Home Blog Page 176

ZENITH BANK PAT SOARS ABOVE 1 TRILLION NAIRA IN FULL YEAR 2024, PROPOSES 4.00 NAIRA FINAL DIVIDEND

By
blacktalker
-
0

Zenith Bank Plc has announced its audited financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024, delivering significant growth across key performance indicators.

The Bank’s impressive performance reflects effective management and pricing of its risk assets, as well as an optimized treasury portfolio, reinforcing its position as a leader in Nigeria’s banking industry.

According to the audited financial results for the 2024 financial year presented to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), the Bank recorded a double-digit year-on-year (YoY) growth of 86% in gross earnings, increasing from N2.13 trillion in 2023 to 3.97 trillion Naira in 2024. This growth 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.

Commenting on the results, Dame Dr Adaora Umeoji OON, Group Managing Director/CEO, stated “This year’s performance underscores our unwavering commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions. We will also remain focused on deepening financial inclusion, enhancing service delivery, and creating value for our customers and stakeholders.Zenith Bank’s profit before tax (PBT) rose by 67%, reaching 1.3 trillion Naira in 2024 from 796 billion Naira in 2023, driven by a combination of top-line expansion and efficient treasury portfolio management.

Net interest income increased by 135% from 736 billion Naira in 2023 to 1.7 trillion Naira, reinforcing the Bank’s strong core banking performance and ability to grow earnings despite macroeconomic headwinds. Non-interest income also grew by 20% from 919 billion Naira to 1.1 trillion Naira.

The Bank’s total assets grew by 47% from N20 trillion in 2023 to N30 trillion in 2024, underpinned by a strong liquidity position and effective balance sheet management. Customer deposits surged by 45% from N15 trillion to N22 trillion in 2024, reflecting a historically strong corporate deposits portfolio and a sustained increase in retail deposits.

The increase in retail deposits was driven by customer acquisition and the Bank’s strategic focus on low-cost funding.

Return on Average Equity (ROAE) declined to 32.5% on the back of the injection of new capital, while Return on Average Assets (ROAA) remained unchanged at 4.1%. The Bank’s cost-to-income increased slightly from 36.1% to 38.9%, despite inflationary pressures.

Its Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio stood at 4.7%, with a coverage ratio of 223%, underscoring the Bank’s prudent risk management and commitment to maintaining a resilient loan book, ensuring stability and confidence in the Bank’s operations.

Given the good earnings performance, the Bank has proposed a final dividend of 4.00 Naira per share, which brings the total dividend for the year to 5.00 Naira per ordinary share.

In a significant milestone, Zenith Bank successfully raised N350 billion in capital through a rights issue and public offer, with a subscription rate of 160%, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the Bank’s growth trajectory.

The proceeds from this capital raise will be strategically deployed to enhance technology infrastructure, strengthen liquidity, and support the Bank’s expansion into key African markets, unlocking new growth opportunities.

The bank remains focused on delivering sustainable growth, enhancing shareholder value, and driving financial inclusion through innovative banking solutions. With its solid capital base and innovative product offerings, the Bank is well-positioned to navigate evolving market conditions while continuing to strengthen its leadership in the Nigerian financial landscape.

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised 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.

Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards.

Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for 2022, 2023 and 2024 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.

The Bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BAFI Awards.

The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.

Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics.

Resolve To Save Lives, International NGOs Back Nigeria’s Sodium Reduction Guidelines

By
blacktalker
-
0

Resolve To Save Lives, RTSL, a global health organisation committed to saving 100 million lives from cardiovascular disease and a critical Nigeria public health partner has welcomed the federal government’s launch of the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction, saying it is crucial to tackling the scourge of non-communicable diseases in the country.

Principal Advisor, RTSL Nigeria, Mrs Okeoma Obasi, who spoke during the launch in Abuja on Wednesday, noted that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death globally, noting that the guideline would help Nigeria navigate a path towards curbing excessive sodium intake, a major risk factor for NCDs.

RTSL, Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), Network for Health Equity and Development (NHED) and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) are part of the local and international public health partners with the Federal Government for the National Guideline for Sodium Reduction.

Okeoma said: “In Nigeria, NCDs pose a significant threat, particularly cardiovascular diseases, which have the highest prevalence among all NCDs. The effort to reduce excess sodium intake is a crucial step in mitigating this risk. Cardiovascular diseases claim the lives of at least 19 million people annually, making them the leading cause of NCD deaths globally. The development of a national sodium reduction guideline by the Federal Ministry of Health and social welfare is a commendable move.”

Emphasising the importance of the guidelines, she noted that Nigeria had now joined “a select group of countries worldwide in marking a significant step toward reducing excess sodium intake—a key risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

“Resolve to Save Lives extends its heartfelt commendation to the Federal Ministry of Health and social welfare under the leadership of the coordinating minister for her assiduous efforts in developing a national sodium reduction guideline. A special appreciation goes to the multisectoral technical working group on sodium reduction, whose dedication, hard work and rigor have resulted in an evidence-based guideline, leveraging on international best practice.

“Nigeria has indeed positioned itself as a leader in promoting healthy food policies in the African region, demonstrating its commitment to addressing the burden of non-communicable diseases and promoting a healthier population.

“I would like to reiterate our deepest appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Health and social welfare, the multisectoral technical working group on sodium reduction for their tireless efforts in developing this groundbreaking guideline. As we mark this significant milestone, we renew our commitment to supporting the government to tackle the scourge of non-communicable diseases in Nigeria. Together, we can create a healthier, brighter future for our nation.”

Similarly, Mrs Joy Amafah-Isaac, the Country Coordinator for Food And Nutrition Programmes in Nigeria at Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), commended Nigeria for the “giant strides” towards sodium reduction, saying it was key to saving lives.

Amafah-Isaac noted that in the last one year, the ministry of health worked tirelessly alongside GHAI and other partners to ensure that the Guideline was put together to improve nutrition and reduce the mortality caused by NCDs.

She recalled that in 2018, Nigeria and other countries committed to reducing the population’s sodium intake by 30 percent.

“It’s amazing to see that Nigeria did not just commit, but they have made giant strides towards achieving it,” said the nutrition expert.

Executive Director of CAPPA, Akinbode Oluwafemi, commended the Ministry for the launch, describing it as a milestone.

“It marks another major milestone in safeguarding public health in Nigeria through the promotion of heathy diet.

“We strongly believe that effective implementation of this guideline will help in no small measure in reducing excessive sodium intake and reduce cases of cardiovascular diseases and non communicable diseases in Nigeria,” Oluwafemi added.

“PAD Me A Girl Initiative”, Gatmash Media, Access Bank Partner to End Period Poverty in Nigeria

By
blacktalker
-
0

… launches “Pad Bank”

Access Bank Plc, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, is partnering the “PAD Me A Girl Initiative,” a project of GATMASH MEDIA, to launch a ‘Pad Bank’ aimed at providing free sanitary pads to girls and women in need.

The groundbreaking initiative is founded by Theresa Moses, a renowned journalist and Editor-in-Chief of GATMASH NEWS. The project seeks to address the pressing conundrum of ‘period’ poverty, which is affecting millions of girls and women in Nigeria.

The initiative will help address pads deficit among the less privileged members of the society as its aim is to promote menstrual health and hygiene, as well as provide educational materials, and support girls and women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

The Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative is also partnering with several organizations, including Checkers Custard, Empowered Girls for Christ Foundation, Jeffrey Kuraun Foundation, ProStar, Vita Baites Foods, and many more.

This is a unique and innovative concept, designed to store and distribute free sanitary pads to the needy. The ‘Pad Bank’ will be stocked with sanitary pads donated by Access Bank, other corporate organizations, and individuals. The idea is to collect and distribute over 1 million sanitary pads annually.

“We are excited to partner with Access Bank to launch the Pad Bank,” said Theresa Moses, Convener of the “PAD Me A Girl Initiative.”

“Access Bank is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of Nigerians. Therefore, Access PAD Me A Girl project is a testament to its dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society that every girl and woman deserves access to sanitary pads.

“The Pad Bank is a game-changer in the fight against period poverty, as it will provide a safe and accessible space for girls and women to access sanitary pads, promoting dignity and empowering them to reach their full potential.”

The Access PAD Me A Girl Project aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

In addition, the initiative will provide educational materials and support (Exercise books and pen), thereby helping to promote literacy and educational attainment, in consonance with SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empowering all women and girls to reach their full potentials.

The Access PAD Me A Girl Project, which includes the launch of the Pad Bank, will kick off on April 3rd, 2025, in Gofye Community, Kuje Area Council, New Kunchingoro, Opposite Games Village, Kaura, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, and on April 5th, 2025, in Ortese IDP Camp, Guma LGA, Benue State.

LAWMA PARTNERS NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA TO BOOST AWARENESS ON WASTE MANAGEMENT

By
blacktalker
-
0

The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has received a delegation from the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN at its headquarters, Ijora-Olopa, in a strategic partnership bid to boost media visibility of LAWMA’s programmes and activities.

NAN’s delegation, led by Mrs. Omowole Ifeyinwa, head of editorial operations, commended LAWMA for its dedication to maintaining environmental sustainability in Lagos State, stressing NAN’s keen interest in collaborating with the agency, to ensure accurate information dissemination of LAWMA’s initiatives.

According to her, “This partnership will position the agency for global recognition and investment opportunities while fostering greater public awareness on waste management best practices and all initiatives put in place to ensure a cleaner Lagos”.

She outlined a variety of products ranging from PR Wire, Adverts, documentary etc, which the authority could take advantage of, for timely news reportage to further reach the grassroots and assist in imbibing the right culture of waste disposal.

“The proposed partnership would also include the production of documentaries showcasing LAWMA’s initiatives and successes, further amplifying the agency’s impact and reputation’”, she stressed.

Gbadegesin commended the delegation for the interest in partnering with LAWMA, for media mileage and visibility, adding that the huge role of the media in driving sensitisation efforts could not be overlooked, as people continued to migrate to Lagos.

He said, “Despite LAWMA’s ongoing sensitisation campaigns, some residents remain unaware of proper waste disposal methods. Migrants that come into Lagos must be educated on LAWMA’s policies to prevent improper waste disposal. The LAWMA advocacy team has been doing this, to ensure every resident is adequately informed.”

Speaking further on LAWMAs ongoing efforts, he highlighted the agency’s commitment to transitioning from a linear waste management model to a circular economy.

He cited a recent feasibility study conducted in collaboration with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and the Swedish-funded Swedfund, aimed at converting organic waste into biofuel for Lagos mass transit fleet.

“We aim to replicate Sweden’s model, where compactor trucks and buses run on biomethane, reducing landfill dependence and enhancing environmental sustainability,” he stated.

Gbadegesin further noted LAWMA’s recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghanaian firm Jospong Group, to improve waste management in the state, adding that these efforts aligned with LAWMA’s broader vision of diverting 90% of waste from dumpsites through innovative recycling and resource recovery strategies.

He also stressed the significance of the Private Sector Participation (PSP) model, which comprised 428 operators working in partnership with LAWMA, to manage the city’s daily waste generation of approximately 13,000 tonnes.

He reiterated LAWMA’s push for recycling, noting that companies are willing to purchase recyclable materials, adding, “recycling plastics not only benefits the environment but also provides financial incentives to residents”.

For inquiries, complaints, or further updates, please contact LAWMA through the toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.

FORMER SPECIAL ADVISER ON EDUCATION, DR. BISI ESURUOSO EXTENDS CONDOLENCES TO FAMILIES ON PASSING OF ABISOLA KOLA-DAISI (NEE AJIMOBI)

By
blacktalker
-
0

Former Special Adviser on Education and one of the Ajimobi loyal aides, Dr. Bisi Esuruoso formerly (Akin-Alabi) has extended heartfelt condolences to the Ajimobi and the Kola-Daisi Families on the passing of Abisola Kola-Daisi (Nee Ajimobi).

Dr. Esuruoso who is now The Lead Resource for Safe Schools Lagos, SSLAG also expressed deep sorrow over the news.

In a signed statement, the former Gov. Ajimobi’s aide paid tributes to the late Abisola, describing her as a shining star of Ibadan who is also a visionary woman whose philanthropic efforts and commitment to social development left an indelible mark on her community.

“I am still struggling to come to terms with this heartbreaking news’. Bisola was a beacon of hope and a true humanitarian who devoted her time and resources to uplifting the less privileged. Her generosity, leadership, and unwavering support for the Ajimobi political dynasty set her apart as a rare gem among her peers,” she said.

Dr. Esuruoso extended her deepest condolences to Chief Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, the entire Ajimobi and Kola-Daisi families, and the Oyo State All Progressives Congress (APC). She also acknowledged the pain of the loss within the larger Oyo state communities.

“This is an immense loss, coming at a time when we are still mourning the passing of Hon. Kehinde Subair and my own mother.
This is yet another devastating blow, not only to her family but to the entire Oyo state indigenes.” Dr. Esuruoso added.

She prayed for God Almighty to grant the late Abisola eternal rest and to bestow upon her loved ones the strength and grace to navigate this period of grief.

“May the lord accept her return and illuminate her path to the great beyond”, she prays.

Kano Residents Benefit from Fidelity Food Bank Initiative

By
blacktalker
-
0

Over 1,500 residents have benefited from a Fidelity Food Bank outreach in Kabuga community, Dala Local Government Area of Kano state.

The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, executed in partnership with Misnoory Foundation, saw staff of the bank distribute essential food items to support people during the holy month of Ramadan.

Commenting on the distribution event, Divisional Head, Brands and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, emphasized the bank’s dedication to supporting its host communities through impactful projects.

“Social responsibility is at the heart of who we are as a bank. Our Fidelity Food Bank initiative is one of the way we drive social welfare in our host communities. The initiative was launched to support the vulnerable and alleviate the impact of hunger in the society as part of our contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

“Consequently, we have distributed more than 150,000 food packs at outreach events like this across the country since April 2023 when we launched the initiative. Our outreach in Kabuga is designed to support women, widows, children and the community with food items for the Ramadan season.”

On her part, the Founder, Misnoory Foundation, Maryam Isa Inuwa stated that, “The commitment of the foundation towards poverty alleviation and various humanitarian support to society’s most vulnerable members perfectly aligns with the Fidelity Bank initiative.

“Fidelity Bank is one of the major sponsors of our humanitarian outreaches to the needy in the society. The foundation is delighted to count on the bank as a long-standing partner.

“We seek to touch the lives of many people in need through our various humanitarian efforts across different communities and today, it is the turn of Kabuga community to benefit from the Fidelity Food Bank program “.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 8.5 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 Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards; the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023; and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and the Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.

FIRST BANK FILES APPEAL, SEEKS INJUNCTION AND STAY OF EXECUTION AS CARGO REMAINS UNDER ARREST

By
blacktalker
-
0

In a surprising twist of events, its decision delivered today, the Federal High Court in a surprising shift from the true nature of FirstBank ’s claim held that the matter is not a maritime claim but rather, a simple case of debt recovery. This is quite surprising considering the fact that the order sought is to prevent further fraudulent sale of crude on the FPSO.

Shockingly, the court also held that the Arrest Order against the cargo, because it was exparte in nature, expired by effluxion of time within 14 days of its issuance.

Aggrieved by the decision, FirstBank lodged an appeal against the decision of the FHC. Also, FirstBank filed an application for an injunction of the court against GHL, pending the determination of the appeal. The Cargoes of Crude Oil on the FPSO TAMARA TOKONI remain arrested.

While FirstBank has great respect for the courts, it strongly disagrees with the ruling, which, in our view, constitutes a miscarriage of justice.

FirstBank remains committed to protecting and securing the interest of its members and will relentlessly pursue justice against mischievous debtors seeking to use the machinery of the law to perpetuate mischief and evade their responsibility to offset outstanding obligations.

About FirstBank

First Bank of Nigeria Limited “FirstBank”, established in 1894, is the premier bank in West Africa, a leading financial inclusion services provider in Africa, and a digital banking giant. 

FirstBank’s international footprints cut across three continents ─ Africa, Europe and Asia, with FirstBank UK Limited in London and Paris; FirstBank in The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea and Sierra Leone; FBNBank in Senegal; and a FirstBank Representative Office in Beijing, China. All the subsidiary banks are fully registered by their respective Central Banks to provide full banking services.

Besides providing domestic banking services, the subsidiaries also engage in international cross-border transactions with FirstBank’s non-Nigerian subsidiaries, and the representative offices in Paris and China facilitate trade flows from Asia and Europe into Nigeria and other African countries.

For 130 years, FirstBank has built an outstanding reputation for solid relationships, good corporate governance, and a strong liquidity position, and has been at the forefront of promoting digital payment in the country with over 13 million cards issued to customers (the first bank to achieve such a milestone in Nigeria). FirstBank has continued to make significant investments in technology, innovation and transformation, and its cashless transaction drive has been steadily accentuated with virtually 23 million active FirstBank customers signed up on digital channels including the USSD Quick Banking service through the nationally renowned *894# Banking code.

With over 42 million customer accounts (including digital wallets) spread across Nigeria, UK and sub-Saharan Africa, the Bank provides a comprehensive range of retail and wholesale financial services through more than 820 business offices and over 233,500 agent locations spread across 772 out of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria.

In addition to banking solutions and services, FirstBank provides pension fund custody services in Nigeria through First Pension Custodian Nigeria Limited and nominee and associated services through First Nominees Nigeria Limited.

FirstBank’s commitment to Diversity is shown in its policies, partnerships and initiatives such as its employees’ ratio of female to male (about 39%:61%; and 32% women in management) as well as the FirstBank Women Network, an initiative that seeks to address the gender gap and increase the participation of women at all levels within the organisation.  In addition, the Bank’s membership of the UN Women is an affirmation of a deliberate policy that is consistent with UN Women’s Women Empowerment’s Principles (WEPs) ─ Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Nondiscrimination.

For six consecutive years (2011 – 2016), FirstBank was named “Most Valuable Bank Brand in Nigeria” by the globally renowned The Banker Magazine of the Financial Times Group and “Best Retail Bank in Nigeria” eight times in a row, 2011 – 2018, by the Asian Banker International Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards.

In 2022, the Top 100 African Bank rankings released by The Banker Magazine ranked FirstBank as number one in Nigeria in terms of Overall Performance, Profitability, Efficiency and Return on Risk. Also in 2022, the Bank received the “Most Innovative Retail Banking Product in Nigeria (FastTrack ATM)” and “Best Retail Bank in Nigeria” awards from International Finance Magazine. FirstBank was also awarded “Best Corporate Banking Western Africa, 2022” and “Best CSR Bank Western Africa, 2022’’ by Global Banking and Finance Magazine.

Other notable awards in FirstBank coffers include: “Best Bank in Nigeria” by Global Finance magazine – fifteen times in a row; “Best Private Bank in Nigeria-2021” awarded by Global Finance magazine; “Best Internet Banking Nigeria” and ‘’Best CSR Bank Africa’’ by International Business Magazine.

In 2023, FirstBank received notable awards including “Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa 2023” by Global Finance Awards; “Best Sustainable Bank in Nigeria 2023” by International Investors Awards; “Best Bespoke Banking Services in Nigeria 2023” by International Investors Awards; “Best Financial Inclusion Service Provider in Nigeria 2023” by Digital Banker Africa; and “African Bank of the Year” by African Leadership Magazine; ’’Best Corporate Bank in Nigeria 2023’’ by Euromoney Awards and ‘’Most Innovative Banking Brand – Nigeria 2023’’ by Global Brands Award.

Other laudable feats in 2023 include FirstBank’s international recognitions on major indices by Euromoney Market Leaders, an independent global assessment of the leading financial service providers where FirstBank was crowned:

Market Leader: (tier-1 recognition) in Corporate Banking,

Market Leader: (tier -1 recognition) in Digital Solutions,

Highly Regarded: Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR),

Highly Regarded: Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), Notable: in SME Banking.

Significantly, FirstBank’s Global Credit Rating was A+ with a positive outlook while ratings by Fitch and Standard & Poor’s were A (nga) and ngBBB+ respectively both with Stable outlooks as at September 2023. FirstBank maintained the same level of international credit ratings as the sovereign; a milestone that was achieved in 2022 for the first time since 2015.

Our vision is ‘To be Africa’s Bank of first choice’ and our mission is ‘To remain true to our name by providing the best financial services possible. This commitment is anchored on our core values of EPIC – Entrepreneurship, Professionalism, Innovation and Customer-Centricity. Our strategic ambition is ‘To deliver accelerated growth in profitability through customer-led innovation and disciplined execution and our brand promise is always to deliver the ultimate “gold standard” of value and excellence to position You First in every respect.

MINISTER OF WORKS COMMENDS GOVERNOR SOLUDO ON INFRASTRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION

By
blacktalker
-
0

Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi has lauded the excellent performance of Governor Charles Soludo on his ongoing infrastructural transformation of Anambra State.

He made the commendation at the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of Phase 2B of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge which has officially been flagged off by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a significant step in enhancing transportation infrastructure and regional connectivity in the Southeast.

According to Governor Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the Second Niger Bridge, inaugurated in 2023, has greatly improved transportation between the Southeast and other parts of the country, but its full benefits have been hindered by incomplete access roads.

The project aims to address this by delivering a 17.5km dual carriageway with seven bridges and modern infrastructure, including security cameras. It will stretch from the Umunya/Ogbunike axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, passing through the Old Enugu Road Interchange, Ogidi, Nkpor-Umuoji Road Interchange, to the Asaba-Igbuzor Road Interchange and Valley Bridge.

Engr. Umahi also eulogised Soludo for his exceptional leadership and transformative achievements in multiple sectors, and in road infrastructure, pointing out that Anambra currently has 18 ongoing federal road projects, including the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which has been split between MTN and another company for effective execution.

He acknowledged Soludo’s achievements in security, education, healthcare, and fiscal management, and in constructing a befitting Anambra Government House. He described Soludo as a strong ally of President Tinubu, stating that their partnership has been instrumental in advancing development in Anambra and the Southeast.

The Minister further urged local communities to support the project and avoid disruptions, while reiterating President Tinubu’s commitment to the Southeast, with key appointments such as the Chief of Naval Staff and the Minister of Works from the region.

In his remark, Soludo said the Second Niger Bridge would remain incomplete until the entire 35km access road is fully constructed. While acknowledging previous setbacks, he thanked President Tinubu and expressed optimism that, with Umahi as Minister of Works, the project would be completed as planned.

He also advised community leaders, President Generals, and traditional rulers to cooperate in ensuring that local youths do not obstruct construction activities.

Soludo highlighted the importance of sustained federal-state collaboration in infrastructure development, revealing that Anambra had invested over N150 billion in federal roads. He stressed that the dualisation of key roads is critical to preventing future congestion and ensuring long-term economic growth in the region.

At the event, Hon. Chinwe Gwacgam, representing Oyi and Ayamelum Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, called on the federal government to support Soludo’s re-election in 2025, as it would further guarantee sustainable development in Anambra, a gesture he affirmed would be reciprocated by Soludo in a broader political alignment in 2027.

Wellness Advocate, Oluwatunmise Oladapo-Kuku Attributes Women’s Mental Health Struggles to Lack of Self-Awareness

By
blacktalker
-
0

A mental health and wellness advocate, Oluwatunmise Oladapo-Kuku has highlighted self-awareness as a key factor in addressing the mental health challenges faced by women in today’s fast-paced world.

Speaking in an exclusive with Blacktalker against the backdrop of the 2025 International Women’s Day, the mindfulness coach emphasized that many women struggle with anxiety, self-doubt and societal pressure due to a lack of understanding of their own identity and values.

According to Oladapo-Kuku, there is a fundamental distinction between mental health challenges and mental illness. While the latter falls within the realm of medical conditions, daily mental health struggles are often linked to stressors that women encounter in their personal and professional lives.

“We are not high all the time, and we are not low all the time,” she stated, referencing Dr. Emmanuel Abayomi’s definition of mental health, which ties together thoughts, emotions and behaviors.

Women, she explained, are often expected to juggle multiple roles as nurturers, multitaskers, and caregivers. However, many find themselves on a continuous journey toward authenticity, frequently questioning their decisions regarding career, motherhood, and personal aspirations.

“Fear of not being a good mother, wife, or professional stems from a lack of self-awareness,” she noted. “The more a woman understands herself, the better equipped she is to handle these pressures.”

Oladapo-Kuku, who doubles as the author of a mini-memoir “Living Mindfully A Journey to Being” explained that despite common perceptions that women are more open about their emotions, many still feel unsafe discussing their struggles. She noted that cultural norms also discourage open conversations about personal difficulties among women.

“Even though women talk, meaningful conversations are rare. In many cultures, we have been told, ‘Not all problems should be aired in public,’ making it difficult to seek help,” she said.

She encouraged women to take proactive steps in managing their mental health by building supportive social networks, seeking professional counseling when necessary, and recognizing mental health care as essential as physical well-being.

On the role of government and communities in addressing mental health, the wellness advocate pointed to initiatives such as Zimbabwe’s “Elders’ Bench,” where older women provide guidance to younger ones. She also referenced efforts in Lagos State, where a Resilience Ministry has been established to address social challenges.

She called for structured community programmes where women can find support without fear of stigma. Additionally, she advocated workplace policies that support women’s mental health, citing her own experience working in an office that provided an on-site childcare facility.

“Having a crèche at my workplace significantly reduced my stress as a new mother. If similar policies were widely adopted, it would greatly improve mental well-being for working women,” she said.

Oladapo-Kuku urged women to prioritize their mental well-being.

“Cultivate the garden within. Your healing, strength, and authenticity begin inside you,” she added.

Awka Catholic Laity Presents Governor Soludo with Leadership Excellence Award

By
blacktalker
-
0

Governor Charles Soludo has been awarded the Leadership Excellence Award by the Catholic Laity Council of Awka Diocese for outstanding achievements in good governance, infrastructural development, and transformational drive in Anambra State.

Soludo was conferred with the award at a ceremony held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Agulu. His Lordship, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, celebrated a holy Mass to flag off the Catholic Laity Council week.

Eulogising Governor Soludo for this feat and the remarkable development in Anambra, Hon. Sir Joseph Igwebuike, President, Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria, Awka Diocese, stated, “You have no rival. We love the good works you are doing and will support you to continue”.

Therefore, he urged Soludo to continue with his incredible performance in transforming the state and not relent in his efforts, assuring him of the Awka Catholic Laity’s continued support.

In a report by Ozo Adichie Izuchuckwu, SSA to the Governor, the Catholic Laity Council’s endorsement significantly boosted Governor Soludo’s administration, demonstrating its confidence in his leadership.

Present at the event was Governor Soludo; Chief Sly Ezeokenwa, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and other notable personalities in the state.

Soludo’s credible leadership has also earned him accolades as The Sun Newspaper ‘Governor of the Year 2024’ for his laudable achievement and the Independent Newspaper ‘Governor of the Year 2024’ Award for his urban renewal initiatives.

1...175176177...271Page 176 of 271