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Anambra Govt Moves to Tackle Erosion, Recover Lands, Award Projects

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Anambra Government Sets Up Committee to Recover Encroached Lands

The Anambra State Executive Council, ANSEC, under Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has resolved to enforce stricter measures to curb the worsening erosion menace across the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, disclosed this after the 25th ANSEC meeting in Awka, noting that the council expressed grave concern over erosion caused largely by non-compliance with environmental regulations.

He said the state will compel individuals to properly manage storm water from buildings, enforce community guidelines on erosion control, and sanction defaulters, adding that a committee will also be set up to recover government lands illegally encroached upon.

ANSEC also approved the award of several infrastructure projects, including water supply, traffic lights, power installations, transformer substations, and landscaping works across parts of the state, as part of efforts to boost development and improve residents’ quality of life.

JMG, Jamara Home Spread Yuletide Cheer to Children Living with Cancer

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JMG, Jamara Home Spread Yuletide Cheer to Children Living with Cancer
JMG and Jamara Staff with TDCF Official from L-R ONYEMOBI Chijioke - Business Development Manager, FANIRAN Oluwatomi – Head of Marketing, Sikemi Oluleye Program Officer TDCF, Sikemi Oluleye (Program O

JMG Limited, in collaboration with its subsidiary, Jamara Home, has brought hope and festive cheer to children living with cancer through a partnership with The Dorcas Cancer Foundation.

The companies sponsored the Foundation’s annual Christmas celebration, themed “Basket of Love,” an event designed to provide comfort, joy, and emotional support to children battling cancer.

During the celebration, the children received thoughtful gifts and enjoyed a festive atmosphere aimed at lifting their spirits during the yuletide season.

As part of their contribution, JMG and Jamara Home donated Chemo Kit boxes and made cash contributions to support the Foundation’s ongoing efforts in care, advocacy, and support for children living with cancer.

The event featured special performances by renowned musician Cobhams Asuquo and Nigerian Idol Season 10 first runner-up, Precious Mac, creating memorable moments filled with music, laughter, and celebration for the children, their families, caregivers, and supporters.

Speaking at the event, the Manager, Customer Support at Jamara Home, Anthonia Ogunsanya, said the initiative aligns with the company’s corporate social responsibility focus and core values.

She noted that partnering with The Dorcas Cancer Foundation for its annual end-of-year celebration reflects Jamara Home’s commitment to compassion, kindness, and community support.

Also speaking, the Head of Marketing at JMG, Oluwatomi Tumininu Faniran, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to healthcare-focused interventions, describing healthcare as a key pillar of JMG’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.

She added that JMG remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote access to quality healthcare and positively impact lives.

JMG Limited has continued to deliver innovative healthcare solutions to the Nigerian market, with a strong portfolio of pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare products. Jamara Home, meanwhile, has built a reputation in the home and personal care sector, providing quality products tailored to the needs of Nigerian families.

Lagos, FirstBank, Guinness, Others Lead Sponsorship Line-Up for 9th AFRIMA

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Lagos, FirstBank, Guinness, Others Lead Sponsorship Line-Up for 9th AFRIMA

Major organisations have emerged as leading sponsors of the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, scheduled to take place in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026.

They include the Lagos State Government, First Bank of Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria, The Address Homes, the Government of Sweden, Gobet247, Utilita, and several other notable organizations.

AFRIMA, organised in partnership with the African Union Commission, AUC, unveiled an impressive sponsorship and partnership line-up, reflecting growing confidence in African music as a powerful cultural and economic force.

The 2026 edition, themed “Unstoppable Africa,” has attracted support from key sectors including finance, real estate, beverages, digital platforms, media, hospitality, and international cultural institutions.

Following the acceptance of the hosting offer by the Lagos State Government from the African Union, Lagos will once again serve as the Official Host City, further reinforcing its status as Africa’s leading creative and entertainment hub.

With the backing of the Federal Government of Nigeria and continued support from the African Union Commission as AFRIMA’s legacy institutional partner, the 9th edition is expected to be a landmark celebration of African music and culture.

At the top tier of sponsorship, digital payments and lifestyle platform Utilita and gaming and entertainment brand Gobet247 are headlining as National Gold Sponsors.

First Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, and The Address Homes have been confirmed as National Silver Partners, while Guinness Nigeria joins as the Official Beer Sponsor.

International cultural support for the awards includes the British High Commission in Nigeria and the Embassy of Sweden, serving as Cultural Exchange Partners.

In travel and hospitality, Wakanow, Pan Atlantic Travels, and Dorf Travels & Tours Ltd have been named Official Travel Partners, while Vaniti Lagos and Knowhere Restaurant will host nominees and special guests as Hospitality Partners.

Mainland Block Party Lagos will also add youth culture and community energy to the AFRIMA Music Village at Ikeja City Mall on January 9, 2026.

AFRIMA has also confirmed a strong coalition of media organisations as Official Media Partners across radio, television, digital, print, and out-of-home platforms.

These include DSTV/Multichoice, HIPTV, Afro Music Pop, Base FM, Beat FM, Classic FM, Hot FM, Kennis FM, Lagos Talks, Inspiration FM, Traffic Radio, Radio Lagos, Eko FM, Lasgidi FM, Max FM, Nigeria Info, Nigezie, Television Continental (TVC), Yanga FM, Legit.ng, and The Culture Newspapers, alongside major outdoor advertising firms such as MotoMedia, Yartview Ltd, Optimus Exposure, Plural Media, Folham Nigeria Limited, and Nimbus Media.

Speaking on FirstBank’s support, the Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said the partnership aligns with the bank’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s creative industry through its First@Arts initiative.

From the international community, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to Nigeria, H.E. Anna Westerholm, described the partnership as an opportunity to celebrate African music while strengthening cultural and business ties between Sweden and Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Marketing and Innovations Director at Guinness Nigeria Plc, Yinka Bakare, said the brand’s sponsorship reflects its deep roots in African culture and commitment to showcasing African excellence on a global stage.

Founder and Chairman of The Address Homes, Dr. Bisi Onasanya, described AFRIMA as a vital platform for African creativity, innovation, and cultural identity, noting that the partnership supports talent development and sustainable growth across the continent.

Announcing the sponsorship line-up in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, AFRIMA’s Director of Partnerships, Ms. Edwidge Goli, described the support as a strong vote of confidence in African music and its future, while thanking the Lagos State Government, sponsors, international partners, and media organisations for their commitment.

The 9th AFRIMA will commence with the Nominees and Guests Welcome Soirees on January 7, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit on January 8 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

The AFRIMA Music Village Concert and Diamond Showcase will hold on January 9 at Ikeja City Mall, ahead the grand Awards Ceremony on January 11 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotel, Lagos, with the red carpet scheduled for 3:30 p.m. (WAT).

The awards ceremony and live performances will be broadcast to audiences in over 84 countries worldwide.

Ogun Police Assure Residents of Robust Security Ahead Festive Season

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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

As the festive season approaches, Commissioner of Police, Ogun Command, Lanre Ogunlowo, has assured residents of adequate security across the state, pledging proactive policing to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration.

Ogunlowo urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, stressing the importance of the “See Something, Say Something” initiative.

He highlighted the Gateway Shield Platform as a fast and reliable channel for reporting general complaints and security concerns.

According to him, the platform can be accessed through the toll-free line 0800-000-9111, while the Gateway Shield mobile application is available on both the Play Store and App Store, as well as via the website www.thegatewayshield.com

Ogunlowo noted that reports made through the platform attract prompt and professional responses from the police, as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and enhance community policing across the state.

The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Ogun Police Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property during the festive period and beyond.

Kaduna Customs, Security Agencies Deepen Collaboration to Boost Operational Effectiveness

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Kaduna Customs, Security Agencies Deepen Collaboration to Boost Operational Effectiveness

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Kaduna Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration and inter-agency synergy with sister security agencies across the State to enhance operational effectiveness and national security.

The renewed commitment was underscored during a series of courtesy visits by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Sa’ad Garba Hassan, to heads of key security and law enforcement agencies in the state.

In separate meetings with the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, CP Muhammad Rabiu; the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Maj. Gen. ASM Wase; the State Director, State Security Service (SSS), Mr. Hakeem Abiola, fsi; the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kaduna State Command, Corps Commander Tijjani Yusuf; the Zonal Director, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Kaduna Zonal Directorate, Mr. Usman Bawa Kaltungo; and the State Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kaduna Command, Commandant Panam Musa Buba, Comptroller Hassan stressed the importance of cooperation, information sharing, and mutual support in achieving national security objectives.

The CAC noted that the Nigeria Customs Service cannot operate in isolation, particularly amid evolving security challenges, smuggling activities, economic sabotage, and threats to public safety. He emphasized that sustained collaboration among security agencies is critical to intelligence-driven enforcement, improved service delivery, and overall operational success.

Comptroller Hassan commended the sister agencies for their longstanding partnership with the Kaduna Area Command, acknowledging their consistent support in joint operations, intelligence exchange, personnel protection, and crisis response. He appealed for further strengthening of existing synergies to ensure seamless cooperation and greater impact in areas of shared responsibility.

In their responses, the heads of the respective agencies applauded the CAC for his proactive approach to deepening inter-agency relations. They pledged continued support for the Nigeria Customs Service and expressed readiness to explore new areas of collaboration, enhance intelligence sharing, and participate in joint operational initiatives aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s economic growth and security interests.

Comptroller Hassan further assured that the Kaduna Area Command will continue to pursue partnerships that promote legitimate trade facilitation, enhance border management, strengthen national security, and contribute to the country’s economic stability. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining strong institutional relationships founded on trust, professionalism, and mutual respect.

Acting CAC Engages Terminal Operators at Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command

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Acting CAC Engages Terminal Operators at Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command

The newly appointed Acting Customs Area Controller of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command, Deputy Comptroller BL Adigun, has begun stakeholder engagement with terminal operators to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.

Deputy Comptroller Adigun held his first meeting with terminal operators on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, shortly after assuming office.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration, aligning operational expectations, and improving coordination between the Nigeria Customs Service and terminal operators.

Addressing participants, the Acting CAC reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

He stressed the importance of strict compliance with customs regulations, accurate documentation, and transparent procedures, noting that these measures are essential for revenue protection, trust-building, and the promotion of a business-friendly environment.

The Acting CAC assured stakeholders of his readiness to work collaboratively, address operational challenges through practical solutions, and maintain open channels of communication to ensure smooth terminal operations.

Terminal operators welcomed the engagement, describing it as timely and beneficial to strengthening working relationships. They engaged in extensive discussions on terminal operations, shared insights, and made suggestions aimed at improving efficiency.

The operators also commended Deputy Comptroller Adigun’s leadership approach and offered prayers for a successful tenure.

The meeting underscored a forward-looking approach under the new leadership of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command, with a renewed focus on stakeholder engagement, transparency, and the facilitation of legitimate trade.

ANSEC Approves Facelift of COOUTH Trauma Centre

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ANSEC Approves Facelift of COOUTH Trauma Centre

The Anambra State Executive Council, ANSEC, has approved the landscaping of the car park at the Trauma Centre of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, COOUTH, Amaku, Awka.

The Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, said the contract was awarded to Triseconds Resources Ltd at the 25th ANSEC meeting held in Awka on December 15, 2025.

He noted that the project aligns with the Soludo administration’s strong focus on healthcare, which has been prioritised in the 2026 budget.

The state government has continued to invest in hospitals, primary healthcare centres, free maternal health services, and major healthcare infrastructure, including plans for a specialist teaching hospital.

The approval underscores the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and strengthening medical facilities across Anambra State.

Ogun Police Command Marks One Year of CP Lanre Ogunlowo’s Leadership

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Ogun Police Command Marks One Year of CP Lanre Ogunlowo’s Leadership

The Ogun State Police Command has marked the first anniversary of CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, as Commissioner of Police in the state.

The milestone marks one year of what has been described as impactful and strategic leadership, during which CP Ogunlowo has implemented proactive security measures aimed at strengthening public safety across the state.

Since assuming office, the Commissioner of Police has been credited with promoting professionalism within the command, enhancing operational effectiveness and fostering public confidence in policing.

His leadership approach, anchored on intelligence-led policing and community engagement, has contributed to improved peace and stability across Ogun State, widely known as the Gateway State.

Well wishers including media stakeholders commended CP Ogunlowo for his collaborative relationship with the press and his commitment to transparent communication, noting that such engagement has helped bridge the gap between the police and the public.

The Ogun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the gains recorded under CP Ogunlowo’s leadership, as efforts continue to ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.

Fidelity Bank Boosts Maternal, Child Healthcare at ESUTH

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Fidelity Bank Boosts Maternal, Child Healthcare at ESUTH

Fidelity Bank Plc has provided relief to indigent patients at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, ESUTH, Parklane, by settling medical bills, supporting children with chronic illnesses and distributing ante-natal kits to pregnant women.

The intervention was carried out under the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme, FHHP.

It was funded and implemented by newly inducted employees of the bank, known as the Optimizers Inductees Class, as their community impact project, with matching financial support from Fidelity Bank.

Speaking during the outreach, the Divisional Head, Brand and Communications Division, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to improving lives through targeted social interventions aligned with its CSR pillars.

“This project reflects the spirit of who we are as a bank. Beyond providing financial services, we are committed to touching lives within the communities where we operate. Today, we are donating ante-natal kits to pregnant women and supporting indigent patients who have remained in the hospital due to unpaid bills. Some children also require long-term medical care, and we have provided additional financial support to aid their continued treatment,” Nwagboh said.

He described the intervention as timely and significant, noting that it would enable many families to reunite and celebrate the festive season without the burden of outstanding hospital bills.

Receiving the donation on behalf of the hospital, the Chief Matron of the Children’s Ward, Mrs. Esther Nnaji, commended Fidelity Bank for what she described as a lifeline for families struggling with rising healthcare costs.

“There are many families here in desperate need. Some children are battling cancer, sickle cell disease and other chronic conditions. Fidelity Bank’s support will go a long way in relieving their pain. Because of this intervention, some of these children will now be able to reunite with their families,” she said.

Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude to the bank. Mrs. Adaeze Ilo, whose baby’s hospital bill was cleared, said the support came at a moment of despair.

“After spending months in the hospital, we had no idea how to raise the money. Fidelity Bank came through for us when we needed it most. We are deeply grateful,” she said.

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Jane Anthony, said her family had resigned to spending Christmas in the hospital before the intervention. “God used Fidelity Bank to send us home to enjoy Christmas. My heart is full,” she said.

The outreach further underscores Fidelity Bank’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups and strengthening community well-being across Nigeria through community-driven CSR initiatives.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial deposit money bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, 255 business offices nationwide, and its UK subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited. The bank has received several local and international awards, including multiple honours in digital banking, MSME financing and investment banking services in 2024.

Nigeria Customs Begins Enforcement of Penalties on Banks Over Delayed Revenue Remittance

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Maritime Journalists Felicitate CGC Adeniyi on Birthday

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has commenced enforcement of penalties against designated banks that delay the remittance of Customs revenue to the Federal Government.

The Service stated that it observed cases of delayed remittances by some banks after the reconciliation of collections processed through the B’odogwu revenue platform, describing the practice as a breach of remittance obligations and a threat to transparency and efficiency in government revenue administration.

In a statement, the NCS explained that the action is in line with the Service Level Agreement, SLA, signed with designated banks, which clearly stipulates timelines for the remittance of collected Customs revenue.

Under the enforcement regime, any bank that fails to remit revenue within the approved period will be charged penalty interest calculated at three percent above the prevailing Nigerian Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) for the duration of the delay.

Affected banks will receive formal notices detailing the delayed amount, applicable penalties, and the settlement timelines.

The Customs Service warned that persistent or repeated violations of the SLA could attract additional regulatory and administrative sanctions, in line with existing agreements and relevant laws governing Customs revenue collection.

The NCS further cautioned that any payment of collected revenue into unauthorised accounts, whether deliberate or accidental, will be treated as a serious offence and handled accordingly.

Reiterating its commitment to accountability and transparency, the Service advised designated banks to strengthen internal controls and strictly comply with remittance timelines, stressing that prompt and accurate revenue remittance is critical to safeguarding government finances and supporting national economic development.

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