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Fidelity Bank Splashes Millions of Naira on Youth Corps Members with GAIM Season 6

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L – R: Branch Leader, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nanka Close, Wuse, Abuja, Vincent Ijioma; GAIM 6 NYSC Empowerment Grant winner, Bomane-Aziba Koromo; and Zonal Inspector, NYSC Zone 3, Abuja, Adama Usman, at the Fidelity Bank GAIM 6 NYSC Empowerment Grant prize presentation ceremony for Q1 in Abuja recently.

Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to financial inclusion, youth empowerment, and promoting a healthy savings culture by rewarding nine National Youth Service Corps, NYSC members with 500,000 Naira business grants each.

The grants were awarded under the Get Alert in Millions Season Six , GAIM 6 promo, an initiative designed to reward loyal customers with cash prizes totaling 159 million Naira. The promo, which runs from November 2024 to August 2025, targets various categories of customers, including NYSC members, students, and general customers.

Mr. Osita Ede, Divisional Head of Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, stated that this season of the GAIM promo aims to enhance the opportunities for loyal customers to win.

“When we launched the GAIM 6 promotion in November 2024, we unequivocally stated that this campaign season is intended to promote inclusivity. Consequently, we have increased the total prize money to N159 million and added additional draws, beyond the weekly and monthly draws featured in previous seasons.

“Now, we have specific draws catering to various segments of our customer base including women, students, youth corps members, and traders. It is important to note that these categories of customers also stand the chance to win millions of naira in the monthly and grand draws which we will be hosting till 20 August 2025,” explained Ede.

Nine NYSC customers were selected through a random electronic draw in the first quarter of the GAIM 6 campaign, from various branches nationwide. They are: Oluwatosin Emmanuel Olowolayemo and Ekpeno Aniekan George, both from Uyo 2 Branch; Derryk Chidubem Okafor from Trans-Ekulu Branch; Aliyu Idris Adamu from Tudun-Wada Kaduna Branch; Bomane-Aziba Koromo from Nanka Close, Wuse Branch; Asabe Grace Adamu from University of Maiduguri Branch; David Agbai Agwu from Oshogbo Branch; Abdullahi Opeyemi Olajuwon from Airport Road, Lagos Branch; and Eghosa George Orhue from Ado Ekiti Branch.

Expressing his gratitude and excitement, one of the recipients of the entrepreneurship grant, Chidubem Okafor, appreciated Fidelity Bank for the grant, noting that the funds will enable him to achieve his entrepreneurial dreams.

His words, “At first, I thought it was a scam when they introduced the initiative at our orientation camp, but today, I am truly honored to receive this support from Fidelity Bank. This grant will go a long way in helping me achieve my entrepreneurial dreams, and I promise to make the most of it,”

Similarly, David Agwu, who also emerged a winner in the draw, expressed his surprise at the unexpected win, saying, “When I received the call, I thought it was a prank. I never applied for anything, so it was hard to believe. But when they sent me proof, I realized it was real. I am truly grateful for this opportunity. My plan is to invest the money in vocational training and digital skills development, particularly in fashion and painting in order to establish a sustainable business”.

Beyond the 500,000 Naira entrepreneurship grant, the winners will also enjoy free business advisory and training sessions at the newly launched Fidelity SME Hub, located at 22, Lanre Awolokun Street, Gbagada Phase 2, Lagos.

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 251 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.

LASWA ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL OPERATIONS OF OMI BUS FERRY IN LAGOS STATE

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The Lagos State Waterways Authority LASWA has announced the official commencement of Omi Bus ferry operations in Lagos State, marking a new era of safe, efficient, and reliable water transportation for Lagos residents

In a statement, LASWA says in line with the Lagos State Government’s vision for a multimodal transportation system, Omi Bus Ferry will provide seamless and affordable water transport services across major routes, easing traffic congestion on the roads while offering commuters a faster and more convenient alternative.

”Our mission is to revolutionize water transportation in Lagos by promoting safe, modern, and eco-friendly ferry services and managing Lagos waterways infrastructures. With the state-of-the-art locally made boats, well-trained crew, and adherence to strict safety protocols, Omi Bus is set to provide passengers with a world-class commuting experience.”

The statement also says the ferry services will operate on major waterways routes including Ikorodu to Falomo, Falomo to Apapa, Badore to Falomo and CMS ensuring connectivity between key business districts, residential areas, and tourism hubs. It notes that each Omi-Bus vessel is equipped with life jackets, emergency response systems, free WiFi and onboard security to guarantee passenger safety at all times.

LASWA assures that Lagosians can expect a smooth and enjoyable ride as Omi Bus Ferry Operators integrates digital ticketing using the Cowry cards, real-time tracking, and customer service support to enhance the overall commuting experience.

As Omi-Bus set to sail for commercial operations from the 14th of March 2025, the Agency invites the public to embrace water transportation as a viable solution to urban mobility challenges.

Cyberstalking: GTCO Pardons Bloggers as Bloggers Tender Unreserved Apology

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

Following the notice of pardon from Guaranty Trust Holding Company, GTCO and its leadership to the Federal High Court, Lagos, reprieve has came the way of four bloggers who were charged for cyber stalking GTCO, the CEO and its management as the Bank withdrew the criminal charge filed against them by the police after reaching terms of settlement with them (the accused).

With the notice of pardon and desire to withdraw charge announced in court by the prosecution counsel, Chief Ajibola Aribisala, SAN, the trial court presided by Justice Ayokunle Faji consequently struck out the charge.

The four bloggers, Precious Eze, male (38), Olawale Rotimi male (47), Rowland Olonishuwa and Seun Odunlami, were charged before the court under the Cybercrimes Prohibition Prevention Act, by operatives of the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi-Lagos.

They were specifically charged before the Federal High Court, Lagos for  spreading false information about GTCO Plc and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Segun Agbaje.

When the matter came up today for trial, the prosecuting counsel, Chief Aribisala, SAN, told the court that the prosecution and the nominal complainants GTCO have finally succumb to the defendants’  plea  to have another look at the matter with other perspective.

Aribisala, SAN, said the defendants have surrendered and agreed to ameliorate the wrongs that led to their prosecution.

He added that  the Guild of Editors have also  intervened and pleaded on their behalf and the bank (GTCO) are amenable to have the matter amicably  settled under the terms agreed.

The prosecutor added that each of the defendants have willingly agreed and appended their signatures on the document containing the terms of settlement.

“The defendants have promised to restitute and to further take out publications to right the wrong, there is no gain saying they are remorseful and have agreed not to use their blogs for publishing wrong, malicious or wrong information.”

Ajibola ,SAN, added that under the terms of settlement, the  bloggers have agreed to tender unreserved  apologies in three National newspapers.

“We appeal that the court approves the document containing the  terms as agreed in the deed of settlement so that they can go back to their families after spending six months in the custody of the Nigeria Correction Services.”he said.

Counsel to the defendants A O Afolabi in his submission said he is not objecting to the withdrawal of the charge, adding that he and the defendants appended their signatures  on the document.

Justice Faji after listening to parties ruled that parties shall comply with terms of the  agreement as contained in the deed of settlement.

He then struck out the charge.

It would be recalled that the Police by an amended charge dated September 26, 2024, held among others that the four defendants, sometimes in August 2024 in Lagos, conspired amongst themselves to commit felony to wit: CyberStalking and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 27 of the Cybercrimes (prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015 as amended in 2024.

The defendants were also said to have knowingly sent false massages or publications in the social media, through a computer or network to the general public as follows “EFCC, FRIS storms GTBanks over Segun Agbaje’s N1 trillion scam” and “Whistle Blowers expose Segun Agbaje Nepotism, power play , enrich him and sister ,Kofo Dosekunni” among other publications , for the purpose of insulting the Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Mr Segun Agbaje or for the purpose of causing criminal intimidation, annoyance, III-will, needless anxiety, injury or hatred to him and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 24 (1) (b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition/prevention, etc) Act. 2015 , as amended in 2024.

Understanding the Lagos Street Sweeping Programme: Structure, Remuneration, Commitment to Worker Welfare

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LAWMA Steps Up Crackdown on Indiscriminate Dumping Across Lagos

The Lagos State street sweeping programme plays a vital role in maintaining a clean and healthy environment and the Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA oversees this programme, ensuring that sweeping operations run efficiently and that workers receive fair remuneration and adequate support.

Street sweepers are engaged through private companies under structured contracts, with their responsibilities and entitlements clearly defined. These private companies are responsible for directly paying their engaged sweepers.

Following a recent wage review, sweeper salaries have been adjusted to align with the national minimum wage and are proportionate to their work schedule, which consists of four-hour daily shifts. Under this structure sweepers earn 40,000 Naira per month and supervisors earn 50,000 Naira per month.

This arrangement provides workers with financial stability while allowing flexibility for other economic activities outside their assigned shifts. LAWMA is committed to improving the welfare and working conditions of street sweepers and has implemented several initiatives to enhance their safety, well-being, and efficiency.

These include regular health and safety training to ensure best practices in their daily operations,
reclassification of sweeping routes to prioritize worker safety and security; accident and emergency insurance coverage to provide medical support in case of work-related incidents and provision of uniforms and necessary work implements to ensure dignity and efficiency in their duties.

LAWMA takes the concerns of street sweepers seriously and remains committed to ensuring they receive fair treatment in line with agreed standards. Any reports of salary discrepancies or contractual violations are promptly investigated, and corrective measures are enforced where necessary.

The success of the street sweeping programme relies on the dedication of these essential workers, and LAWMA will continue to uphold policies that ensure their welfare while enhancing service delivery for a cleaner Lagos.

JMG Champions Gender Equality on International Women’s Day

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In celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, JMG, a leading provider of electromechanical solutions in Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality by honouring the remarkable women within its workforce.

Under the theme “Accelerate Action,” this year’s event highlights the company’s dedication to promoting inclusivity, empowering women, and driving meaningful progress toward a more equitable workplace.

Held at Radisson Blu, Victoria Island, the event brought together all JMG women for an inspiring session headlined by a keynote address from Iphie Chuks-Adizue, Managing Director (Africa), Global Citizen. Speaking at the event, she highlighted the pivotal role of women in shaping industries, communities, and economies while emphasizing the need for collective action to close gender gaps.

A fireside chat, moderated by Oluwatomi Faniran, Head of Marketing at JMG, featured an esteemed panel of industry leaders, including Debbie Larry-Izamoje, CEO of Brila FM; Toks Modupe, Chief Consultant of TPT International; and Iphie Chuks-Adizue. The panelists shared insights on navigating career challenges, breaking barriers, and accelerating progress for women in leadership and business.

Speaking on JMG’s commitment to gender equality, Group General Manager, Rabi Jammal stated “At JMG, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of women as equal stakeholders in our success. Inclusivity is not just a one-day commitment—it is embedded in our culture every single day. As we accelerate action for gender equality, we remain committed to breaking barriers, challenging biases, and ensuring that every woman thrives with her talent, skills, and capacity.”

As part of its ongoing efforts to accelerate action, JMG continues to cultivate a workplace that champions women’s empowerment, leadership development, and career growth. The company also encourages its partners, clients, and stakeholders to join in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future.

For more information on JMG’s solutions, please visit www.jmglimited.com

About JMG

JMG is a leading electromechanical solutions provider in Nigeria, offering a comprehensive range of products and services to meet the diverse needs of homes, businesses, and industries. With expertise spanning power generation, electrical infrastructure, vertical transportation, cooling systems, and air compressors, JMG remains committed to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across multiple sectors.

Pernod Ricard Nigeria Marks International Women’s Day with Pernod Ricard Nigeria Women Network

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Pernod Ricard Nigeria, a member of the Pernod Ricard Group and a global leader in the spirits and wine industry has joined other reputable organisations around the globe to mark this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) with the theme, ‘Accelerate Action.’

To celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day, Pernod Ricard Nigeria hosted a vibrant fireside chat at the Jameson Yard in Lagos. Female colleagues came together to support each other and discuss personal development, career growth, challenges and opportunities in and out of the workspace. The event also highlighted the four pillars of the PRN Women Network: Education, Mentoring, Welfare support, and Social Activities.

Guest speaker, Chioma Omeruah (Chigul) inspired attendees with her talk on overcoming challenges and building legacies, including an immersive Q&A session. The celebration also featured engaging activities such as a bento cake design session, basket weaving, and a delightful lunch with Chef Tucker. The day concluded with photo sessions, networking opportunities, and a renewed sense of community and empowerment among the women of Pernod Ricard Nigeria.

Given the 2025 IWD context, the Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Michael Ehindero, stated that it shows the importance of women in the world order. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the women of Pernod Ricard and highlighted the pivotal roles they play in the organization. He also pledged his continuous support to the Pernod Ricard Nigeria Women Network.

Launched in November 2024, PRN Women Network promises to transform the landscape for women in the company. It is more than just a support group, but a beacon of empowerment, inclusion, and professional growth.

The vision of the scheme is to create an enabling environment where women can support each other, maximise their potential, and maintain their individuality. It is designed to enhance development, mentoring, and career progression opportunities, ensuring that every woman at Pernod Ricard Nigeria can thrive.

The network is governed by advisory councils and executives, supported by four dynamic working groups. These groups focus on organising regular technical and power skills training programmes, recommending, and nominating women for seminars and conferences, creating systems to provide emotional support, and developing customised mentoring programmes for soft and technical skills.

The PRN Women’s Network is not just about individual success, but about contributing to a sustainable future. By empowering women, the network supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), including Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Reduced Inequalities.

About Pernod Ricard Nigeria

Established in 2012, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, is a member of the Pernod Ricard Group, a worldwide leader in the spirits and wine industry, blending traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art brand-building, and global distribution technologies.

Our prestigious portfolio of premium to luxury brands includes Absolut vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes.

Our mission is to ensure the long-term development of our brands with full respect for people and the environment, while empowering our employees around the world to be ambassadors of our purposeful, inclusive, and responsible culture of authentic conviviality.


GREEN MORTGAGE SET TO SIMPLIFY MORTGAGE PROCESSING IN NIGERIA

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Nigeria’s first online mortgage processing and approval platform, Green Mortgage has launched the most needed tool for easy home ownership in Nigeria.

This follows a successful beta phase with over 20 mortgage companies and the Family Homes Funds. Green Mortgage seamlessly integrates loan origination systems (LOS) and Documentation systems, providing home buyers with a comprehensive, all-in-one solution to revolutionize the mortgage journey from start to finish.

“With Green Mortgage, we’ve combined LOS & Documentation processes into a single, streamlined platform, enhancing the entire mortgage journey for mortgage originators and borrowers alike” said Imelda Usoro Olaoye co-founder and CBO.

“By helping thousands of people secure mortgages through www.thinkmint.ng/buyrealestate, we gained deep insights into the often disjointed and complex nature of mortgage systems.

“We experienced firsthand the frustrations of countless paper work, unclear interest rates and processing down times. Thus Green Mortgage was built to solve these problems by creating a seamless, modern solution for the entire industry — including borrowers and mortgage professionals alike.”

Speaking on the product, Noah Ibrahim Co-founder and CSO stated that as a long standing real estate developer, he has seen first hand the gaps in mortgage facilitation in Nigeria and how an effective mortgage eco-system would ensure timely project delivery and the eventual provision of sustainable housing developments , thus reducing the growing housing deficits in the nation.

“I have never been as excited about a product as I am about Green mortgage. The mortgage industry has long grappled with outdated and disconnected systems, often requiring mortgage professionals to juggle multiple tools to manage a single loan.

“This disjointed process can result in high costs, inefficiencies and frustration for originators and consumers alike. Green mortgage addresses these challenges head-on by offering a unified platform that simplifies the origination process, enhances productivity and reduces costs”.

Key features of the Green Mortgage platform include:

● Competitive Interest Rates – Enjoy affordable rates that make homeownership within reach.
● Payment Options – Choose a repayment plan that suits your financial situation.
● Easy Application Process – Get started with less paperwork and no complicated procedures.
● Faster Approval Time – Get your mortgage approved in no time, so you can move into your dream home sooner.
● Exclusive Partnerships – Access special deals and discounts from our trusted real estate partners.

Having successfully raised a pre-seed fund of 100,000 Dollars following two pitches to investors in October, 2024, green mortgage is set to revolutionize mortgage origination by automating the nuanced processes, reducing costs for originators, minimizing errors and ultimately providing a better experience for consumers.

“With Green Mortgage, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, streamlining workflows and relationships with tools that bring mortgage loan origination into the modern age.”

“My deep understanding of the industry, honed through the success of a successful real estate marketing platform— which has facilitated several billion Naira real estate transactions, emerging as one of the fastest growing businesses in Nigeria since inception in 2020— uniquely positions me as a partner in this venture to address the complex challenges of mortgage origination.” says Imelda Usoro Olaoye who is the Founder and CEO of Thinkmint Nigeria.

For more information, or to schedule a demo, please visit www.greenmortgage.thinkmint.ng

About Green Mortgage

High interest rates, limited access to long-term funds, and tough eligibility criteria have made mortgages less accessible to many aspiring homeowners. However, with innovative mortgage products like Green Mortgage, owning your dream home is now easier than ever!

WEMA BANK COMMEMORATES 22025 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

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(L-R) Lead, Deal Matchmaking at Impact Investors Foundation (IIF), Tochi Ginigeme; MD/CEO of Wema Bank PLC, Moruf Oseni; Chairman, Board of Directors, Wema Bank PLC, Dr. Oluwayemisi Olorunshola; Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Pan-Atlantic University, Dr. Nneka Okekearu; and CEO of Hervest, Solape Akinpelu, at the Wema Bank International Women's Day event in Lagos today.

…Hosts HeForShe Awards, Big Sister Programme Graduation Ceremony, others.


Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has commemorated International Women’s Day 2025 in style, hosting a grand event on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at its Head Office Facility in Lagos.

The Wema Bank International Women’s Day 2025 Event convened iconic women from diverse fields and industries to dissect the topic “Harnessing Innovation & Technology To Accelerate Financial Inclusion for Women”.

Deriving from the global IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, the Wema Bank International Women’s Day 2025 event highlighted the need for implementing an innovative approach to promoting financial inclusion for all women and forging long term sustainability for women empowerment.

Among the major highlights of the Wema Bank International Women’s Day 2025 event were the Women Network’s graduation ceremony of the Big Sister Programme Cohort 2; special performances across music and poetry; the HeForShe 2025 Awards where outstanding male employees of Wema Bank who have made outstanding strides in accelerating action towards women empowerment, were awarded to encourage more men to become pro-women; and a panel session featuring distinguished women who have been instrumental in accelerating action for women empowerment.


Moderated by Media Personality and TV Presenter, Olive Emodi, the session featured three panelists including Dr. Nneka Okekearu, the Director of the Entreprise Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University, Solape Akinpelu, CEO of Harvest and Tochi Ginigeme, Lead Deal Matchmaking at Impact Investors Foundation; all of whom provided invaluable insights and visionary contributions to the perceptive discussion on addressing roadblocks and leveraging innovation for women empowerment.

This grand event panned out excellently, receiving commendation from women across Nigeria.
Attesting to Wema Bank’s commitment to women empowerment Chairman, Dr. Mrs. Oluwayemisi Olorunshola, the Chairman of Wema Bank, highlighted the Bank’s role in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) towards the global advancement of gender equality.

According to her, ““The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is “Accelerate Action”, and as the first female Chairman of Wema Bank, my career is a testament to the impact that can be generated and the change that can be achieved, when individuals and corporations take decisive steps to accelerate action for women empowerment. The goal of the 5th Sustainable Development Goal, ‘Gender Equality’, is to build a world where woman can thrive without discrimination and oppression, and we must all do the work to contribute to the achievement of this goal”.

Emphasising the deep-rooted nature of Wema Bank’s commitment to empowerment, Mr. Moruf Oseni (FCIB), Wema Bank’s MD/CEO commented, “This mission of empowering lives is one that is deeply rooted in our identity as Wema Bank. From inception in 1945 to present, we have carried on the mission of empowering our people.

”A lot has changed in the last 8 decades but one thing that has remained constant is our commitment to inclusion, empowerment and support for women. As a Bank, we recognise the gender equality gap that exists globally, and we understand the need for a tailored approach to addressing this challenge. This is why we launched our women-focused proposition, SARA by Wema, in 2019, and why we continue to take intentional steps towards empowering women”.


“Since the launch of SARA, we have banked over 400,000 unbanked women, disbursed over 75 billion Naira low-interest loans and over 20,000 dollars in grants, created over 900 jobs for women, provided market access for 3,000 women, connecting them with over 135,000 customers and generating over $4 million in sales; and these are just to mention a few. Why have we been so intentional in the gender space? Because “Accelerating Action”, for us at Wema Bank, is beyond lip service.

We walk the talk when it comes to women empowerment and today, we are gathered here to not only celebrate the exceptional impact we have made in empowering women for 8 decades, but more importantly, raising the right conversations and driving the right actions as we look ahead to a future of much greater possibilities.

Wema Bank has supported women since 1945 and we celebrate our 80 years anniversary come May 2nd, 2025, we are more driven than ever to continue empowering women and building a future where women thrive, where equity is the norm, and where equality and empowerment are not just ideals but realities”.


Wema Bank has proven itself to be a gender inclusion and equality driven organisation, going above and beyond to empower women from all walks of life to thrive, and contributing to the advancement of the global movement for gender equality.


As Wema Bank counts down to 80 years, the world joins in to celebrate Nigeria’s oldest indigenous and most resilient bank, pioneering innovative impact in the African banking industry since 1945 and beyond 2025.

LASWA Prevents Major Waterways Mishap, Removes Hazardous Dredging Pipe

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LASWA Felicitates Waterways Users on Eid-el-Adha, Emphasises Safety Compliance

The Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA) has swiftly mitigated the effect of a dangerously installed dredging pipe that posed a significant threat to ferry operators and waterway users along the power line en route Ikorodu axis of Lagos.

This once again demonstrated the Agency’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safety on the Lagos Inland waterways.

The poorly installed pipe, left behind by a dredging company, was discovered in the early hours of Tuesday, March 11th, 2025. It obstructed the movement of 2 passenger ferries and damaged the hull parts of the boats, creating a potential hazard for waterways users.

Upon receiving reports of the obstruction, LASWA’s Patrol team immediately conducted an on-site inspection and took decisive action to eliminate the risk by installing marker buoys to show the safe path to navigate.

The effort emphasized LASWA’s vigilance in monitoring and managing the waterways to prevent accidents. This swift action of demarcating the danger area and installation of marker buoys prevented what could have been a catastrophic incident.

”We urge all dredging companies and marine operators to adhere strictly to safety and environmental regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future, the Agency noted”.

The agency further called on stakeholders, including dredging companies, boat operators, and waterfront communities, to collaborate in maintaining safe and navigable waterways.

For more information, please contact us at talktolaswa on 0700 CALL LASWA or 08090129777
Instagram/X @talktolaswa

Anambra State Law Bans Noise Pollution, Not Evangelism- Soludo

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The Anambra State Government has addressed the misconstrued reports surrounding Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s recent encounter with an itinerant preacher at Onitsha Market, where the Governor’s remarks on noise pollution are now being adversely interpreted as a ban on evangelism.

Although the  Governor’s focus was on the noise pollution, which has been banned by an extant law on public health, propagators of fake news have gone to town to misconstrue the Governor’s remark as a ban on evangelism.

While making the clarification on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor stated that Governor Soludo, while addressing the noise polluters, drew their attention to the Public Health Law 2006, which prohibits noise pollution and preaching in inappropriate places like markets using loudspeakers. The governor advised preachers to conduct their activities in churches or designated areas where people can gather and listen to the word without disrupting others’ activities.

According to Mefor, the issue at hand is noise pollution, not evangelism. “Noise pollution” is punishable under *Sections 8(1,4b) and 9(1,2) of the Public Health Laws of Anambra State, 2006. As a matter of precedence, a magistrate court in Nnewi made this law actionable against a church in 2019 (link is attached herewith: https://search.app/xBiq2v7wDBUwvTmE8).

The public is therefore advised to disregard any claims suggesting Governor Soludo has banned evangelism or public preaching in Anambra State. Instead, we urge citizens to adhere to the Public Health Law and respect other people’s rights to a conducive environment.

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