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Open AI’s Africa Lead, Bank of America Chief, Others to Headline UNILAG 2025 International Week

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UNILAG MANAGEMENT INSISTS EXAMINATIONS WILL CONTINUE AMID ASUU DISPUTE

The University of Lagos, UNILAG is set to host some of the most influential voices in technology, finance, and governance at its 2025 International Week with the theme: “Equitable Partnerships and the Future of AI in Africa.”

Scheduled to run from October 13 to 17, 2025, at the university’s Akoka campus, the event will bring together global experts, policymakers, academics, and innovators to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, inclusive development, and international collaboration.

Among the headline speakers are Emmanuel Lubanzadio, OpenAI’s Africa Lead; Yvonne Ike, Managing Director and Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at Bank of America; Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Founding Partner of Future Africa.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, will also be in attendance, alongside international participants including Professor Diana Mitlin of the University of Manchester and Chief Executive Officer of the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC); Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS; Professor Matthew Waritay Guah of South Carolina State University, USA; and Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa, Acting Director of the NITDA IT Hub (Nithub).

Highlighting the event, Dr. Tijani, Lubanzadio, and Ike will deliver keynote speeches addressing equitable AI partnerships and Africa’s digital transformation. Another major session will spotlight Nigeria’s transition to digital procurement, featuring the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Dr. Adedokun, who will speak on transparency, inclusion, and innovation-led growth.

The week will also celebrate emerging African innovators, including Adeleke Eniola, a final-year Applied Physics student at UNILAG and creator of RiaScope, an AI-powered diagnostic tool designed to detect malaria affordably in low-resource communities.

Throughout the five days, plenary and technical sessions will tackle topics such as ethical AI governance, data stewardship, educational innovation, startup financing, and the digitalisation of governance systems. The convergence of diverse expertise is expected to yield policy recommendations, academic collaborations, and investment linkages that advance Africa’s digital future.

Speaking ahead of the event, Vice Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, said the university remains committed to building bridges between academia, industry, and government.

“By bringing OpenAI and other global actors to the table, we aim to ensure that Africa’s engagement with technology is equitable, forward-looking, and inclusive,” she stated.

The Director of International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects (IRPP), Professor Ismail Ibraheem, who also chairs the Planning Committee, noted that the International Week continues to strengthen UNILAG’s tradition of global engagement.

“Since its inception in 2019, the International Week has evolved beyond ceremony into a platform for practical collaborations,” he said.

UNILAG continues to lead partnerships with institutions such as Nottingham Trent University, African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC), AFRETEC Network, and various embassies and development partners, advancing research, mobility, and skills development initiatives across Africa.

Lagos Command Felicitates Police College on Passing Out Parade for 404 Recruit Constables

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Lagos Command Felicitates Police College on Passing Out Parade for 404 Recruit Constables

The Lagos State Police Command has congratulated the Police College, Ikeja, on the successful Passing Out Parade (POP) of 404 recruit constables, marking the completion of an intensive six-month training programme.

The colourful ceremony, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, signified the recruits’ formal transition from civilians to police officers. The new constables, drawn from Lagos, Osun, and Ekiti States, are among thousands passing out simultaneously from police training institutions across the country.

Delivering his address at the ceremony, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, congratulated the Commandant of the College, AIG Omolara Oloruntola, psc, and the newly graduated officers on the successful completion of their training.

IGP Egbetokun who was represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, mni, psc, noted that the ceremony marked another milestone in strengthening the foundation of policing in Nigeria, revealing that a total of 20,000 recruits have been trained since his assumption of office as IGP.

“Today’s occasion is another historic step in our collective journey to strengthen the foundation of policing in our country and deepen our commitment to national security and public safety,” Egbetokun said.

He emphasized that the recruits underwent rigorous training in modern policing standards, ethics, human rights, intelligence-led policing, and community partnership, all aimed at equipping them to meet the complex realities of 21st-century law enforcement.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his administration’s support to police reform and welfare through the Renewed Hope Agenda, including the recent approval for the recruitment of 30,000 additional constables annually to close manpower gaps in the Force.

“Under my leadership, the Nigeria Police Force remains fully aligned with the President’s vision to build a modern, reformed, and professional institution that Nigerians can trust and take pride in,” the IGP assured.

Highlighting the policy of community-oriented policing, Egbetokun disclosed that most of the new constables have been deployed to their states of origin to enhance trust and intelligence gathering between the police and the communities they serve.

“Your conduct must be guided at all times by professionalism, integrity, and respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens,” he charged the recruits. “Shun corruption, extortion, and abuse of power. The uniform you wear is a symbol of trust.”

The event was attended by the Governor of Lagos State, who was represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, senior police officers, and service commanders from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, NSCDC, FRSC, and other sister agencies.

Prominent traditional rulers in Lagos State and representatives of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Lagos State Chapter, also graced the occasion, lending their support to the newly commissioned officers.

The ceremony concluded with a parade display by the graduating constables, symbolizing a renewed commitment to service, discipline, and dedication to protecting lives and property across Nigeria.

Prof. Oluwatoyin Enikuomehin Emerges as LASU’s New Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration)

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Prof. Oluwatoyin Enikuomehin Emerges as LASU's New Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration)

The Senate of Lagos State University, LASU has elected Professor Oluwatoyin Ayokunle Enikuomehin as the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the institution.

The election, held on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, saw Professor Enikuomehin, a Professor of Computer Science, secure an overwhelming victory over Professor Ishmael Omah of the Department of Accounting, Faculty of Management Sciences, with 206 votes to 4.

Professor Enikuomehin currently serves as the Director of the Directorate of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) at LASU. He will succeed Professor Adenike Omotunde Boyo, who is set to complete her two-term tenure of four years on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

The election result is subject to ratification by the University’s Governing Council, after which Professor Enikuomehin is expected to assume office on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

Professor Enikuomehin’s emergence reflects the university’s commitment to continuity, academic excellence, and strong administrative leadership as LASU continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading public universities.

SUNU Nigeria Offers Free Screening to 150 Women

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SUNU Nigeria Offers Free Screening to 150 Women

In a renewed show of commitment to women’s health and wellbeing, SUNU Nigeria, comprising SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc and SUNU Health Nigeria Limited has launched the second edition of its annual breast cancer awareness initiative, Pink October 2.0, offering free screenings to 150 women across Lagos.

The initiative, which will run from Monday, October 27 to Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Diamed Medical Centre, Lagos, marks a significant expansion from last year’s outreach, which provided free screenings for 100 women, representing a 50% increase in beneficiaries.

Speaking on the initiative, Mrs. Japari Yusuf, Head of Corporate Services at SUNU Nigeria, highlighted the company’s drive to make healthcare more accessible:

“SUNU Nigeria is pushing this initiative for the second year because we want to ensure more people benefit and help them stay ahead of their health. Early detection is critical, and we are proud to use our ability to make vital health services accessible to more women.”

Through this campaign, SUNU Nigeria is deepening its corporate social responsibility efforts by promoting early detection and timely intervention, crucial steps in reducing breast cancer mortality.

Mr. Samuel Olayemi, Brand and Corporate Communications Officer, emphasized the company’s integrated approach to health and insurance:

“As a provider of both insurance and healthcare services, our mission extends beyond policies and premiums. This Pink October 2.0 campaign is a clear demonstration of our long-term commitment to the communities we serve.

We are deeply interested in providing comprehensive wellness and insurance services that empower Nigerians to live healthier and more secure lives.”

SUNU Nigeria, part of the SUNU Group with a presence in 17 African countries, continues to champion women’s health through sustained advocacy and community-centered initiatives. The organization believes that long-term, consistent action remains key in the fight against breast cancer.

Women interested in benefiting from the free breast cancer screening can register through the provided link: https://forms.gle/pN9TsAmKxcS26cWh8

Jameson Lights Up Lagos with Five Days of Culture, Creativity, Responsible Fun

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Jameson Lights Up Lagos with Five Days of Culture, Creativity,Responsible Fun

Lagos recently played host to a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community as Jameson Irish Whiskey brought its globally acclaimed Jameson Distillery on Tour (JDOT) experience to Nigeria’s entertainment capital.

The five-day event, which ran from September 26 to October 1, immersed attendees in the brand’s signature spirit of conviviality, blending Irish heritage with Lagos’ dynamic cultural rhythm.

From whiskey tastings and fashion markets to live music, skating, nostalgic games, and water park thrills, JDOT treated guests to a multi-sensory experience that celebrated connection, creativity, and conscious enjoyment.

The festivities began with WAF & Street Souk After Dark, a high-energy fusion of skating, fashion, and music that set the tone for the tour. This was followed by MIA & Vogue Boys, which infused the weekend with waterpark excitement, retro games, and standout performances.

As the week unfolded, Afrovibes on Orange Island showcased Afro-soul, acoustic, jazz, and violin performances in a vibrant display of Lagos’ evolving soundscape.

On September 30, Afro Jam, held in partnership with Deeds Magazine, spotlighted women’s voices and artistry through an all-female music lineup. The tour climaxed on Independence Day with the Mainland Block Party, which drew massive crowds for a grand musical finale that unified the city.

Speaking about the initiative, Evane Chenuet, Marketing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, said:

“Jameson Distillery on Tour has become more than an event; it’s a community. This year at Orange Island, we created a space where creativity, fashion, music, and culture come alive, connecting people in the true Jameson spirit of togetherness.”

Beyond the entertainment, JDOT reinforced Pernod Ricard’s long-standing commitment to responsible drinking through its ‘Drink More Water’ campaign, the company’s flagship Responsible Hosting initiative. The campaign encouraged guests to stay hydrated, drink mindfully, and embrace a balanced lifestyle, aligning with Pernod Ricard’s global Sustainability & Responsibility roadmap.

Rite Foods Limited Partners WIMBIZ Big Sister Programme to Inspire Young Girls

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Rite Foods Limited Partners WIMBIZ Big Sister Programme to Inspire Young Girls

Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company, has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and mentorship through its partnership with Women in Management, Business and Public Service, WIMBIZ for the annual 2025 WIMBIZ Big Sister Programme, held at Majidun Senior Grammar School, Ikorodu.

The programme, an initiative of Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), is designed to mentor and inspire young girls with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in their chosen academic fields, future careers, and personal lives.

Speaking at the event on behalf of Rite Foods Limited, Olukemi Ogunsakin, Corporate Communications Manager, charged the girls on resource management, resilience, and adaptability. She encouraged the students to take challenges as life’s way of moulding them into women of strength and virtue.

In her words, “At Rite Foods, we believe in supporting platforms that shape the future of our nation. By mentoring young girls on confidence, career, and entrepreneurship, we are contributing to building a generation of strong, capable, and visionary leaders. Our involvement in the WIMBIZ Big Sister Programme reflects our belief that when we invest in the younger generation, we invest in Nigeria’s brighter future.” She also reiterated that self-confidence, resilience, and courage are attributes of a future-focused woman and should be embraced with purpose and readiness.

Adding her voice, Olabisi Adebisi-Opatade, Legal Counsel, Rite Foods Limited, encouraged the students to choose their careers with confidence and clarity, emphasising that “The courage to choose wisely comes from self-discovery. When you know your values, embrace your strengths, and confront your weaknesses, you open the door to a career that is truly yours”.

She further noted that the WIMBIZ sponsorship highlights Rite Foods’ role not just as a producer of quality food and beverage products, but also as a brand deeply invested in mentorship, youth development, and empowerment in Nigeria.

This initiative aligns with Rite Foods’ sustainability framework, EYEC (Education, Youth Empowerment, Environmental stewardship, and Community development), which focuses on creating opportunities that nurture talent, inspire growth, and shape lives. Through programmes like the WIMBIZ Big Sister initiative, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering the next generation, while encouraging a more inclusive and progressive society.

Beyond this partnership, Rite Foods continues to take intentional steps towards implementing transformative initiatives that enhance the lives of youths and children in Nigeria. In May 2025, Rite Foods donated educational materials, including school bags and exercise books, to over 2,000 students in Ogun, Lagos, and Abuja.

NCSP Celebrates with China on Mid-Autumn Festival, Strengthens Bonds for Shared Prosperity

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NCSP Celebrates with China on Mid-Autumn Festival, Strengthens Bonds for Shared Prosperity

The Director General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, NCSP, Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of China as they celebrate the 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival, a season of joy, reunion, and reflection.

Observed this year on October 6, the Mid-Autumn Festival is one of China’s most cherished traditions, with a history dating back over 3,000 years to the Shang Dynasty.

Once a royal ritual linked to moon worship and agriculture, it evolved into a vibrant celebration of family togetherness, mooncakes, lantern riddles, and prayers for health, happiness, and harmony.

In his message, Mr. Tegbe noted that the festival’s spirit of unity and goodwill resonates deeply with the shared values of Nigeria and China, especially as both nations continue to strengthen ties that support economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.

“On behalf of the NCSP and the Nigerian people, I extend warm wishes to our friends in China for a joyful and memorable Mid-Autumn Festival. This celebration is a reminder of the importance of unity and shared prosperity principles that also guide our partnership with China,” Tegbe said.

He emphasized that China remains one of Nigeria’s most significant trade and development partners, with strong collaboration in trade, investment, infrastructure, agriculture, technology, human capital, and youth empowerment. Over the years, this partnership has secured more than $20 billion in investments, supported by commitments under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) 2024 framework.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s support for the One-China Principle, Mr. Tegbe reiterated NCSP’s role in bridging policy with execution by coordinating efforts across government agencies, the private sector, and diplomatic entities. He noted that this work is key to ensuring Nigeria fully harnesses its relationship with China for sustainable economic advancement.

As the Mid-Autumn Festival ushers in good tidings, NCSP joins the Chinese people in celebrating a tradition that not only honors the past but also points toward a future of mutual respect, stronger partnerships, and shared development.

SOLUDO WARNS AGAINST LEVY COLLECTION FROM PETTY TRADERS AS EKWULỌBỊA RALLIES

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Governor Soludo Calls for Preservation of Igbo Culture at Iwaji Festival

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has addressed a passionate crowd in a rally at Ekwulọbịa, calling for support for his candidacy and emphasizing the importance of the community’s involvement in local governance.

During the rally, the Governor made a strong statement regarding petty traders, urging local authorities to refrain from collecting fees from them.

The call stems from his visit to Eke market in Awgbu where it was observed that levies were still being collected from petty traders with less than one N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) capital, against government directive.

According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo stated, “Don’t collect from them anymore. We will arrest anybody that goes ahead to disregard this,” reaffirming his commitment to protecting the livelihoods of petty traders.

Governor Soludo expressed gratitude for the community’s support, declaring, “It is now a people’s movement.” He highlighted the significance of Ekwulọbịa, stating that while Jim Nwobodo had designated Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, and Ekwulọbịa as cities, the latter appeared to have been overlooked in the development plans.

“To become a real city, Ekwulọbịa requires serious planning,” he stated, proposing the establishment of a dedicated committee on town planning to facilitate this growth.

In addition to municipal reforms, Governor Soludo emphasized his administration’s commitment to social welfare, with a mention of the free education, free antenatal care, and delivery services for the underprivileged. He took a moment to commend the Ekwulọbịa community for its resilience and support in the face of challenges.

Earlier, Chief Joseph Okafor expressed his appreciation, stating, “Mr. Governor, you have achieved remarkable feats in just three years, not only in Aguata but across Anambra as well. We are truly thankful for your efforts.”

Dr. Chibueze Offorbike, the Mayor of Aguata Local Government Area, stated, “We have transformed from a rural to a semi-urban and now an urban local government area, courtesy of Governor Soludo. Thank you for making us proud. We assure you of our commitment from the wards to the polling units.”

Other speakers also commended Governor Soludo for his transformational strides within the State and Ekwulọbịa

A cheque of N80,000,000 (Eighty Million Naira) was presented to the Governor, alongside the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim to support his campaign.

Union Bank Champions Employee Wellness with Stay Recharged Health Walk

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Union Bank Marks International Day of the Boy Child with School Outreach in Lagos

Union Bank of Nigeria has held its first-ever Stay Recharged Health Walk, a dynamic event that affirmed the Bank’s steadfast commitment to employee well-being and sustainable workplace development.

The walk kicked off at the Stallion Plaza, Union Bank’s Head Office in Marina. It concluded at the Bank’s Sports Complex, The Stable, on Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, tracing an energising 7.5km route through Lagos’ vibrant streets.

The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from employees from diverse departments and locations made it a celebration of physical fitness, mental health, and the power of community spirit.

Stay Recharged is a featured event drawn from a cornerstone of Union Bank’s employee value proposition: employee wellness, thoughtfully crafted to foster a culture where health, happiness, and productivity flourish.

The initiative responds directly to the urgent need for purposeful wellness programmes that nurture both physical and mental health at work. It reflects the Bank’s recognition that employee wellbeing is fundamental to sustained productivity, engagement, and organisational excellence.

Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, Chief Talent Officer, emphasised the significance of this milestone event:
“At Union Bank, well-being is not an afterthought; it is part of how we work. Our inaugural Stay Recharged Health Walk reflects our commitment to building a culture where our people are energised, supported, and thriving. When we take care of ourselves, we build stronger teams and stronger institutions.”

The Stay Recharged Health Walk aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. This initiative reflects Union Bank’s commitment to fostering a workplace culture that prioritises employee wellness, supports decent and productive work, and contributes to long-term organisational sustainability.

By investing in these wellness experiences, Union Bank not only strengthens its internal community but also reinforces its reputation as an employer of choice.

Union Bank remains dedicated to developing innovative, health-focused programmes that inspire employees to adopt healthier lifestyles, supporting long-term growth for both individuals and the organisation.

Polaris Bank Kicks Off Customer Service Week with Re-commitment to Excellence

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Polaris Bank restates support for SMEs growth in Nigeria

Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to deepen delivery of exceptional customer experiences as it joins institutions across the world to celebrate 2025 Customer Service Week, with the theme: “Mission: Possible.”

The annual global event, which runs from today Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 10, is dedicated to recognising the vital role of customer service professionals and the value they bring to customers and businesses alike.

Speaking to customers and staff, the Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, emphasised that excellent service remains central to the Bank’s culture and success. He noted that while great service can sometimes seem like a challenge, it is always worth the effort.

According to him, Polaris Bank’s approach to service is anchored on consistency, thoughtfulness, and excellence, ensuring that customers experience genuine care and responsiveness in every interaction. Lawal expressed appreciation to customers for their trust and feedback, describing them as the reason Polaris Bank continues to push boundaries and innovate.

He reaffirmed Polaris Bank’s commitment to stand by its customers and deliver the kind of service they truly deserve every step of the way.

Throughout the week, Polaris Bank will host a variety of engaging activities across its branches and digital platforms to appreciate customers and recognise service champions within the Bank. These will include staff recognition events, customer appreciation sessions, and internal learning engagements aimed at deepening service excellence.

Customer Service Week for Polaris Bank, represents yet another opportunity to celebrate its people and customers, while reinforcing that with dedication and teamwork, great service is always a Mission Possible.

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