NASRE Congratulates Adaora Umeoji On Appointment As Group CEO Of Zenith Bank
The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors, NASRE, congratulates Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, on her appointment as the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc with effect from June 1, 2024.
In a congratulatory message personally signed by the President of the association, Comrade Femi Oyewale, the media group describes Umeoji’s elevation from deputy managing director to group managing director as a new dawn given that Umeoji would be assuming her new role as the first female GMD/CEO since the inception of the bank in May 1990.
The association also commends the board of Zenith Bank, led by Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR ,CON, for its consistency in grooming leaders from within in a well-tailored transition and succession plans and strategies.
The association noted with optimism that Umeoji’s appointment would add value to the remarkable achievements of Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, the out-going Group CEO, whose five-year term expires on May 31, 2024.
The association assures Umeoji of its supports as she embarks on a mission of taking Zenith Bank to greater heights.
The statement which was released to the press by the association’s PRO, Adeyemi Obadimu, reads in part: “As you assume this new role, we are confident that your vision, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence will propel Zenith Bank Plc to even greater heights of success.”
JUST IN: 287 Abducted Kaduna Schoolchildren Regain Freedom
The Kaduna State Government has announced the release of the 287 schoolchildren kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State.
This was contained in a statement signed by the state governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Sunday.
The statement partly read, “I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.
“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for prioritising the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed. While the school children were in captivity, I spoke with Mr. President several times. He shared our pains, comforted us, and worked round the clock with us to ensure the safe return of the children.”
The governor also appreciated the courage of the officers of the Nigerian Army for seeing to the successful release of the schoolchildren.
He said, “The Nigerian Army also deserves special commendation for showing that with courage, determination and commitment, criminal elements can be degraded and security restored in our communities.
“We also thank all Nigerians who prayed fervently for the safe return of the school children. This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.”
On March 7, 2024, the schoolchildren from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School, Kuriga, were abducted by the hoodlums who took them into the forest.
The abductors demanded N1bn for their release while giving a deadline of March 27, 2024, for the payment of the ransom.
Access Bank PLC and KCB Group PLC Sign Binding Offer on Acquisition of National Bank of Kenya (NBK)
Access Bank PLC and KCB Group PLC (“KCB”) have today signed a binding agreement to acquire 100 percent shareholding in National Bank of Kenya Limited (“NBK”) from KCB.
The successful completion of the transaction is subject to conditions that are customary for transactions of this nature including receipt all regulatory approvals from, amongst others, the Central Bank of Kenya, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the COMESA Competition Commission, and notifications to other relevant regulators.
For Access Bank, this move underscores its commitment to bolstering its presence in Kenya and the broader East African region. Furthermore, the acquisition builds on the Bank’s growing operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, as well as its impending acquisitions of a majority stake in Uganda’s Finance Trust Bank Limited, the acquisition of majority equity stake in African Banking Corporation (Tanzania) Limited (“BancABC Tanzania”), and Standard Chartered Bank’s Consumer, Private & Business Banking business in Tanzania.
Commenting on the transaction, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/Chief Executive of Access Bank Plc said:
“The transaction represents an important milestone for the Bank as it moves us closer to the achievement of our five-year strategic plan through increased scale in the Kenyan market. We are building a strong and sustainable franchise to support economic prosperity, encourage Africa trade, advance financial inclusion thereby empowering many to achieve their financial dreams.
“Trade flows in East Africa revolve around key trade corridors, with Kenya being a key player in the region. With the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, these corridors will continue to expand and by deploying our best-in-class financial solutions, we are strategically positioned to deliver sustainable value for our stakeholders. The consolidation in Kenya will support the realisation of our aspiration to be Africa’s Payment Gateway to the World. Subsequent to the completion of the transaction, NBK would be combined with Access Bank Kenya Plc to create an enlarged franchise in the pursuit of our strategic objective for the Kenyan and East African markets.”
KCB Group CEO Paul Russo said: “This transaction represents what we believe is a great opportunity to maximise value for our shareholders while strengthening the competitive position for the Group. The past four years have been defining for NBK as a KCB Group subsidiary and this step marks the opening of new opportunities.”
“During the period, we have made progressive investments in the Bank, and we believe that this is in the best interest of the Group and its sustainability. Our growth strategy is premised on both organic and inorganic plans, and we shall continue to seek opportunities that increase our shareholder’s value,” said Mr Russo.
All parties will be working together in the coming months to fulfil the conditions precedent relating to the proposed acquisition, which include the regulatory approvals of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Central Bank of Kenya. Access Bank will continue to provide a full range of banking services and continuity for its stakeholders including employees and customers in Kenya.
In the meantime, NBK customers will continue to access seamless services across various touchpoints including through the branch network and mobile banking platforms.
Upon conclusion, stakeholders will benefit from the from an enlarged franchise, with best-in-class customer service and governance structures committed to empowering the communities wherein the Bank operates. The combined entity will leverage Access Bank’s dedication to economic development by extending financial services to the unbanked, thereby deepening financial inclusion across the region.
In recent months, Access Bank has embarked on a strategic expansion drive, marked by significant acquisitions. In January, the Bank completed its acquisition of Atlas Mara Zambia, thereby becoming one of Zambia’s top five banks by revenue with prospects to be in the top three by 2027.
DAME (DR.) ADAORA UMEOJI NAMED ZENITH BANK GMD/CEO
Zenith Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive with effect from June 1, 2024, subject to approval by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). She takes over from Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose five-year term expires on May 31, 2024, after a very successful tenure. Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji is the first female GMD/CEO since the inception of the bank, and her appointment is consistent with the bank’s executive transition tradition, succession plan, and strategy of grooming leaders from within.
Prior to this appointment, Dr. Umeoji has been the Deputy Managing Director of the bank since October 28, 2016 and has close to thirty (30) years cognate banking experience of which twenty-six (26) years has been with Zenith Bank.
She is an alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School where she attended the Advanced Management Program (AMP) and an alumnus of Columbia Business School with a Certificate in the Global Banking Program. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and a First-Class honors in Law from Baze University, Abuja. She holds a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar, and also has a doctorate in business administration from Apollos University, USA.
She holds a Certificate in Economics for Business from the prestigious MIT Sloan School of Management, USA, and has attended various management programmes in renowned Universities around the world including the strategic thinking and Management programme at Wharton Business School, USA. She also attended the executive program in Strategic Management, and has a Certificate in Leading Global Business all from Harvard Business School, USA.
She is a fellow of notable professional bodies including the Chartered Banker Institute, UK, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Nigerian Institute of Management, Institute of Credit Administration, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria among others.
In 2022, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored Dr. Umeoji with Officer of the Order of the Niger, as a recognition of her contributions to nation building. She is a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UN-POLAC).
She has impacted many lives through her philanthropic and humanitarian activities through her NGOs; Pink Breathe Cancer Foundation and the Adorable Foundation that educates, caters for Cancer patients and indigent children education especially the Girl-Child. Her contribution to humanity was recognized by the Sun Newspaper which recently bestowed on her the Humanitarian Service Icon Award for 2023.
As a result of her passion for promoting professionalism in the banking industry and improving the well-being of the less privileged, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON founded the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN), a platform she uses to promote ethical banking and service to humanity.
She is a Lady of the Order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI), and was awarded a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester by His Holiness Pope Francis.
Adron Homes Boss, Aare Adetola Mourns Olubadan, Commiserates With Family and Ibadanland
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties, Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, has described the death of Olubadan, HIM Senator Oba Lekan Balogun Ali, Okunmade II, as a monumental loss to Yoruba Land, Ibadan Land and the traditional institution.
Aare Adetola who is also the Aare Apesinola of Ibadan land has commiserated with a deceased family who joined his ancestors after two years of ascending the throne of his forefathers.
Aare Adetola described Oba Balogun as an embodiment of peace and a rallying point for all Ibadan indigenes. His cosmopolitan nature and his exposure have helped place Ibadan on a high pedestal.
A condolence statement by Aare Adetola reads; “The death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, HIM Oba Lekan Balogun Ali, Okunmade II is a monumental loss to us, Ibadan Land and the traditional institution most especially in Yoruba Land. As a former lawmaker and scholar, he served Ibadan diligently and treated everyone who crossed his path with fairness. He is a pan-Nigerian who sees everyone as one entity and never discriminates. We have lost a big fish in the river and it will take time for us to see someone of his nature. He is a refined gentleman, very articulate with an embodiment of knowledge and understanding of the culture and tradition of Ibadan. He wore his royalty on his chest like a badge of honour. We will miss him dearly. I pray Almighty God will forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljana Firdaus. Once again, my condolences to Ibadanland”
REDTV Premieres Season 2 of ‘When Are We Getting Married?’, Underscoring Support for African Creative Industry
REDTV, United Bank for Africa‘s Lifestyle and Entertainment channel, proudly announces the highly-anticipated launch of the second season of its hit show – ‘When are we getting married’.
The captivating series, renowned for its unique blend of romance, humour, and real-life relationship dynamics, promises its teeming viewers an even more engaging and thrilling experience in its latest series.
With top hits such as Unintentional, Mighty, The Men’s Club Season 1-3, and other popular shows like Our Best Friend’s Wedding, Inspector K, Assistant Madams, RedHot Topics, Hotel Boutique and a host of other entertaining content, award-winning lifestyle channel REDTV, is keen on developing and nurturing talent across the continent.
Executive Producer, REDTV, Bola Atta, who emphasised the channel’s passion to groom creativity and youth empowerment, expressed her excitement about the new season, adding, “We are thrilled to bring back ‘When are we getting married?’ for its second season. The show has resonated with audiences, and we are committed to delivering even more compelling content that explores the intricacies of love and relationships. This season is packed with surprises, laughter, and heartfelt moments that viewers won’t want to miss.”
Speaking on the bank’s continuous support to entertainment and the lifestyle channel, UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communication, Alero Ladipo, maintained that the bank is committed to nurturing creative endeavours that resonate with its diverse audience while entertaining its viewers and customers.
She said, “REDTV has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver compelling lifestyle content, and our ongoing collaboration reflects UBA’s dedication to fostering innovation and entertainment. We are indeed excited about the positive impact our support has on the channel’s growth, and we look forward to more exciting projects that captivate audiences across the globe.”
As REDTV continues to push the boundaries of entertainment, ‘When are we getting married?’ stands out as a must-watch series for anyone seeking quality content that reflects the vibrancy of modern relationships.
Viewers can Tune in to REDTV on YouTube for a delightful journey into the world of love, laughter, and endless entertainment.
REDTV is a fast-paced lifestyle channel that puts Africa on the global stage. Proudly powered by UBA, the network aims to entertain and inform through rich and engaging content that feature the very best of Africa focused on fashion, news, music, sports, drama, travel and much more. The channel collaborates with the most talented visionaries and creative minds who dare to believe in a New Africa, putting together content that reflects its vision
ACCESS HOLDINGS PLC ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF MR. AIGBOJE AIG-IMOUKHUEDE, CFR (PIONEER ACCESS BANK GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO) AS HOLDCO CHAIRMAN AFTER 10 YEARS
Access Holdings Plc (‘the Holdco’), is pleased to announce the return of Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR as its Non-Executive Chairman. Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR replaces Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, the erstwhile Chairman of the HoldCo who remains on the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director.
This visionary and accomplished leader is bringing an outstanding record of accomplishments, wealth of expertise and leadership to guide the Group into a new era of success.
In response to the untimely passing of the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR and following extensive consultations with key stakeholders, the Holdco Board unanimously decided to invite Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede to the helm of governance.
With an illustrious career spanning several decades in the banking and finance sector, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede has proven to be an exceptional and influential leader, having admirably laid a solid foundation for Access Bank’s success as Group Chief Executive Officer between 2002 and 2013 ably supported by his partner and deputy, the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR who later succeeded him.
Under Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s leadership, Access Bank experienced remarkable growth and established itself as a trusted financial institution within the community. The Bank transformed from a minor player into one of Nigeria’s top 5 banks with presence in 9 other African countries and the United Kingdom. Under his stewardship, Access Bank grew its customer base from ten thousand to over six million with more than 5,000 employees and an asset base of USD $12 billion, achieving numerous milestones and becoming a globally recognized name. His strategic vision, innovative thinking, and deep market insight were instrumental to shaping the Bank’s success.
Following his retirement as the Bank’s CEO in December 2013, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede cofounded the Tengen Family Office Limited which oversees a significant portfolio of investments and businesses in banking, finance, insurance, technology, real estate, and energy. Through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, he is focused on building Nigeria’s next generation of government leaders, helping transform public sector effectiveness, and improving access to quality primary health care.
The decision to bring back Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede as the Group’s Non-Executive Chairman reflects the Board’s commitment to our core values and determination to build upon the strong foundation, he jointly established with Dr. Wigwe. With his return, Access Holdings aims to leverage his extensive experience, industry knowledge, and exceptional leadership skills to consolidate on the growth and accomplishments recorded under Dr. Wigwe’s leadership.
In his new role as Non-Executive Chairman, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede will collaborate with the Board of Directors to oversee strategy and provide guidance to the executive management team. His return is not only a testament to his unwavering dedication to Access Group but also a clear demonstration of the Board’s confidence in his ability to lead the Group to new heights.
Speaking about his return, Mr. Abubakar Jimoh past Chairman, Access Holdings expressed his excitement, stating:
“Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s appointment to the Board and subsequent election as Chairman is a landmark development for Access Holdings. All our board members are excited about our future’’.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, said:
“I am thrilled to be back in active service to the Access Group ecosystem. I am confident that working with our directors, our exceptional team of executives and our best-in-class banking and finance professionals, we will deliver outstanding value to our esteemed stakeholders. I am determined that our shared vision which Dr. Wigwe gave everything for, will be realized”.
The entire Access Group family, including employees, customers, and stakeholders, eagerly anticipates Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s return and looks forward to a promising future under his leadership. With his expertise, passion, and commitment, the Access Group is poised to embark on a new chapter of impact and sustainable success.
Kidnappings: Employ More Neighborhood Watch Officers, Lagos Assembly Tells Sanwo-Olu
– sympathizes with affected states, families of victims
– commends Remi Tinubu for advocating capital punishment for kidnappers
With incidents of kidnapping spreading across some states of the federation, the Lagos State House of Assembly has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to increase the personnel in the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) to effectively assist other security agencies.
The House also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his favourable disposition to the issue of state police just as it praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for raising a voice and advocating for capital punishments as a deterrent.
The issue which was discussed under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ followed the recent kidnapping of about 280 children in Kaduna, the about 102 kidnapped in Borno and 15 kidnapped in Sokoto recently.
Noting that the case of the Chibok girls was yet to abate, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, said it was very important for every Nigerian to rise up and speak against kidnapping just as he sympathised with affected states and families of victims.
Dr. Obasa said it was painful that while parents struggle to send their children to school to seek knowledge, “evil people in the name of kidnappers are hell-bent on destroying the future of the children
“It is very important for all of us to rise up and find a lasting solution. Security is very essential in every given society and if we fail to protect lives, then what do we have as responsibility?
“We must commend our First Lady for being bold and coming out and even talking about capital punishment.”
The Speaker commended the military for its effort, but said more can be done even if it means relocating to areas where these attacks are frequent.
He recalled the situation that necessitated the enactment of the anti-kidnapping law of Lagos State some years ago urging the National Assembly to review existing laws relating to kidnapping and expedite action on state police.
The Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, said it is necessary at this time to call on governors and speakers of states to act regarding related legislation.
In their contributions, Hon. Tobun Abiodun and Nureni Akinsanya commended the Speaker for raising the issue while noting that Lagos is gradually experiencing cases of kidnappings.
Their colleague, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, suggested the establishment of special courts to try alleged kidnappers and speed up trial processes while Hon. Abiodun Orekoya urged the military to employ technology in their surveillance.
Meanwhile, Speaker Obasa has congratulated Muslims in Nigeria as the Ramadan commences.
Dr. Obasa urged those who have to share with those in need. He urged Muslims to pray for peace and the country while encouraging Nigerians to show love to one another irrespective of religious beliefs.
Adron Homes Empowers Women and Advocates for Gender Equality on International Women’s Day 2024
In a grand and impactful celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, Adron Homes went above and beyond to champion the cause of women’s empowerment and advocate for gender equality. The day was marked by a series of events aimed at uplifting women and addressing pressing societal issues.
One of the highlights of the day was the comprehensive training sessions conducted for both Adron Homes’ staff and members of the general public. These sessions, designed to enhance skills and knowledge, served as a platform for fostering inclusivity and empowering individuals from all walks of life.
A highlight of the day was the heartwarming visit to Anike House, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), where the team from Adron Homes took proactive steps to alleviate the burdens of patients, especially women, by settling their hospital bills. Representing the Vice Chairman of Adron Homes, Olori Aderonke Emmanuelking, was Mrs. Ajobo Adenike, the Managing Director of Adron Homes (Southern Nigeria), who led the delegation with grace and compassion.
Accompanying Mrs. Adenike were key figures from Adron Homes, including Mrs. Aminat Olaniyan-Haastrup, the Director of Customer Service, and Mrs. Ihouma Azuru, the Director General of Sales and Marketing (Southern Nigeria), along with other esteemed directors. Their presence underscored the company’s commitment to women’s empowerment and social responsibility.
The visit also served as a poignant reminder of the importance of accelerating efforts towards gender equality. In line with the global theme of the day, Adron Homes reiterated the crucial role that women play in building nations, cities, communities, and homes. The company emphasized the need for their inclusion and investment, recognizing that empowering women is not only a moral imperative but also a catalyst for societal progress.
In commemorating International Women’s Day 2024, Adron Homes showcased not only its dedication to empowering women but also its firm belief in the transformative power of collective action. As trailblazers in the real estate industry, Adron Homes continues to inspire positive change and shape a more equitable future for generations to come. Happy International Women’s Day
Nigeria Economy will become better under Tinubu but… – Prophet Tim Igbalajobi
Prophets are like portals that give information about future occurrence in the present. Though there are many making rounds in Nigeria that have turned prophecy into business, however, one thing about the good ones is their consistency even when their vision seems not to conform with happenings in present time.
One of such Prophets is Prophet Timothy Olatubosun Igbalajobi, the presiding Pastor of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Palace of Light and Salvation, in Lagos.
The young but anointing filled man of God has been consistent about his God given visions about Nigeria. During the crossover service from the 2022 to 2023, the Prophet was one of those who foresaw the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Nigerian president and during the program he said Tinubu is the ordained president of Nigeria. In the service, he also stated that the first years of his reign will be very tough and that things will only become easy that those who had thought they escaped Nigeria through the japa slang would return to enjoy the new goodness of Nigeria.
This was also repeated during the 2023/24 crossover service as the Man of God whose services are a mixture of English and Yoruba languages declared that 2024 will be tougher and harder than 2023. He explained that if care is not taking, a bag of cement will go for 10k (it has gone even more less than 2 months into the year) in the market and that things will however become better after the second year thereby further reinforcing the initial prophesy.
The 2022-2023 Crossover Service
The prophesy starts at 5 mins 25 seconds
Prophet Igbalajobi has also been saying it that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will favor a lot of youths and that he saw the president serving the two terms of eight years. This was however modified in the 2024 prophecy and it was like a warning to the president, who was advised to be watchful of who handles his clothing and that it is only through these that his designed 8 years reign can be truncated.
