The Commissioner for Youth and Development in Lagos State Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende 2nd right, flanked by the Omniverse Africa 2.0 Co-convener Mr Charles Emembolu, CESAR DR/Administrative Secretary, Ms Temitope Scott 2nd left, CESAR Research Secretary Dr. Morounke Saibu 1st left and Admin. Officer CESAR Ms Victoria Olatunji 1st, right
Lagos State University’s Centre of Excellence for Sargassum, CESAR has received high praise from dignitaries, researchers, and experts at the recently concluded Omniverse Africa 2.0 Summit, held at the Landmark Event Centre. The event with the theme: “Unified by Vision and Empowered by Collaboration,” ran from Tuesday, February 25, 2025, to Friday, February 28, 2025.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, was among the special guests at the summit’s closing ceremony expressed delight at the university’s commitment to research excellence and commended Lagos State University, LASU for its innovative contributions.
Accompanied by Omniverse 2.0 co-convener Mr. Charles Emembolu and other esteemed guests, Mr. Ogunlende was given a tour of the exhibition by CESAR representatives, including Centre Research Secretary Dr. Morounke Saibu and Deputy Registrar/Administrative Secretary Ms. Temitope Scott.
On display at the exhibition were several CESAR products, including the Federal Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Technology Expo 2023 award-winning Sargassum-based animal feeds for grasscutters, fish, chickens, pigs, and rabbits. Other showcased innovations included sargassum-derived cream, soap, alginate, catfish oil, and ceiling boards, all of which have secured trademarks and copyrights.
A major highlight at the summit was a special presentation by Prof. Benjamin Aribisala, Director of CESAR, on behalf of the Lagos State Research Innovation Council (LASRIC).
Delivered by Dr. Morounke Saibu, the presentation detailed the Centre’s journey in securing LASRIC grants, its research breakthroughs, and its collaborations with local farmers, industries, and research institutes. The session, held in the Digital Transformation Room, attracted a diverse audience, including academics, SMEs, researchers, and students.
The Director Centre of Excellence for Sargassum Prof. Benjamin Aribisala and the Research Secretary Dr. Morounke Saibu at the Omniverse Africa Summit 2.0
Notable attendees included Enugu State University of Science and Technology Vice-Chancellor Prof. Aloysius Michael Okolie, National Research Institute for Chemical Technology Director-General Dr. Kabir Muazu, LASRIC member Dr. Peter Bankole, LASRIC Secretariat Coordinator Mr. Alani Lateef, and CESAR Research Fellow Dr. (Mrs.) Iyabo Philips, among others.
CESAR extended its appreciation to LASRIC for its funding and acknowledged the unwavering support of LASU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, for her leadership in advancing research at the university.
Earlier, on Thursday, February 27, 2025, Prof. Aribisala led the CESAR team in engaging with business owners, farmers, NGOs, and entrepreneurs on potential collaborations involving sargassum-based products. The discussions aimed at fostering mutually beneficial partnerships that would expand the applications and commercialization of CESAR’s research.
Other CESAR representatives at the event included Administrative Officer Ms. Victoria Olatunji, Ph.D. research student Mrs. Blessing Nwatulegwu, and Deputy Registrar/Media Officer Mr. Ademola Adekoya.
Youths and Young Adults have been charged to embrace volunteerism as a way to enhance their personal development, nation-building, and environmental sustainability.
This was the submission of stakeholders and volunteers at a Community Clean-Up exercise organized by the MOFE Foundation in conjunction with the Association of Landlords and Occupiers of Lakeshore/Sparklight Estate and other partners.
Convener of MOFE Foundation, Engr. Mrs. Funmi Akingbagbohun emphasized the broader benefits of volunteerism, such as fostering social connections and strengthening community ties.
“This initiative is not just about cleaning; it’s about creating opportunities for young people to meet, interact, and develop a sense of belonging within their community,” she explained.
She also pinpointed the declining culture of volunteerism among young people, stressing that in previous generations, community service was an integral part of everyday life. She compared the current state of volunteerism in Nigeria to European systems, where unpaid service is a recognized criterion for scholarships and career development.
“In many parts of the world, volunteer work—whether babysitting, cleaning, or assisting in workplaces—is documented and valued. People are even asked to record the number of hours they dedicate to volunteer service,” she said.
Engr. Mrs. Akingbagbohun further lamented the erosion of communal values that once defined African societies, where neighbors collectively raised children and maintained their environments. According to her, the increasing focus on individualism has led to youth disengagement, contributing to societal issues such as idleness and lack of responsibility.
The Convener emphasized the significance of instilling responsibility in young people, recalling how past generations grew up with daily household chores like sweeping, which helped instill discipline and work ethic.
“Today, many young people struggle with basic tasks like holding a broom properly because they have never had to use one. In our time, sweeping was a daily routine before school, but now, youth are disconnected from such responsibilities,” she observed.
The Chairman of the Lakeshore Estates Community Development Association, Mr. Kayode Oshinuga, highlighted the need for young people to embrace service-oriented initiatives rather than focusing solely on financial gain.
“We must appreciate what MOFE Foundation is doing and what they have done in the past. They are taking youth engagement a notch higher by teaching them the rudiments of volunteerism, which is rare in our society but essential for any meaningful development,” he stated.
Mr. Oshinnuga also reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with organizations that promote youth development and community service.
He urged young people to embrace a mindset of service and self-improvement, emphasizing that the reward of volunteerism lies in the experience and opportunities it creates for future growth.
Also, President of the National Institute of Black Engineers, Lagos Technical Professional, Engineer Adebaye Majonagbe, said while organized volunteerism may not have always been a structured part of African culture, communal efforts were deeply embedded in traditional societies.
He recalled how, in the past, elders would gather to clear bushy roads leading to farms or maintain shared spaces—a practice that exemplified early community development.
“Our ancestors understood the value of working together. They would set aside days to clear roads and clean the environment, ensuring that the community remained habitable. This was a fundamental part of their way of life,” he explained.
However, Engineer Majonagbe lamented that the advent of modern technology and Western influences had led to a decline in communal participation. He urged Nigerians to reclaim this lost culture, stressing that no external force would develop their communities for them.
“We have embraced foreign cultures at the expense of our own. The truth remains nobody will build our communities for us. We must take responsibility for making our environment clean, safe, and livable,” he said.
The Programme’Director at MOFE Foundation, Eyiwunmi Kolawole gave an overview of the Foundation’s activities, noting that MOFE, which stands for Mojisola Olayinka Fatungase Edema, is dedicated to improving communities across Nigeria through environmental conservation, education, health and wellness initiatives, and community development.
According to Kolawole, the Foundation operates on a free-service model, where volunteers donate their time and talents to improve their surroundings. “The future belongs to our youth and teenagers. Encouraging them to volunteer helps build a culture of selfless service,” she stated.
On her part, the Programme Manager, Modupe Alao-Sanni, said the foundation provides opportunities for teenagers and young adults to engage in community service while gaining valuable skills for personal and professional growth.
”Beyond community service, MOFE Foundation offers structured volunteering programmes that track hours of service. Volunteers who complete 100 hours of service receive a certificate of volunteerism, which can be used for scholarship applications, CV enhancement, and portfolio building.
Alao-Sanni also highlighted the foundation’s educational and literacy initiatives, which include free training programmes in AutoCAD, coding, and other digital skills. “These trainings are open to volunteers, and the hours spent learning also count toward their total volunteering hours,” she explained.
Several volunteers at the clean-up exercise expressed their satisfaction with MOFE Foundation’s work, stressing the need to instill a culture of volunteerism in Nigerian society.
Mrs. Lambo Oluwabunmi, a dedicated member of the foundation, emphasized the various forms of volunteering, including environmental sanitation, educational initiatives, and skill training, all of which play a crucial role in fostering development.
“We need to change the mindset that only the government is responsible for making a difference. Every individual has a role to play in building their community.”, she said
Another foundation member, Darwin Ekenachima, reinforced the importance of environmental responsibility, noting that improper waste disposal contributes to pollution, poor sanitation, and food insecurity.
“This clean-up exercise is a way of giving back to the Earth. If we keep our surroundings clean, we create a healthier environment for ourselves,” he explained.
Volunteer Tosin Tejimola echoed these sentiments, pointing out that Nigeria needs to place greater focus on waste management. “Neglecting waste management leads to flooding and environmental degradation, including ozone layer depletion,” she said. “This initiative is a great step toward raising awareness and encouraging better environmental practices.”
Rite Foods Limited, a leading food and beverage company in the country, has restated its commitment to celebrating Ramadan with Muslim faithful and providing them with refreshing moments through its array of quality brands.
As Muslims embark on the Ramadan fast, Rite Foods urges them to adhere to the principles of Islam, emphasizing peaceful coexistence and commitment to its teachings.
With an ultra-modern world-class factory and state-of-the-art infrastructure, the proudly Nigerian company has in its product portfolio, 13 variants of Bigi carbonated soft drink (CSD) and premium Table Water, Rite sausages, Fearless energy drink, comprising the Classic and Red Berry flavours, and the Sosa fruit drink, to continually reinvigorate Muslims in the fasting period.
The Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, wishes the Islamic believers a happy celebration, filled with love, prayers and peaceful coexistence.
He encourages believers to indulge in the company’s brands, which cater to diverse demographics and preferences.
Similarly, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods Limited, Ekuma Eze reaffirms the company’s commitment to engaging with consumers through value-driven initiatives and celebrating meaningful occasions with them.
He said the company’s array of brands is ideal for nourishment and rejuvenation after a day’s fasting.
The Company’s commitment to consumer engagement has earned it numerous feats such as the “Most Innovative Carbonated Soft Drink Brand of the Year” for the Bigi brand, the “Most Outstanding Energy Drink in Consumer Engagement” for its number-one energy drink, the Fearless brand; and the “Best Value for Money – Carbonated Drink Brand 2023” for the Bigi Cola.
Others include the “Best Value for Money—Energy Drinks Brand 2023” for Fearless Energy Drink, the “Best Value for Money—Sausage Brand 2023” for Bigi Beef Sausage Roll, and the “Outstanding New Product of the Year—Juice” for the premium Sosa fruit drink in 2023.
…Signs MOU with Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN.
Reinforcing its reputation as an institution committed to empowering SMEs, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s foremost innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has undertaken an initiative to empower 800,000 Nigerian Businesses; following its MOU Signing with Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN on February 25th, 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria.
SMEDAN is a national agency established in 2003 with the goal of promoting the development of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector of the Nigerian Economy. The partnership with Wema Bank is focused on training MSMEs on soft skills, technical skills, and business skills, empowering them to build profitable businesses, gain more visibility and scale sustainably.
To execute this grand initiative, Wema Bank will provide the training and resources for the 800,000 businesses who will be curated by SMEDAN. This initiative will take course over the next 12 to 18 months.
Commenting on the partnership, Wema Bank’s MD/CEO, Moruf Oseni, reiterated the Bank’s lifelong commitment to empowering Nigerians to thrive. According to him, “At Wema Bank, we don’t pay lip service to SME matters.
From inception in 1945, Wema Bank was built with a purpose to provide financing for the indigenous people of Nigeria. It wasn’t because banks didn’t exist during those years, it was because we identified the gaps in access to finance for our people.
This is why Wema Bank came to life; to provide tailored financial services and empower Nigerians to thrive on both individual and business levels”.
“Over the past 8 decades, Wema Bank has been driving this lifelong mission of empowering Nigerians with access to finance, constantly reinventing to develop more efficient ways of delivering value to the people. One cardinal thing that we haven’t deviated from is that we are fully committed to empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses in Nigeria.
The petty traders we provided for in the 1900s are the entrepreneurs and MSMEs that we continue to empower in the 2000s, and we will never relent in fulfilling this promise. So, MSME empowerment for us is not just a buzzword.
It is what we have always done, what we are doing through this partnership with SMEDAN and what we will continue to do beyond 80 years”.
Commending Wema Bank’s evident commitment and key role in empowering business and stimulating growth in the MSME Sector, the Director General of SMEDAN, Charles Odili expressed confidence in the success of this partnership with Wema Bank towards building a sustainably successful future for Nigerian MSMEs.
Closing out, he added, “I want to again, thank Wema Bank. This is a prime example of how collaboration and determination to create impact can make a positive difference. I thank you for their constant support to MSMEs and for not paying lip service to MSME Empowerment in Nigeria”.
Wema Bank has earned an admirable reputation as Nigeria’s SME Bank, going above and beyond in empowering businesses with access to finance, visibility, market access, tailored trainings, mentorship and various other forms of support.
Through this partnership with SMEDAN, Wema Bank is set to advance Nigeria’s MSME industry, building formidable Nigerian businesses and reinforcing Wema Bank’s position as the Bank that is committed to empowering MSMEs.
In a world where approximately 20% of new businesses fail within the first two years, 45% within five years, 65% within ten years, and only 25% make it to 15 years or more (according to the US Bureau of Statistics), any business that has crossed 15 years should be sharing insights on survival and success.
But what about businesses that have lasted twice that long? Or a financial services group that has thrived for over 130 years, especially in Africa, where business survival rates are likely lower than those statistics from the Global North? Such a group has certainly earned the right to teach masterclasses on business longevity.
First HoldCo Plc (FirstHoldCo), recently rebranded from FBN Holdings Plc, exemplifies sustainable business practices. A well-diversified group, it is one of Africa’s largest financial services organisations, offering innovative financial solutions through its subsidiaries in commercial banking, asset management, capital markets, securities, trusteeship, and insurance brokerage. FirstHoldCo ensures strategic coordination and synergy among its subsidiaries to deliver long-term value for stakeholders.
Retaining the legacy strengths and experience of FBN Holdings Plc, FirstHoldCo ensures that its subsidiaries enhance positive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts while minimising or eliminating negative ones. This includes managing ESG risks in the workplace, marketplace, community, and environment, with the institutional capability to turn risks into opportunities.
For example, ESG risk management enhances credit and investment decision-making, de-risking processes for subsidiaries such as FirstBank and FBNQuest. It also strengthens social relationships with the communities in which these subsidiaries operate.
ESG and sustainability may be buzzwords for some corporations seeking to appear politically correct, but at FirstHoldCo, they are integral to its identity. The company is self-driven in aligning its strategy and operations with ESG principles and setting new sustainability benchmarks for financial services in Nigeria.
FirstHoldCo’ s flagship subsidiaries, FirstBank and FBNQuest, integrate ESG risks into their products, services, and offerings from the ideation stage through to development and launch. This approach drives responsible lending and investment practices, enabling the group to leverage ESG market opportunities while promoting sustainable socio-economic growth.
FirstHoldCo also prioritises people empowerment, fostering a work environment rooted in equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion. A notable achievement is bridging the diversity gap, reaching a 40% female to 60% male employee ratio in 2023, one year ahead of its 2024 target.
The group also supports the communities where its subsidiaries operate, ensuring its impact resonates positively. Since 2017, it has implemented the SPARK (Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness) initiative and Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (CR&S) Week.
In 2023, these initiatives impacted 60,000 lives through outreaches to 60 orphanages, 20 schools, and hospitals across Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, The Gambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, and the United Kingdom. Donations included consumables, computers, clean water projects, school renovations, wheelchairs, and cash. Employees committed over 27,000 volunteer hours to these initiatives.
In 2023, FirstBank reinforced its commitment to empowering women through FirstGem, a financial product supporting women-led businesses. Over N36 billion in loans were disbursed at a single-digit interest rate of 9%. Additionally, its Agency Banking business, FirstMonie, expanded its female agent network to over 55,000.
Inclusion remains a key focus, with FirstBank enhancing accessibility for physically challenged customers in 234 locations, making 25 branches fully accessible and improving access at 209 others. It also expanded the SPARK initiative to institutions like the Bethesda School of the Blind and the Down Syndrome Foundation in Lagos.
FirstBank operates an Environmental, Social, and Governance Management System (ESGMS) to drive responsible lending and minimize ESG risks. In 2023, this system was enhanced to ensure real-time transparency in corporate credit screenings. That year, 2,239 credit transactions worth N4.236 trillion were assessed for ESG risks.
To strengthen ESG compliance, FirstBank collaborates with development partners such as British International Investment, the African Development Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Proparco, a French development finance institution. Its partnership with Proparco is crucial for integrating climate initiatives into business strategy. This project enhances its understanding of financed emissions and positions it for climate financing and investment opportunities.
This initiative will help FirstBank reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, mitigate exposure to physical and transition risks, and strengthen climate adaptation efforts. It also reinforces its market competitiveness as an ESG leader committed to a low-carbon economy.
As part of its commitment to decarbonisation, FirstHoldCo’ s FirstBank actively engages in reforestation and afforestation through partnerships focused on carbon dioxide (CO2) removal. In 2023, it pledged to plant 50,000 trees by 2025 in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). That year, it planted 1,000 trees at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos; Model Secondary School, Maitama, Abuja; and Federal Government Girls College, Calabar. By the following year, it had planted an additional 30,000 trees, bringing the total to 31,000.
FirstBank also drives thought leadership in climate finance, promoting knowledge on carbon mitigation and climate adaptation. A notable effort was a webinar themed ‘Harnessing Climate Finance Opportunities in Nigeria,’ held in partnership with the Sustainability Practitioners Institute of Nigeria (SPIN). The event featured prominent ESG and sustainability experts such as Professor Kenneth Amaeshi, Dr. Muntaqa Umaru-Sadiq, and Carina Dunker, underscoring FirstBank’s commitment to advancing climate finance discussions.
With so much achieved and ongoing ESG/sustainability initiatives, what is the greatest impact of ESG at FirstHoldCo?
For the group, it is the net positive effect on the communities where its subsidiaries operate. For individuals, it is the tangible benefits from its financial solutions and CSR initiatives. For businesses, it is the sustainable practices FirstHoldCo champions, setting a standard for responsible corporate leadership
THE GM LNSA PRINCE DR IFALADE OYEKAN FISN WITH HRM OBA RILWAN OLUWALAMBE TAIWO, THE OBA OF OJOKORO LAND
The Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency Technical and Mechanical Workshop unit has received a warm reception from the Traditional ruler of Ojokoro, HRM Oba Rilwan Oluwalanbe Taiwo, when the Management of the Agency visited him at his palace.
TGeneral Manager LNSA, Prince Dr. Ifalade Oyekan FISN during the visit briefed the HRM Oba Rilwan Oluwalanbe Taiwo, about the efforts of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensure the Safety and Security of Lagos residents and visitors.
Oyekan said the Government of Lagos State under the leadership of Mr Sanwo-Olu has put in so much to ensure that the Agency delivers on its THEMES PLUS Agenda to the people of the State. He also enumerated the various achievements of the Agency especially the creation of new Units to promote professionalism in the Corps of the Agency.
THE GM LNSA PRINCE DR IFALADE OYEKAN FISN WITH HRM OBA RILWAN OLUWALAMBE TAIWO FLANKED BY THE MANAGEMENT TEAM.
He stressed the urgent need for an office space for the agency’s Technical and mechanical workshop unit in his domain where agency’s vehicles, bicycles, scooters and motorcycles can be serviced by trained corps officers thereby lessening the financial burden on repairs.
While welcoming the LNSA Team, HRM Oba Rilwan Oluwalanbe Taiwo promised to assist the Agency in all ways possible to ensure Safety and peace in his domain.
He promised to find a piece of land within his domain to aid the proposed plan of the Agency which he says is a significant commitment that will enhance community infrastructure and promote local growth.
The Traditional ruler concluded that he loves development and believes that safety and security of lives and properties in his domain will enhance development.
…Commends Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Investment in Healthcare
In a bid to support the Lagos State Government’s commitment to quality healthcare for residents, the Seun Akapo Initiative has launched a Free Health Insurance Scheme for women in Ikoyi-Obalende as a way of partnering with the government in building a healthier and more inclusive Lagos.
Speaking at the official flag-off the event held at Ojo Street, Suya Junction, Obalende, the Founder of the Seun Akapo Initiative, Dr. Oluwaseun Akapo reaffirmed his organization’s unwavering commitment to uplifting residents, particularly women, youth, and children.
He highlighted the initiative’s numerous empowerment programs, designed to equip beneficiaries with essential skills and opportunities to thrive in today’s society.
Dr. Akapo noted that in addition to this healthcare initiative, the initiative had recently implemented the “Top Scholars Education Empowerment Initiative,” through which over 100 outstanding students from various schools received educational materials and academic support.
According to him, this initiative plays a crucial role in equipping young minds with the resources and knowledge they need to succeed.
Encouraging residents to prioritize their health, Dr. Akapo urged beneficiaries to take full advantage of the Free Health Insurance Plan and Comprehensive Health Checks provided under the initiative.
He also commended the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for its relentless efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery across the state, making quality medical services more accessible to all.
The representative of the Lagos State Health Management Agency, LASHMA, Miss. Oluwafemi Omojuwa expressed appreciation for the Seun Akapo Foundation’s partnership in expanding access to quality healthcare for residents of Ikoyi-Obalende.
Omojuwa reiterated LASHMA’s commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare coverage across Lagos, ensuring that no resident is left behind in the state’s quest for improved health outcomes.
She also encouraged beneficiaries to embrace the Free Health Insurance Plan as a means of securing their well-being and that of their families.
Lagos State Government, through the Office of Education Quality Assurance, OEQA has presented Provisional Approval Letters to the first batch of Private School Owners for the year 2025 compromising 41 Nursery/Primary Schools and 29 Junior/ Senior Secondary Schools.
In his address at the presentation held on Wednesday at the Education Resource Centre, Ojodu, Ikeja, the Supervising Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko said the event marks a significant milestone in the state government’s commitment to educational excellence and recognising the vital role of Private Schools in the sector.
Mr. Sesan Ogundeko also underscored the importance of children as the future of the state, urging stakeholders to prioritize their welfare and education.
He noted that the registration and approval process, while detailed, is designed to uphold excellence and ensure compliance with state educational standards. He said that as Lagos continues to invest in education, the state pledges to collaborate with private institutions to provide resources and support for a quality learning environment.
Ogundeko commended the officers of the Office of Education Quality Assurance for their dedication to maintaining high standards in schools across the state. He described their tireless efforts in ensuring educational institutions meet rigorous quality benchmarks as crucial to the success of Lagos’s education sector.
In his welcome remarks, the Coordinating Director of OEQA, Mr. Remi Abdul explained that the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Schools, Mr. Jamiu Ali- Balogun is resolute in advancing access to qualitative education for every child in the State which will be boosted with the formal Presentation of Provisional Approval Letters to Private School Owners as partners in the education sector of Lagos State.
Speaking further, Abdul noted that out of the over 100 applicants for the provisional approval, only 70 met the stringent criteria set by the state and the approval process encompassed comprehensive steps, including online registration, site visits, approval inspections and meticulous documentation.
Mr. Abdul emphasised the importance of adhering to established educational laws and policies, particularly those concerning safeguarding and child protection. He also issued a stern warning that any infractions could lead to severe sanctions, highlighting the government’s unwavering commitment to student welfare.
In his remarks, the Director of Private Education and Special Programmes, Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa congratulated school owners and representatives on receiving their provisional approval letters, encouraging them to continue maintaining the high standards of education as established during the approval process.
“I would also like to thank the entire members of the Private Education and Special Programmes Department for their dedication to promoting quality education in private schools and your tireless efforts in ensuring the smooth execution of today’s event”, he stated.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Director of Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Adebayo Orunsolu, who was represented by Mr. Peter Adefioye, underscored the significance of attestation certificates for schools that have received official approval.
”For schools that have recently obtained approval, this development offers a dual advantage. Not only does it enhance the institution’s credibility, but it also serves as a form of advertisement, attracting other schools to register their students under the newly approved institution. This shift ensures that certificates issued, such as those for the Junior Secondary School Examination (JSSE) and attestation, bear the name of the approved school, thereby bolstering its reputation”, he said.
Earlier, School Owners expressed their satisfaction with the approval letters, while commending the Lagos State Government for its investment in the education sector.
Among the recipients was Mrs. Ehi Antoinette Nwanoeze, Proprietor of Russell College. Expressing her elation, she remarked, “It means a lot to us. It means recognition. It means we’ve done well. It means we are in line with the requirements of Lagos State in operating a college within Lagos itself.”
Similarly, Mrs. Adeogo Omenebele-Eunice, Proprietress of Les Graines Precious Nursery and Primary School, shared her experience, describing the process as “a very thorough one, step-by-step overhauling of the schools in Lagos State.”
She extended her gratitude to the Lagos State Government and the Quality Assurance Department for their unwavering commitment to upholding educational standards.
In a bid to strengthen collaboration on security and victim support, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi has paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF.
The visit, held at the LSSTF headquarters, was aimed at fostering synergy between both agencies in tackling domestic and sexual violence cases in the state.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun welcomed Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi and her delegation, emphasizing the importance of security partnerships in ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence.
Further discussions centered on strengthening police response to domestic and sexual violence, improving victim support mechanisms, and ensuring swift justice through enhanced cooperation between LSSTF and DSVA.
Among those present at the meeting were Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, a Member of the Board of Trustees of LSSTF; ACP Oluwatoyin A. Kazeem of the Gender Unit, Lagos Police Command, Ikeja; Mrs. Adaobi Nwankwo, Executive Assistant, LSSTF; Mr. Adegbola Lewis, Admin Director, LSSTF; and Mrs. Oluwakemi Bello, a Partner at DSVA.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN has paid a courtesy visit to Stallion Plaza, Union Bank of Nigeria’s Head Office. This visit marks a significant step in fostering a stronger relationship between the two esteemed institutions.
During the visit, ICAN and Union Bank representatives engaged in fruitful discussions to explore potential areas of collaboration and member’s growth within the Bank.
The Union Bank team was led by the Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Oluwagbenga Adeoye FCA, and other notable UBN representatives, including Dr. Abigail Duopama-Obomanu, Chief Compliance Officer, Mr. Ali Kadiri FCA, Head Corporate Bank and Mr. Victor Ikeneku FCA, Head, Business Assurance. The ICAN team was led by the ICAN President, Chief Davidson C.S. Alaribe FCA, Dr. Olumide Adedeji FCA, President of Lagos District and other distinguished members.
The President of ICAN, Chief Davidson C.S Alaribe, appreciated the warm reception and highlighted the importance of such engagements in promoting professional excellence and ethical standards within the accounting and finance sectors.
The Chief Financial Officer of Union Bank, Mr. Oluwagbenga Adeoye FCA, emphasised the bank’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the professional development of accountants and ICAN members.
This visit underscores ICAN and Union Bank’s mutual commitment to advancing the accounting profession and contributing to the overall growth of Nigeria’s financial sector.
