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Pernod Ricard Nigeria Partners FRSC on ‘Don’t Drink and Drive’ Campaign

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‘Don’t Drink and Drive’ Campaign

Pernod Ricard Nigeria, a leading wines and spirits business, has partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC to raise awareness about the dangers of drink-driving.

This campaign brings to life the Responsible Hosting pillar of Pernod Ricard’s global Sustainability and Responsibility commitment aimed at combating alcohol misuse. Through initiatives like this, Pernod Ricard supports UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-being – and empowers drivers to pledge, ‘I do not drink and drive.’”

This 3-day campaign, strategically launched at Easter, a time of renewal and reflection, presents the perfect opportunity to encourage safer, more responsible behaviour on our roads,”.

The campaign, themed “Safe Roads”, ran from 14th to 16th April, 2025. Key highlights of the campaign were the donation of breathalyzers and safety reflective jackets to the FRSC, followed by a Town Hall meeting on April 15.

This meeting brought together the sponsors, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, key government agencies, and representatives from commercial transport unions, including the FRSC, Lagos State Commissioner of Special Duties, Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), and the Road Safety Club of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), among others.

Speaking at the Townhall, Michael Ehindero, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, highlighted the dangers of drink-driving. He opined that eliminating driving under the influence (DUI), reduces one of the factors of road crashes.  “Every life lost is someone’s parent, child, or friend. The message was clear: “If you Drink, Don’t Drive”.

Corps Commander Kehinde G. Hamzat, FRSC, Lagos Sector Command, reiterated the need for caution on the road by road-users and respect for driving regulations during this busy festive season and beyond. He also introduced the FRSC’s mobile app and emergency telephone line 122, encouraging users to report reckless or impaired drivers in real time on the application.

Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, representative of the Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties, commended Pernod Ricard’s initiative, pledging the State Government’s support for collaborative efforts toward safer, accident-free roads.

At the motor parks visited, the NURTW Chairmen expressed gratitude to Pernod Ricard and the FRSC, promising to extend the campaign’s message to their members and ensure adherence.

This campaign aligns with Pernod Ricard’s long-standing advocacy for moderation. Since 2021, its ‘Drink More Water’ campaign has encouraged hydration and mindful consumption, reinforcing the message that enjoyment and responsibility go hand in hand.

Jamara Home Celebrates Easter with Unbeatable Deals, Smart Home Solutions

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jamara home

Jamara Home, Nigeria’s trusted name for reliable electronics and home appliances, brings extra cheer to Easter with unbeatable discounts and exciting offers across its wide range of premium products.

As families gather and homes come alive this Easter season, Jamara is making it easier for customers to upgrade their living spaces with innovative appliances and smart home solutions from the world’s most reliable brands.

From smart TVs to energy-efficient refrigerators, air conditioners, and kitchen essentials, Jamara Home continues to raise the bar with a carefully curated selection of over 40 global brands, including Sony, Samsung, TCL, Aeon, Toshiba, JBL, and more.

These offerings reflect Jamara’s commitment to delivering quality, affordability, and everyday convenience to homes across Nigeria.

“Our goal is to make premium living accessible for everyone, especially during moments that matter,” says Rabi Jammal, Managing Director of Jamara Home. “Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing festive meals, or simply looking to refresh your space, our 33% Easter discount deals provide the perfect opportunity to shop smarter and better.”

With a growing network of nationwide showrooms and service centers, alongside a seamless online shopping experience at www.jamarahome.com, Jamara Home ensures convenience is never compromised. From product selection to after-sales support, the brand continues to deliver on its promise of authenticity, innovation, and excellent customer service.

Visit the nearest Jamara Home showroom or explore online for incredible Easter offers designed to enhance comfort, functionality, and style all season long.

JMG Limited Marks World Creativity and Innovation Day

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JMG

JMG Limited, a premier provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria has commemorated this year’s World Creativity and Innovation Day, WCID.

WCID is a globally recognised event to create awareness about the importance of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development and in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs.

With the theme ‘step out and innovate’ and celebrated annually on 21 st April, World Creativity and Innovation Day which also focus on teamwork and collaboration, has been observed by organisations and governments in over 50 countries since 2002.

Commenting on this milestone, the Group General Manager of JMG Limited, Rabi Jammal, stated that the company recognises the importance of creativity and innovation hence its giant stride in the delivery of products and services of high standard to enhance clients’ businesses.

Jammal affirmed that the company constantly innovates in its offerings in power generation, electrical infrastructures, vertical transportation, cooling systems, solar energy (including Lithion and Livfast inverters) and air compressors, from power to plug, considering its leading position in the electro-mechanical solutions sector.

He said JMG takes into consideration that creativity and innovation add value to the provision of solutions that leads to increased productivity, the reason the company is considered the market leader in its spheres of operation.

With a strong portfolio that includes advanced energy products such as hybrid inverters, grid-tied and off-grid inverters, coupled with high efficiency solar panels, JMG continues to push boundaries. Even more exciting innovations are on the way, including a new line of gas-powered generators, an increasingly in-demand solution; all backed by a team of skilled engineers and industry professionals.


These engineers, including staff from other disciplines working across various functions, form a core part of delivering unmatched solutions while driving the achievement of sustainable development goals such as Goal 7 (Affordable and clean energy) and Goal 11 (Sustainable cities and communities).

LAGOS REVIVES AFRO-BRAZILIAN HERITAGE AS FANTI CARNIVAL RETURNS IN GRAND STYLE

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FANTI CARNIVAL

Lagos Island came alive on Easter Sunday as the iconic Fanti Carnival made its much-anticipated return, rekindling the vibrant Afro-Brazilian heritage that has long been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural identity.

Held at the historic Remembrance Arcade, the colourful parade drew crowds of residents, tourists, cultural troupes, and community leaders—all united in celebrating a tradition steeped in rhythm, pride, and ancestral legacy.

Blacktalker reports that this year’s edition, themed “Heritage and Unity,” shows the cultural preservation and community cohesion in Lagos State.

The event was made possible through the support of the Lagos State Government, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Brazilian Descendants Association of Lagos Island, to rejuvenate the historical narratives of the Afro-Brazilian returnees.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who attended the event alongside his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat and his wife, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to community-led cultural events that drive economic activity and foster social harmony.

SANWO-OLU AT 2025 FANTI CARNIVAL

He described the event as a celebration of who we are, a people bound by history and strengthened by diversity.

On her part, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, stated that the carnival’s revival is a triumph of identity and resilience.

“The Fanti Carnival is more than a festival—it is a living memory of our Afro-Brazilian roots and a showcase of the cultural richness that defines us as Lagosians. The Ministry remains committed to initiatives that strengthen social ties, promote tourism, and keep our heritage alive.”

FANTI CARNIVAL

Rooted in the 19th-century customs of Afro-Brazilian returnees—freed slaves who brought back samba rhythms, flamboyant costumes, and carnival traditions from Brazil—the Lagos Fanti Carnival had once been a major fixture on the Island’s cultural calendar before slipping into dormancy. Its vibrant revival marks a significant milestone in preserving Lagos’ multicultural legacy.

The lively procession kicked off from Remembrance Arcade, through Old Defence Road, TBS Arena, J. Randle Road, Onikan Roundabout, Military Street and Catholic Mission Street with a parade of colours, music, and dance.

There were performances by Afro-Brazilian descendants adorned in glittering regalia, who expressed their stories through dance and music that captured the themes of resilience, migration, and cultural fusion.

Hajj 2025: Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Sponsor Medical Screening For intending pilgrims

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Hajj 2025: Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Sponsor Medical Screening For intending pilgrims

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Kadri Hamzat have sponsored the compulsory medical screening for the State’s intending pilgrims embarking on holy pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Blacktalker reports that the gesture is in fulfilment of the Governor’s directive that every pilgrim going for the spiritual and tedious exercise from the State must be certified medically fit.

Speaking during the flag off of the medical exercise in Badagry Local Government Secretariat, Ajarah, the Commissioner, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Amir-ul- Hajj, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, said Lagos State placed premium on the wellbeing of the pilgrims, stressing that the decision to bankroll the screening was to relieve them of the financial burden after paying the huge Hajj fare of N8,784, 085.59k despite the present harsh economic situation in the country.

He said, “Mr. Governor and his deputy felt deeply concerned about the economic hardship in the country and decided to foot the bill of the screening to alleviate the intending pilgrims of the cost of the screening which was N50,000.00 last year. And 10 ‘designated screening sites and health facilities for testing’ have been created across the state due to the seriousness the present administration attached to the issue.”

He said that results which would be released after the blood and unrine samples have been collected would confirm their true health status and help to know how best to manage them during their stay in the Holy land.

The intending pilgrims undergo screen such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis (TB), Urinalysis, Pregnancy test for women, Full Blood Count (FBC) and Electrolyte and Urea + Creatinine (E & U + Cr) to assess kidney functions.

The coordinator of the medical screening exercise, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho said that others new tests such as TB, E, U + Cr etc. were added with a view to giving the intending pilgrims the benefits of knowing their health status and ensuring that they are medically sound before embarking on the spiritual journey as directed by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

On his part, the Board Secretary, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin urged all the intending pilgrims to take advantage of the free medical screening exercise by participating fully, saying this kind of opportunity provided by the Governor and his deputy was unprecedented.

No fewer than 1,400 intending pilgrims would perform the year 2025 Hajj rites from Lagos.State.

DG. NCSP Extends Easter Greetings, Calls for Peace, Stronger Nigeria-China Partnership

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blacktalker
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NCSP EASTEER

The Director General of Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, NCSP, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, heartily felicitates Christians on this year’s Easter, wishing them a happy celebration as
they uphold the virtues of the religion.


Tegbe urged Christians to see Easter as a time of selfless sacrifice and a period of upholding
Godly virtues of uprightness, humility, perseverance, and compassion while praying for peace
and harmony.

“As we mark Easter, may we be reminded that meaningful partnerships like the one between
Nigeria and China are built on mutual respect, shared goals, renewed hope, and a commitment to
progress,” Tegbe stated.

This underscores the potential for mutual benefit through strategic investments, aligning with the
broader goals of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and China, intended to
rebalance trade and strengthen economic ties.

Blacktalker reports that the NCSP was established to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments, aligning with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Through cohesive inter-ministerial collaboration, the partnership aims to drive
significant economic diversification and growth, ultimately benefiting every Nigerian.

Recently, the Federal Government convened an inter-ministerial meeting to strengthen the
implementation of agreements reached during the 2024 FOCAC Summit. Hosted at the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs, the meeting emphasized the urgency of converting memorandum of
understanding (MOUs) into actionable projects that benefit all Nigerians.

GOVERNOR SOLUDO FELICITATES CHRISTIANS ON EASTER, CALLS FOR SACRIFICE FOR A BETTER NIGERIA

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The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has extended season’s greetings and warm congratulations to Christians in the State and across Nigeria on the happy celebration of Easter, which marks the end of the Lent season as well as commemorates the crucifixion, death and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

In his reflective goodwill message, Governor Soludo commended Christians for their prayers and consistent devotion to the virtues of sacrifice, solemnity, humility, and spiritual revival exhibited during Lent.

In a release by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo also lauded the inspiring significance of Easter’s lessons in selflessness, modesty, hope, renewal and harmony as personified by our Lord Jesus Christ, urging Christians to emulate Christ and take advantage of this season to reinforce the ideals of personal sacrifice for mutual tolerance and peaceful co-existence in our country.

The Governor further emphasized that Easter’s lessons perfectly align with his administration’s vision for Anambra State as a peaceful, livable, and progressive society where government policies promote social harmony, economic opportunity, and peace of mind for all. 

Governor Soludo, therefore, joins millions across Nigeria and the world in wishing the Christendom a happy and reviving Easter celebration, with prayers that, as Christ triumphed over death, there will emerge a new triumphant Nigeria where the noble dreams of our leaders and citizens will be realized for a stronger and better nation

Rt. Hon. Chidera Okafor Marks 100 Days as Speaker of LASU Communication Students’ Council

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Rt. Hon. Chidera Okafor Marks 100 Days as Speaker of LASU Communication Students' Council
Rt. Hon. Chidera Okafor Marks 100 Days as Speaker of LASU Communication Students' Council

The Speaker of the 19th Communication Students’ Representative Council, CSRC at Lagos State University, Rt. Hon. Chidera Okafor has marked his 100th day in office, celebrating a milestone he describes as “purpose, progress and people.”

In a reflective address delivered on Thursday, Okafor highlighted the achievements and responsibilities that have defined his leadership since assuming office.

He emphasized that the journey so far has been guided by a commitment to effective representation, collaboration, and service to the Communication Students’ Association’s (COSA) student body.

Rt. Hon. Chidera Okafor Marks 100 Days as Speaker of LASU Communication Students' Council

“When I took the oath of office, I understood the weight of the mandate bestowed upon me,” he said. “Leadership is not about occupying an office; it is about service, about listening, engaging, and taking decisive actions that reflect the will and welfare of the people we represent.”

Blacktalker can confirm that under his leadership, the CSRC has engaged in several strategic initiatives involving deliberations, consultations, and planning aimed at strengthening student representation and promoting unity within the faculty.

Okafor expressed gratitude to fellow Council members, stakeholders, and university authorities for their support and collaboration over the past 100 days.

He also extended special thanks to the Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, the Staff Adviser, Heads of Department and lecturers who, he said, “continue to guide us with their wisdom and encouragement.”

Rt. Hon. Chidera Okafor Marks 100 Days as Speaker of LASU Communication Students' Council

Looking ahead, the Speaker affirmed his commitment to driving more impactful change, saying the next phase of his administration would require “greater energy, sharper focus, and deeper collaboration.”

“The goal remains clear: to leave COSA better, stronger, and more purposeful than we met it,” he concluded.

Made In Naija: Union Bank Empowers Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs

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Made In Naija: Union Bank Empowers Young Nigerian Entrepreneurs
L-R: Ayokunnumi Abraham, Head, SME Segments, Union Bank of Nigeria, Ruth Ogbodu, 3rd place winner, Yemisi Otokiti, 1st place winner, Olanrewaju Amodu, 2nd place winner, Chinenye Ekwulugo, alpher Experience Manager, Union Bank of Nigeria, Ebunoluwa Amusan, Brand Sponsorship and Partnership, Union Bank of Nigeria and Olusegun Odufuwa, Convener, Youth Leadership Conference, during the RISE Business Challenge sponsored by Union Bank of Nigeria held recently at the University of Lagos, Akoka.

Union Bank of Nigeria, under its Made In Naija initiative has emphasised its commitment to supporting homegrown businesses by sponsoring the RISE Business Challenge at the University of Lagos, Akoka, during the 6th Annual Youth Leadership Conference.

Dubbed Turning Point 6.0, the Resilience, Innovation, Social Responsibility, and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Challenge is a collaboration between Union Bank and the conference convener, Mr Olusegun Odufuwa, to empower youth-led businesses with financial and mentorship support through a pitch competition.

Targeted at uplifting young men and women with requisite entrepreneurial skills, the event aligns with one of the Bank’s primary objectives of encouraging Made In Naija and the next generation of Nigerian innovators and business leaders, culminating in positive social impact and sustainable economic growth.

The competition also aims to identify and reward outstanding business ideas demonstrating viability, sustainability, and social impact.

This year’s RISE Challenge winners were chosen after a rigorous selection process involving participants sending their proposals for a team of judges and business experts to assess. The final four selected competitors then pitched their ideas individually to a panel of judges, who chose the winners based on innovation, social impact, sustainability, and financial viability.

Blacktalker reports that the first, second and third places received cash prizes of N1,000,000, N750,000, and N250,000, respectively.

During the event, Ayokunumi Abraham, Head SME of Union Bank of Nigeria, said, “Union Bank is passionate about supporting Made In Naija and youth-led businesses to scale for sustainable growth. We believe this will not only boost and nurture upcoming enterprises but also create a positive ripple effect that will drive employment, innovation, economic opportunity, and access that will empower small and medium businesses across the length and breadth of the country.”

The RISE conference is a premier annual gathering designed to equip young leaders and entrepreneurs with the resilience, innovation, and social responsibility required to thrive in today’s fast-paced world. This year’s edition attracted diverse attendees, including young professionals, entrepreneurs, business executives, policymakers, and thought leaders.

Union Bank will continue to promote Made In Naija and young innovators to drive economic growth and strengthen its position as a leading bank for entrepreneurs.

About Union Bank Plc
Established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1971, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc. is a household name and one of Nigeria’s long-standing and most respected financial institutions. The Bank is a trusted and recognizable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria.

The Bank currently offers a variety of banking services to both individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance.

The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.

UNILAG FACULTY OF ARTS’ STUDENTS SEEK PARTNERSHIP WITH LAGOS TOURISM MINISTRY AHEAD ARTS FESTIVAL

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UNILAG-TOURISM MINISTRY

The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, on Thursday, received members of the Executive Council of the Faculty of Arts Students Association, University of Lagos, UNILAG in his office at the Secretariat, Alausa.

The delegation, led by the Association’s President, Mr. Adekanye Oluwaseun Ibikunoluwa, paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry to discuss the upcoming Festival of Nigerian Arts (TG3), scheduled to hold in May, 2025 at the UNILAG Main Auditorium.

Blacktalker reports that the festival is designed to celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, featuring performances and exhibitions from at least six tertiary institutions, including UNILAG, LASU, YABATECH, and FCET.

Commending the students for their initiative, Mr. Aregbe advised them to prioritise quality over quantity. “If this is your first time organising such an event, focus on doing a few things exceptionally well,” he said, recommending a three-day duration for the festival to ensure effective planning and impactful execution.

He further proposed that the grand finale of the festival be hosted at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History. According to him, this would provide participants with a firsthand experience of one of Lagos State’s cultural landmarks and align the event with the broader cultural vision of the State. “Invite your peers from other schools to see the great work we are doing there,” he added.

UNILAG FACULTY OF ARTS' STUDENTS SEEK PARTNERSHIP WITH LAGOS TOURISM MINISTRY AHEAD ARTS FESTIVAL

Mr. Aregbe also emphasised the wealth of talent present within tertiary institutions, describing them as breeding grounds for future creative leaders. He encouraged the students to identify and collaborate with notable personalities in the theatre and arts community for mentorship and greater visibility.

In his remarks, Mr. Adekanye expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s consistent support for youth-led initiatives. He reiterated the association’s desire to partner with the Ministry in expanding the scope and impact of the festival. “We see this partnership as vital to creating a lasting platform for performance, cultural exchange, and creative expression among students,” he noted.

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