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Starr and Glenn Announces Music Tour, To Cover 50 Events Across Nigeria

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CEO of one of Nigeria’s leading PR and Management firms, Star and Glenn, Harrison Akadidi, has announced the Agency’s readiness to host the highly anticipated ”Starr Music Tour”.

Speaking during a press conference in Lagos, Akadidi noted that the Tour set to begin in February 2025, will run through January 2026, and promises to be one of the largest music events in Nigeria. He said it would span 20 states and feature more than 50 events throughout the Tour.

According to him, with a goal of bringing emerging and established music talent to a broad, multi-demographic audience, the Starr Music Tour is designed to provide performers with invaluable exposure.

The talented Akadidi urged music artists eager to connect with diverse audiences to sign up for the tour package, which guarantees performances at key stages and multi-state shows across Nigeria.

”Music artists interested in participating are encouraged to follow @starr_ngr and @glenn on social media to gain direct access to Starr’s team and further details on how to sign up for the tour.”

“We are excited to bring together over 50 partners across Nigeria for this groundbreaking tour. This is a fantastic opportunity for emerging music artists to reach wider audiences, and we are committed to working with as many talented artists as possible”, he said.

Zenith Bank Under Umeoji Demonstrates Commitment to People Through Massive Staff Promotions, Salary Increment

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One of Africa’s leading financial institutions, Zenith Bank has reaffirmed its dedication to employee welfare by announcing the promotion of over 4,000 staff members and implementing salary increases ranging from 20% to 30% across various employee grades.

This bold initiative, under the leadership of Managing Director/CEO Dame Adaora Umeoji, its aimed at boosting staff morale and productivity.

With over 8,000 employees, this significant investment in human capital reflects Zenith Bank’s belief that its workforce is its most valuable asset. The salary adjustments, effective January 1, 2025, aim to reward performance, alleviate financial pressures, and ensure enhanced customer service delivery. Promotions for top management are also expected as part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to excellence and growth.

Dr. Umeoji emphasized the importance of maintaining a motivated workforce, stating that the bank’s dedication to its employees will translate into superior service experiences for customers. She highlighted the organization’s commitment to setting industry benchmarks through innovative solutions and exceptional service delivery.

Zenith Bank’s continued leadership in the Nigerian financial sector is underscored by numerous awards, including Best Bank in Nigeria 2024 by Global Finance and recognition as the Biggest Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital in 2024 by The Banker. These accolades complement its reputation for innovation, sustainability, and corporate governance.

By prioritizing employee welfare during challenging times, Zenith Bank not only strengthens its internal operations but also sets a standard for other financial institutions in the region, reinforcing its position as a leader in Africa’s banking landscape.

As a major player in Nigeria’s financial landscape, under its managing director/chief executive officer, Adaora Umeoji, the bank has embraced a holistic approach to growth that integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles with its core business objectives.

At the heart of Zenith Bank’s strategy is a focus on buoying economic inclusion, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and driving technological innovation to enhance customer experiences. The bank’s proactive investments in renewable energy, sports, digital transformation and impactful community initiatives exemplify its dedication to creating long-term value for its stakeholders while addressing global sustainability challenges.

Zenith Bank’s continued success is driven by a combination of strong financial performance and an unwavering commitment to its stakeholders.

Zenith Bank’s growth trajectory is underpinned by a robust expansion strategy. With operations in several countries, including the UK, UAE, China, and most recently, France, the bank continues to expand its geographical footprint.

As usual, the bank’s efforts in 2024 did not unnoticed as the lender clinched several local and international awards in recognition of its outstanding performance.

In 2024, the bank won the Best Bank in Nigeria at the annual Global Finance award in Washington, DC, NY.

The bank also emerged the Biggest Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital, 2024 by The Banker; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria 2024 – World Finance; Best Corporate Governance, Nigeria 2024 – World Finance; Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria 2024 – International Banker; Bank of the Year, 2024 – Business Day; Retail Bank of the Year, 2024 – Business Day; Bank of the Year 2024- The Banker.

It also clinched the Most Responsible Organization in Africa 2024 – SERAS; Best in Gender Equality & Women Empowerment 2024 – SERAS and Best in Transparency & Reporting 2024 – SERAS

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT COMMENCES E-REGISTRATION, PAYMENT FOR 2025 UBE BY CAS, PLACEMENT TEST

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Lagos Schools to Resume Second Term January 12

As part of the efforts to provide quality Education in the State, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, through the Lagos State Examinations Board, has announced the commencement of registration for the 2025 Universal Basic Education by Continuous Assessment Scores (UBE BY CAS) and Placement Test from Monday, 27th of January to Friday, 18th of April, 2025.

The Director of Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo, in a circular notified parents/guardians, head teachers, proprietors, and proprietress of primary six pupils transiting into Junior Secondary Schools (JSS). The circular also contained the approval of Yoruba Language as one of the subjects for testing the knowledge and thinking ability of pupils sitting for the Placement Test by CAS in the State.

Mr. Orunsolu noted that only primary 6 pupils in public and approved private primary schools in the State are eligible to participate in the UBE by CAS and Placement Test, noting that registration is free for public primary schools, while pupils of approved private primary schools are expected to pay the sum of 5,000 (Five Thousand Naira Only) per candidate, through the Lagos State Central Billing System (CBS).

He enjoined authorities of public and approved private primary schools in the State to take note of the date and ensure that parents/ guardians are duly informed. The Director assured stakeholders and parents that no child would be left unattended to, stressing that machinery is on hand to ensure seamless and hitch-free registration.

FirstBank’s Profit Soars 125% in 2024, Driven by Strategic Digital Growth, Robust Lending

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FBNHoldings Plc, the parent company of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, saw remarkable growth in the first nine months of 2024, with earnings per share (EPS) and profits up by 125 percent year-on-year (Y/Y). The bank’s profitability is not solely driven by transaction charges, but rather by a significant increase in financial intermediation, as evidenced by a 165 percent year-on-year surge in interest income, reaching 1.63 trillion Naira.

This impressive growth is part of a consistent upward trend in the bank’s financial performance since the post-2015 crisis era, dubbed the ‘decade of miracle’ in the investment market.

From 2019 to 2023, First Bank’s EPS grew more than fourfold, from 195 to 859 kobo, making it one of the fastest-growing stocks in Nigeria’s capital market. During this period, its operating profit soared by over 320 percent, from 73.8 billion Naira to 310.5 billion Naira.

The bank’s total earnings nearly tripled, rising from 623 billion Naira to 1.6 trillion Naira in just five years, while its total assets expanded by 10.7 trillion Naira to 16.94 trillion Naira. Shareholder equity also saw substantial growth, climbing by 163 percent to 1.75 trillion Naira.

One of the key drivers behind the bank’s success has been its aggressive lending strategy, with loans to customers rising by 243 percent to 6.36 trillion Naira as of December 2023. These loans are spread across diverse sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and real estate. Despite the challenges of the previous years, 2024 has shown even more resilience, with nine-month earnings for the year surpassing the entire 2023 figure by 655 billion Naira, or 134 percent, and pointing to an annualized gross of 2.8 trillion Naira.

The bank’s non-interest income also saw a remarkable 82 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023. A significant contributor to this growth has been FirstBank’s shift toward transaction-led banking, underpinned by an enhanced digital payment system.

As of September 2024, the bank’s FirstMobile subscribers had reached 6.9 million, with over 23 million users on various online platforms. This digital evolution has positioned FirstBank to leverage new technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve its customer experience across both offline and digital channels.

Looking ahead, FirstBank’s new 10-year vision, articulated in 2023, aims to cement its place as one of the top three universal banks in Africa by 2033. CEO Olusegun Alebiosu, who has been instrumental in this vision, emphasized the importance of disciplined execution to ensure sustainable growth.

As part of this strategy, FBNHoldings raised 350 billion Naira in capital at its 12th AGM in November 2024, building on a previous 150 billion Naira rights issue. This will position the bank to meet the 500 billion Naira minimum capital requirements well ahead of the 2026 deadline.

While the bank has made impressive strides, it also faces significant challenges. The rise of digital-first competitors such as Opay and MoniePoint has placed pressure on traditional banks, including FirstBank. However, the bank’s digital evolution, which has seen over 90 percent of customer-induced transactions take place through its digital channels, positions it well to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly changing financial landscape.

With the start of its 2025-2029 strategic planning cycle, FirstBank intends to double down on its market leadership, continuing to invest in improving customer experience and leveraging new technologies.

However, internal challenges, including a boardroom dispute with General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL), threaten to distract from the bank’s growth trajectory. Stakeholders are seeking a swift resolution to ensure that the focus remains on consolidating the gains of the ‘decade of miracle’ and driving sustainable long-term success.

VICE CHANCELLOR APPROVES USE OF NEW APPLICATION; ‘LASU TALKSPACE’ FOR E-CONFERENCE, E-MEETINGS, E-SEMINARS

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The Vice-Chancellor of the Lagos State University, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM has approved for use, by members of the university community and the general public, a newly developed e-conference, e-meeting and e-seminar application codenamed the LASU Talkspace. 

The LASU Talkspace App was developed by the LASU Directorate of Information and Communication Technology, DICT as a perfect substitute for ZOOM, Team or Google Meet and the like, to conduct online meetings, seminars and conferences by subscribers. 

In a circular, the University noted that usage of LASU Talkspace by members of staff is free of charge but strictly with the use of the LASU official staff email address, while the general public will sign up for usage by paying the stipulated amount for the category of services intended for subscription.

Intended users are to visit: web.lasu.edu.ng/talkspace

LASG ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR 32,000 SOLAR STREET LIGHTS, ASSURES OF MORE PROJECTS UNDER T.H.E.M.E.S. PLUS DEVELOPMENTAL AGENDA

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blacktalker
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Lagos State Government has announced plans to install 32,000 Solar-Powered Street lights across the metropolis to boost security and improve road infrastructure, in line with the present administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Developmental Agenda.

Governor Babajide Sanwo’s second term in office is riding on the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Developmental Agenda, which encompasses Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a twenty-first-century economy, Entertainment and Tourism, and Governance.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos, Gbenga Omotosho made the announcement at the Joint Citizens’ Media Engagement Forum organised by the Ministry of Information and Strategy held in Ikeja to interact with Media practitioners drawn from print, broadcast and online.

Omotosho, who identified the immense power of robust and constructive engagements in shaping the world, explained that the Forum is an avenue for the public to stay informed through the media about the state government’s actions, policies, and decisions. He also said it provides a channel for feedback, allowing citizens to voice their opinions and concerns.

”In a world where information flows at an unprecedented speed and where the public’s perception can make or break institutions, the role of periodic stakeholders’ engagement is increasingly becoming a pillar of global peacebuilding. In today’s interconnected world, trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, whether between governments and citizens, businesses and consumers, or organizations and their stakeholders.

”Therefore, building and maintaining this trust between the government and its various stakeholders has become both a challenge and a necessity. As the custodian of transparency, the architect of dialogue, and the facilitator of engagement, our Ministry (Information and Strategy) plays a critical role in this process of building sustainable trust among entities, he noted”.

On the soon-to-be-installed solar-powered street lights, the Commissioner said the government is moving towards cleaner energy because they are easy and cheaper to maintain when compared to the diesel-powered street lights currently in use across the State.

”In 2025, we will be prioritizing the maintenance, upgrade, and expansion of existing road networks, bridges, rail systems, and drainage infrastructure, to enhance mobility and mitigate the impact of climate change. Distinguished guests, part of our core goals this year is also to sustain our policies and programmes aimed at environmental regeneration.

“As a coastal state, Lagos is uniquely vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Therefore, we will continue to implement initiatives such as the Lagos State Climate Adaptation Resilience Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy.

”Our waste-to-wealth initiatives will not only create jobs but also ensure a cleaner environment. Additionally, we are implementing tree-planting campaigns, and investing in flood management infrastructure to protect lives and properties.”

Other projects expected in 2025 are sixteen jetties, ten additional ferries to enhance water transportation, road infrastructure, construction of Lekki International Airport, five food hubs, Modern Markets, One Hundred and Fifty bed Massey Children Hospital in Lagos Island, a new General Hospital in Ojo, Five Hundred bed Mental Health Centre, Ketu-Ereyun, Epe.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Olumide Shogunle in his welcome address said the Joint Citizens’ Media Engagement Forum is to inform Lagos residents about the plans of government through the Media, get suggestions and the feedback will be taken to the State Executive Council for deliberation.

”Everybody has their eyes on us. They want to know what we are doing, They want to know where we are going and it is you who are our media friends that can put it out there, Shogunle remarked”.

POLICE TRAINING SCHOOL, IPERU REMO LAUNCHES OUT FRESH CONSTABLES IN WELL ATTENDED PASSING OUT PARADE

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blacktalker
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Police Training School, Iperu Remo in Ogun State has passed out 633 fresh Police Constable after the completion of a six months training in different academic and operational field haven been certified and endorsed to have satisfied all the requirements.

Thebpassing out ceremony was held on Thursday, 23rd of January, 2025.

The Commandant of the  police training school ACP Kolawole Ademilua psc  in his keynote address commended the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu, mni, (rtd); the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, and the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Training and Development, DIG Frank Mbah, mni, for making the training a reality and further reiterated the vision, foresight and leadership, of the inspector general of police for facilitating a smooth training.

He also acknowledged the state Command Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD and his management team for the unwavering support accorded him while the training lasted.

The Commandant asserted that the Constables were trained among other things, to respect the fundamental human rights of the citizens and embrace community based policing.

The Inspector General of Police in his address which was presented by the Commissioner of Police of the Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo PhD,  emphasized that the recruitment was needed to enhance the manpower deficit in the Force.

He noted that the Police Constables have been equipped with fundamental police ethics, norms, practices and modern law enforcement principles with core values of public relations.

The IGP also stressed  his drive towards transforming the old narrative of the rank and file, stating that from available information the recruits are educated policemen and have been carefully selected across the geo political zones  in Ogun State to improve the security challenges and lead exemplary roles representing the police in positive light.


Among the dignitaries that graced the ceremony were the Governor of the State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR who was represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, AIG Olushola Zubair, psc (rtd); the Chairman of the Police Service Commission who was also represented;, and; IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM who was represented by the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD.

Others included heads of sister security agencies at the state level such as the DSS, the Nigeria Army, FRSC, NDLEA, TRACE, etc. The Chairman, Ikenne local government, PCRC members, Iperu Development Association President, etc, also graced the ceremony.

FirstBank Bountiful Harvest of Awards In 2024 – Testament To Excellence And Stakeholder Trust

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blacktalker
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In the gilded halls of excellence where dreams are crafted into legacies, stands a beacon that blazes across the African financial skyline. This is the story of FirstBank, the timeless oak of Nigeria’s banking heritage.

In 2024, First Bank of Nigeria Limited stands not just as a financial institution but as an emblem of innovation, resilience, and purpose. Garnering 47 prestigious awards across diverse categories, the bank carved a niche for itself in the pantheons of the good and great companies.

For those who may not know, and perhaps those who know but largely uninitiated, FirstBank lived up to its billings and brand identity by being truly the first bank of records in achieving what can be metaphorically termed ” the task Napoleon could not achieved” in hauling a myriad of credible and indisputable notable honours and awards of excellence that speak and bear eloquent testimonies to the sectors the bank has met the needs of its numerous consumers at their passion points.

With its famous tagline — You First, the financial colossus has become truly people-centric in all aspects and ramifications. This passion and unapologetic commitment to its consumers has advertently or inadvertently continued to hall mark the bank’s meteoric rise to the Guinness book of Records as Primus interpares and a numero uno in the haulage of awards of excellence and distinctions.

These awards of excellence and distinctions continue to distinct and distinguish this iconic financial brand in the comity of banks and other financial institutions in Nigeria. Deconstructing the brand FirstBank may be incomplete if one fails to chronicle all these Giant Strides in greatness that has undoubtedly helped the bank to redefine banking business in Nigeria while setting benchmarks for global standards in the sector.

For a fact, the nation is witnessing a financial brand that has transcended generations and yet still maintain impeccable records of performance while remaining innovative, contemporary and avant- garde, age notwithstanding.

From Best SME Bank in Africa by The Asian Banker to Most Innovative Digital Bank Nigeria by Digital Banker Africa, FirstBank’s accolades are as varied as the services and products it offers.

Its commitment to corporate social responsibility shines through titles like Best CSR Bank Africa and CSR Award for Education Empowerment, while its dedication to technological advancement is celebrated with honors like Financial Institution of the Year by the Cybersecurity Experts Association of Nigeria.

Each award tells a tale of vision and an unyielding drive to serve. Whether empowering small businesses, fostering financial inclusion, or safeguarding digital platforms, FirstBank has proven that success is not just about reaching milestones. But rather, it is about elevating communities, building trust and inspiring change.

Throughout the past year, the bank cemented its position as a market leader in the financial services industry with a bountiful harvest of awards, laurels and recognitions.

Among the notable achievements included Nigeria’s Best Bank for Corporates and Best SME Bank in Africa by prestigious organizations like Euromoney and The Asian Banker. It also won awards for its leadership in sustainable investing, earning the title of Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa by Global Finance Awards.

FirstBank’s digital innovation prowess shone through with recognitions like Most Innovative Digital Bank Nigeria and Best Digital Banking Solutions Nigeria. Meanwhile, its contributions to financial inclusion earned it the title Best Financial Inclusion Service Provider in Nigeria.

The institution’s commitment to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) was celebrated with multiple awards, including Most Supportive Bank for Start-Ups and SMEs by ASBON and West Africa’s Best SME Support Bank of the Year.

In the area of corporate social responsibility (CSR), FirstBank’s impactful initiatives received high praise, with accolades such as Best CSR Bank Africa and CSR Award for Education Empowerment. The bank’s focus on cybersecurity and innovative technology also earned it the title Financial Institution of the Year by the Cybersecurity Experts Association of Nigeria.

Many have however attributed the bank’s success to its customer-centric approach, robust digital transformation strategies, and a strong commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

FirstBank’s bountiful harvest of laurels is said to have reinforced its legacy as a trusted financial institution with a forward-thinking vision for the future.

The bank did not just win awards in 2024. it simply painted a masterpiece of excellence, a testament to its enduring promise to its customers and the world.

Lagos State Examinations Board Announces 2025 Details For UBE Registration, Placement Test

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Lagos Begins E-Registration, Payment for 2026 UBE by CAS, Placement Test

The Lagos State Examinations Board has officially announced the commencement of registration for the 2025 Universal Basic Education, UBE, through Continuous Assessment Scores, CAS, and Placement Tests. Registration will begin on Monday, 27th January 2025, and run until Friday, 18th April 2025.

This year’s registration process is a key initiative by the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education to promote academic excellence, credibility, and professionalism in the state’s education system. The Lagos State Examinations Board is committed to upholding its vision of being a world-class examination body.

In a circular, the Board noted that the Lagos State Government has approved Yoruba Language as one of the subjects to be tested during the Placement Test Exercise. Schools are advised to ensure that Yoruba Language is part of their curriculum for Primary 6 pupils.

The circular explained that only Primary 6 pupils in all public and approved private primary schools within Lagos State are eligible for registration. Registration is free for all public primary school pupils in the state.

It said approved private schools are to pay a fee of N5,000 (Five Thousand Naira) per candidate. Payments should be made through the Lagos State Central Billing System (CBS).

To ensure a smooth registration process, all schools must use their newly issued school code for registration. Public schools can download the offline Data Capturing Application from the Lagos State Examinations Board portal or the Placement Test Portal to register and upload candidates’ bio-data.

The Examinations Board noted that approved private schools are instructed to visit its payment portal at pay.examboard.com.ng to generate usernames and passwords for payment registration.

The Placement Test is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 26th July 2025, while the online registration and uploading of candidates’ bio-data must be completed within one week after payment.

The Lagos State Examinations Board encouraged all eligible schools and candidates to adhere to the timelines and instructions for a smooth registration process. It urged stakeholders to visit its website at examsboard.lagosstate.gov.ng or placementtest.examsboard.lagosstate.gov.ng for more information.

UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR TO NIGERIA VISIT LNSA, COMMENDS MANAGEMENT

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The Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency, LNSA has played host to the Ambassador of the United States to Nigeria,Richard Mills at its Headquarters at Bolade, Oshodi, Lagos.

During the visit, the Ambassador and his entourage which included the acting Consular General, Jos Ellen Gorg were taken round the Agency facilities including the Marine, Forest Rangers, Paramedics, Forensics, Human Trafficking, Gender based issues Units and the situation room.

In his reaction, Ambassador Mills expressed surprise and satisfaction at the amount of work put into the Agency under the present Management. In his words, he described his experience as very fascinating and enlightening.


He  said, “although my staff had briefed me about the Agency, seeing the real thing has been revealing and engaging for me.

While responded to questions fielded by members of the American Ambassador, the General Manager of the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency, Prince Dr Ifalade Oyekan FISN said the Agency responded to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s charge to rebrand the Agency by drafting a Roadmap which include the structural changes witnessed so far.

Oyekan said the Agency is on the ascendancy and will continue in that direction. “The intention of the Governor was to prepare the Corps in readiness to become the State Police  in two years and I think we are already there.”

Ifalade also said the Agency has achieved many firsts that makes it a pioneer in community policing. “We are the first to introduce the Body Worn Camera. We have introduced the Body shield for the crowd control unit and have created new units to develop our professional capacity.”

The General Manager expressed his delight at the visit of the foremost American in Nigeria, while he hoped that this visit will give birth to the dream of creating the foremost community Policing outfit in Nigeria and sub Saharan Africa.

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