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Grace AI Labs Targets Nigeria’s Security Crisis with Autonomous Intelligence

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Grace AI Labs Targets Nigeria’s Security Crisis with Autonomous Intelligence

A Lagos-based technology startup, Grace AI Labs, is expanding its focus beyond customer service automation to explore how autonomous intelligence systems can help tackle Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Recent data highlights the scale of the crisis. In the first half of 2025, at least 2,266 Nigerians were killed by bandits and insurgents, surpassing the total recorded in 2024. Between July 2024 and June 2025, 4,722 kidnapping victims were documented across 997 incidents, with ransom demands exceeding $31 million.

Projections also indicate that nearly 35 million Nigerians could face severe food insecurity during the 2026 lean season.

These figures underscore the broader impact of insecurity on daily life, affecting travel, education, agriculture, and business operations across the country.

Founded by Divine Matthew, Grace AI Labs has built its reputation deploying autonomous intelligent workers, goal-oriented systems capable of executing tasks, making decisions, and managing workflows without human intervention.

The company’s technology is already being used in sectors such as hospitality, where businesses in Lagos deploy AI-driven systems to manage customer orders with reduced errors and faster response times.

The firm is also in discussions with major banks, telecom operators, insurers, and government institutions, with increased momentum following the Central Bank of Nigeria’s March 2026 directive on AI-powered anti-money laundering systems.

However, Matthew says the company’s long-term vision extends far beyond enterprise automation.

He argues that Nigeria’s insecurity is largely a systems failure, driven by poor information flow, delayed threat detection, weak coordination among agencies, and limited communication channels between citizens and authorities.

According to him, the same architecture used to resolve banking disputes in minutes could be adapted to security systems, enabling real-time reporting, intelligent routing of incidents, and coordinated multi-agency responses.

Grace AI Labs is exploring applications such as citizen safety reporting platforms that allow individuals to report threats via messaging platforms in local languages, with automated classification, routing, and real-time feedback.

Other proposed solutions include threat pattern intelligence systems capable of detecting emerging risks across regions, as well as tools to improve coordination between security agencies through seamless information sharing.

The company is also examining how autonomous systems could optimise emergency response by identifying the nearest available units, mapping fastest routes, and providing responders with real-time situational briefings.

Industry observers note that while technology alone cannot resolve Nigeria’s security challenges, such systems could significantly enhance response times, improve coordination, and strengthen early warning capabilities.

With a leadership team that includes Chairman Dan Walkovitz and other experienced technology professionals, Grace AI Labs says it is positioning itself at the intersection of artificial intelligence and national development.

As the company moves to apply its existing technology to public safety, its efforts signal a growing role for innovation in addressing one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.

For more information on AI workers for your business, visit the grace ai lab website graceagent.co  or follow their updates on African Tech Journal.

Ogunsan Celebrates Ex-LSSTF Boss Balogun on Birthday, Praises Legacy

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blacktalker
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Ogunsan Celebrates Ex-LSSTF Boss Balogun on Birthday, Praises Legacy

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Ayodele Ogunsan, has lauded the immediate past boss of the agency, Abdurrazaq Balogun, for his significant contributions to security funding and institutional development in Lagos as he marks his birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday, Ogunsan described Balogun as a visionary leader whose tenure strengthened the operational framework of the Fund and deepened public-private collaboration in security financing.

He noted that Balogun’s leadership was marked by discipline, foresight, and a strong commitment to accountability, qualities he said positioned the LSSTF as a critical pillar in the state’s security architecture.

Ogunsan also commended Balogun’s personal attributes, describing him as a principled administrator whose influence continues to resonate beyond his years in office.

According to him, the Trust Fund expanded its reach and impact under Balogun’s stewardship by supporting security agencies with vital resources and boosting stakeholder confidence in the sustainability of its initiatives.

He noted that the former CEO’s legacy remains evident in the systems and structures driving the organisation today, noting that his tenure entrenched innovative security funding mechanisms and set a standard for excellence.

Ogunsan stated that during Balogun’s time in office, the LSSTF became a reference point for similar interventions across Nigeria.

He wished the celebrant continued good health, long life, and prosperity in the years ahead.

Fidelity Bank to Host Webinar on Digital Solutions to Public Sector Revenue Challenges

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blacktalker
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Fidelity Bank Launches Quarterly Business Forum to Boost SME Growth, Capacity Building

Fidelity Bank Plc is set to convene a high-level stakeholders’ webinar aimed at addressing revenue generation and fiscal transparency challenges within Nigeria’s public sector.

The virtual session, scheduled for March 24, 2026, is themed “Digital Fiscal Transparency: Unlocking Sub-national Opportunities for International Partners.” It will bring together public sector leaders, development institutions, heads of government agencies, and financial experts to explore strategies for improving revenue systems and accountability.

The initiative comes amid growing pressure on public institutions to enhance internally generated revenue and strengthen public trust in the face of evolving economic realities.

Speaking ahead of the event, Richard Madiebo, Divisional Head, Public Sector at Fidelity Bank, said the webinar was designed to provide practical solutions that leverage digital tools to improve fiscal operations.

“As public institutions seek ways to improve internally generated revenue and strengthen public trust, there has been a renewed focus on fiscal transparency,” he said.

Madiebo explained that the session would focus on how digital platforms can support structured invoicing, seamless collections, payment automation, contractor disbursement transparency, and real-time revenue monitoring.

According to him, the webinar will also address persistent challenges confronting many public institutions, including revenue leakages, fragmented collection channels, weak visibility into revenue performance, and inefficient reconciliation processes.

He added that the initiative aligns with the bank’s broader commitment to supporting public sector transformation and sub-national economic development.

“The webinar forms part of our commitment to provide practical solutions that support public sector transformation and stronger sub-national development,” Madiebo noted.

Participants are expected to gain insights into building modern revenue infrastructure capable of improving efficiency, enhancing accountability, and delivering better fiscal outcomes.

Interested participants can register via the bank’s official website.

Ogun Police Defend Handling of Alleged Rape Case, Launch Probe into Petition Claims

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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 defended its handling of an alleged rape case in Ijebu-Ode, dismissing claims of professional misconduct raised by civil society groups while announcing a fresh probe into the allegations.

In a statement issued in response to a petition titled “Urgent Petition to All Well-Meaning Nigerians” submitted by the Safer Society for Children Foundation and the Elegant Nurses Forum, the Command maintained that its officers conducted the investigation with “the highest level of professionalism.”

According to the Police, four suspects, identified as Kalu Prosper, Oche Destiny, Adamu Paul, and Adewusi Qudus, have already been charged to court, with the matter now before the judiciary.

The Command rejected allegations that the victim was exposed to harm or humiliation during the process, insisting that all investigative procedures, including medical examinations, evidence gathering, and documentation, were properly followed.

“The victim’s safety, dignity, and rights were prioritised throughout the investigation,” the statement said, countering claims by the petitioners that the police failed in their duty of care.

Despite its defence, the Police said the Commissioner of Police has ordered an internal review of the issues raised in the petition, stressing that the Command remains open to credible evidence and will take decisive action if any misconduct is established.

The Police also called on members of the public to provide useful information that could aid ongoing investigations, reiterating its commitment to justice, transparency, and public trust.

The Command assured that updates on the case would be communicated as proceedings continue.

Study Shows Clean Cooking Can Cut Costs, Improve Health in Nigeria

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blacktalker
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Study Shows Clean Cooking Can Cut Costs, Improve Health in Nigeria

A new international study has revealed that adopting clean cooking energy in Nigeria can significantly reduce long-term household costs, improve respiratory health, and ease pressure on the country’s healthcare system.

The research, co-led by Davies Adeloye of Teesside University, was conducted under the C2REST Nigeria Study-C, a three-year initiative funded by the Medical Research Foundation.

The study brought together experts from the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Benin, and Kenya to examine the intersection of climate, environment, and health in rapidly growing urban communities.

The findings come amid rising urbanisation and energy demand across Nigeria, where millions of households still depend on firewood, charcoal, and kerosene for cooking, fuels linked to harmful indoor air pollution and increased risk of respiratory illnesses.

Fieldwork for the study was conducted in Alimosho in Lagos state and Ado-Odo/Ota in Ogun state, areas described as reflective of Nigeria’s urban and peri-urban realities, with fast population growth, industrial activity, and diverse income levels.

According to the researchers, while cleaner energy options such as gas and electricity may involve higher upfront costs, they ultimately save households money through reduced healthcare expenses, fewer illnesses, and improved productivity.

Adeloye noted that clean cooking represents one of the most immediate and practical ways to improve public health while supporting economic development, stressing that the issue extends beyond environmental concerns to directly impact household finances and national productivity.

The study also highlighted inequalities in access to clean cooking solutions, noting that lower-income households, larger families, and communities with limited infrastructure are less likely to make the transition.

To address this, the researchers called for stronger government intervention, including subsidies for clean energy, improved supply chains, and the integration of clean cooking into national health and climate policies. They also emphasised the need for collaboration between government, private sector players, and development partners.

The findings align with Nigeria’s broader climate commitments and energy transition plans, positioning clean cooking as a scalable solution to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance overall household welfare.

The C2REST Nigeria Study is a multidisciplinary collaboration between Teesside University and the University of Lagos, combining household data and economic analysis to inform policy and promote sustainable development.

Former Coker-Aguda Chairman Declares for Lagos Assembly Seat

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blacktalker
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Former Coker-Aguda Chairman Declares for Lagos Assembly Seat

The immediate past Executive Chairman of Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Rasaq Ibrahim Olamilekan, popularly known as RIO, has declared his intention to contest for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat representing Surulere Constituency II.

Olamilekan made the declaration on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at a well-attended event in Surulere, Lagos, drawing supporters, community leaders, youth groups, and political stakeholders who described his move as a transition from grassroots administration to state-level legislative politics.

The former council boss, widely regarded as a grassroots mobiliser and party loyalist, is entering the race with what observers say is a strong record of development-oriented governance during his tenure at the LCDA.

Olamilekan’s administration was marked by initiatives spanning infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, education support, and community-based security interventions.

In the health sector, he oversaw the reconstruction of the Orile-Iganmu Primary Healthcare Centre and facilitated medical outreach programmes in collaboration with the Lagos State Health Management Agency, providing free healthcare services to underserved residents.

His administration also implemented road construction projects, drainage improvements, and youth empowerment schemes aimed at improving living standards across the council area.

Security and community peacebuilding formed a major part of his governance approach. As Patron of the Police Community Relations Committee (South-West), Olamilekan advocated sustainable funding and maintenance of security infrastructure.

During his tenure, he provided operational vehicles to police formations and institutionalised monthly security meetings involving Divisional Police Officers and community stakeholders.

He also engaged security authorities, including former Lagos Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, to strengthen crime prevention strategies within the LCDA.

Following incidents of unrest in Orile-Iganmu, he convened a stakeholders’ meeting that led to the establishment of a peace taskforce to address recurring clashes in affected communities.

Olamilekan’s administration gained attention during the post-fuel subsidy removal period, when it implemented sustained palliative measures that benefited over 12,000 residents, including youths, widows, and elderly citizens.

The intervention was widely commended for its transparency and inclusiveness.

His contributions to governance and youth inclusion earned him recognition, including induction into the Trek Africa Hall of Fame as Youth Man of the Year, alongside notable public figures such as Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin and Ayo Ogunsan.

Declaring his ambition, Olamilekan pledged to prioritise people-centred legislation focused on infrastructure development, education, and community-based security frameworks.

He said his campaign would be driven by grassroots engagement, policy clarity, and measurable outcomes for constituents.

Political analysts say his entry into the race could significantly influence the contest for Surulere Constituency II as the 2027 election cycle gathers momentum.

Tin Can Customs Rakes in ₦120.4bn in February, Records ₦16.8bn Growth

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blacktalker
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Tin Can Customs Rakes in ₦120.4bn in February, Records ₦16.8bn Growth

TinCan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service generated a total of ₦120.4 billion in February 2026, reflecting an increase of over ₦16.8 billion compared to the ₦103.6 billion recorded in the same period in 2025.

The figure, which highlights a strong year-on-year growth, reinforces the Command’s position as a key revenue hub within the Service.

Officials attributed the performance to improved operational efficiency and strategic leadership under the Customs Area Controller, Frank Okechukwu Onyeka.

Stakeholders in the maritime sector noted that the Command’s enhanced revenue drive stems from deliberate efforts to block leakages, strengthen compliance, and improve trade facilitation processes.

Under Onyeka’s leadership, the Command has intensified the deployment of technology, strengthened monitoring mechanisms, and improved cargo clearance systems, resulting in increased transparency and productivity.

His engagement with key stakeholders, including freight forwarders and importers, has also been credited with boosting trust and encouraging voluntary compliance within the port environment.

Observers further described his leadership as proactive, citing a zero-tolerance approach to infractions and an ability to motivate officers and personnel toward achieving set targets.

The February performance is seen as a reflection of disciplined administration and effective enforcement of fiscal policies, with indications that the Command may surpass revenue expectations in the coming months.

The development aligns with the broader mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service to enhance revenue generation, facilitate trade, and ensure border security.

Fidelity Bank Empowers Women with “Give Her Power” Skills and Support Series

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blacktalker
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Fidelity Bank Launches Quarterly Business Forum to Boost SME Growth, Capacity Building

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, Fidelity Bank Plc has launched a series of masterclasses and support initiatives aimed at equipping women with practical skills, boosting professional visibility, and accelerating career growth throughout March 2026.

The programme, delivered under the bank’s women-focused proposition, HerFidelity, aligns with this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” guiding engagements designed to empower women economically and professionally.

On March 18, HerFidelity hosted a “Give to Gain” masterclass focused on communication and presentation skills. Participants received practical guidance on audience engagement, event moderation, confidence-building, and personal branding, targeting women looking to strengthen their public speaking and professional presence.

A second session, the Gele Masterclass, is scheduled for March 30, offering hands-on training in gele tying. The bank positioned the session as both a celebration of cultural expression and a marketable skill women can convert into a source of income.

In addition, participants will have access to professional headshot sessions to update personal and professional profiles.

“At Fidelity Bank, we believe that empowering women economically creates an impact that extends beyond the individual. It strengthens families, grows businesses, and uplifts communities. That is why we have designed an elaborate plan to upskill women throughout this month,” said Ugochi Osinigwe, Divisional Head, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc.

“We want women to leave these sessions with practical tools they can apply immediately, whether that is speaking confidently in public, building a stronger personal brand, or learning a skill that can generate income.”

Earlier this month, the bank reinforced its commitment to women’s economic empowerment by signing strategic MoUs with partner organisations at the launch of its “Give Her Power” initiative on March 5, 2026.

These collaborations, anchored on the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme, aim to expand access to vocational training, business support, and sustainable enterprise opportunities for women across multiple sectors.

As part of the initiative, Fidelity Bank is distributing 1,000 sewing and grinding machines to support women-led microbusinesses across Nigeria.

Ranked among the leading banks in the country, Fidelity Bank Plc serves over 10 million customers through digital channels, 255 business offices in Nigeria, and its United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

Rite Foods Celebrates Muslims on Eid al-Fitr, Reaffirms Commitment to Unity

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blacktalker
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Rite Foods Celebrates Children’s Day, Encourages Nigerian Children to Dream Big

Rite Foods Limited has extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful across the country on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement, the company joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the festival, describing Eid as a period of gratitude, reflection, and togetherness following a month of fasting, prayer, and charity.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Seleem Adegunwa, congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan, commending their dedication and resilience throughout the period.

“Eid al-Fitr reminds us of the strength that comes from sacrifice, the joy in gratitude, and the importance of community. We celebrate with Muslim families across Nigeria and encourage everyone to carry forward the values of patience, kindness, and generosity beyond the season,” he said.

Adegunwa added that the spirit of Eid aligns with the company’s commitment to building meaningful connections with consumers, beyond providing quality products.

Also speaking, the Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Ekuma Eze, emphasised the importance of unity and inclusion, noting that Nigeria’s diversity remains a source of strength.

“Eid is a reminder that, despite our differences, we are united by common hopes for peace and progress. Rite Foods will continue to support initiatives that foster unity and strengthen communities,” he said.

The company reiterated its dedication to serving Nigerians with a wide range of products, including Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, Bigi Premium Table Water, Sosa Fruit Drink, Fearless Energy Drink, and its sausage brands, which it said have become part of everyday moments and celebrations nationwide.

Rite Foods also highlighted its industry recognitions, including the Outstanding FMCG Corporate Brand of the Year at the Edge Awards, as well as honours at the Sustainability, Innovation and Social Impact (SISA) Awards and the SERAS Awards.

Lagos Police, Security Agencies Intensify Patrols Ahead Eid-el-Fitr

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blacktalker
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Lagos Police, Security Agencies Intensify Patrols Ahead Eid-el-Fitr

Lagos State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has conducted a statewide patrol to deter criminal activities and boost public confidence ahead of the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

The Commissioner of Police, Olurundare Jimoh, led the coordinated operation across key areas of Lagos, as part of efforts to ensure the safety of residents before, during, and after the festive period.

The patrol, which covered several communities, is part of broader security measures put in place to guarantee a peaceful and hitch-free celebration across the state.

Residents of Agege and its environs commended the initiative, describing it as proactive and reassuring. They noted the increased visibility of security personnel and improved coordination among agencies.

Jimoh added that strategic deployments of personnel, operational assets, and intelligence-driven technology have been activated across the state to maintain law and order throughout the celebration period.

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