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LSSTF Receives Newly Deployed FRSC Lagos Sector Commander on Courtesy Visit

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blacktalker
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The newly deployed Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Lagos State Command, Kehinde Hamzat has paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF.

The visit aimed to foster stronger cooperation and collaboration between the two agencies in enhancing road safety and security within the state.

During the visit, Hamzat expressed his commitment to improving the safety of Lagos roads and ensuring the effective implementation of traffic regulations. He emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with key security agencies in the state, particularly with the LSSTF, to address the growing concerns around road safety and security.

Executive Secretary/CEO, LSSTF, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun welcomed the new leadership of the FRSC and reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Corps in advancing road safety and security measures.

Dr. Balogun explained that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund oversees funding and support for security initiatives in the state.

As Nigeria Marks Int’l Day For Reducing CO2 Emissions

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blacktalker
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CAPPA Condemns Police Crackdown on Lagos Demolition Protest

By Ogunlade Olamide and Esi-ife Arogundade

As we step into a world increasingly defined by climate change extremes, the recent conclusion of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) that 2024 marks the warmest year yet is a formidable wake-up call for Nigeria and the rest of the world.

Many were already bracing for this announcement, understanding the gradual yet persistent surge in global temperatures, particularly driven by the Global North.

This report isn’t just relegated to statistics; it represents an urgent call to action, especially for vulnerable regions like Africa, which bear the brunt of climate change despite contributing minimally to global emissions.

The findings underscore the ongoing warnings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), pleading with policymakers to heed the escalating climate crises. Africa, a continent already grappling with socio-economic challenges, finds itself in a precarious situation.

The last decade has been significantly warmer, with the global temperature now perilously surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold outlined in the Paris Agreement. This targets not just the environment but the very existence of communities relying heavily on stable climatic conditions.

In the face of these challenges, the world’s reliance on fossil fuels persists unabated. Even with overwhelming evidence showcasing oil and gas as the primary culprits of climate change—contributing over 75 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions—there remains a disconcerting reluctance to confront this reality.

Instead, discussions pivot toward temporary solutions like Net Zero or Carbon Sequestration, which often serve to stave off urgent responsibility rather than catalyse a shift to genuinely sustainable alternatives.

Equally concerning is the political climate change unfolding in the U.S. with the re-emergence of former President Trump, echoing phrases like “Drill, baby, drill” during his inauguration. This sets a troubling precedent, suggesting a return to aggressive fossil fuel exploration, particularly at a time when global consensus on emission reduction is crucial yet elusive.

Africa stands as a stark paradox in the climate narrative. While the continent contributes the least to global emissions, it remains one of the most impacted by climate change. Reports from the African Development Bank highlight that one of the most vulnerable continents to these changes is Africa.

The continent faces dire consequences, including environmental degradation, public health crises, and significant risks to food security. Extreme weather, socio-political instability, and an increasing influx of displaced populations are shaping a future rife with uncertainty.

As the world observes this year’s International Day of Carbon Emission Reduction, we must reflect on the profound words of renowned Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai: “We owe it to ourselves and to the next generation to conserve the environment so that we can bequeath our children a sustainable world that benefits all.” Africa must spearhead the transition toward a carbon-less economy, recalibrating its approach to development and sustainability.

The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of African countries must advocate for self-determination, free from foreign and corporate influence. A shift away from dependence on aid and charity is essential; instead, Africa must pursue binding agreements focused on reparatory justice and the cessation of gas projects that prioritize corporate interests over the welfare of its people.

The commitment to safeguarding indigenous control and management of natural resources cannot be overstated. Massive investments in renewable energy, including solar, wind, and hydropower, are not just options but necessities. Moreover, embracing energy efficiency through smart agricultural practices, sustainable land management, and effective transportation solutions will solidify Africa’s resilience against climate change.

In this dire climate landscape, Africa has the potential to rise as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. By harnessing collective strength, knowledge, and a commitment to climate justice, the continent can forge its path toward a sustainable and equitable future. The time to act is not tomorrow; it is now. The legacy we leave for future generations depends on the choices we make today.

Olamide is the Senior Programme Manager (Climate Change) at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) while Arogundade is a climate change advocate at CAPPA.

DG, Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership Celebrates with Chinese Lunar New Year

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blacktalker
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As part of the strong economic and bilateral ties with China, the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, NCSP, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, has felicitated with the Chinese community in Nigeria and the people of China on the celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Tegbe, in a celebratory message, said “As we mark the beginning of the Year of the Snake, we reflect on the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and China. The NCSP remains committed to deepening our bilateral ties, fostering economic cooperation, and promoting people-to-people exchanges.”

Regarded as the most important in China, the Lunar New Year is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar, and widely celebrated in other Asian countries.

The DG, who recently visited China to strengthen China-Nigeria relations and to foster economic and sustainable development between both countries, prays that the New Year brings prosperity, good fortune, and joy to the people of China and the country.

While in China, Tegbe bolstered strategic agreements in vital sectors of the economy, and the support for Nigeria’s economic diversification plans, infrastructure development, technology transfer, and job creation, for mutually beneficial collaboration between the two nations.

He also had talks with the China EXIM Bank and China Development Bank to review the priority of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) projects and explore various funding options for accelerated delivery.

NESG Appoints Olusegun Alebiosu as Board Member

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blacktalker
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The Nigerian Economic Summit Group, NESG has announced the appointment of Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, to its board of directors. This appointments reflect the NESG’s steadfast dedication to promoting visionary leadership and strengthening partnerships with key business leaders and private sector stakeholders.

Others appointed are Mr. Wole Adeniyi, the Chief Executive Officer of Stanbic IBTC Bank Ltd and Mr. Mohamad Darwish, IHS Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer. The addition of these accomplished professionals is expected to drive strategic initiatives aimed at transforming and advancing Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Olusegun Alebiosu was appointed the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank of Nigeria Limited in June 2024. In addition to this role, he serves as a Non-Executive Director of FirstBank UK, further solidifying his leadership presence across the group’s international operations. With over 28 years of experience in the Banking and Financial Services industry, Olusegun has demonstrated exceptional expertise and leadership in various roles.

Between 2016 and 2024, he served as Executive Director, Chief Risk Officer, and Executive Compliance Officer at FirstBank. His professional experience spans various disciplines, including credit risk management, financial planning and control, trade, corporate and commercial banking, agriculture financing, oil and gas, transportation (aviation and shipping), and project financing. 

An accomplished academic, Olusegun is an alumnus of Harvard Business School, where he completed the Advanced Management Programme and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial relations and Personnel Management and a master’s in international law and diplomacy from the University of Lagos.

Additionally, he earned a master’s degree in development studies from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Beyond the boardroom, Olusegun is an avid golfer and adventurer. He is happily married and a proud father, balancing his professional achievements with a fulfilling personal life. 

GAC Member Faults Lagos State House of Assembly’s Reconvergence During Recess To Impeach Obasa

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blacktalker
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……Emphasises GAC’s Division Amid Impeachment Drama.

Chief Muraino Akanbi Taiwo, a member of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council, GAC, has condemned lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly’s decision to reconvene during their recess, calling the move illegal.

The lawmakers had reconvened on January 13, 2025, to impeach Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was in the United States at the time.

In his absence, the Assembly members appointed Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker. The action has since sparked a political firestorm, with Obasa rejecting the impeachment, claiming that his removal was illegal and did not follow due process.

Speaking out on the matter, Taiwo in a statement issued on Monday, sharply criticized the move. He described the decision to reconvene as a “total disregard and clear disrespect for the leadership of the party,” further asserting that it was an improper action.

Although other members of the GAC have expressed varied opinions on Obasa’s removal, Taiwo remained firm in his stance, acknowledging the internal division within the GAC but expressing his confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ability to bring resolution. He referred to the President as the “de facto leader” of the party, whose decision would be respected by all involved.

“The act of the lawmakers to reconvene during the recess is illegal. It shows total disregard and clear disrespect for the party’s leadership,” Taiwo said. “The GAC leadership is split over the matter, but we will all defer to the final decision of our de facto leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to resolve the crisis.”

As the situation continues to unfold, many are awaiting a resolution from the party’s leadership to settle the ongoing controversy in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Muraino Akanbi Taiwo

GTCO RETURNS AS HEADLINE SPONSOR FOR NPA LAGOS INTERNATIONAL POLO TOURNAMENT

By
blacktalker
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The Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, GTCO has been announced as the headline sponsor of the 2025 NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament.

The highly-anticipated Polo Series is billed for the prestigious Lagos Polo Club, Ikoyi, from 4th to 23rd February 2025.

A staple in Nigeria’s sporting and social calendar, the NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament is celebrated for its rich heritage, thrilling competitions, and vibrant atmosphere.


Last year’s tournament delivered a thrilling six chukkas encounter that saw Leighton Kings dispatch a hard-fighting Art Hotel Shoreline team to retain the coveted Majekodunmi Cup.

The 2025 NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament is set to be even more spectacular, featuring top-tier teams vying for the Open Cup and the Majekodunmi Cup in a series of high-goal and low-goal matches to be played in over 18 days.

The Silver Cup will run for three weeks while the Low Cup takes centre stage in the third week, ensuring an engaging and dynamic experience for players and spectators throughout the tournament.

Commenting on GTCO’s role as main sponsor of the Lagos International Polo Tournament, the Group Chief Executive Officer, Segun Agbaje said: “At GTCO, we are passionate about fostering excellence and creating platforms that bring people together through shared passions.

“The NPA Lagos international Polo Tournament embodies the spirit of teamwork, discipline, and fair play—values that resonate deeply with our brand. We remain committed to driving positive change by supporting local initiatives with global impact that foster community development and social progress, ensuring that the benefits of the tournament extend well beyond the sport itself.”

The Group’s long-running sponsorship of the NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament reinforces its commitment to celebrating Africa’s rich sporting heritage and promoting inclusivity through world-class events.


About GTCO Plc

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, GTCO is a leading financial services institution headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, with operations across 10 countries in Africa and the United Kingdom.

GTCO Plc transitioned from a pure-play commercial bank—licensed since 1990—to a fully-fledged financial services company in April 2021 under a non-operating financial holding company structure, with shares listed on both the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

The operating entities within GTCO’s robust financial ecosystem include Guaranty Trust Bank Limited (GTBank), Guaranty Trust Fund Managers Limited (GTFM), Guaranty Trust Pension Managers Limited (GTPM), and HabariPay Limited (Habari).

As a “Proudly African and Truly International” Institution, GTCO has been at the forefront of enriching lives and promoting enterprise across the African continent through its transformative platforms and differentiated offerings.

AYDAN Elects Bankole Adeshina as 2nd President, Reinforces Advocacy For Social Justice At Grassroots

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blacktalker
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Comrade Shakirudeen Bankole Adeshina, a seasoned Journalist , Communications Strategist, and Development Advocate, has been elected as the Second President of the Alimosho Youth Development Association of Nigeria (AYDAN).

Bankole, whose election and that of his executives, was held last year, has now led his team to officially resume the position, effective from January 2025. He  took over from Comrade Abdullateef Ogungbade, the founder and pioneer President, who has been administering the organisation since inception, and now has devolved fully into partisan politics.

Other newly elected executives were Comrade Ola-Lawal Mubarak, a seasoned Journalist and an Editor at Opomulero Online News, who was elected as the Secretary; Comrade Jokosanya Oluwatosin Faizat, an Entrepreneur, elected as a Treasurer; Comrade Israel Olajide, a Tax Practitioner, elected as an Auditor; Comrade Kafayat Gbadamosi, an Entrepreneur, elected as a Welfare Director; and Comrade Oketokun Adetoye, a seasoned Political Mobiliser and Social Activist, who was elected as the Public Relations Officer.

AYDAN was established over a decade ago as a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), and a Political Pressure Group, leveraging its wide spectrum of jurisprudential coverage – the old Alimosho Local Government Area, which comprises over six million population- to promoting good governance, fostering public accountability, and driving social development across the grassroot level.

Bankole, in a keenly contested election with a popular grassroot politician and stalwart of the ruling All Progressives Congress from Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA, Comrade Lukman Obadina, was declared winner, having scored the popular majority votes and satisfied other pre-qualifications that was said to guarantee quality and impartial leadership for the relaunched AYDAN in the next two years.

“Comrade Adeshina has been with us. I remember his role in one of our significant political inputs in Alimosho Local Government, when we push for constitutional procedures to leadership process.

Instead of the business as usual approach of selection, we advocated so intensely for fair play, as stipulated by the constitution and the tenet of democratic governance that we practice. 

The public advocacy caught the attention of the policymakers and political elites. And this forced the hands of the party to allow for all candidates to then go ahead to purchase the form and emerge through a rather fair and credible democratic process. Comrade Adeshina was instrument to the Press Statement and media advocacy. He was then our Director of Media,” Comrade Ogungbade, said of the new President.

Bankole, who is also reputed as a Human Rights Activist and Founder and Executive Director, Frontline Advocacy Initiative (FAI), comes to the job as a shrewd professional, with over a decade of experience in leadership and management, among other impeccable track records of excellence in Socio-religious and Socio-religious Organisations.

Some of the organisations include he has made his mark as social development advocate, includes The Muslim Volunteers Foundation (TMVF),where he has just handed over as the 4th President of the Socio-religious organisation; Human Rights Journalists Network, where he has been Volunteering as a Lead Communications and Strategy Officer;  and  former Programmes/Communications Officer for British High Commission’s Nationwide project on Combating Money Laundering and Illicit and Financial Flow (IFF) across Nigeria,.among others.

Bankole studied Mass Communications from the Polytechnic Ibadan and Psychology from the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo Campus, majoring in Journalism and Political Psychology, respectively.

“The return of AYDAN at this point in time is very critical. This is because Alimosho Local Government seriously needed such an impartial and important  intervention from an organisation that prides itself as a moral compass for the political organisations and the elite ruling class within its jurisdiction. We must continue to push back against the shrinking civic space by the politicians,,” Bankole said.

The official inauguration of the  new executives has been scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2025..

ZENITH BANK OBTAINS REGULATORY APPROVAL FOR N350B RAISED IN HYBRID OFFER

By
blacktalker
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0

Zenith Bank Plc has raised a total of N350.4 billion through its recently concluded hybrid Rights Issue and Public Offer.

In a statement released to the Nigerian Exchange, NGX Group on Sunday, January 26, 2025, the Bank announced that it has secured the full regulatory approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN and the Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC in respect of its recently concluded Hybrid Offer, comprising of a Rights Issue of 5,232,748,964 Ordinary Shares of 50k each at N36.00 per share and Public Offer of 2,767,251,036 Ordinary Shares of 50k each at N36.50 per share.

The Public Offer was 160.47% subscribed, with a total of 4,440,587,250 Ordinary Shares allotted based on the terms of the Offer and the CBN’s Capital Verification Exercise.

The Rights Issue was also 100.18% subscribed with a total 5,232,748,964 ordinary shares allotted.

Lauding the development, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “The success of our combined Rights Issue and Public Offering is a testament to the strong confidence and trust that our shareholders, investors, and stakeholders have in Zenith Bank’s vision, strategy, and brand.

This landmark transaction underscores our commitment to strengthening our capital base, enhancing our competitive edge, and positioning ourselves for sustainable growth and profitability. We deeply acknowledge the invaluable and strong support of our regulators, the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Securities and Exchange Commission, and are grateful for their guidance in ensuring the integrity and efficacy of the exercise. This successful transaction will enable us to continue delivering value to our stakeholders, while also contributing to the growth and development of the economy.”

Proceeds from the Hybrid Offer will be strategically deployed to solidify the Bank’s position as the leading financial institution in Nigeria.

Additionally, the funds will support the Bank’s expansion into other markets in Africa and Europe, investment in technology and other Group-wide growth initiatives.

The Offer, which opened on August 1, 2024 and closed on September 23, 2024 and sought to raise N290 billion through a combination of a Rights Issue and Offer for Subscription, was successfully executed largely as a digital Offer, embracing the power of technology to improve access to the equity capital market as it seamlessly leveraged the Nigerian Exchange Limited’s e-Offer platform.

The results of the Hybrid Offer, which garnered substantial interest from domestic and international investors, has positioned the Bank as one of the few banks in Nigeria to meet and even surpass the CBN’s N500 billion minimum capital requirements for Banks with International Authorization well ahead of the March 2026 regulatory deadline.

The Bank’s share capital will now rise to N614.65 billion, which is N114.65 billion above the regulatory minimum requirement.

OGUN STATE POLICE COMMISSIONER TASKS COMMERCIAL MOTORCYCLISTS ON VIGILANCE AMID RISING ATTACKS

By
blacktalker
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The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, has raised concerns over the increasing number of attacks on commercial motorcyclists in the State. This is after criminals posing as passengers have been reported to waylay, attack, and, in some cases, fatally harm motorcyclists to dispossess them of their valuables and motorcycles.

These alarming incidents have become a growing concern, prompting the Commissioner of Police to intervene and outline measures to address the issue.

CP Ogunlowo has urged motorcyclists to increase their vigilance, particularly during their operations. He advised them to avoid plying routes during odd hours and refrain from carrying more than one passenger at a time to minimize the risk of being ambushed.

The Commissioner assured the public that the Police Command is taking proactive steps to tackle these criminal activities, with increased patrols and intelligence-driven operations aimed at apprehending perpetrators and ensuring the safety of commercial motorcyclists.

CP Ogunlowo also called on motorcyclists to cooperate with the police by reporting suspicious activities or individuals promptly. He emphasized that a collaborative approach between law enforcement and the public is crucial in curbing these crimes and ensuring a safer environment for all.

POLICE WADE INTO FARMERS, HERDERS DISPUTE IN MOWE COMMUNITY, LEADERS PLEDGE PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE

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blacktalker
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Following recent tensions over the reported killing of six cows belonging to the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders of Nigeria, Agege Chapter, the Ogun State Police Command has mediated peace between herders and farmers in the Mowe area of the State.

The incident, which occurred on January 23, 2025, was reported by Alhaji Muhammed, the Miyetti Allah Chairman and Seriki Fulani of Abbatoir, Agege. He alleged that six cows were killed, and one injured, identifying the Baale of Amu Village, Abiodun Ogunyemi, as the prime suspect.

In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer in Ogun State, CSP Omolola Odutola, anipr said the police promptly arrested the suspect and launched an investigation into the matter.

To prevent further escalation, the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Mowe to engage stakeholders and mediate a resolution. A meeting hosted by the DPO brought together leaders, including Alhaji Muhammed, the farmers’ representative, and Baale Amu Village Chief Alani Ogunremi.

Odutola said during the meeting, both parties agreed to reconcile and pledged to avoid future conflicts. She noted that as part of the agreement, the villagers consented to allocate designated grazing areas to the herders.

The statement said the Miyetti Allah leaders, in turn, agreed to assess the designated land and provide feedback to the Divisional Police Officer.

According to the statement, CP Lanre Ogunlowo commended the commitment of both parties to peace and emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue and mutual respect to foster harmony in the community.

It reiterated the Ogun State Police Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and order while urging all stakeholders to support the efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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