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LAGOS HOSTS SOUTH WEST REGIONAL FORUM FOR 2025 VOLUNTARY NATIONAL REVIEW ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

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…….As OSSAP-SDGs Kick-Starts Nationwide Regional Stakeholders’ Consultation on VNR.

Stakeholders and key players in achieving the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs target across states in the Nigerian South-West region have converged on Lagos for the Regional Stakeholders’ Consultation on Nigeria’s 2025 Voluntary National Review, VNR on Sustainable Development.

This crucial engagement was convened under the auspices of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, OSSAP-SDGs in collaboration with the Lagos State Government through the Office of SDGs and Investment.

In her keynote address, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, highlighted the importance of the VNR process as a mechanism for measuring national and subnational progress, identifying gaps, and enhancing accountability in SDGs implementation.

According to her, Nigeria’s 2025 VNR is not just an exercise in reporting but an opportunity to assess our collective efforts, refine strategies, and accelerate action towards achieving the global agenda.

Orelope who was represented by her Technical Assistant, Dr. Bala Yinusa, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda, emphasizing the need for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to accelerate sustainable development efforts across the country.

“The Voluntary National Review is an opportunity for us to critically reflect on our obligations, assess challenges, and refine strategies to ensure no one is left behind. Through broad-based consultations like this, we strengthen policy coherence, encourage multi-stakeholder participation, and reinforce our commitment to the global SDGs agenda,” she stated.

She noted that the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, which serves as the global review platform for the SDGs, will convene in July 2025, where Nigeria will present its third VNR report alongside 38 other countries.

Welcoming delegates to the forum, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on SDGs, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, commended the OSSAP-SDGs for convening the dialogue, highlighting the pivotal role of subnational governments in translating the SDGs into practical, local implementation.

She stressed that as Nigeria moves closer to the 2030 deadline, the 2025 VNR consultation provides an excellent platform to re-evaluate progress, identify bottlenecks, and co-create scalable solutions for accelerating SDG implementation at both national and subnational levels.

Delegates at the Regional Stakeholders’ Consultation on Nigeria’s 2025 Voluntary National Review, VNR on Sustainable Development held in Lagos.

While noting that Lagos State has remained a frontrunner in data-driven governance and policy innovation, the Special Adviser revealed that the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration has institutionalized mechanisms to ensure that development policies and interventions are data-driven, evidence-based, and impactful.

“Lagos State’s 2023 Voluntary Local Review (VLR) has significantly influenced policy formulation, resource allocation, and inter-agency collaboration.

It has provided a framework for tracking our SDG progress and strengthening participatory governance, aligning our state policies with global development targets,” Dr. Finnih remarked.

She also reiterated the transformational role of periodic assessments, such as the VNR and VLR, in advancing sustainable development, stating that they enable governments to adopt responsive, transparent, and inclusive strategies to meet their SDG commitments effectively.

Dr. Finnih encouraged government institutions, private sector leaders, development partners, and civil society actors to contribute their insights and expertise to shape a more inclusive and results-driven VNR, noting that the national review is not just a formality, but a true reflection of the progress, challenges, and solutions needed to fast-track the SDGs.

She appreciated the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs for its leadership and commitment to fostering a national dialogue and driving initiatives that aligned with the aspirations of the SDGs.

During the consultation, stakeholders including government officials, clusters of persons with disabilities, development partners, civil society organizations, and academia evaluated Nigeria’s 2024 SDG Progress Report, analyzed institutional frameworks, and discussed challenges and key recommendations to enhance multi-stakeholder collaboration toward advancing SDG attainment at both national and subnational levels.

Discussions also focused on leveraging public-private partnerships, innovative financing, and digital technology to fast-track progress in critical areas such as poverty reduction, quality education, gender equality, and climate action.

The regional consultation in Lagos marks the beginning of a nationwide engagement series, with subsequent discussions scheduled to take place in Uyo (South-South), Enugu (South-East), Gombe (North-East), Kaduna (North-West), and Abuja (North-Central), with a climax at a National Validation Summit scheduled for the Federal Capital Territory.

World Obesity Day: CAPPA Renews Call For Healthy Food Policies

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blacktalker
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To commemorate World Obesity Day, WOD, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has renewed its call for comprehensive healthy food policies to strengthen local diets and tackle the country’s rising obesity and other non-communicable diseases, NCDs burden.

In a statement signed by Media & Communications Officer, CAPPA, Robert Egbe and dated Tuesday, 04 March 2025, the civil society organisation highlighted the alarming data on the global obesity scourge, saying it reinforced CAPPA’s advocacy for urgent measures to discourage Nigerians from excessively consuming sugary drinks, which are a risk factor for overweight and obesity.

These measures, CAPPA said, include raising the tax imposed on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSB) Tax from the current 10 Naira to 130 Naira per litre or by any rate that is not less than 20 per cent of the product’s retail price.

World Obesity Day encourages practical solutions to help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight, undertake proper treatment, and reverse the obesity crisis.

CAPPA aligned with the WOD theme of “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives” which puts the onus on systems that influence the drivers of obesity and related chronic diseases to act.


The NGO noted that these include the food systems, healthcare services, governments, media, and workplaces and communities.

“These systems are directly or indirectly linked to the increasing rates of obesity,” said Akinbode Oluwafemi, CAPPA’s Executive Director.

The NGO argued that the case for speedy action is reinforced by the grim reality of local and global forecasts on diabetes.

According to the World Obesity Federation, WOF, 1.9 billion or 1 in 4 people will be living with obesity in 2035, costing the global economy about 4.32 trillion Dollars. This is twice the figure for 2010. Worse yet, there will be a 100 per cent increase in childhood obesity between 2020 and 2035, while 1 in 4 people are likely to be living with obesity by 2035.

“Ten years after the international health community set aside March 4 as World Obesity Day, it is disheartening to see a condition once thought to be more prevalent in wealthy nations, steadily creeping among populations in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria,” Akinbode said.


He noted that as of 2020, there were more than 21 million overweight and 12 million obese ‘persons in the Nigerian population aged 15 years or more, accounting for an age-adjusted prevalence of about 20 per cent and 12 per cent, respectively, according to the National Library of Medicine.

CAPPA urged the government at all levels to pay attention to the worrisome practice of food corporations flooding the markets and grooming Nigerians with unhealthy, ultra-processed food products targeted at children and other classes of the country’s teeming youth population, to the detriment of their health and nutritious, indigenous diets.

Oluwafemi noted that these junk foods have been linked to overweight and obesity, adding that this unhealthy diet crisis is costing the country invaluable manpower and productivity loss due to hospitalisation and chronic disability of NCD victims.

Referencing the W.H.O., he added that obese children are at higher risk of developing serious health problems including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and other respiratory problems, sleep disorders and liver disease.

“Childhood obesity also increases the risk of obesity, non-communicable diseases, premature death and disability in adulthood,” he added.

“Taking action on obesity is a critical step in reducing the burden of other chronic non-communicable diseases, hence the call for a raise in the SSB tax – a pro-health levy – to 130 Naira per litre and the proceeds ploughed into the healthcare sector.”

JMG Marks World Engineering Day, Advocates for Renewable Energy, Innovation

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blacktalker
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JMG Limited, a leading provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria has joined the global community in celebrating World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the critical role of engineers in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs.

This year’s theme, “Unleashing the Power of Engineers to Advance the Sustainable Development Goals,” resonates with JMG’s continuous commitment to innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

World Engineering Day, observed annually on March 4, serves as a platform to highlight engineers’ contributions to technological advancements and global development. Also observed in the month of March, Solar Appreciation Day raises awareness about the vast potential of solar energy in the transition towards sustainable power solutions. As the world gradually moves away from fossil fuels, the need for renewable alternatives such as solar energy has never been more crucial.

Speaking on the significance of these global milestones, the Group General Manager of JMG Limited, Rabi Jammal, emphasized the transformative impact engineers have on shaping industries, economies, and communities. “Engineering remains at the heart of innovation, infrastructure, and energy transformation. As we celebrate World Engineering Day and Solar Appreciation Day, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering solutions that drive sustainable development, particularly in renewable energy,” he stated.

To commemorate these milestone events, JMG is spearheading a series of activities aimed at engaging key stakeholders across public and private sectors, as well as academia. These initiatives include:

  • A Road Walk for Engineering and Renewable Energy Awareness: JMG employees and industry stakeholders will participate in a high-visibility road walk to advocate for increased adoption of renewable energy, particularly solar solutions. This is expected to take place on March 14, 2025.

As a key player in Nigeria’s engineering and energy landscape, JMG is a major employer of engineers across multiple disciplines, including Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. The company’s solutions span power generation, solar energy systems, electrical infrastructure, air compressors, cooling solutions, and vertical transportation systems such as elevators and escalators.

JMG has consistently championed clean energy initiatives, offering sustainable power solutions to businesses and individuals. Since 2018, the company has expanded its portfolio to include inverters & batteries and alternative power solutions such as Livfast inverters and batteries. In 2024, JMG further strengthened its solar power offerings with LONGi solar panels, Deye lithium batteries, and Must solar inverters—reinforcing its leadership in Nigeria’s renewable energy space.

JMG also provides a range of power generation solutions, including FG Wilson generators, Eletromak generators, and Mitsubishi generators.

By leveraging engineering innovation and renewable energy solutions, JMG continues to support global efforts in achieving SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), driving the transformation towards a cleaner, more efficient energy future.

About JMG Limited

JMG Limited is a premier provider of electro-mechanical solutions, delivering unmatched expertise in power generation, renewable energy, electrical systems, and infrastructure development amongst others. With a legacy of excellence, JMG remains committed to advancing engineering and sustainable technologies that enhance lives and businesses across Nigeria.

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

Governor Soludo Felicitates Muslims on Commencement of Ramadan

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blacktalker
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Governor Charles Soludo has expressed sincere felicitations and best wishes to esteemed Muslim Faithful in Anambra State and across the country as they commence the holy month of the Ramadan fast.

Governor Soludo, in his goodwill message, stated that Ramadan, a period of profound spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and heightened devotion, offers a unique opportunity for Muslims to strengthen their connection with Almighty Allah, foster unity, and extend compassion to the needy.

The governor stated that this sacred month also reinforces the timeless values of charity, empathy, and peaceful coexistence, which are fundamental to building a harmonious and progressive society.

In a release by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo assures the Muslim community in Anambra that his administration deeply values their contribution to the socio-economic dynamism of the state.

Soludo further encouraged them to use this auspicious period to deepen their faith and pray for the continued peace and prosperity of Anambra State and Nigeria.

He also wishes all Muslims a blessed and rewarding Ramadan, praying that Almighty Allah grants them the strength and grace to complete the fast.

Governor Soludo, who was recently named The Sun Newspaper ‘Governor of the Year 2024’ for his credible leadership and achievements, has truly redefined governance with series of initiatives to make Anambra a homeland where people can live, invest, learn, work, relax, and enjoy.

Creative Economy Practice at CcHUB Expands CEP Entertainment Hub to Lagos, Empowers Nigerian Storytellers

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blacktalker
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The Creative Economy Practice at CcHUB (CEP) has announced the official launch of the CEP Entertainment Hub in Lagos, a space designed to empower storytellers in film, TV and the Creator Economy.

Following the successful launch of the first hub in Nairobi in December 2024, this expansion further reinforces the programme’s mission to foster gender-equitable storytelling and promote inclusive narratives across Africa.

As part of the Entertainment and Media Hubs Program, this hub aims to support storytellers in developing authentic, gender-equitable narratives representing diverse perspectives. Funded by the Gates Foundation and delivered in partnership with Africa No Filter, the programme equips African storytellers with the skills to challenge harmful gender norms in media and society.

By providing tailored training, funding, and networking opportunities, the initiative fosters storytelling that breaks stereotypes, promotes inclusivity, and drives meaningful cultural and industry shifts. Ultimately, this work contributes to improved health and economic outcomes for adolescent girls and young women, AGYW.

The CEP Entertainment hub in Lagos features two fully equipped podcast studios, a media room with a filming area, an editing suite, and collaborative workspaces. The hub is part of four interconnected pillars of the programme.

The CEP Entertainment Hub in Lagos serves as the program’s physical anchor, offering storytellers essential facilities and fostering a vibrant community of creators who collaborate, network, and share knowledge. Participants develop the skills needed to produce impactful content through workshops, masterclasses, and hands-on training by industry experts. Additionally, Africa No Filter provides grants to support innovative storytelling ideas that promote transformative and inclusive gender-equitable narratives.

Since its launch in August 2024, the program has advanced gender-equitable storytelling through virtual gender-equitable storytelling workshops attended by over 250 and a three-month Creator Economy Incubator in Nigeria and Kenya for 60 emerging social media content creators. In Nigeria, the Creator Economy Incubator has been co-developed with Chude Jideonwo, a Nigerian TV host, filmmaker and media entrepreneur and features facilitators from the Joy. Inc.

Managing Director at CcHUB, Ojoma Ochai commented: “We are excited to be able to invite all storytellers in Nigeria’s film, TV, and Creator Economy sectors to join our community and contribute to a future where storytelling empowers, inspires, and fosters inclusion. Membership offers immense benefits—access to premier facilities, funding opportunities, and connections with thought leaders and passionate storytellers.”

Executive Director of Africa No Filter, Moky Makura added: “Creative hubs are vital to Africa’s storytelling landscape. They provide the space and resources needed for creators to innovate, collaborate, and produce transformative narratives. The Lagos hub represents a critical step in building a more inclusive media industry.”

About Creative Economy Practice at CcHUB

The Creative Economy Practice at CcHUB is dedicated to enhancing job and wealth creation and opportunities for creative expression for Africans—particularly women and young people—through innovation and the application of technology in the African Creative Economy.

By leveraging innovation and technology, CEP aims to transform the landscape of the African creative economy with a focus on research, community and ecosystem development, investment readiness, investment through our Syndicate, and the management of partner funds – Grants, Debt, Equity, Hybrid, and Investor Education and Advocacy. Through our diverse programming and initiatives, we strive to build a thriving and sustainable creative economy across the continent.

About Africa No Filter

Africa No Filter is an advocacy organization shifting stereotypical narratives about Africa through storytelling that reflects a dynamic continent of progress, innovation, and opportunity. Through community building, we partner with content creators, artists, journalists, and arts, culture, media, and advocacy organizations that care about how the world sees Africa and how Africa sees itself. 

Our vision is a world where the prevailing narrative within and about Africa reflects a progressive and dynamic continent. Our mission is to connect and build the field of narrative change-makers in Africa, support storytellers and dissemination platforms to crowd in more progressive, nuanced storylines, and drive disruption campaigns that challenge harmful narratives.

DevReporting Set To Take Off, Announces Mojeed Alabi as Team Lead, Christiana Alabi-Akande, as Managing Editor

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blacktalker
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DevReporting, an online newspaper established by Development Reporting Services Limited, is set to take off. With its headquarters in Lagos, the newspaper said its interest is to promote informed discourse, balanced reporting, and comprehensive impact on development issues in Nigeria and Africa.

In a statement signed by the organisation’s Administration and Finance Control Manager, Omobayo Azeez, the organisation enjoined Nigerians, Africans, and its targeted global audience to visit its website and social media pages on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

This is as the organisation announced Mojeed Alabi- a former Development Editor at PREMIUM TIMES, as team lead/editor-in-chief and Christiana Alabi-Akande, a former correspondent at Daily Trust Newspaper, as managing editor.

According to the statement, as a niche platform, the online newspaper intends to “disrupt the status quo with a unique style of covering development issues in Nigeria and beyond through four major projects of DevCinema, DevCheck, DevCast, and DevStats”.

“The details of these initiatives will be made public in the coming days but Nigerians and Africans should be prepared to witness firsthand rich exclusives, analysis and investigations on happenings within the development sectors, especially education, health, and humanitarian issues and how they affect the people,” the statement noted.

The newspaper said as changes and needs of the people evolve, journalism’s response must also evolve, noting that the issues that deserve much emphasis in the media should be based on the different eras.

The statement further noted: “The truth is that when the fight against the colonialists was in vogue, the media did well; when the military incursions dominated the post-colonial era, journalism also played its part. But now that democracy seems to have been enthroned and the new challenges are the issues of poor leadership, corruption, and stark underdevelopment, journalism needs to refocus by significantly highlighting these issues in connection with the people’s survival. That is the vacuum DevReporting has come to fill”.

According to the statement, as the pioneer development editor at PREMIUM TIMES, with records of different innovations and partnerships implemented to advance development reporting for the much-respected newspaper, Mojeed Alabi, as the co-founder of DevReporting, “is in the best position to drive the vision of the new platform.”

It said having reported the education sector for more than a decade, and serving as the chairman of the Education Writers’ Association of Nigeria (EWAN) with a rich network of contacts, “Mr Alabi is primed to lead a team of change agents in development reporting on the continent of Africa.”

Mr Alabi, a 2005 graduate of English at the Obafemi Awolowo University and holder of Master’s certificate in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos, has won various journalism laurels including being a two-time winner of the coveted Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting.

On her part, the newspaper’s pioneer Managing Editor, Christiana Alabi-Akande, a holder of a postgraduate diploma certificate in Mass Communication, was the best graduating student in Mass Communication at the Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna, in 2008, where she had her Higher National Diploma (HND) certificate.

Mrs Alabi-Akande, who worked with Daily Trust Newspaper between 2010 and 2022, covered various beats including education, health, technology, gender, children, women, and commerce, and was the newspaper’s correspondent at both the Kaduna State House of Assembly and the Lagos State House at different times.

A recipient of multiple awards, including the “Courage in Journalism” and “2016 Journalist of the Year Award” by Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF), Mrs Alabi-Akande is passionate about storytelling, humanitarian service, and driving impactful change through her work. Her proficiency in English, Hausa, and Yoruba, combined with her digital marketing skills, makes her a versatile and dynamic media professional.

POSSAP Launches Secretariat Annex at Ogun State Police Headquarters, Eleweran

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blacktalker
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The Police Specialized Services Automation Project, POSSAP has expanded its operations with the inauguration of its Secretariat Annex at the Ogun State Police Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.

This development aims to improve the accessibility and efficiency of specialized police services in the region.

Launched initially on June 2, 2022, the POSSAP is designed to provide automated and streamlined services to Nigerians. The newly established Ogun State POSSAP Annex will cater to the capturing process for Police Character Certificates, PCC and Tinted Glass Permits, TGP, making it easier for applicants to complete necessary formalities within a shorter timeframe.

Applicants seeking a Police Character Certificate or Tinted Glass Permit must visit www.possap.gov.ng to complete registration.

After successful registration, they must visit the POSSAP Secretariat Annex at Ogun State Police Headquarters for capturing, then applications will be processed for certificate issuance.

Processing duration is between three to five days after successful registration, and the certificate is valid for three months. Applicants encountering registration issues can visit the annex for assistance.

It is important to note that registration must be done online before visiting the annex, as on-site registrations are not available.

The establishment of the Ogun State POSSAP Secretariat Annex is expected to enhance the efficiency of police service delivery, ensuring that applicants receive their required documents with minimal delays.

For further inquiries, visit the POSSAP Secretariat Annex at Ogun State Police Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, or contact the Police Public Relations Officer at 09159578888.

Charles Soludo of Anambra State Emerges Governor of The Year

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blacktalker
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Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has been named The Sun Newspaper ‘Governor of the Year 2024’ for his credible leadership and excellent performance in governance which has led to numerous achievements in his infrastructural and transformational advancement of Anambra state.

The award was presented to Governor Soludo at a well-attended event at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, in Lagos, on the 1st of March 2025, with accolades from the organisers, top government functionaries, members of the Senate, and dignitaries from the public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy, who lauded him for the avalanche of projects in key sectors of the economy such as education, health, roads, human capacity, in innovation, economic development, and security, among other areas within a short period of his administration.

Presenting the prestigious award, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Biance Ojukwu, supported by the publisher of the Sun Newspaper, Senator Orji Uzo Kalu, eulogised Governor Soludo for his visionary leadership in steering the affairs of the state to an enviable height, with developmental projects that underscores his sincere commitment to making Anambra a destination, where economic and business activities thrive.

She averred that Soludo, the erstwhile Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has truly redefined governance with series of initiatives in making Anambra a homeland where people can live, invest, learn, work, relax, and enjoy.

After receiving the award, Governor Soludo thanked the management of The Sun Publishing Limited for the recognition, which he attributed to the collective effort of his cabinet members, the solution team and the cooperation of the people of Anambra. “ I want to dedicate this award to the good people of Anambra State – the keke drivers, artisans, market men and women working very hard to make Anambra great. “

It would be recalled that Governor Soludo was recently awarded  the best-performing governor in primary healthcare delivery in the Southeast and Nigeria, overall. This was presented by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the United Nations Children and Education Fund, UNICEF.

Governor Soludo’s innovative leadership also earned Anambra State the fourth position in the recent evaluation of BudgIT’s State of States 2024 Report for overall fiscal performance and sustainability.

The BudgIT’s ranking reflects Anambra State’s exceptional performance in both fiscal and healthcare metrics. The feat came at a time when many States were struggling with fiscal sustainability and healthcare delivery challenges, and it attests to Soludo’s thriving model of fiscal responsibility, credible leadership, healthcare, and economic management prowess.

Wema@80: 80 Customers Emerge Winners in 80th Daily Draw of 5 for 5 Promo Season

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blacktalker
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In anticipation of the grand celebration of its 80th anniversary, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has rewarded 80 customers in the 80th daily draw of the Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo Season 4. This draw took place on February 27, 2025, at the Wema Bank Head Office Facility in Lagos.

Launched in 2021, the 5 for 5 Promo is Wema Bank’s dedicated avenue for demonstrating its gratitude to its customers for their loyalty, support and patronage of the Bank and its products. Since its launch, the Promo has disbursed over 150,000,000 Naira to Wema Bank customers across Nigeria in the first three seasons.

Raising the bar with 135,000,000 Naira set for disbursement in just one season, Wema Bank kicked off Season 4 on October 1, 2024, rewarding 64 customers as Nigeria clocked 64.

In the last 4 months, over 2,000 Wema Bank customers have won cash prizes of up to 1,000,000 Naira each across daily, weekly and monthly draws, with 522 winners emerging across 4 monthly draws, 800 winners emerging across 16 weekly draws and over 900 winners emerging across 80 daily draws so far.

This season has, by far, been the biggest season yet, with almost three times the prizes and winners recorded across all other seasons combined.

With Wema Bank’s 80th anniversary coming up on May 2nd, 2025, the Bank decided to commemorate the 80th daily draw by rewarding 80 customers with cash prizes. Introducing a unique twist to the daily draws, the 80th daily draw featured a live audience in the studio for the first time ever, capturing real-time expressions of joy and fulfillment as the draw revealed the 80 lucky winners for the day.

The Wema Bank 5 for 5 Promo has grown to become a beacon of hope to millions of Nigerians across Nigeria, meeting urgent and long-term needs with surprise credit alerts and rewards.

Anyone interested in watching the 80th daily draw or reliving the experience can visit Wema Bank’s YouTube page @WemaBankOfficial to catch up.

DG NCSP Hosts National Atomic Energy Commission, To Foster Nigeria-China Collaboration, Enhance Food Security

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blacktalker
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In a strategic move aimed at boosting food security and improving agricultural produce exports from Nigeria, the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, NCSP, Joseph Tegbe has hosted a delegation from the National Atomic Energy Commission, NAEC led by the Acting Chairman/Chief Executive, Engr Anthony Ekedewa.

The working visit focused on fostering collaboration between the two organizations and exploring opportunities for partnerships to harness irradiation technology for food preservation and healthcare services.

Director-General NCSP expressed displeasure at the current volume and value of food crops wastage, largely due to inadequate preservation and storage. He lauded the commitment of the management of the NAEC to reducing food wastage, in line with the agency’s mandate to utilize technology for development.

He expressed his readiness to collaborate with NAEC in her quest to partner with China National Nuclear Corporation, CNNC to leverage Chinese technology and expertise to improve Nigeria’s agricultural, energy and health sectors.

He also emphasized the importance of large scale production outfits to ensure food security and significant export earnings. This will enable Nigeria to meet local demands and the quality specification for the global market.

Acting Chairman NAEC reiterated the commission’s commitment to leverage on the comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and China to help Nigeria reclaim her top spot in the export market of key food crops like cassava, yam and spices, using technology to improve the shelf life of agricultural produce.

This will involve the deployment of modern technology, improvement of seed stock, capacity development of farmers, technology transfer, as well as financing for the replication of preservation facilities across geo-political zones in the country.

This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic growth and development. The NCSP is committed to deepening the partnership between Nigeria and China, and this collaboration with the NAEC marks a significant step in this direction and a major stride at improving food security.

Other members of NAEC’s delegation included Engr. Justin Salau (Director, Nuclear Research and Infrastructure Development), Engr. Mustapha Tajudeen. (Deputy Director and Head Gamma Irradiation Facility), Engr. Awwal Bisallah (Deputy Director and Head, International Cooperation and Liaison), Ms Ogechi Nwakanma (Deputy Director and Head Legal services), Ms Rose Dogo (Asst. Director, AHR), Mr. Harcourt Basene (Asst Dir, GIF), Mr. Amos Obeya ( Head, Information and Public Affairs unit) and Mr. Agbon Solomon (Head , Protocol Unit).

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