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2025 AIHRFF To Spotlight Global Patterns of Abuse, Galvanise Resistance

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2025 AIHRFF To Spotlight Global Patterns of Abuse, Galvanise Resistance

Organisers of the Africa International Human Rights Film Festival, AIHRFF have announced that the fourth edition of the annual event will hold from Monday to Wednesday, December 8–10, 2025, in Lagos.

This year’s edition, themed “Using Films to Bridge Divides,” will feature keynote addresses, film screenings, panel sessions, masterclasses, special appearances, and a closeout session.

According to the organisers, the opening activities, including screenings and panel sessions featuring frontline activists, filmmakers, journalists, regulators, and policymakers, will take place on Monday and Tuesday, December 8 and 9, at 1A Adekunle Owobiyi Close, opposite Government Quarters Estate, Ogba Phase II, Lagos.

The masterclasses and closeout session are scheduled for Wednesday, December 10, at the British Council, 20 Thompson Avenue, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Notably, the closeout session coincides with the global commemoration of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, marked annually on December 10.

Announcing the programme lineup, Founder and Festival Director, Kehinde Adegboyega, described AIHRFF as one of the continent’s largest gatherings of human rights activists, filmmakers, and advocates committed to exposing abuses and galvanising collective action.

Adegboyega listed some of the critical issues the festival highlights, including police brutality, official corruption, abuse of office, weaponisation of poverty and essential services, gender-based violence, repression of free expression, criminalisation of peaceful protests, censorship of the press, and rising authoritarianism.

He noted that unlike conventional filmmakers, human rights filmmakers are both storytellers and advocates, using their craft to illuminate “dark places” where violations occur, aid evidence gathering, and support accountability efforts.

According to him, audio-visual storytelling remains one of the most vivid and reliable tools for documenting human rights abuses.

“It is self-evident and incontrovertible,” he said. “This is why we continue to pass down the knowledge of this trade to existing practitioners, emerging filmmakers, and students through our masterclasses, to expand the ecosystem of civil and rights advocates.”

Rite Foods Clinches Four Awards at 2025 SISA, SERAS Sustainability Awards

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Rite Foods Clinches Four Awards at 2025 SISA, SERAS Sustainability Awards

Rite Foods Limited has reaffirmed its industry leadership and social responsibility excellence by winning four major awards at the 2025 Social Impact and Sustainability Awards, SISA, and The SERAS Africa Sustainability Awards 2025.

The company emerged as a winner in the following categories: Best Health-Focused CSR Programme of the Year, Education Empowerment Champion of the Year, CEO Champion of Corporate Responsibility at SISA Awards, and Best in Supply Chain Management at the SERAS.

 These recognitions affirm Rite Foods’ firm commitment to advancing healthcare, improving educational outcomes through sustainability ideas, and championing sustainable initiatives that uplift communities across Nigeria.

The awards were presented at the award ceremonies featuring key stakeholders in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods, FMCG industry and Nigerian business landscape on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the MUSON Centre and on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, respectively.

Speaking on the achievement, Ekuma Eze, Head, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Rite Foods Limited, expressed gratitude for the honour, noting that the awards reinforce the company’s mission to embed people, planet, and purpose at the heart of its business operations.

According to him, Rite Foods’ culture of innovation continues to set it apart, with a strong focus on its sustainability commitments, which is hinged on the company’s EYEC framework: Environmental Stewardship, Youth Empowerment, Education, and Community Development.

Eze dedicated the awards to the team at Rite Foods, saying, “This achievement is a testament to teamwork and collaboration”.

He highlighted that the company’s bold marketing campaigns and consumer-centric initiatives continue to strengthen connections with its diverse audiences.

The company’s expansive product portfolio of 13 variants of Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, the premium Bigi Table Water, Sosa Fruit Drink in five variants, the Fearless Energy Drink, and the newly introduced Bigi Flex, Rite Spicy Beef, and Bigi Beef Sausage Rolls are all produced in a world-class facility equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

While presenting the CEO Champion of Corporate Responsibility award, the organiser of the event, Eche Munonye, applauded the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, Seleem Adegunwa, for his firm commitment to sustainability initiatives and meaningful social interventions that continue to uplift communities and inspire transformation across the industry.

Rite Foods’ continued excellence has earned it multiple accolades in recent months, including three honours at the 2025 Edge Awards: Outstanding Carbonated Soft Drink Brand of the Year (Bigi Apple), Outstanding Sausage Brand of the Decade (Bigi Beef Sausage Roll), and Outstanding FMCG Corporate Brand of the Year (Rite Foods Limited).

In addition, the company received the highly coveted Food Company of the Year 2024 award at the Independent Awards, further cementing its reputation as a proudly Nigerian, truly world-class organization.

First HoldCo Completes Sale of FBNQuest Merchant Bank to EverQuest Acquisition LLP

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blacktalker
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FirstBank Meets ₦500bn Capital Requirement as FirstHoldCo Signals Fresh Investments in 2026

First HoldCo Plc has officially completed the sale of its 100% stake in FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited to EverQuest Acquisition LLP.

The company announced this in a notice to the Nigerian Exchange Limited, NGX.

The divestment, finalized after receiving all required regulatory approvals from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, marks a significant change in the ownership and management structure of FBNQuest Merchant Bank.

In a statement, Abiola Baruwa, Group Company Secretary of First HoldCo, confirmed the completion of the transaction in line with NGX rules, notifying investors and the public of the development.

Industry analysts note that the acquisition could lead to new strategic directions, potential restructuring, and expansion opportunities under EverQuest Acquisition LLP, though specific plans for the bank under its new ownership have yet to be disclosed.

CONMMEP Applauds Minister Oyetola as Nigeria Returns to IMO Council After 14 Years

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CONMMEP Applauds Minister Oyetola as Nigeria Returns to IMO Council After 14 Years

The Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners, CONMMEP, has hailed Nigeria’s historic election into the International Maritime Organization, IMO, Council.

CONMMEP also credited the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for steering the country’s successful campaign.

The election, secured on November 28, 2025, marks Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council after a 14-year absence and positions the country in Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium.

CONMMEP described the milestone as a reaffirmation of global confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector and a validation of reforms and strategic initiatives under the Tinubu administration.

“Dr. Oyetola’s visionary leadership, diplomatic skill, and relentless advocacy were pivotal to Nigeria’s successful return to the IMO Council,” CONMMEP said in a statement.

The organisation also commended the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the work of the Ministry’s Technical Committee of Experts, chaired by Permanent Secretary Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, noting that their coordination and expertise helped position Nigeria effectively on the global maritime stage.

CONMMEP emphasized that the achievement is more than symbolic, highlighting its potential to strengthen maritime governance, attract technical and economic support, enhance investor confidence, and advance Nigeria’s blue economy aspirations.

The organisation stressed that Nigeria’s renewed presence at IMO will allow the country to influence global maritime safety, shipping regulations, and ocean sustainability discussions.

The congress described the milestone as a national achievement and a proud moment for the Nigerian maritime industry, pledging continued support for Minister Oyetola’s vision of a thriving, globally competitive, and sustainably managed maritime sector.

SIFAX Group Hails Nigeria’s Historic Return to IMO Council, Commends Minister Oyetola

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blacktalker
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SIFAX Group Chairman Felicitates Customs CG Adeniyi on Birthday, Praises Leadership Reforms

SIFAX Group has congratulated the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, following Nigeria’s successful election into the Council of the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, after a 14-year absence.

In a formal letter, the Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, described the achievement as a historic national milestone and a triumph for the country’s maritime industry.

“Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council is not only a victory for the government but also a triumph for the entire maritime industry and our nation’s standing in global shipping governance,” Afolabi said.

He credited Minister Oyetola’s leadership for restoring international confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector, noting that the Minister’s visionary diplomacy and dedication have strengthened Nigeria’s reputation in global shipping administration and blue economy initiatives.

“This historic achievement is a glaring proof of your visionary leadership, tireless diplomacy, and steadfast dedication to repositioning Nigeria as a respected and influential maritime nation,” Afolabi stated.

Highlighting the broader implications for private sector participation, Afolabi said the milestone reinforces SIFAX Group’s confidence in the Federal Government’s reform-driven agenda aimed at fostering growth, competitiveness, and sustainable development in the maritime industry.

He concluded by reaffirming the Group’s commitment to national progress through the maritime sector and pledged ongoing support for Minister Oyetola as he leads Nigeria towards greater influence in international maritime affairs.

FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed Wins 2025 Road Safety Champion Award

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FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed Wins 2025 Road Safety Champion Award

The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, has been honoured with the 2025 Road Safety Champion Award by the National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP.

The award was presented at the association’s National Security Conference and Awards held in Lagos, in recognition of his transformative agenda in road safety management and his commitment to creating a safer road environment across Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, NAOSNP National President, Mayor Oki Samson, highlighted the expanding role of the media, especially online security platforms, in shaping public perception, strengthening national resilience, and combating misinformation in an era of growing security complexities.

He called for stronger collaboration between the media and security agencies to ensure responsible, accurate, and timely reporting.

Mayor Oki described the conference as a strategic meeting point between institutions responsible for securing the nation and those influencing public opinion. He urged award recipients to remain committed to national service with patriotism and renewed zeal.

In his keynote address, former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, represented by Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman, emphasized the deep connection between security, governance, and national development.

He called for unity, responsible journalism, and collective commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s future.
“This event reinforces the media’s role in national security and its commitment to protecting the nation,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 2 Lagos, Adegoke Fayoade, described security as the backbone of economic development.

Addressing the conference theme “Securing and Safeguarding Nigeria’s Economic Resources,” he stressed the need for Nigeria to harmonize security efforts with economic priorities, strengthen identity and information systems, and build ethical and capable security institutions.


“As Nigeria pushes for growth and investment, the link between security and the economy remains central,” he said.

The award was received on behalf of the Corps Marshal by the FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, Corps Commander Kehinde Hamzat.

In his remarks, Corps Marshal Mohammed reiterated that transportation is a critical element of national infrastructure, noting that every movement in the country begins and ends on the road. He identified road traffic crashes as major threats to supply chains and contributors to rising operational costs in the transport sector.

He assured stakeholders that the FRSC will continue to enforce transportation safety reforms as governments invest in infrastructure and intensify anti-corruption efforts. He also urged the media to sustain public sensitisation on road safety, uphold accountability, and maintain professionalism in their reportage.
Mohammed dedicated the award to the hardworking personnel of the FRSC.

The event also featured the presentation of the NAOSNP Best Security Agency Spokesperson of the Year award to the FRSC Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide.

Dignitaries in attendance included representatives of the former Chief of Defence Staff; the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; AIG Adegoke Fayoade; and the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, among others.

Experts Call for Openness, Emotional Literacy at 2025 Men’s Mental Health Conference

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blacktalker
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Experts Call for Openness, Emotional Literacy at 2025 Men’s Mental Health Conference

Mental health advocates have called for stronger support systems, emotional awareness, and early intervention for men dealing with depression and related challenges.

Speaking during a panel session at the just-concluded 2025 Fight for Life Men’s Mental Health Conference, they agreed that addressing men’s mental health is a societal responsibility that will strengthen families and reduce the burden of untreated mental illness.

Cross-Cultural Creator and Fashion Curator Emmanuel Effiong-Bright stated that cultural conditioning continues to cause men to hide their struggles, often to their detriment.

He explained that society has repeatedly positioned men as lone problem-solvers, discouraging vulnerability and help-seeking, warning that some coping mechanisms can become harmful if not addressed early.

“What keeps you afloat can actually sink you,” he said, adding that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

He urged men to embrace support systems similar to the ones women have built through conferences and group networks.

Also speaking, Video Editor and Director Ajiva Lubem, highlighted the connection between addiction and depression, stressing that addressing addiction requires understanding its root causes rather than focusing solely on the behaviour.

Drawing from personal experience, Lubem said childhood rejection and persistent comparison led him into drug use as an escape from low self-esteem. “For many men, drugs, gambling, or even relationships become a means of escape,” he said.

Now a father, Lubem said he is committed to raising his child with empathy, understanding personality differences, and learning modern parenting methods.

He emphasised the need for parents to educate themselves on how to raise emotionally healthy children.

On his part, Co-host and Communications Strategist, Oluwaseun Dawodu, underscored the importance of emotional vocabulary in improving men’s mental health.

He noted that many men struggle to articulate how they feel, often using generic labels like “angry” or “tired,” which do not help address underlying issues.

He encouraged men to describe their emotions in full sentences and ask deeper questions to identify the true cause of their discomfort.

“Proper naming helps in proper healing,” he said.

Experts Spotlight Men’s Mental Health at 2nd Edition of “A Fight for Life” Conference

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blacktalker
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Experts Call for Openness, Emotional Literacy at 2025 Men’s Mental Health Conference

Mental health advocates, medical professionals, and creatives have called for increased awareness, early intervention, and stronger support systems for men battling depression, addiction, and other emotional struggles.

They made the call at the 2025 Fight for Life Men’s Mental Health Conference organised by Black Images Media Concepts, with the theme “Navigating Depression in Men.”

Founder of the initiative and host of the Mindfully with Tunmise podcast, Tunmise Oladapo-Kuku, said the event was purposely held in November in line with an annual men’s event globally known as Movember, a period dedicated to raising awareness on men’s mental health, prostate cancer, and suicide prevention.

She described men as central to family and societal wellbeing, but often left without guidance or emotional support.

“Women are raised to be wives, mothers, and sisters. A man is raised simply to ‘be a man.’ No one teaches men how to be fathers, husbands, or nurturers,” she said. “When a man is whole, the entire family benefits. If we give attention to this natural order, society will function better.”

Oladapo-Kuku stressed that emotional literacy for men must begin early, long before marriage or fatherhood.

“The best time to be a man, fully aware, grounded, and value-driven, is now. You are a father before the fact, not after the fact,” she added.

A consultant psychiatrist at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, and keynote speaker, Dr. Emmanuel Abayomi, emphasized that depression in men often goes unrecognized.

Although global data shows women are more likely to be diagnosed with depression, he noted that men die by suicide at four times the rate of women. “This shows a disconnect. Many depressed men are simply not identified,” he noted.

He highlighted common but often overlooked symptoms, especially among men, to include sudden changes in sleep, insomnia or oversleeping, fluctuating appetite, loss of appetite or excessive eating, persistent irritability, aggression or unexplained sadness, and loss of interest in hobbies.

Others are constant fatigue, feelings of helplessness, hopelessness or worthlessness, forgetfulness and low self-esteem, and reduced libido

Dr. Abayomi urged families and communities to be more observant and supportive, rather than attributing such symptoms to spiritual attacks or “village people.”

He also noted that although the government has established psychiatric hospitals and teaching hospital units across the country, more awareness and grassroots education are needed.

“Access to care exists, but people do not know. Private organisations, media, and individuals must help spread accurate information,” he said.

Addressing men directly, he added, “You are not weak when you ask for help. You are not alone. Depression is a disease of the brain, and it is treatable. Speak up.”

VC Charges Freshers on Discipline, Excellence as LASU Matriculates 14,893 Students for 2025/2026 Session

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VC Charges Freshers on Discipline, Excellence as LASU Matriculates 14,893 Students for 2025/2026 Session

The Lagos State University, LASU, has formally matriculated 14,893 newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session.

This is as Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, urged the freshers to uphold discipline, focus on their studies, and embrace the values that define the institution.

Speaking during the matriculation ceremony, which was held on Monday at the university campus, the Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to God and congratulated the students for earning their place in the institution, noting that they were selected out of more than 70,000 applicants who sought admission into LASU.

Professor Olatunji-Bello described LASU as a “World Class Institution,” highlighting its recent recognitions as the best university in West Africa according to the UI Green Metrics ranking, as well as the Most Digitally Innovative University in Nigeria 2025 and Excellent in Digital Transformation State University.

She also commended parents and guardians for their support in helping the students achieve their educational aspirations.

Reassuring the matriculating students of their safety and well-being, the Vice Chancellor emphasized that student welfare remains a top priority for the university management.

She disclosed that adequate security measures have been put in place across all campuses and encouraged students to promptly report any suspicious activity.

“Consider yourselves very fortunate to be among those admitted. I urge you to face your studies squarely,” she said.

Professor Olatunji-Bello reminded the students that LASU is a student-centered institution committed to producing transformational leaders equipped to contribute meaningfully to the development of Lagos State and the world at large.

She stressed that the freedom students enjoy on campus comes with responsibilities and boundaries.

The Vice Chancellor cautioned students against practices that could disrupt their academic journey, outlining expectations such as regular class attendance, completion of assignments, avoidance of deviant behaviour, indecent dressing, exam malpractices, cultism, corruption, hooliganism, and harmful associations.

She also reaffirmed her administration’s zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence, noting the establishment of the Directorate of Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. “If you see something, say something,” she advised, encouraging students to speak up against harassment or abuse.

Looking ahead, the VC assured the students that with dedication and discipline, they will complete their programmes within the stipulated years and return for their convocation ceremony.

“Strive for academic excellence in all that you do. It is my prayer that at the end of your programmes, we shall come together to celebrate your graduation,” she added.

The Vice Chancellor concluded by wishing the students a fulfilling and productive journey through their years at LASU.

Lagos Police Launch Probe Into Viral Video of Officer Arresting Bus Conductor

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CSOs Petition PSC to Probe Lagos CP Over Alleged Assault on Activist Soweto

The Lagos State Police Command has opened an investigation into a viral video showing a police officer struggling to arrest a bus conductor who allegedly obstructed traffic and resisted arrest in the Ikorodu area of the state.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Command said its attention was drawn to the circulating footage, which captured chaotic scenes involving a commercial bus and its conductor.

According to the police, the incident began when the driver of the bus deliberately blocked traffic, preventing other road users and public officials, including Police and LASTMA officers, from carrying out their duties.

The Command explained that officers moved in to arrest the bus conductor for obstruction, but the situation escalated when the conductor allegedly stripped himself naked in an attempt to evade arrest. The viral video was recorded during this confrontation.

Despite the conduct of the suspect, the Lagos Police Command said the officer seen in the video has been identified and is currently under investigation to determine whether his actions were appropriate.

The bus conductor has also been contacted and is expected to appear before the Commissioner of Police on Monday for further questioning. The bus involved has been impounded pending the conclusion of the investigation.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, appealed to members of the public to remain law-abiding and report any violation of their rights by police officers, assuring that such complaints will be addressed promptly and fairly.

He, however, cautioned against the “unnecessary dramatisation” targeted at the officer in the video, reminding citizens that resisting lawful arrest is a criminal offence.

“The Lagos State Police Command wishes to assure the public that this matter will be thoroughly investigated and justice will be done,” the statement added.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring that the conduct of its personnel aligns with the law and upholds transparency and accountability.”

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