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JMG Visits Lagos State Safety Commission, Reinforces Commitment to Elevator Safety Standards

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JMG Visits Lagos State Safety Commission, Reinforces Commitment to Elevator Safety Standards

JMG Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing safety standards and promoting sustainable industry practices through a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Safety Commission.

The visit, which took place on Thursday, 14 May 2026, at the Commission’s office in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, brought together key executives from JMG Elevators and officials of the Commission to deepen conversations around safety awareness, technical training, regulatory compliance, and the continuous improvement of elevator safety standards across Lagos State and beyond.

JMG delegation was led by the Chief Commercial Officer, Rabi Jammal; Group Operations Director, JMG Elevators, Ahmed Sameh; and Head of Marketing, JMG, Oluwatomi Faniran. They were received by the Technical Adviser to the Lagos State Safety Commission, Seun Awojobi.

Speaking during the visit, Rabi Jammal reiterated JMG’s longstanding commitment to safety, innovation, and operational excellence across every sector the company serves.

According to him, JMG continues to align with global best practices by investing in quality systems, technical expertise, and strategic partnerships that contribute to safer environments and higher industry standards.

He added that the company remains focused on building long-term relationships with key stakeholders while supporting initiatives that promote awareness, professionalism, and sustainable growth within the industry.

He emphasized that collaborations with regulatory institutions such as the Lagos State Safety Commission are essential to strengthening compliance and boosting public confidence within the sector.

In his remarks, Technical Adviser to the Commission, Seun Awojobi, commended the initiative and highlighted the importance of stronger collaboration between the private sector and regulatory agencies in promoting safety consciousness, professionalism, and compliance across the industry.

He noted that continuous stakeholder engagement would play a vital role in improving operational standards and ensuring safer systems across the state.

The meeting also created an opportunity for both parties to exchange ideas on industry development, technical capacity building, safety education, and the importance of sustained collaboration in driving global best practices within Nigeria’s elevator and electro-mechanical sector.

A division of JMG Ltd, JMG Elevators is one of Nigeria’s leading elevator and lift companies, delivering reliable vertical moving systems for commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. As an authorized distributor of TKE, one of the world’s leading elevator and escalator manufacturers, JMG Elevators provides end-to-end solutions covering installation, maintenance, and modernization, all tailored to meet international safety standards and local operating conditions.

With its growing reputation for innovation, reliability, and quality service delivery, JMG continues to position itself as a trusted industry leader committed to supporting safer communities and raising standards across every sector it operates in.

JMG Limited’s expertise includes power generation, electrical infrastructure, vertical transportation, cooling systems, and air compressors. It also provides clean energy solutions, offering solar and cost-effective hybrid options.

CGC Adeniyi Calls for Inclusive Dialogue as Customs Engages Beer Industry Over Proposed Tax Stamp Policy

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CGC Adeniyi Calls for Inclusive Dialogue as Customs Engages Beer Industry Over Proposed Tax Stamp Policy

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has called for stricter data validation and broader stakeholder engagement in ongoing fiscal and regulatory reforms as the Nigeria Customs Service hosted the leadership of the Beer Sectoral Group at its headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

The engagement, held on Monday, May 11, 2026, brought together senior executives from major brewing companies across the country to discuss tax administration, trade transparency, and concerns surrounding the proposed tax stamp policy under consideration by the government.

Speaking during the meeting, Adeniyi stressed the importance of grounding policy decisions on credible and verifiable data, particularly when dealing with critical sectors of the economy.

“We need to have a clear understanding of what constitutes illicit trade. Some of these products are legitimately manufactured in Nigeria. In other jurisdictions, customs administrations are already engaging in discussions around how such products find their way across borders and into unauthorised markets,” he said.

The Customs boss noted that while the government remained committed to strengthening revenue assurance and regulatory compliance, the integrity and accuracy of industry data presented to policymakers must not be compromised.

“One thing we need to understand more clearly is where some of these estimates came from. When we are making policy decisions of this nature, the credibility and accuracy of data must never be in doubt,” he added.

Adeniyi also highlighted several trade facilitation reforms introduced by the Service to improve efficiency and reduce bottlenecks within the supply chain.

According to him, initiatives such as Advance Ruling, the Authorised Economic Operator programme, and other internal reforms were introduced proactively to strengthen trade facilitation and operational efficiency.

On the proposed tax stamp policy, the CGC clarified that consultations were still ongoing and that no final implementation decision had been taken by the government.

“As far as I am concerned, consultations are still ongoing. If this initiative is legitimate and beneficial, then we all have a responsibility to ensure that we are heading in the right direction,” he stated.

He urged stakeholders in the private sector to sustain engagement with government institutions to achieve a balanced outcome capable of protecting government revenue while supporting industrial growth.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation and Chief Executive Officer of Guinness Nigeria Plc, Girish Sharma, said the industry had come to present its concerns regarding the proposed tax stamp framework, which he said had generated debate within the sector.

Sharma acknowledged the importance of regulatory controls but argued that the beer industry remains one of the most structured and closely monitored sectors in Nigeria, with minimal exposure to counterfeiting risks.

“We fully understand the purpose and importance of tax stamps, particularly in industries where counterfeiting is a major concern. However, within the beer sector, counterfeiting is minimal,” he said.

He added that existing compliance systems within the sector already provide sufficient transparency and end-to-end oversight across production and distribution channels.

Sharma further emphasised the economic contribution of the beer industry through employment generation, tax revenue, and national output, while cautioning that additional regulatory burdens could have unintended consequences if not carefully implemented.

Union Bank Marks International Day of the Boy Child with School Outreach in Lagos

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Union Bank Marks International Day of the Boy Child with School Outreach in Lagos

Union Bank of Nigeria has commemorated the 2026 International Day of the Boy Child with a special outreach programme involving students of CMS Grammar School and Methodist Boys High School as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The bank visited CMS Grammar School in Bariga, Lagos, one of Nigeria’s oldest boys’ secondary schools, where a delegation led by Ali Kadiri engaged with the school management and students on possible partnership opportunities and educational support initiatives.

During the visit, Union Bank donated educational materials, including books and school bags, aimed at supporting student learning and development.

The bank also hosted students from CMS Grammar School and Methodist Boys High School at its headquarters in Marina, Lagos, where it organised a programme focused on equipping them with practical knowledge and life skills to support their academic growth, personal development, and future aspirations.

Speaking during the engagement, Kadiri, who is also an alumnus of CMS Grammar School, commended the institution’s management for its continued dedication to academic excellence and character development.

“I am delighted by the school management’s sustained commitment to nurturing and developing the next generation of male leaders,” he said.

“As an alumnus of this distinguished institution, I am encouraged by the remarkable progress it has made in advancing both the academic and character development of these young men.”

He added that Union Bank was proud to celebrate the occasion with the school while continuing to support initiatives that promote the wellbeing and future success of the boy child.

The bank reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the development and welfare of boys across Nigeria through collaborations with institutions and stakeholders focused on inclusive education and opportunities for young people.

According to the bank, the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Fidelity Bank Chairman, Amaka Onwughalu Wins ‘Women on Bank Boards’ Award at AWBFA 2026

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Fidelity Bank Chairman, Amaka Onwughalu Wins ‘Women on Bank Boards’ Award at AWBFA 2026

Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fidelity Bank Plc, Amaka Onwughalu, has emerged winner in the “Women on Bank Boards” category at the Africa Women in Banking and Finance Conference and Awards, AWBFA 2026.

The event, themed “Redefining Women’s Leadership in African Finance,” was held at the Lagos Marriott Hotel Ikeja on Friday, May 8, 2026.

AWBFA was established to celebrate women driving leadership and impact across Africa’s financial services ecosystem, while also promoting visibility for professionals shaping the banking and finance industry.

Speaking through Ezinwa Unuigboje during the award presentation, Onwughalu described the recognition as a reflection of the importance of inclusion in strengthening corporate governance and board effectiveness.

According to her, inclusive leadership enhances decision-making and improves institutional oversight.

“This recognition matters because inclusion at board level strengthens governance,” she said, adding that when diverse perspectives are represented, “oversight is sharper, risk conversations are richer, and strategy is tested more thoroughly.”

She further stated that inclusive leadership sends a strong message to the market and future leaders, stressing that boardrooms should reflect competence, experience, and the society the financial system serves.

Onwughalu linked the recognition to Fidelity Bank’s governance priorities and recent growth trajectory, noting that strong governance had supported the bank’s progress in capital strengthening, international expansion, and business growth.

She also highlighted the broader impact of inclusive boards on the Nigerian banking industry, saying diversity in leadership contributes to institutional stability, public trust, improved decision-making, and stronger responsiveness to customers and regulatory developments.

The Fidelity Bank chairman said the award was accepted with gratitude and a renewed commitment to championing inclusive leadership at the highest level.

Organisers of AWBFA 2026 described the initiative as more than a conference, noting that it represents a movement focused on celebrating excellence, driving inclusion, and strengthening leadership pipelines for women across Africa’s financial ecosystem.

Fayinka Campaign Condemns Alleged Market Shutdown Over Mushin APC Primaries

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Fayinka Campaign Condemns Alleged Market Shutdown Over Mushin APC Primaries

The Fayinka Beyond 2027 Campaign has condemned alleged attempts by political actors to shut down businesses and markets in Mushin over the ongoing primaries of the All Progressives Congress, describing the development as unacceptable and contrary to democratic values.

In a statement issued on Friday, the campaign alleged that shops and businesses within Ladipo Market and other markets across Mushin were instructed to close by certain political figures, including one Monday Lawrence and the Chairman of Mushin Local Government, because of the APC primaries.

The campaign stated that if the reports were true, such actions amounted to dragging non-party members into what should strictly remain an internal party affair.

According to the statement, the APC did not issue any directive mandating the closure of markets or businesses for the conduct of party primaries, stressing that the exercise was meant solely for accredited party members and delegates where applicable.

The group argued that traders, artisans, transporters, and business owners, many of whom are not members of the ruling party, should not be coerced, intimidated, or manipulated into participating in political activities they have no affiliation with.

It further warned against attempts to mobilise non-party members to political venues for the purpose of overwhelming or intimidating genuine party faithful, saying such actions could undermine the credibility and integrity of the democratic process.

The campaign maintained that politics should not be conducted through fear, pressure, or disruption of people’s livelihoods, adding that democracy must protect participation rather than manipulate it.

The statement called on stakeholders to exercise restraint, uphold democratic principles, and allow genuine party members to freely exercise their rights without interference or tension.

“Politics should unite, not oppress,” the statement added.

Ogun Police Confirm Situation Under Control After Environmental Incident in Ijebu-Ode

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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that the environmental incident recorded along the Agoro/Okunowa Road axis of Ijebu-Ode has been brought under control following swift intervention by security agencies and the Ogun State Government.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, said the Command immediately deployed the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal, EOD Unit alongside other tactical response teams to secure the affected area, support emergency operations, and ensure public safety.

According to the Command, the incident was reported after operatives on patrol received information concerning a suspected chemical emission affecting students and residents in parts of Ijebu-Ode.

Following the alert, tactical and surveillance teams from Obalende Division were mobilised to the affected locations, where emergency response measures were activated to coordinate evacuations, safeguard lives, and maintain public order.

Schools affected by the incident included Our Ladies Grammar School, Epe Garage; Anglican Girls Grammar School, Obalende; Titilayo Agbaje Comprehensive High School, Imosan; Ifesowapo Comprehensive High School, Imosan; St. Peter’s Anglican Primary School, Imosan; and Orphanage Primary School, Imosan.

The police disclosed that affected victims were evacuated to the General Hospital and other private medical facilities within the area for urgent medical attention, adding that no life was lost and that victims were responding positively to treatment.

Preliminary environmental assessments conducted through the state’s air quality monitoring infrastructure reportedly revealed elevated methane gas concentrations within the affected area.

The Command stated that technical experts and emergency response agencies are currently carrying out detailed investigations to determine the source of the emission and evaluate possible environmental risks.

CP Ojajuni also directed sustained surveillance operations and intensified security presence around the affected communities to prevent panic and support ongoing technical assessments.

The police assured residents that the area remains calm and under close monitoring, while urging members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.

Residents were further advised to avoid open flames or ignition sources in areas where unusual gas odours are perceived and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, or respiratory discomfort.

The Ogun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, stating that it would continue to collaborate with the Ogun State Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure public safety and environmental security across the state.

Wema Bank Denies NDIC Allegations Over Banana Island Properties, Defends Recovery Actions

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Wema Bank Denies NDIC Allegations Over Banana Island Properties, Defends Recovery Actions

Wema Bank Plc has dismissed allegations contained in recent publications attributed to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC regarding the sale of Banana Island properties allegedly linked to the defunct Gulf Bank Plc, describing the claims as false, misleading, and malicious.

In a statement issued by the bank, Wema Bank said the reports were aimed at distorting the facts surrounding a long-standing debt recovery process tied to an inter-bank placement transaction dating back to 2002.

According to the bank, it made an inter-bank placement of ₦4.6 billion with Gulf Bank Plc in 2002, noting that the exposure was later reduced to approximately ₦1.2 billion by August 2004 before the outstanding obligation became delinquent.

The bank explained that efforts to recover the debt led to investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, which allegedly discovered that the funds had been diverted into the acquisition of properties in Banana Island, Lagos, through two companies — Bacad Finance & Investment Company Limited, now known as Supra Commercial Trust Limited, and Euston Wenberg Engineering Limited.

Wema Bank maintained that the two companies were separate entities from Gulf Bank Plc and were not under the supervision of the NDIC.

The lender further stated that following the EFCC investigation, both companies voluntarily relinquished their interests in the Banana Island properties toward the settlement of Gulf Bank’s indebtedness to Wema Bank.

According to the bank, the NDIC formally acknowledged the debt through letters dated September 26, 2007, addressed to the Federal Land Registry, and June 10, 2009, addressed to Wema Bank Plc.

The bank added that the letters, which it said were also tendered by NDIC’s counsel in ongoing court proceedings before the Federal High Court in Lagos, constituted formal recognition of the validity of Wema Bank’s claim.

Wema Bank also disclosed that after the sale of the properties, the NDIC allegedly paid the outstanding shortfall owed to the bank, arguing that the development demonstrated NDIC’s awareness and participation in the settlement process.

The bank noted that although the NDIC had instituted two separate suits against it at the Federal High Court in Lagos in its capacity as liquidator of Gulf Bank Plc, the pending litigation would not alter the material facts surrounding the transactions.

While stating that the matters are currently before the court, Wema Bank said it would refrain from making further comments on issues subject to judicial determination.

The bank reaffirmed its commitment to corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and ethical banking practices, assuring shareholders, customers, and stakeholders that it would continue to protect its legal rights and interests through lawful means.

NCC Organises 2026 Telecommunications Workshop for Judges in Lagos

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NCC Organises 2026 Telecommunications Workshop for Judges in Lagos

The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC has organised a Workshop for Judges on Legal Issues in Telecommunications Sector.

The workshop, held in Lagos, brought together members of the judiciary, legal experts, regulators and telecommunications stakeholders to deliberate on emerging legal and regulatory issues within Nigeria’s rapidly evolving telecommunications sector.

This annual engagement is part of the NCC’s efforts to deepen judicial understanding of the legal frameworks guiding telecommunications operations, digital regulation, technology governance and dispute resolution in the sector.

it also provided a platform for discussions on evolving digital challenges, regulatory reforms, consumer protection, cybersecurity, and the role of the judiciary in supporting a stable and innovation-driven communications ecosystem in Nigeria.

Among dignitaries present at the event were Habeeb Adewale Olumuyiwa Abiru, Babatunde Adeniran Adejumo, Rimini Makama, Idris Olorunnimbe, Ibrahim Muhammad Musa Saulawa, who represented the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Chizua Whyte, and Obande Festus Ogbuinya.

IDF:Rite Foods Calls for Stronger Support for Children, Families

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IDF:Rite Foods Calls for Stronger Support for Children, Families

Rite Foods Limited has joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of Families, reaffirming its commitment to promoting stronger family systems and improved child wellbeing as critical foundations for national development.

In a statement to mark the 2026 celebration, themed “Families, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing,” the company highlighted the challenges many families face and stressed the need for inclusive opportunities that support children and communities.

The Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, said families remain central to societal growth and stability, noting that inequality in access to essential services continues to affect children the most.

“Families are at the heart of every society. When access to nutrition, education, healthcare, and opportunity becomes unequal, children are often the most affected. At Rite Foods, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, thrive, and dream bigger, regardless of background,” he said.

Adegunwa added that the company remains committed to producing quality products that cater to the needs of Nigerian families while maintaining strong connections with consumers and communities.

The company’s product portfolio includes Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, Fearless Energy Drinks, Sosa Fruit Drink, Bigi Premium Table Water, Rite Spicy,

WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

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WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has reassured candidates, parents, school owners, and other stakeholders of its commitment to the smooth and successful conduct of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination for School Candidates, WASSCE, 2026, despite the ongoing protest by some members of its workforce.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the examination body said the ongoing examination had continued without disruption and that adequate measures had been put in place to safeguard the integrity, credibility, and seamless conduct of the exercise nationwide.

WAEC noted that it remained committed to delivering qualitative and reliable educational assessment services to Nigerian students, adding that the future of candidates remained its top priority.

The Council recalled that it had earlier informed stakeholders on Monday, May 11, 2026, about its preparedness and plans for the conduct of the examination before its commencement.

While acknowledging the ongoing protest by some staff members, WAEC stated that it respected the rights of unions and workers to peacefully express their grievances within the ambit of the law.

The Council, however, clarified some of the concerns raised by the protesting union, particularly issues surrounding the adjustment in the examination schedule, disciplinary procedures, and the engagement of contract staff.

According to WAEC, the reduction in examination days became necessary following the streamlining of subjects from 76 to 38, noting that the revised schedule was designed to align with the new subject structure and the hybrid mode of examination conduct.

The Council also dismissed allegations of incessant dismissals and inappropriate sanctions against staff, insisting that disciplinary and career progression matters are handled strictly in line with the WAEC staff handbook and relevant statutory provisions.

On the engagement of contract Examination Officers and Assistant Examination Officers, the Council explained that the measure was introduced to manage increasing workloads and ensure the smooth operation of its examination processes across the sub-region.

WAEC further disclosed that its management was already engaging with the union to address the issues raised while maintaining uninterrupted conduct of the ongoing examinations.

The examination body urged members of the public to disregard rumours and misinformation capable of causing confusion or panic regarding the conduct of the examination, adding that verified information would continue to be made available through its official communication channels.

The Council also appreciated Nigerians for their continued confidence and support over the past 74 years.