Home Blog Page 183

2025 International Women’s Day: Reflecting on GTCO’s ‘Waste for Gas’ Initiative for Women’s Empowerment, Transformation

By
blacktalker
-
0

By Blacktalker

As the world commemorates the year 2025 International Women’s Day under the theme “Accelerate Action”, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc GTCO is making a remarkable impact through its Waste for Gas initiative.

Designed to empower women and improve the quality of life for underserved households, this transformative project is a testament to the power of corporate social responsibility in driving gender equality and sustainable development.

Recognizing the disproportionate burden of household chores and environmental challenges faced by women in low-income communities, GTCO launched a bold initiative to distribute 3,000 3kg gas cylinders with burners to families in Obafemi Owode Local Government, Mowe, Ogun State.

By replacing the traditional reliance on firewood and charcoal with cleaner, more efficient cooking alternatives, this project is significantly easing the daily struggles of women while promoting sustainable practices.

For many women, the time spent sourcing firewood and enduring health hazards from smoke inhalation limits their ability to pursue income-generating activities, education, and personal growth. With access to gas-powered cooking, they now have more time for self-improvement, entrepreneurship, and family well-being—a core message of this year’s International Women’s Day.

GTCO’s Waste for Gas initiative goes beyond providing gas cylinders; it establishes a structured waste exchange programme, encouraging responsible waste management and instilling a culture of sustainability. Through this initiative, women are not only recipients but active participants in environmental conservation efforts, a step towards fostering female leadership in climate action.

The project’s implementation is divided into two phases:
Identification and Distribution (February 18-21, 2025): GTCO teams, in collaboration with local government representatives, conducted door-to-door visits across 12 wards in Obafemi Owode Local Government.

Beneficiaries were identified based on their dependency on firewood and charcoal and they participated in an exchange programme where they returned plastic waste in exchange for gas cylinders and burners.

Adoption and Monitoring (February 22-23, 2025): The second phase focuses on monitoring how beneficiaries adapt to the new cooking method and ensuring that the initiative achieves long-term impact.

Speaking on the initiative, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje emphasized the company’s commitment to driving social progress: “At GTCO, we believe in empowering communities through sustainable initiatives. The Waste for Gas project is about creating real impact—giving women more time for what truly matters, whether it’s education, meaningful work, or personal development. Our goal is to continuously evolve platforms that strengthen communities and drive socioeconomic growth.”

At the unveiling ceremony, GTCO’s Chief Communication Officer, Oyinade Adegite, highlighted that the initiative aligns with global efforts to promote gender equity in climate resilience. She noted that providing women with cleaner energy sources enhances household welfare while fostering environmental sustainability.

“We conducted thorough assessments to ensure the support reached those who genuinely needed it. Many women had resorted to borrowing from money lenders just to afford gas cylinders, which shows how essential this intervention is,” she revealed.

Joining the discussion, the Obafemi Owode Local Government Chairman, Ambassador Ogunsola Adesina, praised GTCO for this impactful initiative and called for the establishment of a GTCO branch within the community to further support financial inclusion.

Similarly, Olu of Owode-Egba, Oba Kolawole Aremu Sowemimo, reassured beneficiaries that discussions were underway to establish discounted gas refill stations within the community, ensuring the long-term success of the project.

Also, the Iyaloja General, Chief Ganiyat Oyelakin, advised women on the safe use of gas cookers, underlining the importance of safety awareness in household energy transition.

Beneficiaries who were women who depend on firewood and charcoal for their meal preparation expressed their gratitude, the impact of Waste for Gas became clear.

Madam Risikat Ayoka, one of the recipients, shared: “We are excited. This gesture will make us stop using firewood for cooking.” Her words echo the transformative power of the initiative, which is aimed at reducing health risks, saving time and promoting financial stability for women-led households.

On this International Women’s Day, GTCO’s Waste for Gas initiative stands as a beacon of progress, demonstrating how corporate actions can uplift women, foster sustainability, and drive meaningful change.

By ensuring that women in underserved communities have access to cleaner energy and economic opportunities, this initiative truly embodies the spirit of empowerment, sustainability, and inclusion.

This International Women’s Day, we do not just celebrate women’s achievements but also initiatives that create sustainable opportunities for women to thrive. GTCO’s commitment to building inclusive, empowered communities is a powerful reminder that when we invest in women, we invest in a better future for all.

9ja Climate Walk Team Engages Key Stakeholders Ahead 2025 Ekiti Climate Awareness Walk

By
blacktalker
-
0

As part of efforts to advance climate action in Ekiti State, the 9ja Climate Walk team, led by its convener Oluwatobiloba Ojuoluwa, has embarked on a series of high-profile courtesy visits to key stakeholders. These engagements, aimed at fostering collaboration and securing partnerships, mark a crucial step in the preparations for the Ekiti Climate Awareness Walk 2025.

A major highlight of the visit was a strategic meeting with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Ekiti State, where the team got strong support for the 9ja Climate Walk initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the state’s environmental conservation policies and sustainable development goals.

Discussions also centered on partnership opportunities, with a shared commitment to enhancing public awareness and driving actionable climate solutions in the region.

The 9ja Climate Walk initiative has also garnered significant endorsements from influential organizations, including the Ekiti Office of Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs, Tripple Green for Environmental Development, and the Nigerian Youth Congress.

Their pledged support underscores the broad-based commitment to climate action and is expected to play a vital role in the success of the 2025 climate walk. These partnerships not only bolster the event but also integrate climate awareness into Ekiti State’s wider development framework.

Executive Director of SBI Climate Solutions and a key partner in the initiative, Adeyemi Adebisi stressed the importance of empowering young people to adopt sustainable practices and drive environmental change.

Similarly, State Coordinator of the Young African Leaders Initiative, YALI, Oluwatayo Tosin emphasized the enthusiasm of Ekiti’s youth in spearheading impactful climate projects. She noted that their involvement would ensure the climate awareness walk resonates with the younger generation, who will ultimately shape the future of climate action in the state.

With growing momentum and widespread backing, the Ekiti Climate Awareness Walk 2025 is set to become a landmark event in the state’s environmental calendar. Beyond raising awareness about climate change, the event aims to serve as a rallying point for community-led sustainability initiatives and environmental stewardship.

Additionally, the walk will complement the broader ‘Go Green Project’ and the Ekiti Climate Summit, reinforcing a long-term commitment to environmental transformation.

Reflecting on the success of these engagements, the 9ja Climate Walk team reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for climate justice and fostering sustainable development. The team views the initiative not merely as an event but as a movement to inspire collective action toward a greener, more resilient Ekiti State.


Lagos State Marks 2025 International Women’s Day With Call to ‘Accelerate Action’ for Gender Equality

By
blacktalker
-
0

The Lagos State Government has commemorated the 2025 International Women’s Day, IWD with a resounding call to action under the theme “Accelerate Action.”

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his keynote address, underscored the day’s significance as a moment to move beyond conversations and take decisive actions toward gender equality.

“This year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, is a call to dismantle systemic barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create opportunities where every woman can thrive. In Lagos State, we are not just echoing this theme; we are embodying it through deliberate policies and initiatives that empower women across all sectors,” he affirmed.

He further highlighted the government’s efforts in fostering women’s empowerment, including skill acquisition programs, economic opportunities, healthcare access, and leadership development.

The Governor cited initiatives such as HeForShe and women-focused vocational centres as instrumental in providing thousands of women with financial independence and professional skills.

The First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, reinforced the urgency of accelerating action toward gender parity. “Women have always been at the forefront of change, yet progress has been slow. We must now focus on strengthening policies that promote equal opportunities for women in leadership, business, and governance,” she stated.

She also called for an end to gender-based violence, emphasizing the importance of increased awareness, stricter laws, and victim support services.

In her welcome address, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, WAPA, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of women.

She noted that the Ministry has continued to support women through empowerment programs, training initiatives, and advocacy efforts to bridge gender gaps in education, economic participation, and governance.

“Accelerating action requires all stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and implement practical solutions that uplift and empower women,” she declared.

In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Oluyemi Kalesanwo, expressed deep gratitude to the state’s leadership and stakeholders for their relentless efforts in promoting gender equality.

“We must all remain committed to the cause of gender equality, ensuring that every woman and girl has access to opportunities that enable them to thrive,” she concluded.

The grand event, held at Onikan Stadium, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and other distinguished leaders, women’s rights advocates, and community stakeholders.

The event also featured inspiring testimonials from beneficiaries of Lagos State’s women empowerment programmes, panel discussions on women’s economic inclusion, and commitments from government officials to push for gender-responsive policies.

Centre for Media and Society Commemorates International Women’s Day 2025

By
blacktalker
-
0
CEMESO Condemns Shutdown of Badeggi FM, Urges Niger State Governor to Respect Democratic Rights

…..Seeks Accelerating Action for Women’s Participation and Leadership

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the Centre for Media and Society, CEMESO, is calling for accelerated action to upscale women’s participation in governance and leadership.

The Executive Director of CEMESO, Dr. Akin Akingbulu, emphasised the urgent need for positive action, especially on the background of barriers, which hinder effective female representation in governance in Nigeria.

Despite the existence of a well-articulated National Gender Policy which provides for 35 per cent affirmative action in political appointments, implementation remains weak and far below target at all levels of governance. This is compounded by the failure of legislative bodies to complete the processing of laws that would advance the development and participation of women. If the goal of gender equality would not be a mirage, governance institutions should conclude the passage of pending gender bills and ensure full implementation of the policies and legislations that seek the advancement of women.

Beyond policy and legislation, women face serious challenges with political parties which have not shown serious commitment towards addressing exclusion and discrimination, despite the requirement to practice internal democracy and provide level playing grounds. Fewer and fewer women get nominated and elected into parliamentary positions. CEMESO insists that political parties should restructure their internal systems to ensure that women are provided more space to emerge as candidates and winners in elections.

While political inclusion remains a major challenge, economic independence is equally vital in closing gender gaps. Many women in Nigeria struggle with limited access to financial resources, wage disparities, employment discrimination, and restrictions on entrepreneurship, all of which hinder their ability to achieve financial stability.

Financial exclusion, persistent pay gaps, and limited access to credit continue to undermine women’s ability to thrive. Breaking financial barriers is crucial for women’s empowerment.

To address these issues, CEMESO is advocating for comprehensive financial inclusion programmes that provide women with better access to credit and funding. Additionally, the organisation calls for skill development and vocational training, particularly in emerging sectors such as technology, agriculture, and green energy, to equip women with the tools needed to succeed in an evolving job market.

The media is a key institution that shapes public perception and influence national development. Dr. Akingbulu pointed out that low access and visibility along with negative portrayals in mainstream media further reinforce societal biases, often diminishing women’s leadership potential. He advocated three approaches to address this issue: the media must take an active role in amplifying women’s voices and perspectives; there should be investment in women-led media platforms, digital literacy training, and online advocacy programmes to empower women in the digital space; and strengthening legal protections against online harassment to ensure that women can participate freely in public discourse without fear of intimidation or cyberbullying.

Beyond economic barriers, socio-cultural and religious norms continue to restrict women’s rights and opportunities. Discriminatory traditions, inheritance inequalities, and restrictive gender norms shape societal attitudes toward women, limiting their participation in leadership and decision-making. Dr. Akingbulu noted that deep-rooted cultural biases discourage women from entering governance, while double standards demand that women continually prove their competence beyond what is expected of men.

He further highlighted certain socio-religious misconceptions that contribute to gender inequality, particularly in cases of child marriage, discriminatory inheritance laws, and the stigmatisation of divorced or single mothers. These practices remain prevalent in many communities, depriving women of their basic rights and restricting their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.

Dr. Akingbulu warned that without decisive intervention, these structural inequalities will continue to deprive women of their rights and limit their contributions to national development. He urged policymakers, civil society organisations, the media and the private sector to work together in challenging harmful societal norms, promoting economic empowerment and amplifying women’s voices.

LAWMA HOLDS 4TH RAMADAN LECTURE

By
blacktalker
-
0

The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA has organised its 4th annual Ramadan lecture at the Ijora-Olopa headquarters.

In his welcome address, the Managing Director/ CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin emphasised the importance of the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as a month of great blessings and spirituality. He noted that the importance of cleanliness in Islam could not be overemphasised.

He said: “ The Almighty God is the Lord of cleanliness. No wonder Muslims perform ablution always, testifying to standing in a clean state before worshipping God. 

”As we observe the Ramadan period with purification consciousness, I want to urge everyone not to go back to dirty habits that impact the environment negatively after Ramadan“.

Gbadegesin urged attendees to listen attentively to the topic of the day, which would be beneficial beyond the Ramadan period, while equally commending the entire LAWMA staff for their dedication and commitment to duty.

Speaking on the topic, “The Impact of Waste Management in the Environment: the Islamic Perspective”, the guest lecturer, Dr. Abdul Lateef Abdul Hakeem, noted that Islam touched all aspects of human lives, including the environment.

Explaining the significance of Islam on the environment and waste management, Dr. Abdul Hakeem noted that cleanliness in Islam begins from the heart, transcending to other aspects of life and the environment.

He said, “ Cleanliness is all-encompassing. Almighty Allah has enjoined us to have a clean heart, removing all forms of malice and grievances from the heart leaves it in a clean state for worshipping God. Allah also wants us to put on clean clothes and above all, avoid wastefulness. All of these concepts embedded in waste management have references in the Quran and the prophet’s hadith.

”LAWMA’s mandate in Lagos State is a spiritual exercise because Almighty Allah detests any act of uncleanliness and a dirty environment. These can be found in Quran 2v 222, Q 27v 59-65, to mention a few. Therefore, You cannot worship Allah in a dirty environment’’ he noted.

The guest lecturer urged the attendees to support efforts at achieving a clean environment by paying their waste bills promptly. Citing references from the hadith of prophet Muhammad, he noted that Islam enjoins Muslims to be ambassadors of their environment by picking dirty and harmful objects off the road when they come across them, adding that the prophet warned Muslims from going into a town when there is an epidemic .

“Prophet Muhammad,(SAW), commented on cleanliness especially when there is an epidemic because he knew the repercussion of an epidemic, which can be borne out of uncleanliness, urinating into stagnant water and defecating under trees and disposing of waste on the road are all prohibited as unsanitary acts for believers”

Abdul Hakeem therefore urged the Muslim ummah to have good reorientation on cleanliness and purification and above all, follow Allah’s commandments and be righteous Muslims.

In his goodwill message, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Ridwan Akiolu, represented by the Olorogun Agbeje of Lagos, Chief Waidi Olalekan Yussuf appreciated the efforts of LAWMA in the state, encouraging the Muslim ummah to embrace cleanliness, the teachings of Ramadan and remain conscious Muslims at the end of the exercise.Y

Also in her remarks, the managing director of Lotus Bank, Alhaja Kafilat Araoye, represented by the Relationship Manager, Victoria Island Branch, Mr. Abdul Rasheed Ajao, enjoined the Muslim faithful to instill the lessons of Ramadan in their daily lives and be good ambassadors of the environment.

Prayers were offered for Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCON), the Nation, the State and in particular, Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Lawma team led by Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin and the entire environment family.

Present at the event were; The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Omobolaji Tajudeen Gaji; the Chief Imam of Otto.  Alhaji Nasirudeen Onitolo; the Chief Imam of Ijora Olopa, Alhaji Abdullah Sanni; LAWMA management staff, and Otto Muslim community, among others.

IWD 2025: Declare Femicide a National Emergency, CAPPA, Others Tell Tinubu

By
blacktalker
-
0
CAPPA Condemns Police Crackdown on Lagos Demolition Protest

… Senator Natasha’s Suspension Mischievous, say CSOs

Civil society organisations have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately declare the widespread violence against women and the escalating femicide crisis in Nigeria “a national emergency and threat to national security.”

They also weighed in on the ongoing controversy between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and condemned her suspension by the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly.

In a joint statement issued on the occasion of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the organisations emphasised that this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” speaks to the urgency of dismantling entrenched structures of violence and patriarchy, and oppressive norms that continue to endanger the lives of women and prevent them from realising their full potential.

Speaking further, they stated: “Despite Nigerian women’s historical and ongoing contributions to national development, they remain systematically undermined, subjected to unchecked violence, and forced to live in fear in many instances.”

“Femicide, which manifests as the deliberate killing of women and girls simply because of their gender, has recorded an alarming growth in recent times. Since the start of 2025, nearly 30 women have suffered gruesome murders, but these are only the cases that made it to the public eye. Countless others remain unheard, their stories buried by silence, institutional neglect, and impunity.

Meanwhile, many of these killings have been carried out by those closest to them – intimate partners, family members and trusted relatives,” said Ngozi-Juba Nwosu, Executive Director, VisionSpring Initiatives.

These attacks on women, the statement noted, form part of a deeper crisis that demands urgent and decisive government intervention.

“These reprehensible attacks should unsettle every person with a conscience. Women are the backbone of economies and entire communities. When they are constantly under attack, our nation suffers. Women constitute about 49.5 percent of Nigeria’s population—no society can prosper when nearly half its citizens live in perpetual fear of extermination,” said Betty Abah, Executive Director, Centre for Children’s Health Education, Orientation and Protection, CEE-HOPE.

Interrogating the factors that promote gender-based violence and femicide in Nigeria, the organisations identified lack of access to education, insecurity, institutional misogyny—reinforced by weak legal frameworks and poor law enforcement—as key enablers.

The statement further expressed that “Domestic and intimate partner violence remains rampant, fuelled by cultural and religious beliefs that uphold male dominance and discourage women from exiting abusive relationships. Economic disempowerment further exacerbates the crisis, as poverty and limited access to resources often leave women vulnerable to exploitation and fatal violence.”

Additionally, the prevalence of ritual killings across the country persists, often justified by superstitious beliefs and wealth-seeking practices.

“This is why we welcomed the National Film and Videos Censors Board’s (NFVCB) historic 2024 legislation prohibiting the glamourisation of smoking and ritual killings in Nollywood films. This policy shift aligns with our longstanding campaign to cleanse our screens of narratives that normalise and reinforce an unhealthy culture. The Regulation, though a step in the right direction, is far from sufficient,” said Zikora Ibeh, Assistant Director, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation.

The CSOs stressed that tackling the crisis of gender-based violence, ritual killings and femicide requires a multi-layered approach that goes beyond film regulations.

“Existing laws, such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015, must be rigorously enforced, ensuring that perpetrators of femicide and other forms of violence face real consequences.”

While the VAPP Act is a critical legal instrument designed to eliminate violence in both private and public life, its impact remains limited due to lack of political will, weak enforcement mechanisms, and insufficient advocacy. The CSOs warned that unless decisive action is taken, the situation will worsen.

They called on the Nigerian government at both the federal and state levels, alongside key stakeholders such as the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, and the National Orientation Agency (NOA), to acknowledge the gravity of this crisis and demonstrate genuine commitment to upholding Section 33 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), which guarantees the right to life for all individuals.

They called for increased allocation of resources to strengthen protection mechanisms for women, the creation of targeted programs to address economic inequalities, and strategic support to equip more women with the skills requisite for financial independence.

They also requested the establishment of national emergency hotlines and the provision of safe shelters for those at risk.

More critically, they called for a radical overhaul of key institutions, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, which has long served as an enforcer of institutional misogyny rather than a protector of women’s rights.

“Too often, reports of gender-based violence are dismissed as “family matters”, allowing perpetrators to walk free while survivors are left to suffer in silence and shame. Without a total reorientation of law enforcement and the criminal justice system, violence against women will remain state-sanctioned, and the cycle of abuse will continue unbroken,” Ibeh added

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio

The organisations also weighed in on the ongoing controversy between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

They described her suspension as “mischievously hasty, absurd, and most depressingly, a well-executed orchestrated mockery of International Women’s Day in Nigeria.

“Her six-month suspension is not only a targeted witch hunt and outright political purge of dissent but also a brazen abuse of power, robbing her constituents of their right to representation. This pattern of legislative repression has already been declared unconstitutional in Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege v. Senate & 2 Ors (2018).”


The organisations demanded a public hearing and the establishment of an independent panel—comprising impartial citizens, legal experts, and civil society groups—to conduct a transparent investigation into the grave allegations at the heart of this dispute.

Whilst emphasising that the National Assembly is not a self-serving institution but a body accountable to the people, the CSOs lamented that since the start of the controversy, the responses from both male and female legislators have been revealing—not in their demand for due process or justice, but in their swift condemnation of Senator Natasha herself.

“Rather than upholding justice and democratic principles, as well as insisting on an independent inquiry, they have closed ranks, reinforcing a political order that defines women’s participation in politics as conditional, precarious, and ultimately disposable.”

This reaction, the CSOs observed, reflects a system that structures women’s political existence to endure abuse, coercion, and humiliation lest they be cast as weak, disruptive, or unfit for the ruthless terrain of power.

“Women in politics are expected to endure violence and suppression in silence, their subjugation repackaged as a test of resilience and loyalty to the establishment. Any refusal to accept this unspoken rule is met with swift retribution, as seen in the political elite’s collective dismissal of Natasha’s allegations.

“With only a handful of female politicians occupying key positions, and even so, confined to the periphery of decision-making, the urgent task is not just to increase their numbers but to break the very structures that render their presence symbolic at best. This requires building strong democratic institutions that do not encourage the systemic exclusion of women in political spaces,” they concluded.

WEMA BANK SET TO COMMEMORATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025

By
blacktalker
-
0

…. To reward 131 women with 11,000,000 Naira Cash prizes, among other activities

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has announced plans and unveiled the lineup of activities for its commemoration of the women’s month – March, 2025. Among the lineup of activities is the Wema Bank International Women’s Day, IWD 2025 Event scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria.

With the global IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, the Wema Bank IWD 2025 Event will bring together key influential and prominent women from key industries in Nigeria to discuss the topic “Harnessing Innovation & Technology To Accelerate Financial Inclusion for Women,” highlighting the importance of leveraging innovation and technology to sustainably accelerate action towards promoting and enhancing financial inclusion for women.

Beyond the intriguing discussions, the Wema Bank IWD 2025 Event includes the Big Sister Project of the Wema Women Network where beneficiaries of the Bank’s women-focused mentorship programme will be recognised and spotlighted, as well as the HeForShe Awards where male employees of the Bank who have made outstanding strides in accelerating action towards women empowerment in the workspace, will be awarded as a means of encouraging more men to become pro-women; among other uniquely curated activities.

In recognition of the month of March as “women’s month”, Wema Bank’s remarkable lineup of activities for the month have been strategically curated with the goal of celebrating and rewarding women across Nigeria with exclusive experiences, financial rewards and practical support for personal and professional success. Among these activities are the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo Season 4 women’s month draw where 131 women from the Bank’s customer base will receive N11,000,000 in cash rewards, the Wema Women Network (WWN) outreach initiative for young female students at the secondary school level and many more.

Announcing the lineup of events and providing a deeper perspective into the Bank’s avid drive for women empowerment and inclusive impact, the MD/CEO, of Wema Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni (FCIB), further highlighted the need for innovative and tech-driven solutions in accelerating action towards sustainable women empowerment.

In his words, “In a world that is increasingly becoming digital, no conversation on sustainable development can be productive without giving consideration to how solutions in such regard will thrive and remain relevant as the world continues to evolve, As Nigeria’s oldest indigenous and leading innovative Bank, we are both deeply rooted in the advocacy for empowerment and remarkably forward thinking, so our mission of empowering lives is one that goes far beyond lip service”.

“We recognise the gap that exists in gender equality and as a pro-women bank, we have continued to develop new and more efficient ways to accelerate action for women empowerment. This is why we launched our women-focused proposition, SARA by Wema and this is why we are so intentional about making room for women in the spaces that matter and developing solutions that empower women to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

So, for IWD 2025, we are thinking beyond the now, as always, and looking far into the future to accelerate action for sustainable women empowerment by maximising technology and innovation to amplify impact. With this futuristic mindset, we successfully provided over 50 billion Naira in finance, disbursed 2.4 million dollars in collaboration with the Islamic Development Finance under the BRAVE Women project, and reached over 2million women through various skills development, business support, and market access programme and these are just some of our numbers between 2019 and 2023.

Imagine how much progress can be made in the global quest for women empowerment if more individuals and institutions begin to replicate the Wema approach. This is the vision that has kept us driven for 8 decades and these are some of the important discussions we will address at the Wema Bank International Women’s Day 2025 Event”.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a globally acknowledged celebration commemorated annually on March 8 with the goal of celebrating women, raising awareness on the need for gender equality and steering action towards promoting women inclusion. Relentlessly promoting women empowerment beyond IWD, Wema Bank has demonstrated beyond words that it is fully committed to gender inclusion, consistently raising the bar and challenging other institutions to undertake the role of accelerators and generate positive impact for women empowerment.

As the Bank counts down to its 80th anniversary, the Wema Bank IWD 2025 Event and other activities the Bank has curated for the women’s month will further reinforce its position as a Bank with a deep-rooted drive for creating meaningful impact.

Union Bank Rewards 452 Customers in UnionKorrect Draws

By
blacktalker
-
0
UNION BANK SAVE AND WIN PROMO

Union Bank, Nigeria’s leading financial institution, has rewarded 452 UnionKorrect account holders with over 21 million Naira during draws held recently at its Douglas Road Branch in Owerri, Imo State.

During the recent draw monitored and supervised by relevant regulatory bodies, 100 customers were awarded 25,000 Naira each, 40 customers 50,000 Naira each, and one customer won the grand prize of 500,000 Naira in the UnionKorrect Regular category.

In the UnionKorrect Exclusive category, 75 customers won 100,000 Naira each, 10 customers won 500,000 Naira each, and one customer won the grand prize of 1 million Naira.

The bank also rewarded 200 customers with 10,000 Naira each, 24 customers with 20,000 Naira each and the grand prize of 100,000 Nairawas won by one customer for saving in their UnionKorrect DeiDei accounts.

Reacting to the draw, the Bank’s Head of Elite Banking, Adenike Olokunbola, said: “Union Bank is happy to aid our customers in achieving their goals and dreams through campaigns like this one. Our UnionKorrect accounts give customers a sustainable avenue for meeting their future objectives with the bonus of being rewarded for consistently saving over time.”

The UnionKorrect savings product is a sub-account that allows holders earn interest rates while saving a fixed amount monthly for two years. Customers who consistently save in these accounts are eligible for the regular draws where they stand the chance to win cash rewards.

About Union Bank Plc:

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

The Bank currently offers a variety of banking services to both individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance. The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.

More information can be found at: www.unionbankng.com

‎Lagos’ Waste Wars: When LAWMA and Residents Both Fail

By
blacktalker
-
0
‎Lagos’ Waste Wars: When LAWMA and Residents Both Fail

By Kehinde Balikis Kenku
‎
‎Lagos has a waste crisis. Everyone sees it heaps of refuse by the roadside, blocked drains overflowing into streets, and the choking stench of decay. But when you ask who is to blame, the finger-pointing begins. Residents accuse the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) of negligence, while LAWMA blames residents for not paying their bills. The truth? Both sides are guilty.
‎
‎I speak from experience. In 2016, after my NYSC, I moved to Akesan, Igando. Almost immediately, I noticed something troubling: LAWMA trucks hardly visited our community. When they did, it was once or twice a month and only at selected stops.
‎
‎The explanation was simple but frustrating: only households that paid their waste bills got service. Fair enough. But our building had been bundled with neighboring Face-me-I-face-you houses where tenants refused to pay even ₦200–₦500 per room. To avoid being dragged down with them, I went to the LAWMA office and got separate billing for my household. From then on, we paid every month. ‎But then the trucks stopped coming altogether.

For years, Residents dumped refuse at bus stops and into gutters. I, too, resorted to paying informal collectors not knowing where the waste ended up. ‎When I pushed for answers, LAWMA offices were locked, customer care lines dead, and staff members claimed trucks serviced our area  which was simply untrue.

Weeks of follow-up later, the officer in charge finally admitted the truth: our community had been reassigned to a new waste contractor years ago. Campaigns were supposedly carried out through the community chairman  yet nobody ever told us.
‎
‎This is the root of Lagos’ waste problem a massive communication breakdown. LAWMA and its contractors rely on community leaders to spread information, but messages get lost due to the large number of population of resident.

Meanwhile, residents  many of whom refuse to pay their bills  continue dumping irresponsibly until government starts arrests. That isn’t civic duty; it’s fear.

‎‎Both sides must own up:

LAWMA’s failures: Poor communication, poor outreach, and zero transparency when contracts change hands. On the part of residents’ failures: Chronic refusal to pay, indifference to proper disposal, and a culture of waiting for enforcement before acting responsibly.
‎
‎The way forward is clear. LAWMA must expand direct communication with residents through flyers, street campaigns, hotlines that work, and transparent updates on operators. Residents must pay their bills, stop roadside dumping, and demand accountability.

Lagos is already battling flooding, climate change, and environmental degradation. Without shared responsibility, the city will collapse under its own filth. The future of Lagos depends on whether both government and citizens step up in all.

OGUN STATE POLICE COMMAND CONDEMNS OSUKE VILLAGE ATTACK, LAUNCHES FULL-SCALE INVESTIGATION

By
blacktalker
-
0

Ogun State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, has strongly condemned the senseless and brutal attack on Osuke Village, Ota, by yet-to-be-identified gunmen.

In a statement by the Command Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola anipr, the Command extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice.

It notes that on February 27, 2025, at about 14:20 hours, a complaint was lodged at the police station by Olusoji Jinadu, a resident of Iju Mosque Compound, Osuke Ota. He reported that earlier that day, at about 0800 hours, a group of armed hoodlums, led by an individual identified as Elijah, stormed the Muslim Prayer Ground in Osuke Ota on a motorcycle.

”Upon arrival, the assailants opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic and endangering the lives of innocent citizens.

”Tragically, the complainant’s 24-year-old son, Saheed Jinadu Shoboyede, was struck by a bullet. He was rushed to the State General Hospital, Ota, where a doctor on duty pronounced him dead. His remains have been preserved for an autopsy as part of the ongoing investigation.

”Following the report, police operatives promptly visited the crime scene, where three expended cartridges and two spent AK-47 rounds were recovered. A full-scale investigation has been launched to track down and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.

”The Ogun State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. It urge members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with the police by providing any useful information that could aid in the swift apprehension of the culprits.

”Anyone with relevant information should contact the nearest police station or call the command’s emergency lines.”

1...182183184...271Page 183 of 271