at eTranzact. Both speakers will unpack key issues around policy frameworks, data-driven innovation, and scaling fintech solutions for impact.

Speaking about the event, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi, Executive Vice Chairman of Verdant Zeal Group and Convener of the Innovention Series, noted that, the 2025 edition comes at a defining moment in Africa’s digital transformation journey.

“For over a decade, the Innovention Series has championed conversations that push boundaries and inspire action. As we explore fintech and the digital economy, our goal is to create a space for collaboration, where policymakers, innovators, and investors can chart a future that is inclusive, technology-driven, and distinctly African.”

The Verdant Zeal Chief further maintained that, “Fintech is redefining the way Africans access and use financial services. By embracing innovation, collaboration, and smart regulation, we can build inclusive systems that empower individuals, drive entrepreneurship, and create jobs at scale.”

This year’s Innovention Series seeks to inspire shared understanding, promote optimism, and accelerate Africa’s journey toward a digitally empowered future. It also underscores Verdant Zeal’s commitment to promoting narratives of African resilience, optimism, and opportunity through meaningful conversations that drive change.

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