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NPA Boss Credits Reforms, Oyetola for Maritime Sector Transformation

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blacktalker
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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has attributed the ongoing transformation in Nigeria’s maritime sector to reforms driven by the Federal Government and the leadership of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.

Dantsoho made this known while speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, where he assured investors of Nigeria’s capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy through sustained reforms and increased private sector participation.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s port system would play a critical role in unlocking investments and accelerating economic growth, noting that the country must reposition its economy to fully harness its vast marine resources.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” Dantsoho said.

The NPA boss highlighted Nigeria’s strategic location, population size and economic strength as key advantages that position the country to emerge as a maritime hub for West Africa, comparable to global leaders.

Despite these advantages, he expressed concern that Nigeria currently handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in the region, despite accounting for over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP.

“It is worrisome that Nigeria, despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic. This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.

Dantsoho, however, assured stakeholders that ongoing reforms by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy are beginning to reposition the sector.

According to him, key initiatives include port modernisation, deployment of a Trade Single Window, implementation of a Port Community System, development of deep seaports and full digitalisation of port operations.

He stressed that private sector participation remains central to achieving these objectives, noting that the NPA is actively encouraging project financing to address infrastructure gaps and improve operational efficiency.

“We are open to private sector participation through project financing. This approach is already improving efficiency and providing access to funding for critical infrastructure,” he said.

Dantsoho added that the reforms are expected to enhance port efficiency, improve connectivity, reduce freight costs and boost non-oil exports, ultimately driving revenue growth.

Also speaking, Oyetola noted that Nigeria’s natural endowments, including its 823-kilometre coastline and extensive inland waterways, place it in a strong position to lead Africa’s blue economy.

“With over 823 kilometres of coastline, extensive inland waterways and a prime location along the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to harness the immense potential of the marine and blue economy,” he said.

He added that ongoing reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security and boosted investor confidence, noting that the sector accounts for more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s international trade by volume.

Stakeholders at the summit expressed optimism that sustained implementation of these reforms would position Nigeria as a leading maritime logistics hub on the continent.

Fidelity Bank Donates Food Items to Enugu Custodial Centre

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blacktalker
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Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to social welfare with the donation of food and essential items to inmates at the Enugu Maximum Security Custodial Centre.

The outreach was carried out by the bank’s newly inducted Legacy Class of 2026 under its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR initiative, the Fidelity Helping Hands Project, FHHP.

The programme enables staff to identify pressing needs within their communities, raise funds, and receive matching support from the bank’s management to execute impactful interventions.

Items donated during the visit included garri, spaghetti, noodles, biscuits, milk, and other consumables aimed at improving the welfare and living conditions of inmates at the facility, which houses over 3,000 individuals.

Speaking during the visit, the Divisional Head of Brand and Communications at Fidelity Bank, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, described the initiative as a reflection of the bank’s culture of compassion and responsibility.

“As part of our induction programme, we encourage new staff to identify meaningful ways to impact their communities. In assessing the needs of this facility, it became clear that providing food and other essentials would make an immediate difference,” he said.

Nwagboh added that the initiative is part of the bank’s broader goal of nurturing socially responsible professionals who contribute positively to society beyond their corporate roles.

Responding, the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Dr Sunday Igwe, commended the bank for fostering a culture of social responsibility among its employees.

He described the donation as timely, noting that it would help ease some of the operational challenges faced by the custodial centre.

Igwe also advised Nigerians, particularly young professionals, to avoid criminal activities such as fraud and cybercrime, stressing that personal decisions can have lasting consequences.

The Fidelity Helping Hands Project remains a key pillar of Fidelity Bank’s CSR strategy, promoting employee-led initiatives that drive inclusive development and provide support to underserved communities across Nigeria.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-service commercial bank serving over 10 million customers through its digital platforms, extensive branch network across Nigeria, and its United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

CP Ojajuni Visits NDLEA Ogun Command, Calls for Stronger Collaboration Against Drug Abuse

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blacktalker
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The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Bode Ojajuni, has paid a familiarisation visit to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Ogun State Command, as part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration in the fight against drug-related crimes.

Ojajuni was received by the State Commander of the agency, Tijani Rabe, during the visit, which underscored the need for sustained synergy between both organisations in tackling drug abuse and trafficking.

Discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing intelligence sharing, conducting joint operations, and coordinating public sensitisation campaigns to address the growing challenge of substance abuse and its associated crimes.

In recognition of his commitment to the anti-drug campaign, Ojajuni was decorated with the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Ambassadorial Tag, a designation that highlights his role in advocating for a drug-free society.

Speaking after receiving the honour, the police commissioner expressed appreciation to the NDLEA and reaffirmed the Ogun State Police Command’s resolve to deepen cooperation with the agency in combating drug abuse and related offences.

He emphasised that strengthened collaboration between security agencies remains critical to effectively addressing the threat posed by illicit drugs and ensuring safer communities across the state

Ecobank Announces Fifth Edition of Adire Lagos Experience

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blacktalker
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Ecobank Nigeria has announced the fifth edition of the Adire Lagos Experience, its flagship cultural and creative industry showcase, scheduled to hold from June 11 to 14, 2026, in Lagos.

The event will take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, and is expected to bring together artisans, designers, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and other parts of Africa.

The 2026 edition is themed “Threads Across Borders,” highlighting the cultural depth and global appeal of Adire as a uniquely Nigerian textile tradition, while positioning it within a broader Pan-African narrative.

According to the bank, the four-day exhibition will feature more than 100 vendors, with the majority drawn from Nigeria as the home of Adire production.

About 10 per cent of participants will come from other African countries, contributing diverse textile expressions and fostering cross-border collaboration.

Speaking on the initiative, Head of SMEs, Partnerships and Collaborations at Ecobank Nigeria, Omoboye Odu, said the event reflects a balance between preserving local heritage and promoting continental inclusion.

“Adire is proudly Nigerian, and this platform remains firmly anchored in celebrating our local artisans and creative enterprises. At the same time, Ecobank’s Pan-African mandate allows us to open the space to creators from other African markets, encouraging collaboration and shared learning,” she said.

In addition to exhibitions, the event will feature indigenous cuisine, African music, cultural performances, and curated networking sessions aimed at strengthening business linkages across the creative value chain.

Ecobank also announced that registration is open for prospective exhibitors, with selected applicants eligible for complimentary exhibition booths. Applications are expected to close on April 28, 2026.

Through the Adire Lagos Experience, Ecobank continues to promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage while advancing Pan-African collaboration, positioning the creative industry as a driver of economic growth and enterprise development.

Ogun Police Deploy Officers to 72 CBT Centres Ahead 2026 UTME

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blacktalker
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Ogun Police Debunk Banditry Reports, Confirm Security Stability Across State

The Ogun State Police Command has deployed personnel and operational assets across 72 accredited Computer-Based Test, CBT centres to ensure a secure and hitch-free conduct of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME in the state.

The examination, organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to hold from April 16 to 25, 2026.

The Command said the deployment forms part of proactive, intelligence-led security measures designed to guarantee safety, maintain order, and ensure the credibility of the examination process across Ogun State. The operational plan includes visible police presence, early threat detection, and rapid response to any security concerns before, during, and after the examination period.

According to the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, all Area Commanders in jurisdictions hosting CBT centres have been placed on high alert and directed to take full responsibility for security within their areas.

They are to supervise deployed officers, sustain patrols around examination venues, and work closely with Divisional Police Officers, tactical units, and JAMB officials.

The Command warned that any attempt at examination malpractice, impersonation, or disorderly conduct would attract swift arrest and prosecution.

Ojajuni assured residents of robust security coverage throughout the examination period, reiterating the Command’s commitment to maintaining peace and safeguarding the integrity of the UTME in Ogun State.

He also urged candidates to adhere strictly to examination guidelines and conduct themselves responsibly.

The police encouraged members of the public to report any suspicious activities through its emergency lines, including the Gateway Shield toll-free number and other dedicated contact channels.

Lagos Police Arrest Suspected Vandal, Recover 20 Road Studs on Third Mainland Bridge

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blacktalker
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Recruitment: Lagos Candidates to Sit Written Exam at Police College Ikeja as PSC Warns Against Scams

Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a suspected vandal on the Third Mainland Bridge for tampering with critical road safety installations.

The arrest, which occurred on April 6, 2026, at about 5:30 p.m., followed ongoing efforts by the Command to safeguard public infrastructure and ensure the safety of road users across Lagos State.

The suspect, identified as Dogara John, 18, was apprehended while allegedly removing reflective road studs installed on the bridge to enhance visibility and guide motorists, particularly at night and during adverse weather conditions. A search conducted at the scene led to the recovery of 20 of the vandalised road studs in his possession.

Police authorities noted that the reflective studs play a crucial role in preventing accidents on the busy bridge by helping drivers maintain proper lane positioning.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Olaiwola Fatai, reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for vandalism and destruction of public assets, stressing that such acts pose serious risks to public safety and undermine ongoing efforts to maintain order in the state.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around public infrastructure to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.

The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety of all residents.

FG Directs ARCON to End Advertising, Media Debt, Enforce Payment Discipline

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blacktalker
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FG Directs ARCON to End Advertising, Media Debt, Enforce Payment Discipline

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has directed the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, ARCON to collaborate with the National Broadcasting Commission, NBC and key industry stakeholders to eliminate advertising-related debts and enforce strict adherence to payment thresholds across the sector.

The directive, aimed at strengthening the nation’s media and advertising ecosystem, is expected to support national development and align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. It also mandates ARCON to enforce stricter payment discipline to protect media organisations, attract investment, ensure job security, and stabilise industry revenue.

Under the new framework, all payments for advertising services must be completed within 45 days in line with the Advertising Industry Standards of Practice, AISOP. Any delay beyond this period will attract interest at prevailing rates.

Media Purchase Orders, MPOs and Local Purchase Orders, LPOs are required to fully comply, with stakeholders urged to maintain transparency in all transactions.

The Minister also outlined a structured disengagement protocol for advertisers seeking to terminate contracts with agencies.

Advertisers must first reconcile and settle all outstanding financial obligations with outgoing agencies before appointing new ones. Both outgoing and incoming agencies are required to formally engage to prevent ethical or financial disputes.

In addition, ARCON has been directed to establish an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism to handle conflicts through mediation, conciliation, and arbitration, ensuring quicker and more amicable settlements within the industry.

Director-General of ARCON, Olalekan Fadolapo, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to fully implementing the Minister’s directive, noting that the initiative will sanitise the advertising space, promote prompt payments, and uphold professional standards.

Stakeholders across the advertising and media value chain have been urged to comply with the new measures designed to foster accountability, discipline, and sustainable growth in the sector.

Dangote, Global Leaders Named in TIME 100 Most Influential People for 2026

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blacktalker
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Dangote, Global Leaders Named in TIME 100 Most Influential People for 2026

Aliko Dangote has been named among TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2026, reinforcing his position as one of Africa’s most prominent industrialists and global business leaders.

Dangote joins a distinguished list of global figures, including Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, Mark Carney, and Pope Leo XIV, as well as technology leaders like Sundar Pichai and Neal Mohan.

The annual TIME100 list, published on April 15, 2026, recognises individuals whose ideas, leadership, and influence are shaping the future across sectors including business, politics, technology, and culture.

Dangote, the only Nigerian on this year’s list, was featured in the “Titans and Innovators” category, marking his second appearance after his initial recognition in 2014.

As founder of the Dangote Group, he has driven large-scale industrialisation across Africa, with investments spanning cement, agriculture, food processing, infrastructure, and energy. His efforts have significantly reduced reliance on imports while generating employment across the continent.

In its citation, TIME Magazine highlighted Dangote’s vision of building globally competitive industries using local resources, as well as his recent investments in energy and manufacturing infrastructure.

Beyond business, Dangote’s philanthropic work through the Aliko Dangote Foundation has supported initiatives in healthcare, education, nutrition, and disaster relief across Africa.

The recognition comes as the Dangote Group pursues its “Vision 2030” strategy, aimed at transforming the company into a $100 billion global enterprise. The plan includes expanding existing operations in cement, fertiliser, and energy, while exploring new ventures in steel production, power, and deep-sea ports.

Other notable figures on the 2026 TIME100 list include business leaders such as Michael Dell and Susan Dell, as well as cultural icons like Dakota Johnson and Kate Hudson.

The 2026 list reflects growing global recognition of African leadership and innovation, with Dangote’s inclusion highlighting the continent’s expanding influence in shaping global economic and development narratives.

CAPPA Applauds Court Ruling on UI Student Activists, Demands End to Rights Suppression

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blacktalker
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CAPPA Applauds Court Ruling on UI Student Activists, Demands End to Rights Suppression

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has commended the judiciary for overturning the suspension of student activists at the University of Ibadan, describing the ruling as a victory for constitutional rights and freedom of expression.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the organisation praised the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court in Ibadan, which nullified the rustication of Ayodele Aduwo and Mide Gbadegesin, while also addressing the alleged victimisation of Nice Linus.

The court, presided over by N. E. Maha, held that the actions taken against the students were unlawful, affirming their rights to freedom of thought and expression as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Reacting to the ruling, CAPPA’s Assistant Executive Director, Zikora Ibeh, said the judgment sends a strong message against the use of authoritarian tactics in academic institutions.

“The court’s decision sends an unequivocal message to the University of Ibadan and other oppressive academic institutions nationwide that tyranny and the use of authoritarian tactics to stifle legitimate dissent is unlawful, unacceptable and will not stand,” she said.

The organisation called on the university to immediately comply with the court’s decision by reinstating the affected students and issuing an unreserved apology.

According to CAPPA, the students’ ordeal began on May 13, 2024, when they displayed placards protesting fee hikes during a Students’ Union event. The group alleged that they were forcibly removed, assaulted, and subjected to prolonged intimidation, which culminated in their suspension.

CAPPA further criticised what it described as a growing trend of repression of student activism across Nigerian universities, particularly in response to protests against rising tuition fees.

The group also commended the students for their resilience and praised their legal team, led by Joseph Opute, for securing the judgment.

It urged university authorities nationwide to uphold democratic values, respect students’ rights, and adopt transparent, inclusive processes in decision-making, especially on issues affecting student welfare.

CAPPA warned that continued suppression of dissent could erode trust in academic institutions, stressing that universities should remain spaces for critical thinking, debate, and civic engagement.

JMG, Jamara Home Boost Workplace Bonding with Easter Staff Sporting Festival

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blacktalker
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JMG, Jamara Home Boost Workplace Bonding with Easter Staff Sporting Festival

JMG Limited and Jamara Home have reinforced workplace unity and employee engagement through a high-energy Staff Sporting Festival held to mark the Easter season.

The maiden edition of the festival, organised in collaboration with the National Union of Electricity Employees and the Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria, brought together employees across departments in a vibrant display of teamwork and camaraderie.

The event featured a variety of recreational activities, including football, chess, and board games, providing staff with an opportunity to unwind, connect, and build stronger relationships outside the workplace.

Participants were grouped into four teams, each demonstrating enthusiasm and team spirit throughout the competition. The atmosphere was described as lively and engaging, with employees highlighting the importance of such initiatives in fostering collaboration and boosting morale.

Speaking at the event, Chief Commercial Officer of JMG, Rabi Jammal, said the festival went beyond competition to strengthen organisational bonds.

“This is more than a competition; it is about connection, shared energy, and the spirit everyone brought to the day. These are the moments that strengthen not just our teams, but our entire organisation,” he said.

Also speaking, Chief Human Resources Officer, Gloria Ibeziako, underscored the importance of employee wellbeing and strong workplace relationships.

“At the heart of every strong organisation are strong relationships. Events like this reinforce teamwork, boost morale, and remind us that our people are our greatest assets,” she said.

The companies noted that the success of the festival reflects their shared commitment to fostering an inclusive and people-focused workplace culture, where employees feel valued and inspired.

JMG and Jamara Home reaffirmed their dedication to creating more initiatives that promote collaboration, wellbeing, and a strong sense of belonging among staff.

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