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Rite Foods Clinches Triple Honors at 2025 Edge Awards

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Rite Foods Reiterates Commitment to Clean Energy

Rite Foods Limited has once again taken centre stage at the 2025 Edge Awards, formerly known as the Marketing Edge Awards, where it clinched three prestigious honours that underscore its reputation for excellence, innovation, and consumer trust.

At the highly anticipated ceremony, Rite Foods’ iconic Bigi Apple drink was named Outstanding Carbonated Soft Drink Brand of the Year, while its Bigi Beef Sausage Roll earned the title of Outstanding Sausage Brand of the Year.

The company itself was also crowned Outstanding FMCG Corporate Brand of the Year, a recognition that reaffirms its dominance in Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods sector and its consistent delivery of quality products that meet global benchmarks.

The Edge Awards, hosted annually by Nigeria’s leading brands and marketing publication, celebrates creativity and leadership within the Integrated Marketing Communications industry. Since its rebrand in 2024, the awards platform has expanded its focus on spotlighting brands that demonstrate resilience, competitive advantage, and sustainable growth in a fast-changing global marketplace.

Seleem Adegunwa, Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited, described the triple win as both historic and inspiring. He expressed gratitude to the company’s consumers and partners, noting that the recognition reflected the loyalty and trust that continue to fuel the brand’s success.

“These awards are not just an honour for our brands, but a testament to the firm loyalty of our consumers who inspire us daily. At Rite Foods, we are proudly Nigerian, but globally competitive. Our mission is to nourish lives, excite palates, and continually redefine excellence in the FMCG space,” he said.

With these accolades, Rite Foods has not only consolidated its leadership in Nigeria’s food and beverage industry but also reinforced its position as a homegrown company capable of setting global standards. Its triumph at the 2025 Edge Awards stands as a shining example of how a proudly Nigerian brand can innovate, compete, and excel on the world stage while refreshing millions of consumers every day.

Lagos Chief Whip Forum Commiserates with Somolu Council Boss Over Death of Councillor

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blacktalker
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Lagos Chief Whip Forum Commiserates with Somolu Council Boss Over Death of Councillor

Lagos State Chief Whip Forum has paid a condolence visit to the Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, following the passing of Hon. Basirat Oluwakemi Mayabikan, Councillor representing Ward F in Somolu.

The visit, which took place on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, was led by the Chairman of the Forum’s Board of Trustees, Hon. Eric Eninla Otinwa, alongside a delegation of Chief Whips and Deputies from across the state.

The group was warmly received by members of the 10th Legislative Arm of Somolu, led by the Leader of the House, Hon. Tunde James Oyeyiola, before proceeding to the office of Hon. Ashimi, who himself is a former Chief Whip and member of the Forum’s Board of Trustees.

In a condolence letter presented to the Council, Hon. Otinwa described the late Councillor Mayabikan as a selfless leader whose contributions left an indelible mark on her community. He prayed for the repose of her soul, asking that “the heavens welcome her with the same generosity and kindness she bestowed upon humanity.”

During the visit, the Forum joined a delegation of Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) executives who were also present to commiserate with the council. The APC team included Dr. Adeola Jokomba, State Secretary; Barr. Folashade Bakare, State Legal Adviser; Chief Sonola, Assistant Treasurer; and Mr. Asipa Doyin Banjo, Financial Secretary.

Both groups later accompanied Hon. Ashimi and members of the Somolu Legislative Council to the residence of the bereaved family. They offered prayers for divine comfort and presented a cash token to support the family in their time of grief.

The Lagos State Chief Whip Forum delegation included its executive members:

  • Chairman: Hon. Gbenga Nathaniel Akinbinu (GNA), Amuwo Odofin LG
  • Vice Chairman: Hon. Princess Saidat Adeoba Odeyemi, Ikorodu LG
  • Secretary: Hon. Catherine Yewande Ojesanmi, FLMI, Itire-Ikate LCDA
  • Assistant Secretary: Hon. Babayeju Samuel Oluwaseun Ayobo, Ipaja LCDA
  • Treasurer: Hon. Prince Ademola Ogubanjo, Bariga LCDA
  • Organising Secretary: Hon. Rasheed Akintunde, Lagos Island East LCDA
  • Assistant Organizing Secretary: Hon. Omolabake Shaki Onyeahasi, Oriade LCDA
  • Financial Secretary: Hon. Tijani Rotimi Owolabi, Ikoyi Obalende LCDA
  • Assistant Financial Secretary: Hon. Ajala Kehinde Adenike, Isolo LCDA
  • PRO (Public Relations Officer): Hon. Awolola Folashade, Ojodu LCDA
  • Welfare Officer: Hon. Yusuf Lukman Olanrewaju, Lagos Mainland LG
  • Ex-officio 1: Hon. Olusesi Olakunle Afeez, Eti Osa LG
  • Social Officer: Hon. Christiana Kuboye, Kosofe LG
  • Legal Officer: Hon. Ikugbayigbe Adeolu, Isolo LCDA
  • Chief Whip: Hon. Fashina Olufunmilayo, Alimosho LG

The condolence visit underscored the unity within Lagos political circles in honoring the memory of Hon. Mayabikan, who was widely regarded as a dedicated public servant.

Unity Bank Shareholders Approve Merger with Providus Bank

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blacktalker
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Unity Bank Shareholders Approve Merger with Providus Bank

Shareholders of Unity Bank Plc have approved the proposed merger with Providus Bank Limited, marking a major milestone in the business combination of the two financial institutions.

At the Court-Ordered Meeting held on September 26, 2025, at the OOPL Hotel in Abeokuta, Ogun State, 295 shareholders participated and deliberated on all items in the Scheme of Merger.

Of these, 293 shareholders representing 99.32% of total shareholding (₦4.4 billion in value) voted in favour of the resolutions, while 2 shareholders representing 0.68% voted against.

As part of the Scheme Consideration, Unity Bank shareholders will receive ₦3.18 per share or be allotted 18 ordinary shares of ₦0.50 each in Providus Bank Limited (credited as fully paid) for every 17 ordinary shares of Unity Bank Plc held.

Upon completion, Unity Bank’s entire share capital will be cancelled, and the Bank dissolved without winding up, while Providus Bank Limited will retain its certificate of incorporation as the enlarged bank.

Speaking on the development, Chairman of Unity Bank Plc, Hafiz Mohammed Bashir, said: “This approval by our shareholders is a strong vote of confidence in the merger and what it represents for the future. By joining forces with Providus Bank, we are creating a stronger, more competitive, and more resilient institution that will deliver long-term value to our customers, shareholders, and the Nigerian economy.”

He stated that the new name of the enlarged entity shall be Providus-Unity Bank, PUB to reflect the core loyalty present in the vast northern market.

The Chairman clarified to the shareholders during the Court-ordered meeting that the NGX lifted the suspension of trading of Unity Bank shares on the floor of The Exchange on 25th September 2025, with a remarkable crossing of 4.004Billion units of AMCON shares (representing 34% of issued shares of Unity Bank Plc) to an existing shareholder of Unity Bank and not to Providus Bank.

Shareholders also authorised the Bank’s Directors and Solicitors/Transaction Advisers to seek the necessary Court orders and take all required actions to give full effect to the Scheme. 

Analysts commend the shareholders for endorsing the merger to pave the way for the emergence of a financial powerhouse anchored on strong market positioning with the capacity to take on the competition on the strength of both traditional and modern digital Banking.

Lagos CP Warns Officers Against Extortion, Harassment, Phone Searches

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blacktalker
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Lagos CP Warns Officers Against Extortion, Harassment, Phone Searches

Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has cautioned officers and men of the Command against extortion, harassment, human rights violations and the unprofessional practice of name-calling, particularly against youths.

Jimoh gave the warning during a strategic lecture with Deputy Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and Heads of Departments, convened to discuss the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, as well as key operational issues within the Command.

He emphasized that policing in Lagos must be carried out “with a human face,” urging officers to respect the rights and dignity of every citizen. He noted that subjecting Nigerians to unnecessary hardship was unacceptable.

Specifically, the CP frowned at the practice of stopping youths on the road to check their phones, describing the act as prohibited except in cases where a device is directly linked to an investigation.

“Such actions must only take place in the course of a legitimate investigation, within the station, and in accordance with the law,” he said.

Highlighting recent achievements, Jimoh announced the arrest of several suspected criminals, including: Samsideen Oladiti, a.k.a. Shameleon, linked to two violent crimes; Jude Onouha, a suspected vehicle vandal who disguised as a security guard to gain access into estates and John Samuel, an ex-convict, armed robber, and hired assassin, arrested for attempted murder and armed robbery involving gold jewelry worth millions of naira.

The CP said these arrests underscored the Command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements. He urged residents to continue supporting the police by providing credible information to aid crime prevention and detection.

LASG Rallies Export Promotion Committee to Position State as Africa’s Leading Non-Oil Export Hub

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blacktalker
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LASG Rallies Export Committee to Position State as Africa’s Leading Non-Oil Export Hub

The Lagos State Government has charged its Export Promotion Committee to accelerate efforts toward positioning Lagos as the leading hub for non-oil exports in Nigeria and across Africa.

Speaking at a strategic committee meeting held at the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, MCCTI, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olugbemiga Aina, emphasized the urgent need for bold, measurable actions to diversify the state’s economy and expand its export portfolio.

“Lagos achieved a significant milestone in December 2024 with the commencement of coconut exports to Dubai. This proves that with value addition and adherence to standards, our products can compete globally,” Dr. Aina said.

He identified sectors such as coconut processing, fisheries, vegetable farming, and other Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) activities as critical areas where Lagos holds comparative advantage. The meeting, he noted, serves as a platform to evaluate progress and push forward an aggressive, coordinated export agenda.

Dr. Aina reaffirmed the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to supporting MSMEs through key initiatives, including: provision of industrial workplaces at subsidised rates, increased capacity building and innovation support, expanded access to finance via the ₦10 billion LASMECO (Lagos State Access to Finance through Cooperatives) programme and market linkage facilitation between MSMEs and international off-takers.

“If we increase exports, we diversify the economy, create sustainable jobs, and strengthen our resilience against external shocks,” he stated.

He also underscored that these efforts are in line with the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ Development Agenda, which prioritizes inclusive economic growth and public-private collaboration.

“Together, we have the capacity to make Lagos Africa’s foremost hub for non-oil exports. The responsibility is ours, and the time is now. Exports are not just about goods; they are about Lagos telling its story to the world.”

Also speaking at the meeting, a representative of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, NEPC, Mrs. Bolanle Emmanuel, noted that the Council is set to organise joint training programmes aimed at increasing both the range and volume of Nigeria’s exportable goods.

She noted that Lagos is well-positioned to lead the charge, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, which presents vast export opportunities for states that are proactive in readiness and compliance.

LASTMA Inducts 12 Top Journalists as Media Mayors

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blacktalker
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LASTMA Inducts 12 Top Media Professionals as Media Mayors

In a bold move to enhance public awareness and accountability in traffic management, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA has inducted 12 leading Nigerian media professionals into its newly launched “Media Mayor” initiative.

They are President of the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), Comrade Oki O. Samson, Kayode Ladeinde, Executive Editor, TVC News,Victor Oteri, Director of Programmes, Traffic Radio and Joshua Morakinyo, Lagos Television (LTV).

Others include Okunade Folarin, Bond 92.9 FM, Opeyemi Makinde, Adamimogo 93.1 FM, Adeola Oluwole, Publisher, Integrity News TV, Kazeem Bakenne, MD, National Moments News Online and Soares Olaniyi, Mainland FM.

The initiative aims to forge stronger partnerships between LASTMA and the media in advancing traffic discipline, public education, and operational transparency across Lagos.

The investiture ceremony, held on Wednesday, September 24, at LASTMA Headquarters in Oshodi, was presided over by the General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who described the initiative as a strategic response to the evolving demands of urban mobility and civic engagement.

Mr. Bakare-Oki explained that the Media Mayor programme is designed to formally integrate media practitioners into the traffic governance ecosystem of Lagos.

“This platform is not just symbolic—it entrusts you with a civic responsibility to support LASTMA’s public education efforts, deliver accurate traffic information, and hold us accountable,” he stated.

“The Media Mayors will serve as both communicators and conscience for the vision of a disciplined, technology-driven, and people-focused traffic system in Lagos.”

The initiative also aligns with the Lagos State Government’s THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritizes efficient transportation and environmental sustainability.

Speaking on the collaborative spirit of the initiative, Director of Traffic Advocacy at LASTMA, Mr. Awoyemi Jimmy, described the induction as a milestone in agency-media relations.

“It’s a win-win collaboration. We need your voices to highlight our progress, share accurate reports, and drive change in public behavior on Lagos roads,” he said.

Responding on behalf of the new Media Mayors, Comrade Oki O. Samson, praised the initiative as timely and essential. He emphasized their readiness to support LASTMA’s mission while advocating for responsible driving, ethical enforcement, and a better commuting experience for all Lagosians.

He also noted that under Bakare-Oki’s leadership, LASTMA has shown visible improvements in professionalism and public engagement.

“There’s been a remarkable transformation in the agency’s conduct and communication. This partnership will further strengthen those gains,” he said.

The inductees pledged to use their platforms to promote safety, spotlight traffic infractions where necessary, and support LASTMA’s ongoing reforms.

UNILAG’s Electric Bus Project to Eliminate Over 120 Metric Tons of CO₂ by End of 2025

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blacktalker
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UNILAG’s Electric Bus Project to Eliminate Over 120 Metric Tons of CO₂ by End of 2025

The University of Lagos, UNILAG is leading the charge in sustainable campus transportation with its Electric Vehicle, EV shuttle initiative, projected to cut more than 120 metric tons of carbon dioxide, CO₂ emissions by the end of 2025.

Launched in January 2025, the initiative is a joint effort between UNILAG, Ogata Global Resources, and Chart Eco Global Services. In its first six months, a fleet of 10 electric buses covered over 102,000 kilometres, reducing emissions by 16.78 metric tons of CO₂.

With an additional 20 EVs recently added to the fleet, making it a total of 30 buses, the university is now on track to achieve a 124 metric ton reduction by year’s end.

The impact is equivalent to planting and nurturing approximately 5,600 trees in a single year, highlighting the university’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),especially those related to climate action, clean energy, and sustainable cities.

The emissions data was verified by Chart Eco Global Services, which used international standards, including the UK’s DEFRA, the US EPA, and the IPCC 2006 Guidelines, to ensure accuracy and global best practices.

The tracking tool was based on the GHG Protocol for mobile combustion, developed by Clear Standards Inc. and the World Resources Institute (WRI), and further reviewed by the TETFund Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM) at UNILAG.

“This initiative is a proof of concept to decarbonise Nigeria’s heavily polluted transport sector,” said Itinulowa Okusami, CEO of Chart Eco Global Services. “More importantly, it proves we can scale sustainable mobility across schools and communities, making an even bigger impact.”

Henry Eke, CEO of Ogata Global Resources, echoed this sentiment: “This initiative is timely, especially given the current economic realities. The EVs provide a more affordable transport option while contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment.”

Also, environmental expert Dr. Okwong Walter of TCEBCEM confirmed the integrity of the emissions analysis and praised UNILAG’s bold steps in environmental stewardship.

“The initiative will significantly improve air quality on and around campus by reducing pollutants typically emitted by conventional vehicles,” he said.

Blacktalker reports that beyond the numbers, the initiative is setting a national benchmark for clean, inclusive mobility within higher education institutions. The UNILAG’s electric buses also demonstrate that sustainability is not just an aspiration,, it’s a practical, impactful strategy for shaping healthier lives and communities.

LASU Debunks Involvement in Viral NYSC Transport Arrangement

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blacktalker
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LASU Dominates National Kickboxing Championship with 19 Medals Haul

The Lagos State University, LASU has distanced itself from a viral poster circulating on social media, which claimed that the institution’s Students’ Affairs Division had arranged transportation for Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) heading to the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC Orientation Camps across the country.

According to the poster, the supposed arrangement would see buses depart from LASU’s Ojo campus at 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

However, in a statement issued by the Deputy Registrar/Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Thomas-Onashile, the university categorically denied authorising such logistics.

“The Students’ Affairs Division is not involved in any such arrangement and has not authorised any individual, group, or organisation to liaise with PCMs for transportation to NYSC camps,” the statement read.

LASU further clarified that transportation to orientation camps remains a private undertaking for PCMs and does not fall under the institution’s responsibility. The university also disclosed that it is taking steps to trace and address the impersonation.

While wishing all graduates a safe transition to camp, LASU urged corps members to exercise caution and avoid engaging unauthorised agents in order to protect their personal safety.

LASG TO HOLD 2025 WORLD TOURISM DAY CELEBRATION AT TARKWA BAY

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blacktalker
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LASG TO HOLD 2025 WORLD TOURISM DAY CELEBRATION AT TARKWA BAY

As preparations for 2025 World Tourism Day celebration continues, the Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning the State’s beaches as hubs of sustainable tourism and investment.

Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, alongside delegates and other relevant stakeholders, on Monday, September 22, 2025, undertook a pre-event visit to Tarkwa Bay Beach, which will serve as the official venue for this year’s celebration which is slated on Saturday, 27th September.

Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka described Lagos as blessed with 183 kilometres of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean, stretching to the Badagry creeks, noting that these remain untapped treasures capable of competing with global tourist hotspots.

“This year, the Ministry is spotlighting Lagos beaches. With the right infrastructure and sustainable investments, our beaches can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international resorts like Cancun and the Maldives. We are determined to transform them into world-class destinations that not only attract tourists but also empower our people,” she said.

The Commissioner emphasised the State Government’s plans to upgrade infrastructure, strengthen security, and expand ferry transportation for easy accessibility to Tarkwa Bay.

She also announced capacity-building programmes to empower youths in the community as lifeguards, tour guides, and coastal guards as a way of ensuring safety while creating employment opportunities for residents of the area.

Benson-Awoyinka further highlighted the importance of collaboration with local residents, stressing that their active involvement in environmental management, hospitality, and cultural promotion would be central to sustaining Tarkwa Bay as a tourist destination.

In her remarks, the President of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators, NATOP, Mrs. Bolaji Mustapha commended the Lagos State Government for its proactive interventions, describing the government’s interest in upgrading Tarkwa Bay as a strategic step toward repositioning the beach as a preferred destination for both domestic and international visitors.

She reiterated that interventions in infrastructure, transportation, and youth training are critical to the success of the initiative.

The Beach Master of Tarkwa Bay, Mr. Tolulope Bradley also expressed gratitude to the State Government, noting that the community had long awaited such an intervention.

He assured full cooperation of residents in supporting government initiatives, particularly in environmental management, seafood services, and improved safety measures.

The inspection visit also featured discussions on enhancing the beach’s environmental state, electricity supply, availability of local cuisines for tourists, and specialised training for security operatives to ensure proper handling of visitors.

GTCO Reports ₦600.9bn Profit Before Tax for H1 2025

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blacktalker
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GTCO Raises ₦10bn Through Private Placement After Securing Regulatory Approvals

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, GTCO has announced its audited financial results for the half-year ended June 30, 2025, recording a profit before tax, PBT of ₦600.9 billion.

The results were filed with both the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

The performance was underpinned by a strong showing in core earning lines, with interest income and fee income growing year-on-year by 31.5% and 33.0%, respectively. This solid growth helped cushion the impact of the ₦493.01 billion fair value gains recognised in H1 2024, which did not recur in H1 2025, resulting in a 40% year-on-year dip in PBT.

GTCO also reported growth across its balance sheet, with total assets rising to ₦16.7 trillion and shareholders’ funds closing at ₦3.0 trillion. The Group maintained a robust capital adequacy ratio of 36.2%, while asset quality improved significantly as IFRS 9 Stage 3 loans dropped to 3.2% at bank level and 4.5% at group level, compared with 3.5% and 5.2%, respectively, in December 2024. Cost of risk also improved to 1.7% from 4.9% in December 2024.

The Group’s loan book grew by 20.5%, from ₦2.79 trillion in December 2024 to ₦3.36 trillion in June 2025, while deposit liabilities rose 16.6% to ₦12.13 trillion over the same period. In line with its performance, the Board of Directors approved an interim dividend of ₦1.00 per share for the half year.

Commenting on the results, Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, said the performance reflects the strength of the Group’s core business and its progress in building a diversified financial services ecosystem.

“Beyond the extraordinary one-off gains of last year, we are now driving sustainable growth with recurring earnings that highlight the resilience and scalability of our model. A key driver of this momentum is our continued investment in technology, particularly the comprehensive upgrade of our core banking systems, which is already delivering stronger uptime, greater efficiency, and increased capacity to scale as our customer base grows,” he said.

Agbaje added that across banking, funds management, pensions, and payments, the Group is leveraging its de-risked balance sheet to strengthen its market position while maintaining flexibility for future growth.

Overall, GTCO continues to deliver industry-leading financial metrics, posting a pre-tax return on equity (ROAE) of 60.4%, pre-tax return on assets (ROAA) of 10.6%, capital adequacy ratio of 36.2%, and cost-to-income ratio of 30.1%.

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc is a leading financial services group with operations across Africa and the United Kingdom. Its offerings span banking, payments, funds management, and pension fund administration.

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