Home Blog Page 235

In Entrepreneurship, Agility is the Name of the Game – Seleem Adegunwa, Rite Foods’ Boss

By
blacktalker
-
0

In his drive to inspire future entrepreneurs who would make significant growth to the nation’s economy and improve the quality of their workforce, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, has enjoined SME owners, founders, corporate innovators, and business executives to cultivate flexibility and agility as required traits for success in scaling up their businesses.

Adegunwa stated this at the SME Scale-Up, a platform targeted at SME CEOs in Nigeria, seeking to scale up and expand their businesses. The SME Scale-Up workshop was held at the Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos.

In a session facilitated by the Rite Foods’ boss, he said:

“in entrepreneurship, agility is the name of the game. You can be very dogged as an entrepreneur, but be very flexible”.

He urged the participants to ignite their spark by developing their staying power to succeed in business, and also admonished them to be adaptable; say no to distractions; focus on innovation and embrace technology to overcome all challenges for exponential growth.

He further stressed the need for founders, business leaders, and executives to stay focused despite an uncertain economy, strive for excellence, and imbibe critical success traits like integrity, innovation, and accountability to weather the storms.

Managing Director of SevenUp Bottling Company Ltd and Founder of The SME Scale-Up, Ziad Maalouf, reiterated the initiative’s goal of equipping SMEs with the knowledge, skills, and network they need to overcome growth barriers, scale their businesses sustainably, and create lasting employment opportunities in Nigeria.

President of the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises, NASME, Dr. Abdurashid Yerima, commended the workshop and its facilitators for addressing critical issues affecting the development and growth of small and medium-scale businesses in Nigeria. He stressed the need for more collaboration with CEOs, founders, executives, and their teams to find and implement the best solutions to their toughest challenges for rapid acceleration and growth to bridge the unemployment gap in the country.

The SME Scale-Up Module 2 is the second in its series, tagged “Igniting The Spark – Where Talent Meets Harmony For Unstoppable Growth”. It is a workshop aimed at reducing the rate at which small businesses fail and decreasing the unemployment rate in Nigeria; with a vision to be a leading catalyst for scaling SMEs, fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, and driving sustainable employment for 1 million Nigerians by 2035.

The event was characterized by great networking opportunities with top SME founders, aspiring SME owners, CEOs, business executives, and entrepreneurs who explored case studies, simulations, and group learning activities in topics like Leadership and Management; Business Strategy; Financial Management; Marketing and Sales; Human Resources; Operations Management and Business Ethics.

Seleem Adegunwa is a seasoned Chief Executive with diverse experience in operations, sales, and strategy. He is passionate about driving business growth and achieving exceptional results, with an ability to optimize business processes, streamline operations, and implement innovative strategies in steering Rite Foods Limited to develop leading brands and enhance overall organizational efficiency.

His entrepreneurial mindset and quest for excellence propel him to identify market trends and capitalize on emerging opportunities to drive growth consistently and increase market share in a competitive landscape.

LASU Achieves Landmark Accreditation for 44 Courses in NUC October/November 2023 Accreditation Exercise

By
blacktalker
-
0

Lagos State University, LASU, has achieved a remarkable milestone, securing accreditation for all forty-four courses submitted to the National Universities Commission, NUC, during the October/November 2023 accreditation exercise.

The Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, announced this significant accomplishment upon receiving the results from the NUC in a letter dated June 6, 2024. The letter, signed by Engr. Abraham Chundusu on behalf of the Executive Secretary, confirmed that 43 of the 44 courses evaluated received full accreditation. The sole exception was Computer Science Education, which was granted interim accreditation.

The accredited courses span a wide range of disciplines, including:

  1. MSc. Banking and Finance
  2. MSc. Insurance
  3. MSc. Marketing
  4. MSc. Transport Management
  5. Industrial Relations and Personnel Management
  6. Insurance
  7. Management Technology
  8. Marketing
  9. Public Administration
  10. Transport Management
  11. Agriculture
  12. Fisheries
  13. French
  14. History and International Studies
  15. Philosophy
  16. Portuguese
  17. Theatre and Media Arts
  18. Mass Communication
  19. Computer Science
  20. Business Education
  21. Education Arabic
  22. Education Economics
  23. Education Management
  24. Education Mathematics
  25. Education Technology
  26. Health Education
  27. Aeronautics and Astronautics Engineering
  28. Chemical and Polymer Engineering
  29. Electronics and Computer Engineering
  30. Mechanical Engineering
  31. Common and Islamic Law
  32. Dentistry
  33. Medicine and Surgery
  34. Biochemistry
  35. Botany
  36. Chemistry
  37. Microbiology
  38. Zoology
  39. Economics
  40. Geography and Planning
  41. Political Science
  42. Psychology
  43. Sociology

This 99% pass rate is an unprecedented achievement in the university’s history, aligning with the administration’s strategic goals, particularly the focus on course accreditation.

Prof. Olatunji-Bello expressed her gratitude to the Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, members of the Governing Council, and all stakeholders for their support and contributions to this success.

This accomplishment not only underscores LASU’s commitment to academic excellence but also enhances its reputation as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria.

HRA Congratulates Governor B Sanwo-Olu on Appointment as Chairman of Southwest Governors’ Forum

By
blacktalker
-
0

In a move hailed as a testament to his leadership prowess, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has been appointed as the Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum. The announcement, made on Monday, June 9th, 2024, has been met with widespread congratulations and anticipation for his tenure.

Hon. Rasaq Olusola Ajala, Chairman of Odiolowo-Ojuwoye LCDA, conveyed his felicitations to Governor Sanwo-Olu through his Media Aide, acknowledging the significance of the appointment and expressing confidence in Sanwo-Olu’s ability to steer the forum with excellence.

“I want to congratulate our amiable Governor Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on his new appointment as the Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum,” remarked Hon. Ajala. “It is not surprising that the Forum unanimously settled for Mr. Sellable to lead them as he has proven his mettle in running the affairs of one of the largest cities in the world, Lagos State.”

He further emphasized the governor’s suitability for the position, citing his track record of achievements and innovation in governance. “You are a great fit for this new position, it is well deserved, and I have the belief that you will make the Forum proud with many innovations and achievements during your tenure,” Hon. Ajala added.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s appointment is seen as a recognition of his contributions not only to Lagos State but also to the entire Southwest region and the nation as a whole. With his experience and dedication, there are high expectations for him to bring about positive developments and collaborations within the Southwest Governor’s Forum.

The congratulatory message extended by Hon. Rasaq Olusola Ajala on behalf of the Executive, Legislative Arm of government, Management, Staff, and the people of Odiolowo-Ojuwoye LCDA underscores the collective pride and support for Governor Sanwo-Olu as he embarks on this new role of leadership.

ORGANIC FARMING: VC CONGRATULATES LASUCOBS ON WINNING FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND NAIRA GRANT FROM RENEWED HOPE INITIATIVE

By
blacktalker
-
0



The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, has congratulated the Coordinator and members of the Lagos State University Community Organic Box Scheme, LASUCOBS, for winning a grant of Five Hundred Thousand naira from the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI.

RHI is an initiative of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, OON, CON.

Prof. Olatunji-Bello expressed delight that the activities of LASUCOBS are acknowledged on the
State and Federal level.

The Vice Chancellor also commended members of LASUCOBS for their hardwork, expressing hopes that they will continue to put in the work to place LASU on a global pedestal as regards organic farming.

LASUCOBS is a sub-body of the Institute of Organic Agriculture and Green Economy (INOAGEC) which draws its membership from Ojo and Epe campuses.

They are producers of organic vegetable for human consumption inside and outside of LASU.

INTERNATIONAL BANKER AWARDS 2024: ZENITH BANK BECOMES MOST SUSTAINABLE BANK IN NIGERIA FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

By
blacktalker
-
0

Zenith Bank Plc has been named the “Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria” in the International Banker 2024 Banking Awards, retaining the title for the second consecutive year.

Commenting on the award, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “We are deeply honoured to be recognised as the Most Sustainable Bank in Nigeria for the second time in a row. This prestigious award underscores our steadfast commitment to sustainability and reinforces our belief that responsible banking is essential for long-term success and societal impact.”

She dedicated the award to the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR. She lauded the Bank’s stakeholders for their commitment and unwavering support in ensuring that Zenith remains a highly successful institution.

She said, “This remarkable achievement is a testament to the visionary and impactful leadership of our Founder and Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR. His exceptional foresight and dedication have been the cornerstone of our success. His ability to inspire and guide with strategic acumen has been instrumental in steering Zenith Bank to new heights.

Along with the strategic guidance of our esteemed Board members, the unwavering commitment of our ever-diligent staff, and the steadfast support of our loyal customers, Dr. Ovia’s leadership has been pivotal in transforming our sustainability initiatives into a reality. We owe this success to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his deep-seated commitment to redefining the banking landscape in Nigeria.”

This recognition reaffirms Zenith Bank’s position as a trailblazer in sustainable banking practices, setting a benchmark for excellence within the Nigerian banking industry and beyond. The Bank has been a leader in monitoring and reporting sustainability impact.

Since becoming the first Bank in Africa to publish a stand-alone sustainability report in accordance with the GRI Standards: Core Option in 2016, Zenith Bank has consistently published assured stand-alone sustainability reports. The Bank is one of the few institutions in Nigeria that tracks its carbon emissions using a certified tool built on the internationally recognised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol.

Zenith Bank is deeply committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) values, subscribing to the Triple Bottom Line principle, which encompasses People, Planet, and Profit. As a leading financial institution that services various sectors of the economy, the Bank considers Environmental and Social (E&S) risk management critical to its sustainability strategy.

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards, including being recognised as Best Bank in Nigeria for the fourth time in five years, from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; the Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; being listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023; being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the 14th consecutive year in the 2023 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking published by The Banker Magazine; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria, for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023 in the World Finance Banking Awards; Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards 2022 and 2023; Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2020 and 2022; Best in Corporate Governance Financial Services Africa for four successive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom; Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 Banking Awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.

Additionally, the Bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021; Bank of the Year 2023 and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Similarly, Zenith Bank was named Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS.

Published by Finance Publishing Limited, the International Banker Magazine, United Kingdom, is a leading global source of authoritative analysis and opinion on banking, finance and world affairs. Its influence, integrity, accuracy and objective opinion have earned it global recognition. The International Banker Awards strive to recognise the most worthy financial institutions around the world – those not just doing their jobs well but exceptionally well – those operating at the industry’s cutting edge and setting new performance levels to which others will aspire.

The 2024 Banking Awards focused on various criteria, including the provision of much-needed capital for economic growth, cutting-edge innovation to enhance security and efficiency, commitment to sustainability and ESG principles, as well as intelligent investing to maximise profits and shareholder value.

DJ JIMBO Launches Old Skool, Style Remix Sessions at Rhapsody in Lekki

By
blacktalker
-
0



Renowned for his masterful fusion of world music, old skool, and contemporary tunes, DJ JIMBO is set to bring his acclaimed Old Skool & Style remix sessions to Rhapsody’s at The Palms Mall, Lekki.

Starting on Friday, June 14, 2024, these vibrant weekly events, powered by Effrakata Entertainment and Inspiro Productions, promise an electrifying atmosphere every Friday night.


DJ JIMBO, known for his stylish appearance and high-energy performances, has cultivated a dedicated following over the years. His unique musical experiences have become a staple at various venues, and he now aims to elevate the experience at Rhapsody’s.

The new location offers a larger and more dynamic space, perfect for attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers, party enthusiasts, and dance aficionados.

The evenings will begin with dining from 7-9 pm, where guests can enjoy selections from Rhapsody’s well-curated menu. Following dinner, the dance floor comes alive with DJ JIMBO’s expertly curated playlist, featuring hits from the 70s to the 90s, along with modern favorites.


Rhapsody’s at The Palms Mall, a new branch of the popular Rhapsody’s chain, is known for its lively ambiance, delectable food, and premier entertainment. Its modern setting and state-of-the-art sound system provide the ideal backdrop for DJ JIMBO’s performances.

Attendees can look forward to a night of nostalgic melodies, energetic beats, and a seamless blend of classic and contemporary music, ensuring an unforgettable experience every Friday.

Lagos CP Pledges Enhanced Security Around UNILAG

By
blacktalker
-
0

The Lagos Police Command has committed to increasing security surveillance around the University of Lagos, UNILAG, ensuring the safety of students, staff, and University assets both on and off campus.

This announcement came following a meeting between UNILAG management and the Police Commissioner in Lagos State, Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, on Friday, June 7, 2024.

During the courtesy visit to the Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja GRA, Commissioner Fayoade assured that police activities would be intensified in the surrounding communities of UNILAG. This initiative aims to eliminate miscreants, preempt potential threats, and significantly reduce criminal activities.

CP Fayoade praised UNILAG’s successive management teams for maintaining a strong relationship with the State Police Command, reinforcing the University’s esteemed reputation as the “University of First Choice and the Nation’s Pride.”

UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, highlighted the visit as part of efforts to strengthen the bond between the University and the local community. She expressed gratitude to the police for their long-standing cooperation, particularly acknowledging CP Fayoade’s efforts in resolving land disputes around the Iwaya area.

Professor Ogunsola requested increased police surveillance along the lagoon front to prevent burglaries via the waterfront. She reiterated the University’s zero tolerance for illicit drugs and substances, emphasizing a commitment to collaborate with the police for a smooth reintroduction of Students’ Union activities on campus.

Additionally, as part of the curriculum review, Professor Ogunsola announced plans to incorporate high-ranking police officers as faculty members in the Faculties of Law and Social Sciences. Commissioner Fayoade welcomed this initiative, affirming the Police Command’s readiness to support it.

LASG: Local Government Service Commission Moves to Enhance Sustainable Service Delivery at Grassroots Level

By
blacktalker
-
0

The Lagos State Local Government Service Commission, LGSC, has concluded a 3-day summit aimed at enhancing sustainable service delivery in local government and local council development areas. 

The event, held at Jubilee Chalet in Epe, brought together major stakeholders in local government administration to discuss how to rebrand the State’s local government system. 

Speaking at the Summit, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, emphasized that the summit aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda, aiming to enhance service delivery and good governance at the grassroots level, just as he highlighted the present administration’s dedication to improving the quality of life for all residents through efficient and sustainable practices.

Addressing the summit’s participants, the Deputy Governor who was represented by the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, underlined the necessity of sustainable service delivery, urging collective efforts to innovate and implement practices that balance economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity. 

He called on those at the grassroots level to partner in the mission of creating a better and greater Lagos State for present and future generations.

“I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will initiate strategies that will make our service delivery more efficient, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of our people,” he stated.

He also lauded the participants’ expertise and dedication, expressing optimism that the insights and strategies developed during the summit would pave the way for a prosperous future for Lagos State residents.

During his Goodwill Message, the Chairman, Lagos State House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs & Rural Development, Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, urged participants to actively engage in all activities and implement the insights gained to improve service delivery. 

He emphasized the importance of practical application of the summit’s deliberations, just as he sought for collaboration from all the stakeholders at the Summit. 

Also speaking, the Head of Service of Lagos State, Mr. Olabode Shuaheeb Agoro, underscored the crucial role of local governments as the bedrock of democracy, emphasizing the importance of equipping them to meet citizens’ needs effectively.

“This summit is very timely,” Mr. Agoro noted, “as it coincides with the winding up of the current local government elected officers’ tenure and the preparation for fresh elections to usher in new administrations at the grassroots level.” 

Represented at the event by Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismailia, the Head of Service called on public servants to remain focused, and committed in their roles to ensure that all Lagos residents continue to enjoy the benefits of good governance.

Earlier, the Chairman of LGSC, Hon. Kamal Ayinde Bayewu, described the Summit as a means to review administrative guidelines and enhance operational efficiency within the local government system. 

He stressed the need for proper adherence to processes to bridge the gap between political officials and civil servants.

On her part, the Permanent Secretary of the LGSC, Mrs. Abosede George, highlighted the Summit’s goal of bringing together stakeholders to restructure and rebrand the local government system, ensuring officers align with their state counterparts.

The Summit featured various presentations on topics such as procurement, budgeting, sustainability, the Lagos State Development Plan, regulatory frameworks, statutory committees, and ethical considerations in decision-making. Panel discussions addressed the future of the local government system and the moral and work ethics of its officers.

During the summit, participants identified several critical issues and proposed actionable recommendations as there was a consensus on the need to review and update administrative guidelines to include newly created departments and units. 

The participants also underscored the importance of maintaining the existing procurement law until amendments are made and the introduction of induction/orientation programs for newly employed staff.

They advocated for holding budget assemblies in different communities within local governments to reduce the incidence of abandoned projects. Additionally, it was agreed that the LGSC Summit should be an annual event held at the beginning of new local government administrations to serve as an onboarding programme.

Other notable attendees at the summit included some members of the State House of Assembly, body of Permanent Secretaries, council chairmen, heads of government agencies, and Parastatals, among others. 

NIMC Bolsters Security Measures to Protect Citizens’ Data

By
blacktalker
-
0

The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding citizens’ data, implementing enhanced security protocols to protect information within the National Identity Database.

This initiative follows the mandate of Director-General/CEO Engr Abisoye Coker-Odusote, who took office in August 2023.

Engr Coker-Odusote emphasized the Commission’s collaboration with security agencies to uphold the highest data security standards and ensure regulatory compliance.

As part of these efforts, all Licensed Verification Agents, Front End Partners (FEPs), and Diaspora FEPs will undergo rigorous security vetting to align with global best practices in identity management. Violations of these standards will result in sanctions as per established regulations and national laws.

The NIMC has also empowered law enforcement authorities to crack down on individuals involved in online phishing schemes that target citizens’ data.

Recall that reports surfaced about fraudulent online platforms coercing Nigerians to submit their personal information for National Identification Number, NIN, modifications, or enrollment services. The Commission warned that perpetrators of these illegal activities will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

In a related move, the NIMC has temporarily suspended the bypass enrollment process to prevent abuse and correct any irregularities. The public will be informed about the resumption of this process in due course.

ASIAN BANKER AWARDS: FIRSTBANK WINS 2024 BEST SME BANK IN NIGERIA, BEST SME BANK IN AFRICA

By
blacktalker
-
0
FirstBank Unveils Exclusive 500-Seater Premium Bleacher at Carnival Calabar 2025

Nigeria’s premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider, FirstBank has bagged two awards: Best SME Bank in Africa and Best SME Bank in Nigeria at the highly converted Asian Banker Global Excellence Retail Awards 2024.

The Excellence in Retail Finance Awards Programme, which includes the Global Excellence in Retail Finance Awards and The Annual Digital Bank Awards, is one of the most established awards of its kind, recognising exceptional innovation, leadership, management, and performance in the financial sector.

The 130-year-old institution bagged these two awards because of its full suite of solutions across its franchise to serve the needs of medium and small enterprises regarding core financial needs and offer flexible financing options across the entire lifecycle needs of customers’ businesses.

According to The Asian Banker’s Strategic Business Intelligence for the Financial Services Community, “FirstBank demonstrated exceptional performance, notably in its SME sector, by achieving more than 100% revenue growth while maintaining a reduced cost-to-income ratio of 16.5%. Small and medium-sized enterprises contributed 26% of overall bank revenue. Furthermore, the institution’s SME customer base grew by 7%, reaching a total of more than one million. For its significant growth in the SME business, the award for Best SME Bank in Nigeria and in Africa goes to FirstBank”.

FirstBank supports its customers by providing exceptional value propositions around each industry sector, digital innovation of the bank’s processes and financing options, and a strong relationship banking approach to creating best-in-class customer engagement. The Bank’s integrated platform not only helps businesses grow and reduce operational costs but also facilitates expansion into regional and overseas markets through its Sub-Saharan Africa subsidiaries.

Expressing her delight at the recognition, the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Ms. Folake Ani-Mumuney said: “We thank the Asian Banker Awards for the recognition and dedicate these awards to our esteemed SME customers that have progressively impacted the socio-economic growth of not just Nigeria but also the African continent given their critical role as the engine of any economy.

“For 130 years, FirstBank has continued to enable the giants in our customers including our SMEs as well as other stakeholders, and we remain committed to delivering the ultimate ‘gold standard’ of value and excellence,” she concluded. 

Amongst other awards, FirstBank recently added to its awards kitty, Best Private Bank in Nigeria and Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investment in Africa by Global Finance, for its exceptional leadership in integrating sustainable practices into its banking operations.

About FirstBank

First Bank of Nigeria Limited “FirstBank”, established in 1894, is the premier bank in West Africa, a leading financial inclusion services provider in Africa, and a digital banking giant.

FirstBank’s international footprints cut across three continents ─ Africa, Europe, and Asia, with FirstBank UK Limited in London and Paris; FirstBank in The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone; FBNBank in Senegal; and a FirstBank Representative Office in Beijing, China. All the subsidiary banks are fully registered by their respective Central Banks to provide full banking services.

Besides providing domestic banking services, the subsidiaries also engage in international cross-border transactions with FirstBank’s non-Nigerian subsidiaries, and the representative offices in Paris and China facilitate trade flows from Asia and Europe into Nigeria and other African countries.

For 130 years, FirstBank has built an outstanding reputation for solid relationships, good corporate governance, and a strong liquidity position, and has been at the forefront of promoting digital payment in the country with over 13 million cards issued to customers (the first bank to achieve such a milestone in Nigeria).

1...234235236...270Page 235 of 270