Landmark

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, released its 2024 full-year Audited Financial Statements, reporting a 210% growth in Profit Before Tax to N385.2 billion.  According to the Bank's results released on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on Friday, 28 March 2025, Gross Earnings increased by 87.7% to N1,043.4bn, driven by 106.9% growth in interest and similar income to N950.6bn. The increase in Interest Income was led by a combination of improved yield on earnings assets and 51.6% expansion in earnings base to N6.3tn. This led to a Profit After Tax of N278.1 billion, representing a 179.6% annual growth. Commenting on the results, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc said, “We are delighted with our 2024 full-year (FY) performance, which showed strong growth across key revenue lines, improved asset quality, and significant traction in our strategic business segments. Our impressive results led to a triple-digit increase (210....

As Nigeria Muslims join their counterparts across the globe in the celebration of the end of this year's Ramadan Fast, the Association of Ex-Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria (ASELGON) has felicitated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, his Vice, Sen. Kassim Shettima, GCON and other Muslim faithful across the country for the successful completion of the annual religious obligation.  The message of felicitation was contained in a press release signed by the National President of the association, Hon. Albert Asipa and made available to journalists in Abuja. The Association congratulated, Nigerian leaders and the entire Muslim community in the country for the grace of seeing the end of the 30- day fast.  ASELGON remarked that the holy month of Ramadan, as instituted by Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), is a period of self denial to share in the experience of the masses and the imperative of showing love by sharing with the less privileged out of one's endowment.  The association no...

When prophets warn nations, it is always advisable to listen because they speak not from their own intelligence but through divine signals received from God. God has placed prophets on earth to reveal his mind to mankind because the word of God explicitly explained that there is nothing that happens without the knowledge of prophets. God speaks to them before he does anything; even though they are humans, they are specially selected individuals closer to God than every other person. Therefore, whatever they say has to be taken serious because failure to follow their God-inspired instructions most times doesn’t end well. This is the analysis that best describes the situation recently faced by the Nigerian correctional service and the Nigerian army. Earlier in the week, it was reported that there was a jail break in Kogi state, which saw the escape of 12 inmates from prison. It was indeed a threat to Nigeria’s security. According to the reports, the escapees strangled one of the warders ...

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has felicitated Muslim faithful on the conclusion of this year's Ramadan, saying that the period has enriched the country spiritually.  Abiodun, who commended Muslim faithful for committing the country into the hands of Almighty Allah (SWT) in prayers and supplications while undertaking acts of charity during the period, said that the benefits to the country have been massive. In particular, the Governor commended Muslim faithful in Ogun State for their unwavering support of his administration and commitment to the growth and development of Ogun State, saying that he would never take such support for granted.  The Governor, who acknowledged the challenges posed to Muslim faithful and other Nigerians by the economy and the security situation in the country, expressed hope that there will be positive changes with their prayers and renewed commitment to national development on the part of the political leadership. He added: "On behalf of ...

Nigerians have appreciated President Bola Tinubu for ensuring fuel price stability throughout the fasting period, crediting the efforts of the federal government and the Dangote Refinery for the availability of petroleum products. They say the situation is in sharp contrast to previous years when fuel scarcity and price hikes made Ramadan and Eid celebrations difficult. In a statement on Sunday, Charles Mbakwe, President of the Nigerian Citizens Rights Advocacy Network (N-CRAN), praised the Tinubu administration and the Dangote Refinery for shielding Nigerians from a potential fuel crisis. “For the first time in years, Nigerians did not have to battle fuel shortages during Ramadan or Eid-el-Fitr. This is not by accident. The federal government’s commitment to ensuring product availability and the efficient operations of the Dangote Refinery played a huge role in stabilising the market,” he said. He, however raised concerns over the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) an...

Fresh facts have emerged on plans to extend the emergency rule in Rivers state by some vested interests from Rivers state and close to the corridors of power in Abuja. According to impeccable sources, it was stated that the move for an extension of the state of emergency was to ensure that the governor is frustrated by his long stay out of office to force him to come to the negotiation table. This much was corroborated by Aare Segun Komolafe, the president of the Yoruba Progressive and Democratic Forum. He stated that a series of plans have been hatched to extend the emergency rule in Rivers state to force the governor into submission to the whims and caprices of some vested interest in the state. “The political witch hunt of the governor of Rivers state has reached an alarming dimension. One of the first carrots dangled before the governor is that to return to office, he must cede the mandate of managing state government accounts to a team of select individuals, to whom he will submit...

The Rivers Mandate Group (RMG) has strongly discredited the claims made by George Nwaeke, former Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing them as a desperate and poorly executed political script aimed at falsely implicating the governor. In a statement signed by Pastor Godknows John, RMG’s president, the organisation dismissed Nwaeke’s allegations as a fabricated narrative designed to serve political interests. “A viral video that surfaced online has cast serious doubt on the credibility of Nwaeke’s claims. The footage showed the former Head of Service being handed a prepared script, with a voice in the background instructing him to ‘read from the script I wrote’, followed by the command ‘Action’—clear evidence that the so-called press conference was nothing more than a staged drama,” the statement reads. “This is not a whistleblower’s revelation. It is a staged performance by desperate political actors who want to destroy Governor Fubara’s...

The Ondo State Coalition of Democrats has issued a strong condemnation regarding the recent assault on the Ministry of Justice by a group of unidentified individuals reportedly affiliated with a faction of the Akoko Youth Forum. This unlawful invasion disrupted the official activities of the Ministry, raising serious concerns about the security of public institutions and the safety of officials fulfilling their duties. Comrade Obadeyi Samuel, the Publicity Secretary of the Coalition, expressed outrage at the incident, stating, “The individuals behind this attack, linked to a splinter group within the Akoko Youth Forum, have not only physically threatened the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN, but have also engaged in a malicious smear campaign against him on social media. It is shocking that a group claiming to seek Dr. Ajulo’s support for their forthcoming summit would resort to such acts of intimidation and lawlessness.” Dr. Ajulo, a respected activ...

In a decisive statement, the Akoko Progressives Youth Vanguard has condemned the recent invasion of the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN. The group expressed its outrage over the actions of individuals posing as members of the so-called Akoko Youth Forum, labeling their behavior as a departure from the values upheld by true sons and daughters of Akoko. “This uncharitable and unbecoming act is a clear indication of the lengths to which unscrupulous elements will go to discredit perceived political opponents under the guise of youth activism,” stated Tolulope Bello, President of the Akoko Progressives Youth Vanguard. “It is regrettable that individuals who claim to advocate for the interests of Akoko youths have resorted to lawlessness and intimidation, bringing disrepute to our community.” The Vanguard highlighted that the invasion is part of a broader pattern of politically motivated aggression targeting notable polit...

Ogun State Governor,  Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the occassion of his 73rd birthday, describing him as a thought leader of inestimable value.  Governor Abiodun, in a congratulatory message  signed  in Abeokuta,  the Ogun State capital said the President remains an architect of reformed Nigeria, with exemplary courage and selflessness to change the old order and transform Nigeria to an enviable height. He added that Tinubu, through strong conviction and unassailable determination has achieved what many of his predecessors could not achieved for decades, noting that the President deserves accolades from all Nigerians. Prince Abiodun, therefore wished President Tinubu more fulfilled years ahead in sound health and functional mind to maximally achieve his renewed hope agenda. He said," I heartily congratulate our leader and architect of a new Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occassion of his 73rd birthday; obviously,...

The Lead Visioner of the Lagos4Lagos Movement and the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State in 2023, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (JANDOR), has extended his heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the occasion of his 73rd birthday. Jandor said that President Tinubu's contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic landscape remain significant, with a legacy of leadership that has shaped governance at both state and national levels.  These were contained in a statement signed by Gbenga Ogunleye, spokesperson for Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, dated March 29, 2025.  As Tinubu marks this milestone, Dr. Adediran acknowledged his resilience, strategic vision, and dedication to public service. “I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today. His journey in leadership has been marked by courage and a commitment to nation-building.  "I wish him good health, divine guidance, and renew...

The Chairman of the Southern Governors' Forum (SGF) and the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended deep condolences to his Katsina State counterpart, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda following the recent loss of his mother, Hajiya Safara'u Umaru Baribari.  The State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, representing Governor Abiodun as the Chairman of the SGF, conveyed the Forum's heartfelt condolences.  In his remarks, the NGF chairman emphasized the universal nature of grief and the importance of celebrating a life well-lived. "There is never a good time to lose a parent, but we take solace in the impactful life lived—a legacy that endures in family and society. "We pray that Almighty Allah accepts her righteous deeds, forgives her shortcomings, and grants her Al-Jannatul Firdaus. May He also grant us all long life in good health, enabling us to leave behind positive legacies for future generations," he said. In her separate remarks, the E...

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the life and times of the late Dr. Doyin Okupe as a life of impactful service, resilience, and unwavering commitment and dedication to Nigeria, his family, and his faith. Governor Abiodun also said that the former spokesperson for former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan was extremely cerebral, kind, humble, and generous. The Governor stated this during the final burial service of Dr. Okupe held at the Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State. Noting that Dr. Okupe was very cheerful, smiling, and extremely slow to anger, Governor Abiodun described him as a noble man and a warrior who fought for democracy. "He was a media guru, articulate, and fearless spokesman. He was a professional in politics and not a professional politician; he was a very reliable, dependable, and principled man. "He would not change his viewpoint or position because anyone tried to influence him, except out of convicti...

TASUED’s Federal Acquisition: Senator Gbenga Daniel’s Political Theatre Falls Flat Senator Gbenga Daniel In what has become his trademark style of political posturing, former Governor of Ogun State and current Senator representing Ogun East, Chief Gbenga Daniel, appears determined to politicize the Federal Government’s acquisition of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED). Through a recent statement laced with veiled antagonism, he attempts to cast doubt on this laudable initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration while subtly fanning the embers of discontent against Governor Dapo Abiodun. Unfortunately for him, the strategy reeks more of mischief than meaningful opposition—and it has unmistakably missed its mark. One cannot help but question the true intent behind the senator’s much-publicized “open letter” to Governor Abiodun—a document filled with mischaracterizations and insinuations. He accuses the governor of neglecting state-owned institutions, a claim that ...

The Corps Commander of Amotekun in Ogun State, Brig. Gen. A.I. Adedigba (rtd), has dismissed as pure fiction, the story by controversial online news platform, SaharaReporters,  alleging that the outfit was being underfunded by the Ogun State government. Adedigba, who averred that the security outfit's collaborative frameworks with various security agencies and local stakeholders to foster intelligence-sharing and strategic responses to security challenges in the state are second to none, said Amotekun is being well funded by the Governor Dapo Abiodun administration, describing the report by Sahara Reporters as malicious, misleading, and lacking in substance. Brig. Gen. Adedigba noted that since the inception of Amotekun in 2020, the administration had been steadfast in meeting its commitment to providing the necessary resources to ensure the effectiveness of this vital security initiative. "Governor Abiodun was one of the governors who promptly inaugurated and empowered Amotek...

The Corps Commander of Amotekun in Ogun State, Brig. Gen. A.I. Adedigba (rtd), has dismissed as pure fiction, the story by controversial online news platform, SaharaReporters,  alleging that the outfit was being underfunded by the Ogun State government. Adedigba, who averred that the security outfit's collaborative frameworks with various security agencies and local stakeholders to foster intelligence-sharing and strategic responses to security challenges in the state are second to none, said Amotekun is being well funded by the Governor Dapo Abiodun administration, describing the report by Sahara Reporters as malicious, misleading, and lacking in substance. Brig. Gen. Adedigba noted that since the inception of Amotekun in 2020, the administration had been steadfast in meeting its commitment to providing the necessary resources to ensure the effectiveness of this vital security initiative. "Governor Abiodun was one of the governors who promptly inaugurated and empowered Amotek...

On March 24, 2025, Abiodun Oshinibosi, founder of Abelinis Nigeria Limited, unveiled his revolutionary book, PMX, which emphasises project management and experiential marketing. The virtual launch that lasted more than 3 hours non-stop, executed flawlessly by Abelinis' digital solution team, drew massive audience from diverse backgrounds across the globe. The event featured esteemed reviewers, including Tsola Barrow, Principal Consultant at Applegryn & Barrow Consulting Limited, who wrote the foreword, and seasoned marketing professionals Dr. Rotimi Olaniyan, Programme Director at Nottingham Business School UK, Past President, EXMAN.  A practice-oriented scholar with a broad spectrum in the marketing industry career spanning 30 years. Also on the review bill were Tolu Fadamitan, Project Manager/Product Specialist @ Dell Technology USA. 26+ in project management and Experiential Marketing and Warren Thompson, a seasoned business process professional in Canada operating in multip...

  The management and staff of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) on Tuesday honoured the outgoing Director-General, Chief Folorunsho Coker, in a heartfelt send forth ceremony at the Authority’s Village Hall.   The event celebrated the DG’s remarkable leadership over the past eight years, during which the NTDA witnessed significant transformations in Nigeria’s tourism landscape.   In their tributes, staff and management commended the DG for his visionary leadership and numerous achievements, including:   The enactment of the NTDA Act, which transformed the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) into the NTDA.   The ongoing ISO standardization certification to enhance service quality. The successful launch of the Tour Nigeria brand promoting domestic tourism.   Expansion of the Authority’s organogram to create more employment opportunities.   The Nigerian Flavours initiative, celebrating the country’s rich culinary heritage. ...

Over 1,500 residents have benefited from a Fidelity Food Bank outreach in Kabuga community, Dala Local Government Area of Kano state. The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, executed in partnership with Misnoory Foundation, saw staff of the bank distribute essential food items to support people during the holy month of Ramadan.   Commenting on the distribution event, Divisional Head, Brands and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, emphasized the bank's dedication to supporting its host communities through impactful projects. “Social responsibility is at the heart of who we are as a bank. Our Fidelity Food Bank initiative is one of the way we drive social welfare in our host communities.   The initiative was launched to support the vulnerable and alleviate the impact of hunger in the society as part of our contribution to Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger. “Consequently, we have distributed more than 150,...

Significant Milestone as Ogun-Morocco Sign MOU: Ali Zerouali, Executive Vice President of the General Confederation of Employers in Morocco (CGEM), alongside Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ogun State Government and the Kingdom of Morocco on Wednesday The Ogun State government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Confederation of General Employers of Morocco (CGEM) to collaborate on power generation and distribution, education, housing, infrastructure, and port development. Governor Dapo Abiodun signed on behalf of the state, while Mr. Ali Zerouali signed for the Moroccan side. Speaking at the event held at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Prince Abiodun noted that Morocco has achieved significant success in the areas of education, technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and a host of others, from which Ogun State would benefit. According to the governor, Morocco offers a 30 per...

By Randy Igali     The word patriot is derived from the Greek word “patriots,” which simply mean “of one’s father.” According to the Merriam-Webster, the word entered the English lexicon through the French word “patrite,” which means “fellow countryman.”   In 1912, J. R. Miller, aptly described the situation when patriots are made. According to Miller, times of peace and prosperity are not the best times to make patriots. Patriots are made, when a nation is in peril, at such a time love for country is developed, because it is at such times that there is a call to arms to defend home, altar and flag.   True patriots are actually few today, but Sir Amaopusenibo Siminalayi Fubara the governor of Rivers State is one of them.   Although greatly misunderstood and his intentions misinterpreted and misconceived, for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, there is an inner awakening and a strong true heart of loyalty, the type that at each point compensates for national danger and ...

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, JbJ, Jose Batista; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the President, Ambar Energy, Marcelo Zanatta, during a visit to the Governor in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is set to partner with Ambar Energia of Brazil to establish power plants in the state as part of his administration's commitment to guarantee an adequate supply of power and food security to residents, as well as thousands of industries operating in the state. He noted that Ogun State, being the industrial capital of Nigeria, must optimally utilize the amendment of the 1999 constitution, which decentralizes power generation and allows federating units to generate their electricity independently and sufficiently according to need. Governor Abiodun stated this while receiving a delegation from Ambar Energia, led by its president, Marcelo Zanatta, who paid a courtesy call on him in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. He said th...