Home Blog Page 234

SUNU Health Reiterates Commitment To Human Health, Wellbeing

By
blacktalker
-
0

Chief Operating Officer, SUNU Health Maintenance Organisation, HMO, Dr. Faith Nwachi, has reiterated the organisation’s commitment to human health and well-being.

Nwachi said this in Lagos on Friday when the HMO hosted Cute Kids Haven Foundation, CKHF, a Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO.

She said that SUNU Health is a subsidiary of SUNU Group with a presence in 17 African countries.

“SUNU is all about everything good with dedication and passion to human existence and wellbeing.

“We are happy to associate with CKHF NGO, the smile on the children’s faces on the occasion of their day brings us joy.

“We hope to continue to partner with you in your future endeavours” she said

Earlier, CKHF NGO Administrator, Mr. Ayodeji Fadipe, said that support from organisations like SUNU Health HMO helped to keep the NGO going.

Fadipe said that it was not about giving alone, but the relevance the NGO got from the HMO.

According to him, it is such relevance and recognition that propels the NGO to put smiles on the faces of children.

FIRSTBANK PARTNERS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S SOCIETY TO EMPOWER WIDOWS

By
blacktalker
-
0

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has partnered with the International Women’s Society, IWS, to empower over 250 widows, in commemoration of the 2024 International Widows’ Day.

Beneficiaries at the Lagos event, tagged “IWS Widows Feast and Empowerment Programme”, received various essential tools, equipment, and grants. The items distributed were sewing machines, freezers, coolers, hair dryers, cake mixers, industrial cooking gas, generators, and freezers to help the widows establish and sustain their businesses.

Chief Customer Experience Officer, FirstBank, Ms Lande Atere, said the financial institution had been partnering with IWS for over a decade. According to her, the bank has been empowering women-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with funding and skills acquisition.

“As an organisation that strategically prioritises financial inclusion, we will continue to support IWS in creating entrepreneurial opportunities and promoting self-reliance and vocational skills among women,” Atere stated.

Chairperson of IWS, Widows Trust Fund (WTF), Mrs. Adebanke Adeola, appreciated FirstBank for supporting the society in empowering and feasting with the widows. Adeola mentioned that the bank provided Point of Sale, POS machines to improve the benefiting widows’ access to financial services and income generation opportunities.

Also, some beneficiaries would receive extra working capital through the generosity of the financial institution and other sponsors.

“This partnership, along with generous sponsorships from other companies and individuals, enables us to continue our mission and expand our impact. The programme, organised yearly, aims to help widows achieve financial independence and self-sufficiency,” Adeola said.

Culled from NAN

Nigerian Idol Season 9 Heats Up, Gracia and David Garland Evicted

By
blacktalker
-
0

Nigerian Idol Season 9 intensifies! This week, the competition witnessed the shocking eviction of two talented singers, Gracia and David Garland. With Bigi, a product of Rite Foods Limited, continuing its support for the fourth year, the show has delivered electrifying performances in this nail-biting competition.

This week’s episode, themed “Divas and Divos,” saw the remaining contestants pay tribute to musical legends. Chioma’s powerful rendition of Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary” left the judges speechless, with Omawumi calling it “incredible,” Ric Hassani praising it as “amazing,” and 9ice, in a playful nudge, suggesting a bigger wig for a more impactful Tina portrayal, but commended her on an excellent rendition. 

Mira Clear delivered a sensational performance of Mary J. Blige’s “Live Without You,” showing her vocal strength and captivating the audience.

The judges commended Mira for her newfound confidence since her first performance. Stevie’s classically infused rendition of Jackson 5’s “Who’s Loving You” showcased his dexterity and earned him well-deserved commendations. 9ice mentioned that he was initially worried about his song choice, considering that it was originally performed by a 5-man group, but was happy that he was able to pull it off beautifully.

Lady Ruth’s performance of Mariah Carey’s “My All” left a lasting impression on both the judges and viewers. Deviating from her last two upbeat performances, when asked about the reason for the song choice, Lady Ruth responded that she wanted to bring her best because she felt that her last two performances weren’t her best.  Maio’s take on Michael Jackson’s iconic “Heal the World” impressed the judges. However, they mentioned their expectations were high, considering Michael Jackson’s passionate performance of the song. They encouraged Maio to step out of his comfort zone and keep striving for excellence.

Lammy’s performance of Bryan Adam’s “Everything I Do” was equally impressive, the judges mentioned that it was his best performance yet on the show.  Chima, the platinum ticket holder, delivered a show-stopping performance of Stevie Wonder’s “Lately,” leaving the audience spellbound and Omawumi mentioned that he has delivered excellently since the live show started.

David Garland wowed the crowd one last time with his rendition of Celine Dion’s “I Surrender,” while Gracia put on a show with Patti Labelle’s “Lady Marmalade,” making the judges encourage the viewers to keep voting for their favourites to keep them in the competition.

Who will step outside their comfort zone and truly shine? Don’t miss the next episode of Nigerian Idol Season 9, airing Sundays at 7:00 PM on Africa Magic Family GOtv (channel 2), Africa Magic Showcase DStv (channel 151), and Africa Magic Family Dstv (channel 154).

Bigi-Sponsored Nigerian Idol Bids Farewell to Jennifer After Powerful Performance

By
blacktalker
-
0

A beloved contestant, Jennifer, known for her powerful vocals, left the Bigi-sponsored Nigerian Idol stage with a bang on Sunday night. Despite captivating the judges with her rendition of Andra Day’s “Rise Up” during the first live show, Jennifer’s journey ended due to receiving the lowest number of viewer votes. However, she didn’t go down without a fight. After host IK announced her departure, Jennifer belted out a powerful rendition of Asake’s “Lonely at the Top,” leaving fans wanting more.

This week’s live show saw the remaining contestants showcase their growth and versatility. From soulful renditions to upbeat jams, they tackled a range of genres, proving they’re all contenders for the title. Stevie moved from his soulful “A Million Dreams” to a vibrant rendition of Davido’s “Feel.” Chima traded Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control” for a smooth performance of Chike’s “Beautiful People.”

Chioma tackled Omawumi’s “In the Music” after mesmerizing the audience with the calm beauty of “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman. Maio switched gears from Wizkid’s “Ojuelegba” to deliver Joeboy’s energetic “Nobody.”

Lady Ruth traded Beyoncé’s high notes in “Drunk in Love” for a soulful performance of Tems’ “Try Me.” Gracia moved from the electronic beats of David Guetta’s “Titanium” to the classic South African vibes of Miriam Makeba’s “Pata Pata.”

David Garland took a break from Harry Styles’ “Falling” and explored a different genre with Reekado Banks’ “Easy.” Mira Clear swapped Sia’s “Unstoppable” for the soulful Nigerian hit “Kedike” by Chidinma. Lammy transitioned from John Legend’s “All of Me” to a more upbeat performance of Wizkid’s “Holla at Your Boy.”

The race to become Nigeria’s next idol continues! Tune in next Sunday at 7 PM on African Magic Showcase (DStv channel 154) and African Magic Family (DStv channel 155), sponsored by Bigi, to see who impresses the judges and the viewers the most.

POLICE APPREHENDS 25 YEARS OLD WOMAN OVER CHILD ABUSE, ASSAULT TO MINOR AT OBADA-OKO 

By
blacktalker
-
0

The Police in Isewo Obada-Oko area of Ogun State on Tuesday June 11th received a distress report that a 12-year-old girl had been severely beaten and a piece of firewood inserted into her private area by her guardian, one Temitope Adetanju, a 25-year-old woman residing at the same address. 

On receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer at Isewo Obada-Oko deployed the Officer in Charge of Juvenile Welfare Centre, to apprehend the suspect.

Upon Adetanju’s arrest, it was discovered that the victim had stolen items including biscuits worth 200 Naira, Milo beverage worth 150Naira, and Mr. Fruit drink worth 300 Naira.

The suspect admitted to committing the offense, and is aiding the police with on-going investigation.

VC, PROF. OLATUNJI-BELLO MEETS LAGOS CP, FAYOADE AMID PREPARATION FOR HOSTING FASU GAMES

By
blacktalker
-
0

…Congratulates him on his appointment and solicits support for adequate security around LASU Campuses.

The Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, on Tuesday, 11th June 2024 led a delegation of the University on a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, CP Fayoade Adegoke Mustapha at his office, at the Police Force Headquarters, Ikeja, Lagos. 

The visit was aimed at congratulating the Commissioner of Police on his appointment as the Lagos State Police helmsman. It was also used to solicit his assistance in adequately securing the University campuses as well as providing more support for the University, as it co-hosts the 11th All Africa University Games, FASU, tagged Lagos 2024.

In her words, “As Vice Chancellor, I made it a tradition to meet every new CP to familiarize with them to enhance the security of lives and properties of our staff and students. That’s why we made it a point of duty to respectfully come to congratulate you and wish you well in your assignment, and to continue to enjoy the support of the police force.”

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Professor Olufunsho Omobitan, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Professor Adenike Boyo, were also on the delegation. They both added their voices in congratulating and praying for the CP. At the behest of the Vice Chancellor, they also sought the CP’s support for LASU as it co-hosts FASU Games.

CP Fayoade responded with an expression of satisfaction to receive the management of the institution. Incidentally, he is also a proud alumnus of the university. He said he was happy that LASU has been enjoying peace in recent years, and that with the support of the State command, it would continue to be so. 

On the hosting of FASU, he said, “Providing security is our primary responsibility because if you have athletes from all over Africa coming to Lagos and they don’t have a good story to tell, it’s not good for the image of the country. We are going to be deeply involved in the sports festival.”

Other members of the delegation included Mr. B.R Yusuf, who represented the Bursar; Dr. Lateef Shekoni, Deputy Registrar, Vice Chancellor’s Office; Dr Lateef Salami, Special Assistant to the Vice Chancellor; CSP Oluwole Ojo (rtd), Chief Security Coordinator of the University; Mr Edu Babatunde, Security Unit; Mrs. Fatimah Ogunniyi, Personal Assistant to the Vice Chancellor and Mr Seun Gbanja, Media Assistant to the Vice Chancellor.

Democracy Day: CAPPA Warns Against Planned Crackdown on Rallies, Urges Government to Embrace True Democracy

By
blacktalker
-
0

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA, has issued a stark warning to the Nigerian Police Force, NPF, and the Department of State Services, DSS, against any attempts to suppress peaceful rallies planned for Democracy Day.

The organization’s statement, released in the early hours of Wednesday, follows threats from the DSS and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to prevent demonstrations by various civil society organizations, labor unions, and concerned citizens.

CAPPA emphasized the state’s responsibility to uphold citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and free expression, urging authorities to protect rather than stifle democratic participation. The organization called for a renewed commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy as a means to achieve sustainable national development.

Despite 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, CAPPA criticized the persistent disregard for democratic principles, which they argue limits citizens’ engagement in the political process and hinders meaningful progress.

“The diversity of opinions and active participation of citizens in political processes enrich democracy and promote nation-building,” CAPPA stated. They decried the increasing instances of press suppression, arbitrary arrests, and detention of journalists and vocal critics, noting these actions undermine the public’s ability to engage equally in governance.

CAPPA’s Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, remarked on the significance of Democracy Day, celebrating the resilience and bravery of Nigerians in the face of ongoing challenges. He urged the public to defend the nation’s integrity against threats to its democratic values.

The organization also criticized the current state of Nigeria’s democracy, highlighting the weak pillars of governance, dwindling popular participation, and the unfulfilled promise of free and fair elections. This disillusionment, they argue, has led to widespread apathy among the populace.

“Furthermore, the Nigerian state continues to operate with little or no regard for the principles of separation of powers, thereby compromising the ability of different arms of government to self-regulate or even exert the necessary measure of checks and balances that help to prevent the abuse of power and protect the rights and liberties of the people,” the statement read. CAPPA pointed to a weak legislature, a compromised judiciary, and an impunity-driven executive as key issues.

In conclusion, CAPPA urged political leaders to reject actions that criminalize open government prospects. They called for full adoption of transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law across all levels of government and its institutions, to ensure a democratic environment that benefits all Nigerian citizens.

Rite Foods Limited Powers 2024 Ojude Oba Festival

By
blacktalker
-
0
From Left: Ms. Boma Harrison, Head of Marketing, Rite Foods Limited; with Chief (Dr.) Fassy A.O. Yusuf (Baagbimo of Ijebu), Coordinator of Ojude Oba Festival; Honourable Sesan Fagbayi, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ogun State; and Ms. Oluwatosin Oloko, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ogun State; during the press conference on the Ojude Oba Festival slated for 18th June 2024, and sponsored by Rite Foods Limited.

Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company, has restated its commitment to preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through sponsorship of the 2024 edition of the Ojude Oba Festival slated for Tuesday, 18th June 2024 in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

At the World Press Conference unveiling the Ojude Oba Festival 2024, the Company’s Head of Marketing, Ms. Boma Harrison, affirmed that Rite Foods’ continuous sponsorship of the Ojude Oba Festival was a demonstration of its commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural values of its communities as a proudly Nigerian Company.

“We are deeply committed to investing time, expertise, and resources in advancing locally relevant initiatives in our communities. We view culture as a vital part of who we are as individuals and as a people.

As a socially responsible corporate citizen, our loyalty to His Royal Majesty, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Alaiyeluwa Ọba (Dr) Sikiru Kayọde Adetọna, CFR, J.P, and commitment to the Ojude Oba Festival demonstrate our belief that promoting the interest of our communities is a collective responsibility. We are excited to be in the vanguard of preserving the identity and civilization of the Ijebu societies, fostering unity, and promoting social and cultural cohesion”, she said.

In his address, the Chairman of the Ojude Oba Festival 2024 Planning Committee, Chief (Barr.) Olu B.Okuboyejo said the highlight of the event will include 90 Age Grade performances dubbed “Regberegbe,” both male and female, with the prizes for the winning team, and the first and second runners-up, and 25 families of warlords, showcasing their dexterity in a peaceful and orderly manner that depicts their experience in warfare.

He stated that the rich cultural heritage dates back about two centuries and is widely cherished by the indigenes at home and in the diaspora. This year’s edition themed: ”Ojude Oba: Peace, Unity and Harmony, Our Gifts”, according to him, re-echoes the pristine objective of Ojude Oba, which is to foster unity and peaceful co-existence in the community.

The festival will also serve as a unification of all sons and daughters of Ijebuland, and with a homage to the His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II, the Awujale of the Ijẹbu Kingdom, who in the past events, avowed that Ojude Oba brings about love, mutual understanding, and peaceful co-existence that defines what they stand for. Also, it enhances the area’s tourism potential, as it hosts visitors from other parts of the globe.

The coordinator of the annual event, Chief (Dr.) Fassy Yusuf (Baagbimo of Ijebu), applauded Rite Foods and all sponsors for their unwavering support for the upcoming festival and for previous events, that have made the Ijebu nation popular in the country and beyond.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Sesan Fagbayi, said the present administration felicitates with the Ijebu people as they celebrate the Ojude Oba Festival which serves as a unique forum for cultural and national development of the sons and daughters of the land.

As in the previous editions, Harrison restated that Rite Foods will refresh and delight participants with its quality products to make the event memorable and exciting.

With award-winning brands, Rite Foods’ consumer-centricity has been demonstrated through credible platforms and sponsorships that have earned it numerous awards which include 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; “Best Value for Money – Carbonated Drink Brand 2023” for Bigi Cola; “Best Value for Money – Energy Drinks Brand 2023” for Fearless Energy Drink; and “Best Value for Money – Sausage Brand 2023” for Bigi Beef Sausage Roll.

Lagos State Procurement Agency, ROLAC Host Workshop to Empower SMEs

By
blacktalker
-
0

In a bid to bolster the involvement of Small and Medium Enterprises, SMEs in public procurement, the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, in collaboration with the European Union Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption, ROLAC, programme, held a one-day workshop to educate SMEs on procurement processes and procedures.

The event aimed to equip SMEs with essential knowledge and skills to leverage procurement opportunities in Lagos State.

Addressing the participants, the Director-General of the Agency, Mr. Fatai Idowu Onafowote, underscored the crucial role SMEs play in the socio-economic development of Lagos State and Nigeria. He stressed the importance of these enterprises understanding and complying with public procurement guidelines to fully benefit from the available opportunities.

Mr. Onafowote pointed out that many SMEs lack sufficient knowledge of the procurement process, leading to their reluctance to participate. Despite efforts by the state government and the Agency to promote these processes, many SMEs remain disengaged.

To tackle this issue, the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has made significant strides to empower SMEs, including reducing the cost of registration and renewal for certain service providers to as low as 10,000 Naira and simplifying the registration requirements.

The workshop was designed to address these knowledge gaps and encourage more SMEs to engage in public procurement. Mr. Onafowote expressed optimism that the participants would use this opportunity to improve their digital skills, crucial for adapting to the technological innovations in the state’s procurement system.

He commended the European Union Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption ROLAC, programme for partnering with the Agency, noting that ROLAC has been a valuable ally in enhancing public procurement in Lagos State. He also thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for his steadfast support of the Agency’s initiatives.

The Lagos State Coordinator of ROLAC, Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa highlighted the workshop’s goal of providing SMEs with practical knowledge and skills for effective participation in public procurement processes.

She emphasized the importance of understanding the regulatory framework, which would help SMEs navigate registration and renewal processes, prepare bids effectively, and comply with standards, thereby improving the credibility and competitiveness of the state’s procurement system.

The workshop, held at Sheraton Hotels in Ikeja, Lagos, saw active participation from SME operators, both physically and virtually, marking a significant step towards more inclusive and effective public procurement in Lagos State.

Prophet TB Joshua: A Life of Miracles and Legacy of Faith

By
blacktalker
-
0

The remarkable life of Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua, widely known as TB Joshua, continues to captivate and inspire people around the world. Born on June 12, 1963, in a small village to humble parents, TB Joshua’s life was marked by extraordinary events and profound spiritual impact.

Unlike most, who spend about nine months in their mother’s womb, TB Joshua stayed in his mother’s womb for an astonishing eighteen months. Shortly after his birth, a massive boulder crashed through the roof of his home, miraculously missing the newborn and leaving him unscathed, an early indication of the miraculous life he would lead.

As a child, TB Joshua stood out for his intelligence, character, and spiritual insight. Despite facing numerous challenges, he remained focused on his divine mission, growing in grace and wisdom. His early years were a precursor to his later role as a major figure in modern Christianity.

When TB Joshua began his ministry, the Christian faith had, for many, become a series of rituals lacking true spiritual power. TB Joshua revitalized the faith, bringing back the fervor and authenticity of early Christianity. This revival, however, came with resistance. He became one of the most persecuted religious figures of his time, facing relentless criticism and false accusations. Yet, he never wavered in his mission.

TB Joshua was known for his humility, generosity, and acceptance of all people, regardless of their background. He often emphasized that “Jesus loves sinners but hates sin,” focusing on bringing people closer to God. He introduced faith bracelets to encourage meditation on the Word of God, reinforcing his belief that “the greatest achievement in life is the ability to hear from God.”

In stark contrast to many religious leaders, TB Joshua did not seek personal gain from his ministry. He lived simply, often praying on an open prayer mountain. His teachings were powerful and transformative, and his televised prayers brought deliverance and healing to countless individuals.

He was also known for his global crusades, which he conducted without soliciting donations. Instead, he performed charitable works, alleviating burdens rather than adding to them. His approach to ministry was revolutionary, prioritizing true worship and service to humanity over material wealth.

Despite facing persecution, TB Joshua’s impact was undeniable. His prophetic insights often led to dramatic moments of confession and repentance among his followers. He believed that a true prophet speaks with authority and truth, breaking bondages with his words.

TB Joshua’s legacy is one of love, humility, and unwavering faith. His life and work continue to inspire millions, serving as a testament to the power of genuine Christianity and dedicated service to humanity. In the words of William Shakespeare, “You came, you saw, and you conquered.” TB Joshua’s legacy remains a beacon of light and hope, shining brightly in a world often shrouded in darkness.

1...233234235...270Page 234 of 270