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Dr. Bisi Akin-Alabi Congratulates AIG Disu on Appointment as Acting Inspector-General of Police

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Dr. Bisi Akin-Alabi Congratulates AIG Disu on Appointment as Inspector-General of Police

Dr. Bisi Akin-Alabi, former Special Adviser on Education, Science and Technology to the immediate past Government of Oyo State, has congratulated Assistant Inspector-General Olatunji Disu on his appointment as the acting Inspector-General of Police of the Nigeria Police Force.

In a congratulatory message, Dr. Akin-Alabi described the appointment, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well-deserved and a recognition of AIG Disu’s years of dedicated service, professionalism, and leadership within the Force.

According to her, the new Inspector-General’s track record in operational command, crime prevention, and intelligence coordination positions him to strengthen institutional reforms and enhance public confidence in policing across the country.

Dr. Akin-Alabi noted that the transition from the tenure of Kayode Egbetokun presents an opportunity to consolidate ongoing reforms and reposition the Force to respond effectively to contemporary security challenges.

She commended President Tinubu for what she described as a decisive leadership move aimed at reinforcing Nigeria’s security architecture and urged officers and stakeholders to extend their full cooperation to the new Inspector-General.

Dr. Akin-Alabi wished AIG Disu wisdom, strength, and success as he assumes the responsibility of leading the Nigeria Police Force in service to the nation.

PSC, NPF To Begin Physical Screening for 50,000 Constable Recruits On March 9

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PSC, NPF To Begin Physical Screening for 50,000 Constable Recruits On March 9

The Police Service Commission, PSC and the Nigeria Police Force, NPF have announced that physical and credential screening for applicants in the ongoing recruitment of 50,000 police constables will commence on March 9, 2026.

According to a statement issued by PSC Spokesman, Torty Njoku Kalu, the screening exercise will run from March 9 to April 18, 2026, across designated centres in all states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

The Commission advised candidates who successfully completed the online registration process to log on to the recruitment portal to check their status and print required documents ahead of their scheduled screening date.

Applicants are expected to present the following documents at their designated venues: Invitation Slip with assigned table, Credential Screening Form, original National Identity Number printout or card issued by the National Identity Management Commission, O’ Level certificate, birth certificate or declaration of age, and certificate of origin.

Specialist applicants are also required to present relevant trade test certificates. In addition, candidates must submit a duly completed and signed guarantors’ form with attached photocopies and passport photographs of referees. Original and duplicate copies of credentials are to be neatly packaged in two separate white flat files with recent passport photographs attached.

The PSC further directed that applicants must appear at screening centres dressed in white canvas shoes, white T-shirts, white shorts, and white stockings.

Chairman of the Commission, Hashimu Salihu Argungu, reiterated that the recruitment exercise is free of charge and does not require any form of payment. He assured that the process would be conducted with transparency and accountability.

Argungu warned applicants to be cautious of impostors and fraudsters attempting to exploit the recruitment exercise, stressing that anyone found engaging in fraudulent activities would be arrested and prosecuted.

The screening exercise marks the next stage in the nationwide recruitment drive aimed at strengthening the manpower capacity of the Nigeria Police Force.

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc Partners French Government for 2026 Paris International Agricultural Show

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Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc Partners French Government for 2026 Paris International Agricultural Show

Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, FMN has partnered with the French Government for the 2026 edition of the Paris International Agricultural Show (Salon International de l’Agriculture), reinforcing business ties between Nigeria and France and expanding global visibility for Nigerian-made products.

The annual fair, which commenced on February 21 and will run until March 1, 2026, is one of the world’s most widely attended agricultural exhibitions. In 2025, the event recorded over 600,000 visitors, nearly 4,000 animals, and more than 1,000 exhibitors.

FMN, a member of the France–Nigeria Business Council, is participating as a second-time sponsor and partner, following its debut outing in 2024.

The company said its involvement aligns with its long-standing commitment to food self-sufficiency and strengthening Nigeria’s international trade footprint.

This year’s theme, “Generations Solution,” focuses on fostering knowledge transfer across generations and promoting technological advancement in global agriculture.

Speaking on the partnership, Group Chairman of FMN, John G. Coumantaros, described the France–Nigeria relationship as a valuable intercontinental alliance built on shared economic growth objectives.

He noted that FMN’s six-decade legacy of innovation and investment across Africa positions it as a strategic contributor to agricultural transformation and trade expansion.

Also addressing participants at the Nigerian Pavilion, Managing Director, FMN Agro & Strategic Engagement/Stakeholder Relations, Sadiq Usman, said the company’s mission of “Feeding and Enriching Lives Every Day” has remained consistent despite economic shifts.

He emphasized that the future of global agribusiness lies in high-level technical exchange and international collaboration.

Usman commended members of the Nigerian Pavilion, including Dangote Group, BUA Group, Zenith Bank Plc and Access Bank Plc, as well as partners Creativo El Matador and Soilless Farm Lab, for collectively showcasing the strength of Nigerian enterprise on the global stage.

Incorporated in 1960, FMN has grown into one of Africa’s leading food and agro-allied groups, with strategic investments spanning grains, sugar, cassava starch, feeds and protein, edible oils and fats. Through its flagship brand, Golden Penny, the company continues to supply a wide range of food products to millions of households.

The partnership at the 2026 Paris International Agricultural Show underscores FMN’s pan-African vision and its ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral trade relations while promoting Nigerian agribusiness globally.

Pernod Ricard Nigeria MD Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainability, Responsible Growth

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Pernod Ricard Nigeria Positioned to Benefit from Premiumisation Trend

The Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Michael Ehindero, has reaffirmed that sustainability and responsibility remain central to the company’s operations and long-term business strategy.

Ehindero stated that as a member of the global Pernod Ricard Group, environmental responsibility is deeply embedded in the organisation’s corporate culture and not treated as an optional initiative.

According to him, the company is conscious of its environmental footprint and has positioned sustainability at the core of its global and local operations.

He disclosed that Pernod Ricard has eliminated single-use plastics across its activations and office environments, including plastic straws, disposable cups, and bottled water, in line with its broader sustainability framework.

Ehindero further explained that beyond global commitments, Pernod Ricard Nigeria has introduced locally driven initiatives to tackle environmental challenges. One of such programmes is the Glass to Life recycling initiative, which collects post-consumer glass bottles and reintegrates them into the circular economy.

He said the initiative, implemented in collaboration with partners across the country, is aimed at turning waste into value while reducing environmental harm.

On brand positioning, the Managing Director stressed the importance of differentiation, noting that the company’s brands are built around distinct identities and consumer experiences. He cited products such as Martell, known for luxury and audacity, and Jameson, recognised for heritage and craftsmanship.

Ehindero also spoke on the growing trend of premiumisation in Nigeria’s spirits market, stating that the company is strategically positioned to meet increasing consumer demand for high-quality international products.

He noted that the company relies on extensive market research to align its offerings with evolving consumer preferences while balancing global priorities with local realities.

Sharing insights into his leadership philosophy, Ehindero said his vision draws inspiration from the ideals of Obafemi Awolowo, business lessons from Warren Buffett, courage from Aliko Dangote, and moral grounding from his Christian faith in Jesus Christ.

He added that these influences shape his approach to ethical leadership, responsible decision-making, and sustainable growth, reinforcing Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s commitment to long-term value creation and shared prosperity.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery to Supply 65 Million Litres of Petrol Daily, Export 20 Million Litres Surplus

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Dangote Refinery Recalls Redeployed Engineers After Disciplinary Review

In a major development for Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has announced plans to supply between 60 and 65 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS daily to meet domestic demand, while exporting up to 20 million litres in surplus.

President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, disclosed the development in Lagos, confirming that a structured offtake agreement has been concluded with selected marketers to guarantee nationwide distribution and eliminate supply instability.

Dangote stated that the refinery has agreed on a framework to supply up to 65 million litres daily for the domestic market, adding that any excess output, estimated at between 15 and 20 million litres, will be exported.

Nigeria’s average daily petrol consumption is estimated at between 50 and 60 million litres. The refinery’s projected output therefore exceeds current national demand, marking a significant shift from decades of heavy reliance on imported refined petroleum products.

Under a revised distribution model endorsed by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, supply will be channelled through major marketing companies including MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Retail, 11 plc, TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, Rainoil Limited, Northwest Petroleum & Gas Company Limited, Ardova Plc, Bovas & Company Limited, AA Rano Nigeria Limited, AYM Shafa Limited, Conoil Plc and Masters Energy.

Industry analysts describe the development as a structural reform capable of reshaping Nigeria’s fuel supply chain. For decades, Africa’s largest crude oil producer relied heavily on fuel imports, exposing the economy to foreign exchange volatility, logistics disruptions and periodic scarcity.

With local refining capacity now exceeding domestic demand, analysts say Nigeria stands to conserve billions of dollars annually in foreign exchange previously spent on petrol imports. This, they note, could ease pressure on the naira, strengthen external reserves and improve trade balance stability.

During a recent visit to the facility, Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bayo Bashir Ojulari, described the refinery as a transformative national asset capable of redefining Nigeria’s energy security architecture.

Ojulari stated that although the plant was designed for 650,000 barrels per day, it was observed operating at 661,000 barrels per day during the inspection, a performance he said exceeded expectations and demonstrated the refinery’s operational strength.

The development signals what stakeholders consider a decisive move toward fuel self-sufficiency and long-term energy security for Nigeria.

OOLI, UNILAG Train Student Leaders on Future-Focused Leadership

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OOLI, UNILAG Train Student Leaders on Future-Focused Leadership
President Olusegun Obasanjo (9th from the right) with Student Leaders of the University of Lagos at the Training Pavilion, Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute.

The Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute, OOLI, in partnership with the University of Lagos, UNILAG has successfully concluded a four-day intensive Students’ Leadership Training programme designed to develop a new generation of responsible and visionary student leaders.

The training, themed “Leadership for the Future,” held from February 19 to 22, 2026, in Abeokuta, brought together elected student union leaders for interactive sessions on governance, communication, emotional intelligence, and ethical leadership.

The programme opened with a keynote address by founder of OOLI, former Nigerian Head of State and President, Olusegun Obasanjo, who delivered a lecture on leadership values, objectives, and responsibilities.

Obasanjo presented his widely known 55 Objectives of a True Leader, highlighting attributes including achievement orientation, communication, analytical thinking, and decision-making. He also outlined 15 core leadership values, such as integrity, honesty, dependability, patriotism, tolerance, trustworthiness, and peace.

Also speaking, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Folasade Ogunsola, praised Chief Obasanjo’s contribution to leadership development, describing the initiative as “legendary and monumental.”

The training featured distinguished facilitators from academia, civil society, finance, law, business, and mental health advocacy, who delivered high-impact sessions on modern leadership practices.

Among the facilitators were responsible leadership advocate, Yemi Adamolekun; global wellness advocate and founder of Painless Universal UK, Anne Welsh; and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adewale A. Olawoyin, who spoke on constitutional and legal frameworks for student governance.

Other facilitators included leadership and communication expert, Toki Mabogunje; financial management specialist, Oluwafunmilola Yetunde Adekunle; mental health and emotional intelligence advocate, Uche Aderibigbe; and financial literacy expert, Nnaemeka Praise Ifeakor.

Others were transformational leadership scholars, Samuel Adedeji Daramola and Deji Bolusemihi, as well as professional administration and management expert, Abolade Adeniyi Akinwunmi.

Senior university officials including the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Musa Adebayo Obalola; Deputy Deans, Jumoke Ogunleye and Ganiyu Iyanda; and Guidance and Counselling Unit representative, Janet Aregbesola also attended the programme.

Participants also visited the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Museum, zoo facilities, and Olumo Rock as part of the leadership and cultural exposure activities.

LSSTF, Police Launch Aerial Surveillance Patrol to Boost Security in Lagos

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LSSTF, Police Launch Aerial Surveillance Patrol to Boost Security in Lagos

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force Airwing Command, has commenced aerial surveillance patrols across Lagos as part of renewed efforts to strengthen intelligence-led policing and enhance public safety.

The maiden air surveillance patrol, held on Monday, February 23, featured the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan; Commissioner of Police, Airwing Command, CP Martin Nwogoh; Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olorundare Moshood Jimoh; and Director of Administration, LSSTF, Mr. Adegbola Lewis, aboard a Police helicopter.

The rapid, low-altitude patrol covered both Lagos Island and the mainland, demonstrating the operational reach and responsiveness of the initiative.

Speaking on the development, Dr. Ogunsan described the exercise as a strategic investment in modern security infrastructure aimed at safeguarding residents and businesses.

He explained that the patrols would provide real-time aerial surveillance, monitor flashpoints, deter criminal activities, and enhance coordinated responses across the state.

According to him, the initiative marks the beginning of sustained aerial patrol operations and will form part of an integrated surveillance strategy to strengthen intelligence gathering and rapid response capability.

Dr. Ogunsan said the flights send a clear message of safety and reassurance to residents, noting that Lagos would be secured on land, water, and in the air. He also warned criminal elements that no form of criminality would be tolerated in the state.

The LSSTF boss commended the Lagos State Government and Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for supporting bold security initiatives, as well as members of the LSSTF Board for their backing.

Also speaking, CP Martin Nwogoh said the patrol highlighted the transformative impact of aerial support in security operations, noting that such missions could serve surveillance, rescue, and tactical deployment purposes.

Similarly, CP Olorundare Moshood Jimoh stated that the aerial patrols would improve coordination of ground and maritime security operations. He added that the police covered areas including Makoko, Yaba, and parts of Lagos Island during the exercise, warning criminals to desist from unlawful activities or leave the state.

The LSSTF reaffirmed that the aerial patrols would be conducted regularly as part of sustained security interventions, assuring residents that the operations are strictly for surveillance and public safety, while urging continued cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

Fidelity Bank Launches HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0

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Fidelity Bank Grows Q1 Gross Earnings by 38% to N434.95bn

Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the launch of the second edition of its women empowerment initiative, the HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 (HAP 2.0), aimed at promoting sustainable entrepreneurship among women.

The programme is designed to equip participants with practical, income-generating vocational and business skills, building on the success of the inaugural edition held in 2023.

Speaking at a media chat to mark the launch, the Divisional Head, Product Development of Fidelity Bank, Osita Ede, said the initiative was strengthened based on feedback from the first edition to deliver deeper impact.

He explained that HAP 2.0 will combine structured apprenticeship training with mentorship and business advisory support to help women achieve sustainable economic opportunities.

According to him, participants will undergo intensive apprenticeship training under reputable industry partners in areas such as hair styling, shoemaking, auto mechatronics and interior decoration.

Ede added that the programme will go beyond skills acquisition by providing business and financial literacy training, mentorship support, access to women-focused and SME financial solutions, and guidance on business registration and growth strategies.

He noted that the initiative aligns with the bank’s commitment to supporting economic inclusion by positioning women as future entrepreneurs, innovators and employers within their communities.

Interested applicants are encouraged to register through the programme portal.

Fidelity Bank UK Limited operates as the bank’s international subsidiary, while the bank serves over 10 million customers across its digital platforms and 255 business locations in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

LASU Holds 2025/2026 Part-Time Matriculation Ceremony

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LASU Holds 2025/2026 Part-Time Matriculation Ceremony

The Lagos State University, LASU has held its 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony for newly admitted students of the School of Part-Time Studies.

The ceremony, held on Friday, February 20, 2026, took place at the Femi Gbajabiamila Auditorium, Ojo campus of the University.

Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, congratulated the matriculating students and reaffirmed LASU’s status as a leading institution of higher learning.

Olatunji-Bello who was represented by the the Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Adigun Lawal, highlighted the University’s achievements in digital transformation, e-learning, and efficient student record management, noting that students’ welfare and security remain top priorities.

She reiterated the University’s zero-tolerance policy on cultism, examination malpractice, corruption, hooliganism, and sexual and gender-based violence.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of the School of Part-Time Studies, Oluwatobi Pemede, represented by Dr. Oluwaseun Babalola, urged the new students to see their admission as both a privilege and responsibility.

He encouraged them to embrace academic challenges, maintain focus, build meaningful relationships within the university community, and strive to be worthy ambassadors of LASU.

The newly admitted students were matriculated into five faculties and 17 departments, reflecting the University’s commitment to expanding access to quality education.

The ceremony was attended by members of the university management, deans, directors, staff, students, and invited guests.

MarkHack 5.0 to Spotlight Culture in Nigeria’s AI Conversation

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MarkHack 5.0 to Spotlight Culture in Nigeria’s AI Conversation

MarkHack 5.0, Nigeria’s leading marketing, media and innovation conference, is set to examine the intersection of artificial intelligence and human experience when it holds on June 5, 2026, at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Themed “The Culture Algorithm: AI × Human Experience,” the conference will explore how algorithms are shaping identity, behaviour, storytelling and consumer engagement across Nigeria and Africa.

Organised by GDM Group in partnership with Eko Innovation Centre and Brand Communicator, the event aims to shift AI discussions from a tool-focused narrative to a culture-first approach.

According to the organisers, this year’s edition will convene industry leaders, creatives, technologists, startups and policymakers to reflect on the ethical, cultural and creative implications of AI adoption in marketing, media and the broader digital economy.

The conference will feature keynote addresses, fireside chats and panel discussions examining how AI is influencing storytelling, consumer behaviour and trust. A multidisciplinary hackathon and demo day will challenge startups building solutions at the intersection of AI and culture, culminating in live demonstrations and recognition of outstanding ideas.

Participants will also engage in immersive content creation sessions, consumer-led panels and exhibitions showcasing innovations redefining marketing, media and lifestyle engagement. An awards segment will recognise individuals and organisations driving impact within Nigeria’s marketing, media and technology ecosystem.

Launched in 2022 as Nigeria’s first marketing and media hackathon, MarkHack has grown into a full-scale thought-leadership platform, reflecting the industry’s evolving focus on the cultural and human dimensions of technology.

Registration for MarkHack 5.0 is open, with interested participants encouraged to apply before the March 31, 2026 deadline.