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Sterling Bank Strengthens Support for Women Entrepreneurs with OneWoman Dialogue

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Sterling Bank Strengthens Support for Women Entrepreneurs with OneWoman Dialogue
From L-R: Akporee Idenedo, Divisional Head, Commercial Banking, Sterling Bank; Ezinne Nwokafor, Head, OneWoman Initiative, Sterling Bank; Thelma Luke Nwoye, Group Head, Business Finance, Sterling Bank; 'Solape Akinpelu, CEO/Founder , HerVest; Edward Ogunmekan, Chief Growth Officer, Sterling Bank at the OneWoman Gender Lens Breakfast Dialogue held at The Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi recently.

Sterling Bank has reinforced its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs through its OneWoman initiative, convening key stakeholders at the Funding Her Future Breakfast Dialogue in Lagos.

The event brought together women entrepreneurs, development finance institutions, ecosystem leaders, and business stakeholders to explore practical ways of expanding access to inclusive and sustainable financing for women-led businesses in Nigeria.

Speaking at the gathering, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, said the dialogue was designed to move beyond conversations to actionable outcomes that support women entrepreneurs.

“Today is about going further. It is about turning shared belief into shared action,” he said in remarks delivered on his behalf by the Chief Growth Officer, Edward Ogunmekan.

Suleiman described the forum as a convergence of finance, enterprise, inclusion, and sustainable growth, noting that expanding access to meaningful finance for women requires scalable and commercially viable solutions.

He explained that the OneWoman initiative was built on three pillars, capital, capacity, and community, emphasising that access to finance alone is insufficient without the right support systems and networks to help women-led businesses grow and scale.

Also speaking, the Head of the OneWoman Initiative, Ezinne Nwokafor, highlighted the persistent financing gap facing women in Nigeria, noting that a large proportion remain excluded from formal credit systems.

She cited estimates by the International Finance Corporation, which put the financing gap for women-led businesses at about $42 billion annually, despite their significant contribution to the economy through micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Nwokafor revealed that in 2025 alone, the initiative disbursed N43.9 billion in loans to 2,450 female entrepreneurs, trained 6,000 women, and reached approximately 380,000 beneficiaries across different segments. She added that the programme aims to provide N500 billion in loans to one million women by 2030.

In his remarks, the Divisional Head of Commercial Banking, Akporee Idenedo, reiterated the bank’s commitment to addressing the challenges raised, stressing the importance of skills development and capacity building in fostering a sustainable ecosystem for women entrepreneurs.

The event featured panel sessions with representatives from funding institutions, women-focused organisations, and entrepreneurs, offering insights into financing opportunities and broader ecosystem support required for long-term success.

LSSTF Boss Engages International Firm to Boost Security Officers’ Healthcare

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Shenzhen Comen Medical Instruments Co. Ltd

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Ayodele Ogunsan, has reiterated the importance of prioritising the health and well-being of security personnel as a critical component of effective security delivery in Lagos.

Ogunsan made this known while receiving a delegation from Shenzhen Comen Medical Instruments Co. Ltd. at the LSSTF headquarters in Ikeja on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

The delegation, led by its Regional Director for Africa, Jeff Zhang, expressed the company’s intention to partner with the Trust Fund to enhance healthcare support for security operatives across the state.

Also present was the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of May Care Hospitals, Ma AiMei, among other officials.

Discussions during the visit focused on the proposed donation of critical medical equipment and healthcare resources aimed at improving both the physical and mental well-being of officers working under demanding conditions in the megacity.

Ogunsan commended the company for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would strengthen the human capital base of the state’s security architecture.

He emphasised that beyond providing operational logistics and equipment, investment in the welfare and health of personnel remains essential for sustained effectiveness.

“My leadership at the LSSTF has consistently maintained that security funding should not be limited to vehicles, logistics, and hardware, but must also prioritise human capital development. This is what drives operational success,” he said.

He further noted that improving access to quality healthcare infrastructure would bridge existing gaps in occupational health for officers and enhance their readiness to respond to security challenges.

Ogunsan also called for increased collaboration with international partners and donors to support initiatives that promote the well-being of security personnel, stressing that a healthy workforce is vital to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State.

Ogun Police Arrest Man Over Two Murders, Three Attempted Killings

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Ogun Police Debunk Banditry Reports, Confirm Security Stability Across State

Detectives of the Ajuwon Division of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Abubakar Musa, over the alleged murder of two persons and attempted killing of three others in the Olámbe area of the state.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at about 1:38 a.m., when the suspect reportedly attacked five individuals with a knife following a dispute linked to failed business dealings. The victims were said to have been trying to pacify him before the situation escalated into violence.

Two of the victims, Gbadamasi Ibrahim, 25, and Chinedu, 40, succumbed to their injuries while being rushed to the hospital, where a doctor later confirmed them dead.

Three others, Mohammed Abubakar, 35; Ashiru Adamu, 25; and Paul Lawrence, 25, sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment, with reports indicating they are responding.

Police said the suspect fled the scene after the attack but was subsequently tracked down and arrested by detectives. He is currently in custody, while the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, condemned the attack and assured residents that justice would be served. He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious or violent activities to the police.

The command encouraged residents to make use of its emergency lines to report security concerns, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

Ibeju-Lekki APC Faithful Reject Purported Endorsement, Back Jankalawi

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Ibeju-Lekki APC Faithful Reject Purported Endorsement, Back Jankalawi

Some members of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Ibeju-Lekki Constituency II have distanced themselves from a reported endorsement of an aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat, insisting that such a move does not reflect the official position of the party.

In a statement issued by concerned party faithful and residents of the constituency, the group said while individuals and groups have the right to express support for aspirants, no endorsement supersedes the authority of the party’s leadership and established structures.

According to the statement, the process of selecting the party’s candidate remains the exclusive responsibility of the APC through its constitutionally recognised mechanisms, warning against attempts to portray any endorsement as final.

“It is important to state that such moves should not be misconstrued as a final position of the party or the collective will of the good people of Ibeju-Lekki,” the group noted.

The stakeholders reaffirmed their support for an aspirant, Abiodun Yusuff Jankalawi, describing him as a loyal and committed party member who continues to gain acceptance among youths, women and key stakeholders across the constituency.

They noted that his campaign remains focused on delivering responsive, inclusive and impactful representation, in line with the progressive ideals of the party.

The group also urged supporters to remain calm and confident in the party’s internal democratic process, expressing optimism that a transparent process would produce a widely accepted candidate.

“The journey continues, victory is assured,” the statement concluded.

Sanwo-Olu, Lagosians Celebrate Heritage, Culture at 2026 Fanti Carnival

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Sanwo-Olu, Lagosians Celebrate Heritage at 2026 Fanti Carnival

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside his wife, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu have joined thousands of residents, tourists and cultural enthusiasts at the 2026 Fanti Carnival, held at the Tafawa Balewa Square.

The historic venue came alive with colour, music and pageantry as Lagosians thronged the arena to celebrate the state’s rich cultural heritage. The carnival featured vibrant processions by various communities, with participants adorned in elaborate costumes that drew admiration from guests.

Cultural groups including Lafiaji Fanti Association, Epetedo United Youth Movement, Okepopo Fanti Association, Okoo-Faji Carnival Association, Isale-Eko Woro Carnival Association, and Olowogbowo Fanti Association staged ceremonial parades, showcasing the enduring traditions of Lagos Island.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the carnival as a symbol of unity, resilience and artistic expression that reflects Lagos’ unique identity.

She noted that the event highlights the state’s Afro-Brazilian heritage and underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging cultural tourism as a driver of economic growth and social cohesion.

“From pulsating drums to dazzling costumes, every detail reflects our cultural richness. We are celebrating community, bridging past and present and embracing our diversity,” she said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, expressed satisfaction with the scale and organisation of the carnival, revealing that preparations began three months in advance as part of the state’s structured tourism calendar.

According to her, the event was projected to attract about 20,000 participants and featured elaborate parades, diverse culinary offerings and a showcase of Lagos hospitality. She added that pre-event engagements, including stakeholder meetings and media briefings, contributed to its smooth execution.

Oyekan-Ismaila emphasised the cultural richness on display, noting that processions from historic communities such as Campos, Lafiaji, Isale-Eko, Olowogbowo, Okoo-Faji, Okepopo and Epetedo added depth to the celebration.

Beyond its cultural significance, she highlighted the carnival’s economic value, noting that it attracts visitors from across Nigeria and the diaspora, boosting spending across sectors such as transportation, food and hospitality.

The atmosphere was further enlivened by performances from popular local musicians who thrilled attendees with a mix of old and contemporary tunes.

The Lagos Fanti Carnival remains one of the oldest cultural traditions on Lagos Island, rooted in the legacy of Afro-Brazilian returnees, formerly enslaved Africans who returned from Brazil in the late 19th century.

Supported by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Brazilian Descendants Association, the carnival continues to be revived as a celebration of Lagos’ cultural memory and identity.

WHD 2026: CAPPA Urges Urgent Reforms in Nigeria’s Health Budgeting, Policies

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May Day 2026: CAPPA Demands People-Centred Reforms Amid Rising Cost-of-Living Crisis

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has called on governments at all levels to urgently address chronic underfunding and policy gaps in the country’s health sector.

In a statement marking World Health Day 2026, CAPPA criticised what it described as persistent neglect of the health sector, noting that budgetary allocations have consistently fallen below the 15 per cent benchmark agreed under the Abuja Declaration.

The organisation, citing data from the Budget Office of the Federation, said the situation is further worsened by poor release of approved funds.

It pointed out that in 2025, only ₦36 million was reportedly released from the ₦218 billion capital budget of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, while in 2024, just ₦26.552 billion was released out of ₦233.656 billion earmarked for capital projects.

CAPPA’s Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, said the persistent gap between budget approvals and actual releases continues to weaken the country’s healthcare system.

According to him, the consequences are evident in limited access to essential medicines, overstretched health facilities, rising out-of-pocket healthcare costs, and a shortage of health workers exacerbated by migration trends.

The group also raised concerns over the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions, which it said account for about 29 per cent of annual deaths in Nigeria.

Referencing the 2026 theme, “Together for health: Stand with science,” CAPPA urged the government to prioritise evidence-based interventions, particularly in promoting healthier diets.

Among its key recommendations is a review of the Sugar-Sweetened Beverage (SSB) tax. While acknowledging moves by the National Assembly to reassess the current ₦10 per litre levy, CAPPA called for a more aggressive approach, proposing a tax of at least 50 per cent of retail price in line with global best practices.

The organisation also advocated complementary measures such as mandatory sodium reduction targets, front-of-pack labelling on processed foods, and stricter regulations on the marketing of unhealthy foods, especially to children.

“These measures are critical to tackling what is now a silent epidemic of diet-related diseases,” the group stated, adding that fiscal and regulatory policies remain among the most cost-effective public health tools available.

CAPPA further highlighted the health risks associated with tobacco use and emerging nicotine products, calling for increased funding for tobacco control initiatives. It described the current ₦13 million allocation to the Tobacco Control Fund as inadequate and recommended a significant upward review.

The organisation urged policymakers to prioritise full and timely release of health budgets, strengthen accountability, and fast-track reforms aimed at improving public health outcomes.

“Prevention must become central to Nigeria’s health strategy,” Oluwafemi said, stressing the need for sustained investment and strong policies to safeguard the wellbeing of Nigerians.

Lagos Police Record Major Breakthroughs in Crime Control, Arrest 47 Suspects

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Lagos Police Debunk Bandit Invasion Rumours, Arrest 15 Over Mob Killing

The Lagos State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing fight against crime, with the arrest of 47 suspects and recovery of arms, vehicles, and other exhibits across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Olaiwola Fatai, made this known while briefing journalists, noting that the achievements followed intelligence-led operations and strengthened community partnerships since he assumed office.

According to him, the Command’s strategic deployment of personnel across key locations, including worship centres, highways, recreational venues, and other public spaces, helped ensure a peaceful Easter celebration without major security breaches.

Within the period under review, police recovered 14 firearms, 10 locally made and four pump-action guns, alongside 96 rounds of 5.2mm ammunition, 29 cartridges, 14 vehicles, and several electronic devices, including laptops and mobile phones.

The Commissioner highlighted the arrest of 21 suspected cultists on April 5, 2026, noting that cult-related violence remains one of the prevalent security challenges in the state. He, however, stated that sustained intelligence-driven operations have continued to yield positive results.

In a separate operation on March 27, the Command foiled a threat-to-life and ransom scheme in the Ojo area, arresting an 18-year-old suspect who allegedly attempted to collect ₦20 million. Items recovered included a laptop and a flash drive, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend accomplices.

The police also recorded a breakthrough in a high-profile fraud case involving a 62-year-old Syrian national, Robert Smith, accused of defrauding a microfinance bank of ₦130 million.

The command also said six exotic vehicles, valued at about $520,000, have been recovered, including Lexus and Mercedes models, with efforts ongoing to recover others.

Further operations led to the arrest of suspects linked to armed robbery and vehicle vandalisation, with the recovery of multiple SUVs, tools, and suspected criminal charms.

CP Fatai reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led policing, visibility patrols, and community engagement to enhance safety across Lagos. He also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to support crime prevention efforts.

“All suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations,” he added, stressing that the Command remains resolute in tackling criminal activities in the state.

Ogun Police Rescue Nine Foreign Nationals, Arrest Two Over Alleged Fraud Syndicate

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

Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command, have rescued nine foreign nationals and arrested two suspects over their alleged involvement in a transnational fraud syndicate.

The suspects, identified as Stephen Kwame and Abubakar Sulaimon, were apprehended at a hideout in the Owode Egba area following intelligence received through INTERPOL.

Police said the operation, carried out on April 6, 2026, led to the rescue of one Maclaud Owusu, a Ghanaian national, alongside eight other victims who were reportedly held under similar circumstances.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly lured foreign nationals, particularly from Ghana, to Nigeria with promises of facilitating travel to Europe. Upon arrival, victims were reportedly deceived, confined, and forced to contact relatives to extort money.

The Command noted that the principal victim was defrauded of approximately 31,000 Ghanaian cedis before the police intervention.

The victims have been secured and provided with necessary assistance, with the principal victim already reunited with his family, while efforts continue to reunite others.

The suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations, as police intensify efforts to track down other members of the syndicate.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their swift response and professionalism, as well as collaboration with international law enforcement agencies.

He reiterated the Command’s commitment to tackling criminal networks and urged members of the public to verify travel arrangements and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Jamara Home Launches ‘Rise & Shine’ Easter Campaign to Boost Home Upgrades

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blacktalker
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Jamara Home has unveiled its “Rise & Shine Easter” campaign, offering customers discounted deals on a wide range of home appliances as part of efforts to support convenient and affordable home upgrades.

Jamara Home has unveiled its “Rise & Shine Easter” campaign, offering customers discounted deals on a wide range of home appliances as part of efforts to support convenient and affordable home upgrades.

The campaign, scheduled to run from April 7 to April 27, 2026, is designed to provide Nigerians with access to essential household appliances amid rising living costs.

According to the company, the initiative features a variety of products, including televisions, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, air conditioners, and power solutions, aimed at improving comfort and efficiency in homes.

Jamara Home noted that the campaign goes beyond seasonal promotions, positioning it as an opportunity for customers to make practical and long-term investments in their living spaces.

The retailer added that it partners with over 30 international brands to offer genuine products backed by manufacturer warranties, ensuring quality and durability for consumers.

The company also highlighted the importance of smart spending in the current economic climate, stating that the campaign is tailored to help customers access reliable appliances without undue financial strain.

Customers can access the offers through the company’s online platform or visit its physical stores nationwide.

Fidelity Bank, Aircraft Finance Germany Strengthen Aviation Partnership

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blacktalker
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Fidelity Bank, Aircraft Finance Germany Strengthen Aviation Partnership

Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to the growth of the aviation sector through a strategic engagement with Aircraft Finance Germany, AFG and key industry stakeholders.

The meeting, held at the bank’s headquarters, brought together top executives from both organisations to explore opportunities for advancing aviation financing and strengthening collaboration within the sector.

Among those present were Fidelity Bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, and Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer, Stanley Amuchie, alongside Christian Hatje, Managing Director, Business Aviation at AFG, and Shiekuma Gemade, Chief Operating Officer of the firm.

Also in attendance were Kencho Omojafor, Head of Aviation Desk at Fidelity Bank, and Patrick Azi, Aviation Consultant and Managing Director of 3D Hitec Ltd.

Discussions at the meeting focused on financing solutions, fleet expansion, and strategies to support aviation operators, reflecting a shared commitment to enhancing capacity and efficiency within the industry.

The engagement underscores Fidelity Bank’s continued role in supporting aviation development in Nigeria, leveraging partnerships and financial expertise to drive growth across the sector.

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