ZENITH BANK OPENS MANCHESTER BRANCH TO SUPPORT CROSS-BORDER TRADE AND INVESTMENT

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, marking another significant milestone in the bank’s international growth and its commitment to strengthening financial connections between Africa and global markets.

The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to attract government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, customers, and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the growing economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.

The new Manchester branch will complement Zenith Bank’s existing operations in the United Kingdom and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses engaged in international trade and investment. Through the branch, the bank will provide corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and related financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.

Speaking ahead of the launch, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “The opening of our Manchester branch represents another important step in Zenith Bank’s growth as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents. Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres, and our presence here will further strengthen financial connections between businesses in the UK and opportunities across Africa’s rapidly expanding markets.”

Founded in 1990 by its Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a remarkable history of year-on-year profitability. Built on a strong foundation of people, technology and service, the Bank has consistently delivered innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. The impressive performance of the Bank has consistently earned it excellent ratings, recognition and endorsement from local and international agencies and institutions.

Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Bank currently operates subsidiaries in several African countries including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, while maintaining a presence in major international financial centres including the United Kingdom, France, UAE and China. In recent years, Zenith Bank has continued to expand its international network as part of its strategy to support global trade and investment flows involving Africa.

Manchester, widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic centres, hosts a diverse base of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods. The city’s strong commercial ecosystem and international outlook align closely with Zenith Bank’s expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.

The Manchester branch will work closely with the Bank’s London operations and its broader international network to support clients seeking to expand across markets and unlock new opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.

With the opening of the Manchester branch, Zenith Bank continues to advance its vision of building a truly global African banking institution that connects businesses, facilitates trade and investment, and creates stronger economic bridges between Africa and the world.

Security Crackdown at Akure Airport: Four Suspected Bandits Arrested

Security operatives have arrested four suspected bandits at the Akure Airport in Ondo State.

In a statement issued late Sunday, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated security operation involving aviation security personnel and other local security agencies.

According to FAAN, the individuals were first spotted behind the airport’s perimeter fence near the Eleyewo community.

The agency said security personnel, including FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and other local security groups, immediately launched a joint search operation in response to the sighting.

During the operation, some individuals reportedly attempted to flee the area, but four suspects were captured by the security team. The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further questioning.

In the statement signed by Henry Adegbire, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the authority commended the swift collaboration among aviation security officials, the military, the police, and local security outfits, including Amotekun and community vigilantes.

FAAN said the incident highlights the need to strengthen security around airport perimeters, noting that phased efforts are already underway to enhance protection across airports under its management against illegal access and other threats.

The authority also assured travellers and host communities of its continued commitment to ensuring the safety and security of airport facilities nationwide.

Meanwhile, Ondo State has witnessed a surge in attacks by gunmen in recent weeks.

On March 3, protesters from the Ayede Ogbese community in Akure North Local Government Area blocked the Akure-Owo-Benin highway to protest repeated killings and abductions in the area.

Similarly, on March 10, residents of Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities in the same local government area barricaded the Akure-Owo expressway over increasing cases of kidnapping.

During the protest, demonstrators placed the remains of a kidnap victim on the highway while chanting solidarity songs, causing heavy traffic on the busy road linking the southern and northern parts of the country.

Nigerian Military Arrests Bandit Who Promoted Terror Activities on TikTok

The Nigerian military has arrested a suspected bandit identified as Sule Yellow, who allegedly used the TikTok account @suleyellow6 to promote terrorist activities.

According to a report shared by @mobilisingniger on X on Monday, the suspect was arrested shortly after he reportedly collected ransom money from the family of a kidnapping victim.

Before his arrest, Sule Yellow had been actively posting on TikTok, where he allegedly showcased the operations and activities of bandits.

On March 4, he was said to have appeared in a livestream alongside another suspected bandit known as Auta, along with several others.

Security sources revealed that operatives had been monitoring his online activities for some time before carrying out the operation that led to his arrest.

Following his capture, authorities also disabled the TikTok account believed to be linked to him.

“The Nigerian Military arrests a notorious bandit Sule Yellow after collecting ransom payment from the victim’s family,” the post stated, adding that security forces shut down his account after the arrest.

Culled – Daily Post

From Construction Sites to Community Service: Temitope Akinyemi Emerges as a Model of Leadership and Impact

In an era where integrity, excellence and strong moral values appear to be diminishing among many young professionals, Temitope B. Akinyemi has carved a niche for himself as a disciplined professional, visionary entrepreneur and committed political stakeholder whose influence continues to grow across multiple sectors.

Temitope Akinyemi currently serves as the Group Chief Executive of several thriving companies operating within the building, civil engineering construction and procurement sector. Known for his result-driven leadership and strategic foresight, Akinyemi has built a reputation for delivering value, fostering organisational success and driving competitive growth within Nigeria’s built industry.

With close to two decades of professional experience, Akinyemi’s career reflects a blend of technical competence and managerial excellence. He honed his professional skills while working with reputable organisations including Portland Renovations and Construction Limited, Leadway Assurance, and Pixels Digital Systems Limited.

These experiences not only sharpened his expertise but also enabled him to nurture and mentor a team of young professionals within the construction and engineering ecosystem.

Akinyemi is an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where he laid the academic foundation for his career.

His commitment to continuous learning has taken him across some of the world’s most respected institutions. He attended the Owner Management Programme (OMP) jointly delivered by the Lagos Business School and Strathmore Business School in Kenya, while also earning certifications in Construction Project Management and Investment Management from the University of Cape Town.

Further strengthening his academic and professional credentials, Akinyemi obtained a Public Policy Certificate from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government in the United States, alongside certifications in Construction Management and Construction Estimation from George Brown College, Toronto, Canada. He is also currently concluding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Energy and Sustainability at Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia (UCAM), Spain

His professional affiliations reflect his deep engagement with the industry.

Akinyemi is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Building, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC).

Socially, he is also an active member of elite recreational institutions including the Ikoyi Club and the Ikeja Golf Club.

Beyond business and professional accomplishments, Temitope Akinyemi has steadily built a reputation as a grassroots-oriented political figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His political journey gained significant visibility in 2018 when he contested the APC House of Assembly ticket, using the opportunity to engage extensively with party members across wards while presenting a vision centred on improved welfare and holistic community development.

Although the primary contest did not culminate in electoral victory, Akinyemi’s engagement left a lasting impression within the political structure of the local government. His dedication and influence earned him a role in the Lagos State APC Campaign Committee in 2018, and later a more strategic appointment in 2022 as a member of the Presidential Campaign Committee that contributed to the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Driven by a passion for community service, Akinyemi has consistently supported vulnerable members of society through various empowerment and welfare initiatives. He regularly distributes food items, relief materials and financial assistance to elderly citizens, widows, youths and indigent children within his community, demonstrating a practical commitment to social responsibility.

In preparation for the 2023 general elections, Akinyemi also launched the Temitope Akinyemi Political Empowerment Programme, a strategic initiative designed to strengthen party structures and motivate grassroots members.

Through the programme, 183 party faithful, ward chairmen and elderly party members received financial support as recognition for their loyalty and dedication to the party.

The initiative not only reinforced party unity but also inspired new members to actively participate in the political process.

Today, Temitope B. Akinyemi stands as a blend of professional excellence, political engagement and humanitarian service a leader whose journey from the construction sector to community development initiatives reflects a consistent commitment to impact and progress.

As Nigeria continues to seek forward-thinking leaders capable of bridging business innovation with public service, Akinyemi’s trajectory offers a compelling example of how professionalism, education and grassroots connection can combine to shape meaningful leadership.

Empowered Women, Stronger Nation: Building Futures Through Property Ownership

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, attention rightly turns to the extraordinary role women play in shaping families, communities, and national economies. Beyond nurturing homes and leading in boardrooms, women are increasingly emerging as powerful drivers of nation-building through one of the most transformative assets of all, property ownership.

Across Nigeria, women are steadily breaking long-standing barriers in business, governance, technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Their expanding economic influence is uplifting households, strengthening institutions, and reinforcing the nation’s financial foundation. The evidence is clear: when women earn, communities prosper; when women invest, societies advance.

One of the most visible expressions of this progress is in real estate acquisition. Property ownership empowers women with security, stability, and the ability to build generational wealth. A home is more than a structure of concrete and steel, it is a platform for legacy, enterprise, social mobility, and long-term influence.

From young professionals purchasing their first plots of land to seasoned executives expanding diversified investment portfolios, Nigerian women are redefining wealth creation and strategic future planning. Their growing presence in the property market signals a cultural and economic shift toward asset-backed empowerment.

Real estate remains one of the safest and most rewarding investment paths, and women are embracing the opportunity with confidence. Their participation is reshaping urban development patterns, influencing housing demand, and stimulating construction, infrastructure growth, and employment value chains nationwide.

At Adron Homes and Properties, empowering women through property ownership is seen as a direct investment in national progress. Every woman who secures land or a home strengthens family stability, fuels economic growth, and inspires future generations to dream bigger and aim higher.

This International Women’s Day, women are celebrated not only for who they are, but for what they build:

* Builders of families
* Drivers of economic growth
* Investors in the future
* Architects of generational wealth

To honor their impact, Adron Homes is expanding access to ownership through flexible payment plans, inclusive investment opportunities, and customer-friendly support services designed to make property acquisition simple, transparent, and rewarding.

Because when women rise, nations thrive. And when women own property, the future is secured.

Wife Honors Husband, Prophet Genesis, on His Birthday, Lauds His Unwavering Support and Contributions to Humanity

Wife Honors Husband, Prophet Genesis, on His Birthday, Lauds His Unwavering Support and Contributions to Humanity
~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

The devoted wife of Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, Mrs. Adeshola Abike Ogundipe, has offered sincere prayers for her husband’s enduring good health, long life, and greater prosperity. As the presiding shepherd of Genesis Global Church, located at Duro Ishola Street, Dalemo Alakuko, Lagos, Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, popularly known as Genesis, a global prophet and philanthropist, will add another year of life in good health on March 10, 2026.

In a poignant message from Oluwaseun Fabiyi, Mrs. Adeshola Abikeh Ogundipe, wife of Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, also known as Genesis, praised her husband as ‘a rare gift from God to our family and to humanity, a pillar of strength whose compassion continues to inspire and uplift countless lives across various communities, tribes, and faiths.’

The devoted and modest wife emphasized that Prophet Israel Oladele’s existence has been marked not only by significant achievements in the Christian community but also by a profound commitment to elevating the downtrodden, nurturing aspirations, and providing unwavering support to many destinies that now shine brightly.

The lives you have touched powerfully attest to the divine grace at work in your generosity, which speaks volumes even in silence,

She also commended her husband’s guidance, wisdom, and steadfast support throughout the time, depicting him as a dependable source of wisdom and encouragement for those in his circle.

“Your humility is a hallmark trait evident in both private and public settings, garnering sincere admiration. Daily, we leverage your extensive expertise, firm principles, and exceptional resilience”.

The devoted spouse of Genesis thus supplicated that the Almighty would continue to expand Prophet Israel Ogundipe’s horizons, fulfill all that pertains to him, grant his secret petitions, and grant him good health and lasting peace.

“May your home be a haven of joy that never fades as you celebrate another year today, and may your days ahead be marked with fulfillment and divine blessings”. Mrs Adeshola Abikeh Ogundipe Genesis Global concluded.

International Women’s Day 2026: Adron Homes Champions Women’s Leadership and Inclusive Growth

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2026, Adron Homes and Properties has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women with meaningful opportunities to serve, lead, and shape the future of Nigeria’s real estate landscape.

Observed globally on March 8, this year’s theme, “Give To Gain,” calls for intentional investment in women through access to resources, education, mentorship, and leadership platforms. The message is clear: when women are empowered, organizations prosper, communities flourish, and nations grow stronger.

In line with this vision, Adron Homes highlighted its people-first culture, which promotes gender inclusion at all operational levels. From executive management and regional administration to marketing leadership, client experience, and field operations, women continue to play strategic roles in driving the company’s growth and service excellence.

According to the company, creating pathways for women to lead is not just a policy direction but a proven strategy that fuels innovation, strengthens decision-making, and deepens stakeholder trust.

Adron Homes also highlighted its internal capacity-building initiatives designed to equip female professionals with the skills and confidence needed for greater responsibility. Through structured mentorship, leadership exposure, and performance-based advancement systems, the organization continues to raise a new generation of women leaders within the property sector.

Delivering a message to commemorate the day, the Executive Vice Chairman, Olori Aderonke Emmanuelking, emphasized the company’s enduring commitment to inclusive progress:

“The theme ‘Give To Gain’ speaks to a principle we strongly believe in at Adron Homes, empowering women is an investment with lasting returns. When women are supported to lead and succeed, the impact goes beyond the workplace; it transforms families, industries, and society at large. We remain committed to building systems that help women rise and thrive.”

The company noted that its celebration of International Women’s Day reflects a broader mission, developing not only thriving residential communities but also a workplace culture where talent is recognized without bias and leadership opportunities are accessible to all.

As Adron Homes continues its expansion drive, it remains steadfast in fostering an environment where women are encouraged to contribute meaningfully, lead confidently, and grow sustainably.

COAS: Nigerian Army Will Defend the Ballot, Begins Early Security Strategy for 2027

As the nation sets its sights on the 2027 general elections, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has moved to allay fears of electoral violence by assuring citizens of the North Central region of a secure environment to exercise their civic rights. During his operational tour of Benue State on Tuesday, the COAS emphasized that proactive measures are already being activated to deter criminal actors and prevent any disruption of the democratic process.

“Let there be no misunderstanding: the Nigerian Army is fully committed to the protection of democracy,” Lt Gen Shaibu stated. “We are not waiting for 2027 to arrive before we act. We are working now, today, to ensure that when the time comes, every citizen can cast their vote without intimidation, without fear, and without the shadow of violence hanging over them.”

The COAS stressed that the ongoing military operations across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States are intrinsically linked to the stability of the upcoming elections. He explained that by dismantling armed groups and criminal networks now, the Army is effectively denying spoilers the opportunity to exploit the electoral period for chaos. He assured that security architecture is being reviewed to address potential flashpoints, ensuring that troops are strategically positioned to respond to any threat to the polls. “The ballot box is sacred, and we will defend it with everything we have,” he affirmed.

NASRE Celebrates Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun (IBD Dende) on His Birthday

The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE) has warmly felicitated with Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, popularly known as IBD Dende, on the joyous occasion of his birthday.

In a statement made available to the media by the Association’s Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Obadimu, NASRE described Chief Egungbohun as a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist per excellence, and a pillar of support to countless individuals and organizations across Nigeria.

Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun is the Chairman of IBD Impex Ltd, a reputable company known for its excellence and integrity in business operations. Beyond his remarkable success in the corporate world, IBD Dende has carved a niche for himself as a compassionate leader whose generosity continues to impact lives positively.

According to the statement, NASRE appreciates his immense contributions toward the growth and sustainability of the Association, particularly his unwavering support for journalists facing health challenges. His timely interventions and benevolence have provided relief and hope to media practitioners during difficult moments, reaffirming his reputation as a man with a large heart and deep commitment to humanity.

“Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun is not only a successful businessman but also a bridge-builder, a community developer, and a friend of the media. His philanthropic gestures cut across different sectors, touching the lives of the less privileged, empowering youths, and supporting initiatives that promote social development,” the statement read.

NASRE further commended him for his humility, accessibility, and steadfast dedication to nation-building. The Association noted that his life exemplifies hard work, resilience, generosity, and purposeful leadership.

As he marks another year of impactful living, NASRE prayed that Almighty God grants him continued good health, greater prosperity, long life, and the strength to continue his humanitarian services to society.
“On behalf of all members of the Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors, we celebrate an icon, a philanthropist per excellence, and a dependable ally of the media. May this new chapter of your life usher in greater accomplishments and fulfillment,” the statement concluded.

Dr Chris Okafor Withdraws Earlier Apology

The Generational Prophet and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Worldwide, Dr Chris Okafor, has withdrawn the public apology he recently issued in response to allegations made against him by a faded actress and certain social media influencers.

The allegations claimed, among other things, that he had promised marriage to an aggrieved woman. Dr Okafor has consistently described the claims as untrue.

Explaining his initial decision to apologise, the cleric said the move was made in an effort to calm tensions and shield his mentors and spiritual fathers, whom he said were being unfairly attacked on social media without verified facts. He also noted that conflicting advice from some associates influenced his earlier stance.

However, after reviewing the interpretation and implications of the apology, Dr Okafor stated that he concluded it was inappropriate to apologise for actions he insists he did not commit.

“If there was any apology, I withdraw it,” he said. “The allegations against me are false and amount to blackmail. It is wrong for me to apologise for what I did not do.”

He further expressed confidence that the truth has begun to emerge, adding that he would refrain from making further comments as the matter is now before the court.

“The court will determine who is lying and who is blackmailing,” he said.
April 16, 2026, has been fixed by the High Court of Nigeria for a final declaration on the matter.

By Christopher David