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Lagos State Launches Skill-Up Programme to Train Youths in Cane and Rattan Weaving

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blacktalker
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In a bid to empower young people and promote self-reliance, the Lagos State Government has launched the Skill-Up Lagos programme, offering specialized training in cane and rattan weaving.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, is aimed at equipping youths with both survival and creative skills to foster economic independence.

The eight-month training programme is open to Lagosians between the ages of 18 and 35, providing them with an immersive, hands-on learning experience in furniture weaving. Participants will be guided by seasoned professionals and industry experts, ensuring they acquire the technical expertise necessary to craft quality cane and rattan furniture.

According to the organizers, the programme is not just about skill acquisition but also about revitalizing traditional craftsmanship by blending age-old techniques with modern innovations. By the end of the training, participants are expected to be proficient enough to establish their own businesses or secure employment in furniture production companies.

“Skill-Up Lagos is designed to uplift young people by giving them the opportunity to learn skills that will open doors to financial independence. Cane and rattan weaving is an art that is both practical and lucrative, and we are ensuring that our youths are equipped with the right tools to succeed.”

To ensure commitment and accountability, prospective trainees must meet specific registration requirements, including providing two guarantors as part of the application process.

The Lagos State Government continues to make strides in skill development and youth empowerment through innovative programmes like Skill-Up Lagos. By introducing young people to the art of cane and rattan weaving, the state is not only preserving a rich cultural craft but also providing an avenue for economic growth and entrepreneurship among its youth population.

FirstBank Refutes Fraud Allegations, Calls Claims Unfounded

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blacktalker
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FirstBank of Nigeria has strongly refuted recent allegations of fraud linked to a court case involving a customer, Dr. Agbai Eke. The bank described the claims, which were published by ThisDay Newspaper, aired on Arise Television, and circulated in a viral video, as “entirely unfounded and false.”

In an official statement, FirstBank clarified that its internal investigations revealed that the case stemmed from unprofessional and unethical dealings between Dr. Agbai Eke and a former bank employee. The bank stated that these transactions were unauthorized and conducted outside the institution’s knowledge or involvement, leveraging a personal relationship rather than official banking channels.

“As the matter is currently before the court, we will refrain from further comments to allow for an impartial judicial process,” the statement read. It further noted that FirstBank had filed a formal report with law enforcement authorities, and investigations were ongoing. The suspects involved had provided statements to aid the probe.

Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, FirstBank assured stakeholders and customers of its adherence to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. The bank emphasized that it remains dedicated to protecting customers’ interests while cooperating fully with relevant authorities to ensure due process is followed.

The legal proceedings will determine the outcome of the case, with FirstBank expressing confidence in the judicial system to handle the matter fairly.

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.

Unity Bank Hosts IWD Webinar, Commits to Accelerating Action Towards Gender Equality

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blacktalker
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Unity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment with a series of high-impact initiatives designed to inspire action toward gender equality and sustainable development.

The Bank hosted a webinar with the theme: “Unleashing Women’s Potential,” pivoted by the Unity Bank Women Network as it was marking this year’s International Women’s Day, 

Being one of the Bank’s thought leadership on self-reliance, opportunity and equity, the webinar featured influential female leaders, including Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi, a Nigerian entrepreneur and media personality, and Oluwabusayo Adegoke, a certified life coach and Strategy Consultant, who shared perspectives on women’s leadership, financial inclusion, and breaking barriers in male-dominated industries. The event provided an opportunity for professionals, entrepreneurs, and young women to gain valuable insights into personal and professional development.

The Bank also spotlighted women making significant contributions to their communities, particularly those driving change through education, mentorship, and financial empowerment. Among them were Abisoye Ajayi-Akinfolarin, a trailblazer empowering girls through technology; Tejumoluwa Olaobaju, an advocate leading the fight against period poverty in her community; and Chioma Ohakwe, a champion of inclusivity and women’s empowerment through targeted skill acquisition programmes for girls and women. 

Speaking on the Bank’s commitment to gender equity, Mrs. Particia Ahunanya, Unity Bank’s Chief Compliance Officer and Chair of Unity Bank Women’s Network, stated: “Our commitment to financial inclusion and gender equity has made Unity Bank remain in the vanguard of championing opportunities for empowering women across all sectors.

”This is in view of the realization that women are crucial drivers of economic growth and societal transformation. Through initiatives like the ‘Unleashing Women’s Potential’ webinar and our community spotlights, the Bank is focused on promoting more initiatives to drive impact among the female gender”.

Unity Bank’s IWD 2025 initiatives align with its broader vision of supporting women in leadership, business, and entrepreneurship. Through gender-focused initiatives – particularly with products like the Yanga Account – the bank is committed to driving financial inclusion and empowering women to actively participate in economic and financial systems. By providing tailored financial solutions, Unity Bank aims to create equal opportunities for women to thrive, grow, and succeed.

As the global conversation on gender equality continues to gain momentum, Unity Bank calls on stakeholders across industries to accelerate actions toward creating a more inclusive society without limitations.

JMG Celebrates Solar Appreciation Day with Road Walk, Advocates Engineering Solutions for Sustainable Development

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blacktalker
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JMG Limited, a leading provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria, is set to commemorate Solar Appreciation Day on March 14th, 2025, with a high-visibility road walk aimed at raising awareness of engineering solutions for sustainable development, including renewable energy innovations such as solar power.

Building on its recent celebration of World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development (WED) on March 4th, JMG reaffirms its commitment to driving energy efficiency, infrastructure development, and technological advancements that align with global sustainability goals.

Speaking on the initiative, Group General Manager, Rabi Jammal emphasised that the road walk underscores JMG’s continuous dedication to engineering excellence, clean energy adoption, and sustainable infrastructure development.

Speaking during the walk, Rabi stated that ‘’As the world transitions towards cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, engineering remains the driving force behind innovation and progress. Our road walk serves as a platform to engage the public on the pivotal role of engineering in shaping a more sustainable future. Solar energy is just one of the many solutions we champion to ensure access to affordable, reliable, and renewable power sources.”

Participants, including JMG employees, industry stakeholders, and sustainability advocates, wore branded T-shirts featuring inscriptions on electro-mechanical solutions and renewable energy solutions, reflecting the company’s broad expertise in Solar power, traditional power generation, electrical systems, vertical transportation, air compression and cooling solutions.

JMG’s advocacy for renewable energy and engineering-led development is evident in its extensive portfolio. Since 2018, the company has expanded its offerings to include inverters, batteries, and alternative power solutions. In 2024, JMG reinforced its leadership in Nigeria’s renewable energy market with LONGi solar panels, Deye lithium batteries, and Must solar inverters, providing customers with innovative and efficient energy alternatives.

Beyond energy, JMG continues to contribute to sustainable cities and communities by leveraging engineering innovations to develop smarter infrastructure, reduce energy waste, and promote industrial efficiency. These efforts align with the company’s broader commitment to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

As JMG leads the conversation on engineering solutions for sustainability, the company invites stakeholders, policymakers, and the public to implement meaningful changes towards a cleaner, greener, and more energy-efficient future for Nigeria.

UNILAG to Hold 2024/2025 Matriculation Ceremony on April 11

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blacktalker
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The University of Lagos, UNILAG has announced that its 2024/2025 matriculation ceremony for newly admitted students will take place on Friday, April 11, 2025.

The event, which will officially welcome fresh students from both the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) pathways, is scheduled to be held at the Jelili Adebisi Omotola Hall, Akoka, at 3:00 p.m.

According to the university, all matriculating students are expected to be seated by 2:40 p.m. to ensure a smooth and organized ceremony.

The matriculation ceremony is a significant tradition in the academic calendar, symbolizing the students’ formal induction into the university community. It marks the beginning of their academic journey at UNILAG.

For more details, visit UNILAG’s official website or follow updates on the university’s social media platforms.

The university community, staff, and well-wishers are encouraged to join in celebrating this milestone with the newly admitted students.

Lagos Commissioner for Tourism to Attend High-Profile Real Estate Events in the UK

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blacktalker
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Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has been invited as the Guest of Honour at a series of real estate investment events organized by Invest Africa & Property Expo in the United Kingdom.

The events, scheduled to take place in London, Manchester, and Birmingham on March 15th, 22nd, and 23rd, 2025, will bring together industry leaders, investors, and stakeholders to discuss Africa’s growing real estate sector.

Under the theme, “Unlocking Africa’s Real Estate Advantage: Secure Investments, Profitable Returns, Future-Ready Growth,” the expo will explore opportunities in Africa’s property market, emphasizing secure investments, high-yield returns, and sustainable development strategies.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka emphasized the significance of the event, stating: “Africa’s real estate sector is evolving rapidly, and Lagos remains at the forefront of this transformation. This event provides an opportunity to showcase the immense potential in our property market while fostering global partnerships that drive sustainable growth and investment.”

Her presence underscores Lagos State’s commitment to promoting investment in tourism and real estate, positioning the region as a key player in Africa’s economic growth.

The event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at fostering collaboration between African and international investors.

Lagos State Begins Reconstruction of Vandalized Oregun Theatre

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blacktalker
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The Lagos State Government has officially commenced the redevelopment of the Lagos Theatre, Oregun, reaffirming its commitment to fostering arts, culture, and the creative economy.

At a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, led the initiative, emphasizing the state’s dedication to revitalizing artistic spaces.

Mrs Benson-Awoyinka noted that the reconstruction of the vandalized theatre is part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s broader vision for cultural infrastructure under the THEMES+ agenda.

She said the world-class facility, once completed, will serve as a dynamic hub for artistic performances, cultural exhibitions, and talent development programmes.

“This redevelopment is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the creative economy. We are not just rebuilding a theatre; we are creating opportunities for artists, performers, and cultural enthusiasts to thrive,” said Benson-Awoyinka.

The Lagos Theatre, Oregun, is one of the four theatres initially built to promote local arts and entertainment. Its reconstruction is expected to enhance tourism and contribute to the state’s economic growth through creative industry investments.

OGUN COMMISSIONER OF POLICE PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO OLOWU OF OWU, SEEKS ROBUST COLLABORATION

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blacktalker
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The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo has paid a courtesy visit to the palatial palace of Kabeiyesi, Oba Professor Adelola Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu and Paramount Ruler of the Owu Kingdom, to seek royal blessings and strengthen collaboration between the police force and traditional institutions in ensuring a safer Ogun State.

During the visit, His Royal Majesty, Oba Matemilola, highlighted key security challenges facing the Owu Kingdom, particularly the activities of scavengers, popularly known as “Bola Bola.” The monarch expressed concerns over their willful destruction of new buildings, theft of electrical cables, and vandalization of properties. Furthermore, the menace of land grabbers in Ogun State was also raised, with the Olowu urging the Commissioner of Police to take decisive action in curbing their illegal activities.

In response, CP Lanre Ogunlowo assured the monarch of the police command’s commitment to tackling criminal activities in the state. He issued a stern warning to land grabbers, emphasizing that while land disputes remain civil matters, the police will intervene in cases where land grabbers resort to violence, destruction of property, or criminal activities such as shooting and physical attacks.

He reiterated that malicious damage and violent confrontations will not be tolerated, and security personnel will act swiftly to prevent further escalation.

The visit concluded on a positive note, with the Paramount Ruler expressing his delight in exchanging security insights with the CP. He pledged his full support to the police command in ensuring law, order, and peace within the Owu Kingdom and beyond.

The Ogun State Police Command remains committed to strengthening partnerships with traditional rulers and community leaders to enhance security and maintain law and order across the state.

NCSP Partners Health Ministry to Transform Nigeria’s Healthcare Sector

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blacktalker
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In a strategic move towards exploring collaboration aimed at improving the healthcare delivery in the country, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, NCSP led by its Director-General Joseph Tegbe has met with the Honourable Minister of State for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Isiaq Salako.

The meeting, which took place at the Conference Room of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, marks a significant step forward in leveraging Chinese technology and expertise in the medical and healthcare sector.

Discussions and deliverables focused on the transformation and enhancement of Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure using Chinese expertise, technology and funding, considering that healthcare is one of the priority areas of Nigeria’s elevated partnership with China. The meeting considered a number of large healthcare/medical organizations, including Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) who have shown interest in investing in the Nigerian health sector, with details of the collaboration being finalized.

The collaboration would involve partnerships for hospital renovations and construction, acquiring advanced medical equipment from China, transferring skills and technology to enhance Nigeria’s healthcare delivery and setting up mini-grids for strategic health institutions.

The meeting noted that the elevated partnership with China and the establishment of the NCSP are testaments to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s foresight in recognizing China as a preferred development partner for Nigeria.

The proposed health sector collaboration will involve facilitating opportunities for joint ventures or partnerships between Nigerian and Chinese companies to improve healthcare delivery with innovative Chinese technologies, such as multi-functional test kits, delivery and maintenance of medical equipment, and training of Nigerian personnel.

Director-General NCSP and the Honourable Minister agreed on follow-up interaction between the Health Ministry and relevant OEMs to finalize on specific areas of interest based on priority needs in the sector. This provides an opportunity for the NCSP to leverage on the Ministry’s technical expertise to ensure Nigeria gets optimum value from the acquisition of equipment.

By driving strategic investments and projects, the NCSP aims to promote industrialization, economic diversification, and long-term growth in Nigeria in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

JTI celebrates International Women’s Day, reiterates commitment to Gender Equality

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blacktalker
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A cross section of Women in JTI at the Business Luncheon in Lagos to celebrate International Women’s Day

As part of the celebration of the 2025 International Women’s Day, the women of JTI Nigeria gathered for a business luncheon at Bon Appetite, Victoria Island, where they engaged in insightful conversations about challenges, opportunities, and strategies to enhance gender diversity across the organisation.

More than just a celebration, the event served as a platform for thought-provoking discussions on breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and driving lasting change for women in the workplace and beyond.

Speaking at the occasion,  Legal Director, JTI Nigeria, Mrs. Yemisi Agweye highlighted remarkable progress women have made in the workplace, noting that this was indeed the time to #AcceleateEmpowerment, to ensure that women remain at the forefront across all functions. She encouraged women in JTI to continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of female leaders.

Also speaking at the event, P&C Business Support Manager, Mrs. Olatoun Oladele reinforced JTI Nigeria’s commitment to bridging gender gaps, particularly in male-dominated roles, “Women are stepping into roles previously dominated by men, and they are excelling. We are seeing great results from women who have taken on these challenges, proving that they are more than ready to lead and deliver”, she noted.

Other participants at the event commended JTI Nigeria for its intentional approach to inclusivity and empowerment, which has ensured that gender equality is recognized as a strategic driver in the journey to achieving its global Vision#1.

Japan Tobacco International, JTI, is a leading international tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine pouch company with operations in over 130 countries, and about 46,000 employees globally. JTI has been recognized as a Top Global Employer for 10 consecutive years with regional certifications in Europe, Africa, Asia, North America and the Middle East.

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