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May Day 2025: CAPPA Urges FG, States to Prioritise Workers Welfare, Demands Implementation of Living Wage

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The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has saluted Nigerian workers on the occasion of this year’s International Workers Day, while also calling on government across all levels to implement a living wage as a necessary step to prioritise workers welfare.

CAPPA, in a statement, noted that workers are the backbone of the Nigerian economy, yet continue to suffer a variety of challenges, including exploitation, unsafe work conditions, inadequate wages, all within a shrinking civic space and bleak economic environment.

Referencing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and other statistical bodies, the nongovernmental organisation noted that between 2024 and 2025 for instance, workers have been at the receiving end of poor government policies which have worsened inflation, eroded real incomes and made basic goods and services increasingly unaffordable.

Worse yet, an estimated 13 million more Nigerians are projected to, by the end of 2025, join the existing 129 million others living below the poverty line due to ongoing inflation, according to the World Bank.

“Ironically, it is the neo-liberal and pro-market policies imposed by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Nigeria’s government through usurious loans and grants that are the main reasons behind the socio-economic crisis facing Nigeria today,” the CAPPA statement reflected.

While acknowledging the Nigerian government’s approval of a N70,000 minimum wage last year, the organisation stressed that the amount still falls short of what is needed to improve workers purchasing power amid worsening social conditions and the cost-of-living crisis.

All of these are compounded by some state governments’ failure to honour their commitment to a living wage for workers, the statement observed. According to media reports, no fewer than 20 states have yet to implement the new minimum wage for local government workers and primary school teachers.

A key issue for Nigerian workers is that even though their labour creates the wealth of the nation, they are compelled to live a life of want and misery. As a recent Oxfam report shows, the wealth of the 4 richest employers of labour in Nigeria has increased exponentially in the last two years whereas workers have seen a steep plunge in their purchasing power. For example, the new N70, 000 national minimum wage recently won by the labour movement has the same dollar-value as Nigeria’s minimum wage of N125 in the 1980s! What this means is that in actual sense, real wages have been on a standstill for at least 4 decades despite the increasing value and wealth the labour of Nigerian workers continue to create for the national economy.

Meanwhile, the statement also expressed shock that despite Nigeria’s severe unemployment and underemployment challenges, a staggering 90 per cent of expatriates are working in roles meant for Nigerians and without a work permit, according to Interior Minister, Olubunmi Ojo.

The nongovernmental organisation lamented that this situation not only continues to deprive qualified, unemployed Nigerians of the few good jobs, but also makes Nigeria a dumping ground for unqualified foreign labour.

CAPPA urged the government to seal the loopholes exploited by illegal expatriates to steal jobs reserved for Nigerians.

“This day serves as a reminder of Nigerian workers’ struggle for dignity, safety, and equity in and out of the workplace.

“Across many sectors, workers are not only demanding an adequate pay, they are also asking for the recognition of their rights to organise, the ability to voice their concerns, and safe working environments free from harassment and discrimination. ‘

“It is imperative that the government listens and act by implementing a living wage and people-centric policies that can offer workers a chance to survive,” the statement noted

CAPPA urged the government and employers of labour to take decisive actions to ensure that all workers receive fair compensation for their contributions, alongside benefits that support their well-being and development.

Furthermore, it canvassed special attention for marginalised groups, including women, youth, and informal sector workers, who often face additional barriers in the workforce.

“We urge labour unions to utilise this Workers’ Day celebration to advocate for improved working conditions and to support legislation that can alleviate the burdens of Nigerian workers,” the statement concluded.

EGO Foundation Empowers Over 10,500 Women Under SheEnabled Project in Ayobo-Ipaja, Lagos

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EGO Foundation Empowers Over 10,500 Women Through the SheEnabled Project in Ayobo-Ipaja, Lagos

The Enterprise Growth & Opportunities, EGO Foundation, with support from Access Corporation and Worden HCD, has completed the latest phase of its SheEnabled Project, empowering 10,533 underprivileged women and small business owners across the Ayobo-Ipaja area of Lagos State.

Blacktalker reports that the week-long intervention focused on financial inclusion, digital literacy and access to funding for women-led businesses.

The project also provided palliative support to the participants to further cushion the effects of Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges as the SheEnabled Project continues to serve as a practical model for scalable intervention.

The Executive Director of EGO Foundation, Toluwase Olaniyan explained that with over 25,000 women reached since its inception in 2021, the programme is closing the digital divide, promoting financial independence and laying the groundwork for inclusive economic growth in underserved communities.

“Many of these women have the will to grow their businesses but face barriers like low literacy, lack of access to credit, and unfamiliarity with digital tools,” said Olaniyan.

He noted that through a series of practical training sessions, held indoors and within community clusters, participants were equipped with skills in bookkeeping, financial management, savings for investment and digital tools for business growth.

A key feature of the programme was the Train-the-Trainers segment, which identified and equipped selected participants to cascade the training within their communities. This model was designed to ensure sustainability, community ownership, and long-term impact.

In her remarks, the Iyaloja representative (market leader) of Ayobo-Ipaja, who was in attendance, praised the initiative, saying: “This programme is a timely intervention. SheEnabled was designed to address these gaps in a hands-on, community-rooted way.”

Our market women need this kind of support to improve how they run their businesses. I’m proud to see our community prioritized and empowered in such a meaningful way.”

ZENITH BANK FETES SHAREHOLDERS WITH DIVIDEND PAYOUT OF N195.67 BILLION

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ZENITH DIVIDEND PAYOUT

Shareholders of Zenith Bank Plc, at the 34th Annual General Meeting (AGM) have approved the proposed final dividend payment of NGN4.00 per share, bringing the total dividend for the 2024 financial year to NGN5.00 per share, with a total value of NGN195.67 billion.

The Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, thanked the shareholders for their unflinching support and commitment, which have been responsible for the bank’s stellar performance over the years.

He noted that despite challenges globally in 2024, Zenith Bank was able to leverage the opportunities within the environment of each subsidiary to record a performance that solidly attests to the bank’s resilience as a brand.

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, expressed her appreciation to the shareholders for their commitment and support, promising quantum leap in dividends going forward.

According to her, “This is the first time that I am addressing the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in my capacity as the first female GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank. I would like to thank you for your confidence and support that has placed me in this position today”.

She further said that “Zenith Bank is committed to, not only meeting your expectations, but exceeding them. We are focused on running a very efficient and sustainable institution that is resilient and will ensure that our institution outlives many generations to come”.

Talking specifically about dividend, she emphasized that “If you look at our dividends trajectory, payments over the period have always increased and we will continue to maintain this record. We have successfully completed our recapitalization exercise, achieving 160% subscription. Therefore, we are not under any pressure to go back for the second time to raise funds. Zenith Bank has sufficient capital buffer to do business and we will continue to delight our shareholders. We are committed to growing our topline organically while adhering to our strict corporate governance culture.”

Dr. Faruk Umar, President of the Association of the Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), applauded the Group Managing Director for her efforts in ensuring the growth of the bank’s financial indices.

He said, “We are very happy that the bank is paying us N5. Most importantly the GMD/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, has done so well. In the past year, she won the award for the Banker of the Year which is very commendable, and all the bank’s indices have gone up; we are now experiencing trillions in profit against N676 billion the previous year, and the shareholder’s funds, the gross earnings – everything now is in trillions. I think this is very commendable. The bank has won so many awards – no bank in Nigeria has won such qualitative awards like they have. They also surpassed the capitalization threshold of CBN by 160% – this is unprecedented. We are very happy with their performance.”

Speaking on the dividend payout, Chairman, Trusted Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Otunba Mukhtar Mukhtar said: “The consistency of Zenith Bank dividend payout has never been matched in Nigeria. Since the inception of this bank, they have kept giving shareholders a consistent dividend payout, and this has made shareholders to be richer, happier, and more excited at the hardwork, performance and commitment of the bank.

We are very happy. If you look at the Profit Before Tax (PBT) and the Profit After Tax (PAT), they have been able to cross the N1 trillion threshold. They have given us a Profit Before Tax of N1.3 trillion, which is very commendable. The shareholders, as you have seen at the meeting, have expressed their happiness and joy about this performance. I am grateful to the Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR, the Management and the Board for such an outstanding performance.”

Ambassador Dr. Olatunde Okelana, the Balogun Olugbon of Orile- Igbon, Oyo State, also commented on the bank’s dividend payout.

In his words, “Zenith Bank investment has been the best for me. I want to believe that whoever has not invested in Zenith Bank has lost. Their dividend policy is very palatable, very beautiful in the banking industry and the lady at the helm of affairs is performing wonderfully well.

She is one of the best female CEOs in the banking Industry in Nigeria. I am a capitalist, so I invest where my money can give me beautiful returns. I want to tell you that Zenith Bank has been the best in the capital market and it is the best investment. Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR, the Founder & Chairman, is a benefit to mankind, he has done the best by giving us Zenith Bank. 99.9% of my savings is in Zenith Bank, because I have confidence in them and in the Management led by Dame Dr. Adaora.

I want to encourage many Nigerians to invest in Zenith Bank so that they too can reap the fruit of their labor as soon as possible. I am very happy to be a shareholder of this bank. Chief Timothy Adesiyan, President of the Shareholders Solidarity Association of Nigeria, praised the Chairman and Management of Zenith Bank for their consistent delivery of value to shareholders.”

He noted, “The dividend we received this year of N5 has been a promise which they have given to us at several forums which they have called at different times, and we thank them for not failing us in their promise. I am very proud to be a shareholder of Zenith Bank, and also their customer. The bank is a very reliable bank – if you keep your investments in Zenith Bank, you can go to sleep because there is always somebody there watching your investment for you.”

The bank’s robust financial performance in 2024 alluded to its commitment to continually delivering value to its investors in spite of challenging macroeconomic conditions.

Zenith Bank Group achieved a remarkable double-digit growth of 86% in gross earnings, from NGN2.13 trillion in the previous year to NGN3.97 trillion in 2024. This was driven by a 138% increase in interest income, supported by investment in high-yield government securities, and growth in the Bank’s loan book.

Blacktalker reports that customer deposits grew by 45%, reflecting the bank’s market leadership and customers’ trust. Total assets rose by 47%, underpinned by a strong liquidity position and effective balance sheet management.

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognized as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the fifteenth consecutive year in the 2024 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker Magazine.

The Bank was also awarded the Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and 2024; and Best Bank in Nigeria for four times in five years, from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards.

Soludo Congratulates Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor on His 18th Episcopal Consecration Anniversary as Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese

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Soludo Congratulates Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor on His 18th Episcopal Consecration Anniversary

Governor Charles Soludo has conveyed his most heartfelt congratulations to Most Rev. Paulinus Chukwuemeka Ezeokafor on the auspicious occasion of his 18th Episcopal Consecration Anniversary as the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese.

In his goodwill message, Governor Soludo extols Bishop Ezeokafor for having shepherded the Catholic faithful in Awka Diocese with exceptional dedication, steadfast faith, and profound wisdom for the past remarkable eighteen years. He stated that the esteemed cleric’s passionate leadership has not only strengthened the spiritual fabric of Anambra State but has also contributed immensely to its social and moral development.

In a release form the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo commends Bishop Ezeokafor’s tireless efforts in youth empowerment, promotion of Christian values, and humanitarian service to the less privileged.

Soludo stated that the Bishop’s numerous initiatives have touched countless lives and continue to make our state a better place for all, together with his consistent advocacy for peace, justice, and development in Nigeria during challenging times.

Therefore, Governor Soludo wishes Bishop Ezeokafor well on his Episcopal milestone, praying that God grants him continued strength, wisdom, and good health as his ministry continues to flourish and bring forth abundant fruits for the glory of God and the benefit of humanity.

Professor Johnson-Bashua Delivers LASU’s 105th Inaugural Lecture, Advocates Gender Equality in Religious Spaces

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The 105th Inaugural Lecture of Lagos State University (LASU) took centre stage on Tuesday as Professor Adepeju O. Johnson-Bashua, an eminent scholar in the fields of Comparative Religion and Gender Studies, addressed the complex intersections of gender, religion, and culture in contemporary African society.

The lecture titled “Historicising, Contextualising, and Justifying Women’s Aluta Continua in Unkind Religious Spaces.” was held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium with members of the academic community, students, family and dignitaries in attendance. 

In a compelling and thought-provoking presentation, the professor examined how institutionalized religions, particularly Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion (ATR), have historically restricted women’s access to leadership roles and equal participation. Drawing on theological, historical and cultural analysis, she argued that while religious texts are often interpreted in ways that marginalize women, these interpretations are not immutable.

“Each religion has its own standards for evaluating the status of women,” she noted. “However, across many religious traditions, women’s voices have been systematically silenced, and leadership roles denied.” Citing scholars such as Linda Woodhead and Karl Barth, she highlighted how Christian theology in particular has reinforced patriarchal structures, with women seen as subordinate to men both in the home and in religious practice.

Despite these barriers, Johnson-Bashua emphasized the resilience of women within faith communities. “The feminist consciousness has awakened a new narrative,” she said, “where women’s roles as mothers, wives, and spiritual leaders are now being redefined as instruments of empowerment rather than subjugation.”

Her lecture further explored how patriarchal cultural norms embedded within African societies amplify religious gender biases. She argued that the fusion of culture and religion in Africa has created a structural hegemony that sustains gender inequality, noting that “religion, for it to remain relevant, must include the active participation of all genders.”

In her concluding remarks, Professor Johnson-Bashua called for transformative change across various sectors to foster genuine gender equality, especially within religious institutions.

Her recommendations included:

Global Policy Commitment: She urged the United Nations to reaffirm and enforce the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) as a binding constitutional obligation for all nations.

Scriptural Reinterpretation: A proper theological reassessment of scriptures is necessary to highlight the original egalitarian visions present in religious texts.

Cultural Re-evaluation: The professor advocated for a critical overhaul of traditional cultural perceptions that portray women as inherently inferior.

Poverty Alleviation: She emphasized the link between economic disparity and gender discrimination, calling for policies that empower women economically.

Education Reform: Johnson-Bashua stressed the importance of female education as a key driver of social change, quoting her own belief that “to educate a woman is to educate a nation.”

Clerical Attitudinal Shifts: She encouraged more empathy and acceptance within religious leadership, particularly from male clergy toward their female counterparts in theological fields.

Professor Johnson-Bashua’s lecture concluded with a passionate call for inclusion and justice in faith spaces. “Women’s struggle for equality is far from over,” she declared, “but their courage and contributions remain critical in reimagining a more equitable and inclusive future for all.”

Fidelity Bank’s FY 2024 Performance Praised by Shareholders

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FIDELITY BANK
L – R: Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer, Mr. Stanley Amuchie; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; Chairman, Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi; and Company Secretary, Mrs. Ezinwa Unuigboje; (all of Fidelity Bank Plc) at the bank’s 37th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos recently.

Shareholders of tier one lender, Fidelity Bank, have applauded the board and management of the bank for delivering an outstanding performance in FY 2024.

Speaking at the bank’s 37th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held virtually on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the National Chairman of The Progressive Shareholders Association, Chief Boniface Okezie, praised the bank, saying, “This is a superlative performance and we the shareholders are grateful to management and staff for giving us a bank to be proud of.

It is also important to note that the bank has earned its spot as one of the top 3 dividend-paying financial institutions in Nigeria.”

On his own part, the Chairman, Zonal Shareholders Committee, Sir Tunji Okelana, recognized the bank’s exceptional leadership, which has seen the bank grow to unprecedented heights.

“The achievements of the current MD have surpassed that of everyone who held that office before her. In addition, staff working with her are assets. They are truly ‘Fidelity, they keep their word’. Without any doubt, I am very happy with the bank”, he declared.

In his remarks at the meeting, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi, said, “Despite the global economic headwinds, we demonstrated exceptional resilience, achieving record breaking growth across all performance indicators, most notably our Profit Before Tax (PBT)”.

He further added that the bank’s stakeholders were all pleased with the success of the first stage of the capital-raise exercise. “The oversubscription of 237.9% in the Public Offer and 137.7% in the Rights Issue is a testament to the strength of our brand and the confidence the investing public has in us. Equipped with this vote of trust, we will proceed swiftly and conclude the second tier of our capital-raise exercise”.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe in her statement to shareholders, shared the strategic outlook to build on the bank’s FY 2024 success stating that, “Our priorities in 2025 financial year are to complete the next phase of our capital raise and further strengthen our asset base, enhance operational efficiency and digital innovation and explore strategic regional expansion into select African markets.”

According to the bank’s 2024 annual report available on its website and distributed to shareholders, the bank recorded an impressive 210% growth in Profit Before Tax to N385.2 billion. Gross Earnings increased by 87.7% to N1,043.4bn, driven by 106.9% growth in interest and similar income to N950.6bn. The bank also witnessed an impressive 47.9% growth in deposits from N4.0trn in 2023FY to N5.9trn while Advances grew from N3.1tn in 2023FY to N4.4tn in 2024FY.

Several resolutions were considered and passed at the AGM, including the declaration of a final dividend of N1.25 kobo, the election of non-executive directors -Alhaji Abdullahi Sarki Mohammed and Ms. Obiaku Augusta Okam; the election of Mr Sufiyanu Ibrahim Garba as executive director; and the re-election of non-executive directors -Mr Mustapha Chike-Obi and Engr Henry Obih, among others.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
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Wanted: Blueprint For Nigeria’s Waste Management Crisis

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By Ogunlade Olamide and Esi-Ife Arogundade

Published by Blactalker

The fantasy that natural resources are inexhaustible and are always renewable, despite the overwhelming amount of waste generated has been dispelled by the alarming decline of our environmental health.

The global waste crisis is staggering. Annually, it is on record that more than 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste are generated, yet a mere 9 percent of plastic waste is recycled worldwide, contributing to around 5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The world is struggling to cope with this escalating problem of waste management. In 2019, the Global Material Footprint reached a staggering 85.9 billion tonnes, representing a significant increase from 73.2 billion tonnes a decade earlier, according to the United Nations. Furthermore, the volume of electronic waste, including discarded smartphones, tablets, and other devices, surged by 38 percent in the same year, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions.

Similarly, Nigeria faces a daunting waste management challenge, with statistics painting a grim picture. Annual waste generation in the country stands at 32 million metric tons, with a 20-30 percent collection rate. Daily waste generation per capita is approximately 0.51kg, with total waste expected to reach 107 million tonnes by 2050. The country also generates 1.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with a below 10 percent recycling rate. These statistics have ranked Nigeria among the world’s worst waste management offenders, with far-reaching environmental and health consequences, including greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and land degradation.

The theme of this year’s Global Recycling Day “Breaking Barriers: A Revolutionary Blueprint for the Waste Management Crisis”, is particularly poignant, as it serves as a timely reminder of the vital role recycling plays in combating climate change, preserving natural resources, and driving sustainable development. It cautions us against embracing habits that undermine our collective well-being and jeopardize the prospects of future generations.

Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to update its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as part of its obligation to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) present an opportunity to prioritize renewable energy sources, including waste-to-energy technologies, as part of a Just Transition. The country must adopt policies that promote sustainable practices and guarantee the protection of its ecosystems while fostering economic development and social equity.

The fate of our planet hangs precariously in the balance, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable practices and environmental protection. This is why climate activists such as Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), believe that “addressing this challenge demands a concerted effort to promote recycling awareness, engage communities in sustainable initiatives, and develop innovative waste management solutions.” Oluwafemi further emphasized the importance of governments and stakeholders collaborating to establish an enabling environment, supported by forward-thinking policies and a robust legal framework.

In addition, Ogunlade Olamide, Asssociate Director (Climate Change) at CAPPA, notes that transitioning to a circular economy necessitates a deliberate shift in individual behaviour. “We must prioritize reducing, reusing, and recycling to achieve this goal,” he stressed. Olamide recommended minimizing the use of single-use plastics and opting for reusable alternatives, such as bags, containers, and water bottles. By embracing this approach, he maintained, “we can decrease greenhouse gas emissions, create new job opportunities, and drive sustainable economic growth.”

To build a sustainable future, we must dismantle the barriers posed by outdated infrastructure and adopt cutting-edge waste management solutions that prioritize environmental stewardship.

Olamide is the Associate Director (Climate Change) at CAPPA while Arogundade is a climate change advocate at CAPPA.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Empowers 1,700 Lagosians Through Micro Enterprise Support Initiative

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Governor Sanwo-Olu Empowers 1,700 Lagosians Through Micro Enterprise Support Initiative

In a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to poverty alleviation and economic empowerment, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday unveiled support packages for 1,700 micro-entrepreneurs under the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), hosted by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, MWAPA.

The event, held at De Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, brought together government officials, community leaders and beneficiaries to celebrate yet another milestone in Lagos State’s push for inclusive economic development.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, delivering his keynote address, reaffirmed his vision for a Lagos where every woman, youth, and aspiring entrepreneur has the tools and confidence to succeed.

“With MESI, we’re taking bold strides to make that vision a reality,” he said. “Over the past four years, we’ve invested over N8.4 billion in supporting over 12,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises. Today, we empower 1,700 more individuals who represent the heartbeat of our local economy.”

He emphasized that the initiative goes beyond financial aid. “We are unlocking potential, restoring dignity, and opening doors to brighter, more prosperous lives. This is not just a grant—it’s a call to action.”

As Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded, he called on all recipients to “go out there, be bold, be courageous and let your achievements light the way for those who follow in your footsteps.”

First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by wife of the Deputy Governor Oluremi Hamzat in her goodwill message, noted that the MESI programme is a shining example of the present administration’s commitment to empowering women and youths to become independent and key players in their various sectors.

Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada highlighted the impact MESI has made over the years.

“Since its inception, MESI has transformed thousands of lives through equipment, training, and startup capital. From barbing kits to agric tools, from sewing machines to photography gear—we are building an economy from the ground up.”

She credited Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ agenda for placing human capital development at the forefront of Lagos’s progress, and praised the 19 tuition-free skills acquisition centres across the five divisions of the state that are helping build sustainable livelihoods.

Hon. Dada urged beneficiaries not only to make productive use of the resources but to “mentor others, build sustainably, and become catalysts for a stronger, self-reliant Lagos.”

Blacktalker reports that beneficiaries received tools including Hairdressing kits, sewing machines, stoning machines, agricultural equipment, smoking kilns, pepper grinders, POS machines, photography equipment, carpentry tools, Barbing kits complete with clippers, sterilizers and generators.

GTCO Food and Drink Festival 2025: A Shared Experience of Culture, Cuisine, Enterprise

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GTCO Food and Drink Festival 2025: A Shared Experience of Culture, Cuisine, Enterprise

All is set for Africa’s most anticipated celebration of food, drink and culture as Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) announces the 8th edition of the GTCO Food and Drink Festival, scheduled to hold from Friday, May 2nd to Sunday, May 4th, 2025, at GTCentre, Plot 1 Water Corporation Drive, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos.

This year’s festival is themed “A Shared Experience”, highlighting how every meal tells a story stories of culture, community, and tradition that unite people across generations and geographies. The 2025 edition will feature 204 free retail stalls, showcasing the rich diversity and creativity of our food culture from traditional Nigerian dishes and regional delicacies to contemporary fusion cuisines, savory bites, refreshing beverages and gourmet desserts.

Attendees can also look forward to a series of masterclasses, where internationally renowned chefs and respected culinary experts will share practical insights, recipes, and techniques spanning a wide range of cuisines and disciplines.

In addition to the food exhibition and masterclasses, visitors will enjoy an expansive street food arena, offering a vibrant selection of popular local delicacies, and a dedicated children’s play area, ensuring a fun, safe, and memorable experience for the entire family.

Speaking on the significance of the festival, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje, said: “The GTCO Food and Drink Festival is a celebration of our rich cultural diversity and entrepreneurial spirit. Every meal shared is a reminder of our traditions and the universal language of food that connects us all.

Beyond the festivities, the festival reflects our commitment to supporting local enterprise—creating a free business platform where food retailers can connect with consumers, share their unique offerings, and take meaningful steps toward growth and long-term sustainability.”

At the heart of the festival is GTCO’s vision of Promoting Enterprise in support of small businesses, especially indigenous foodpreneurs. It is part of the Group’s broader commitment to creating Great Experiences for customers by offering meaningful opportunities for connection, growth, and shared success.

Admission to the GTCO Food and Drink Festival is free, and everyone is welcome to join in this extraordinary celebration of food, culture, and enterprise.

For more information on the event, please visit: https://foodanddrink.gtcoplc.com

About GTCO

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc) is a leading financial services group with operations across Africa and the United Kingdom. Renowned for its strong corporate governance, innovative financial solutions, and customer-centric approach, GTCO Plc provides a wide range of banking and non-banking services, including payments, funds management, and pension fund administration. The Group is committed to delivering long-term value to stakeholders while driving growth and development across its markets.

Mamuda Beverages Dragged to Court for Trademark Infringement With POP Power Energy Drink

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HASSAN-HAMMOUD-Chairman-and-CEO-of-Mamuda-Group-the-company-accused-of-trademark-infringement

Mamuda Beverages Limited, a Kano-based beverage company, has been dragged to court again with its Pop Energy drink, for allegedly violating the trademark of a well-established national brand, Fearless Energy drink.

Citing a blatant violation of intellectual property rights and a disregard for a prior court SETTLEMENT, Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company and makers of the country’s number one Energy Drink, Fearless, has filed fresh legal action against Mamuda for what a source described as a repeated identity theft, product passing off and fraudulent imitation of its premium brand to confuse consumers.

In January 2025, Rite Foods sued Mamuda for infringing on the trademark and design of its iconic Fearless Energy Drink with the launch of a lookalike product, Pop Power. However, Mamuda in an apparent admittance of guilt, sought for settlement, and based on certain terms, a court-approved consent judgment was granted.

Some of the terms of settlement included that Mamuda would desist from further violation of Fearless’ trademark and identity pass-off. It also agreed to destroy all infringing products and pledged to change its design and avoid any form of identity imitation.

However, in a move that has drawn widespread condemnation, Mamuda, after destroying its initial products with a stolen identity, has allegedly returned Pop Power to the market with only minor cosmetic tweaks, which is possibly more confusing to consumers.

According to reports, the revamped product continues to mislead consumers, many of whom still refer to it as “small Fearless,” a development that not only flouts the spirit of the content and character of earlier court-endorsed resolution but also threatens consumer trust.

A source close to applicants clarified that the company’s recent ex parte application, which sought for certain urgent protection, has not been denied, despite some misleading media claims. Rather, the Federal High Court in Abuja has decided to first hear Mamuda’s preliminary objection, a procedural formality that does not affect the strength of Rite Foods’ case.

Adding his voice to the issue, Aminu Danladi, a resident of Kano and longtime Fearless drinker, said: “Mamuda’s actions are not just disappointing — they are a grand deception to pass off the quality and explore the success of Fearless Energy drink. Rather than being original, they trying to exploit a well-established brand, which is against fair competition. I’ve been drinking Fearless since it launched. When friends started asking for ‘small Fearless,’ I was shocked. It’s unfair to hardworking brands that invest in originality.”

Reaffirming this stance, Faroq Ismail emphasised the need to protect brands that invest heavily in quality, creativity, and consumer trust from being undermined by opportunistic limitations that seek to profit from other companies’ innovations.

A source at Rite Foods Limited says, “As the leader in Nigeria’s energy drink sector, we owe it to our consumers, partners, and the broader business community to defend originality against opportunism,” the source added.

Since its launch, Fearless Energy Drink has transformed Nigeria’s energy drink landscape as the first proudly Nigerian-made brand packaged in PET bottles. With bold flavors like Red Berry and Classic, and a powerful brand spirit rooted in ambition and resilience, Fearless has become much more than a beverage — it’s a movement. The “I Can, I Am” spirit now drives a generation to push boundaries and chase success.

Backed by world-class production facilities and a vibrant Fearless Geng community, Fearless continues to set the pace, standing tall as the undisputed trailblazer in Nigeria’s energy drink market.

As legal proceedings unfold, this case could set a critical precedent for the protection of intellectual property rights and product identity protection in Nigeria’s fast-growing consumer goods sector.

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