Health, Insurance, And Entrepreneurship Lectures To Take Centre Stage At NASRE Foundation’s End- Of-Year Support To Ailing Journalists Others
NASRE To Hold Third Edition Of Media Outreach Programme On Thursday
Health, Insurance, And Entrepreneurship Lectures To Take Centre Stage At NASRE’s End- Of-Year Support To Journalists
NASRE’s Third Media Outreach Set to Highlight Health, Insurance, and Entrepreneurship
End-of-Year NASRE Event Focuses on Health, Insurance, And Entrepreneurship For Journalists
The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE) has announced the third edition of its Media Outreach Programme, scheduled for Thursday, 21st November 2024, at LTV 8, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, beginning at 12:00 pm.
In a statement by NASRE’s Media Director, Lateef Owodunni, this year’s event will not only focus on supporting vulnerable journalists, such as widowed and ailing members of the fourth estate, but also aims to empower active journalists through impactful sessions on health, insurance, and entrepreneurship.
“Our goal this year is to broaden the scope of support we offer. Beyond providing relief to vulnerable journalists, we are introducing sessions on health, insurance, and entrepreneurship to ensure active journalists gain valuable insights that can positively impact their careers and personal lives,” Owodunni stated.
The Media Outreach Programme, which has benefitted numerous journalists in its earlier editions, is designed to foster solidarity, growth, and resilience within the media community.
This third edition promises to bring together media professionals, associations, and stakeholders in an inspiring and empowering atmosphere.
NASRE invites journalists, media associations, and enthusiasts to participate in this landmark event, which highlights the importance of care, collaboration, and innovation in addressing the challenges faced by those in the journalism profession.
ZENITH BANK HOLDS TECH FAIR, ‘FUTURE FORWARD 4.0’, IN LAGOS
The Fourth Edition of the Zenith Bank Tech Fair, tagged “Future Forward 4.0: Embedded Finance, Cybersecurity & Growth Imperatives – The Impact of AI”, is set to hold on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.
The fair will showcase leading technological innovations that cut across Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Risk Management, Compliance, Financial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and Communication Technologies, among others. The event will also feature a Start-up Pitch Competition – Zecathon – to identify innovative startups, panel discussions, masterclasses and exhibitions.
Among the rich lineup of activities, the event will feature opening remarks by Jim Ovia, CFR, Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank and a welcome address by Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank Plc. There will also be a goodwill message to be delivered by the Vice President of Nigeria, His Excellency, Sen. Kashim Shettima and the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu. The keynote address, “Banking Transformation in a Digital World “, will be delivered by Robin Speculand, a renowned Strategy & Digital Implementation Specialist. Other prominent IT practitioners who represent top global brands will make presentations. These include; Danillo McGarry, Global Expert in Digital Transformation & AI; Jania Okwechime, Partner, Africa, AI & Data, Deloitte and Rupert Nicolay, Director, Microsoft Worldwide Financial Services, amongst others.
The panel discussion which has Wole Odeyele, Client Technology Lead for Microsoft Inc. as its host, will feature six discussants including Ada Jabaru, Founder & Director, Nistad Limited; Funke Opeke, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, MainOne; Guy Futi, Chief Executive Officer, Orda; Dr Auwal Adam Sa’ad, Founder, ZamzamPay; Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote, Director General/Chief Executive Officer, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
The masterclass will be divided into seven (7) different classes, and facilitated by key industry players that cut across renowned tech giants such as: Microsoft, Oracle, CyberSoc, IBM, Google, Huawei & Amazon Web Services.
To register and participate, visit www.zenithbank.com/techfair. The fair will be live on Zoom and streamed on the bank’s social media pages.
How Sports Can Help Boost Nigeria’s Greatness – Obasa
– commissioner says govt passionate about youth
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has reiterated the importance and benefits of sports to Nigeria.
According to Dr. Obasa, sports is an area that should not be downplayed as it has the capacity to make the country greater, enrich the youth and improve businesses across the country.
The Speaker made the remark on Friday evening at the opening of the second edition of the Obasa Games 2024, a platform through which the organisers seek to further unite the youth in Lagos.
Commending Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, chairman of Kings Sports International and organiser of the Obasa Games, the Speaker noted that emerging developments in sports prompted the Lagos Assembly’s amendment of the State’s Sports Commission Law to accommodate new areas that are beneficial to the youth.
“I am passionate about football and I have always been a sportsman myself. Sports is an advantage to us in this state and the nation and I am reiterating that it is the future of our youth. Go anywhere in the world; sports has become a huge business,” he said.
Obasa further stressed that sports can help combat crimes and increase youth engagement in activities that boost national growth and development.
“We have realised that government alone cannot provide employment. We have also realised that because of the peculiarities of our nation as well as our advantage in terms of population, we can generate businesses out of sports to move the youth away from crime,” he said adding that Obasa Games will remain sustained.
The Lagos Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Omobolaji Ogunlende, also commended the organisers of the games pledging the support of the government for such initiatives aimed at growing the youth. He charged the participants to be at their best.
In his address, Abdul-Ganiyu said the success of the first edition of the games gave the impetus to continue and expand the scope.
“This year’s event, featuring football, boxing, table tennis,
chess, and Scrabble, brings together talented athletes
and teams from across the 10 Local Government Areas
and 18 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within the Lagos West Senatorial District.
He said the games were organised to honour the
remarkable contributions and vision of the Speaker for Lagos State.
“His commitment to the development of our state,
his unwavering support for our youth, and his passion for
fostering sports as a vehicle for positive change have
been our inspiration,” he said.
Chairman of the Agege Local Government Area, High Chief Ganiyu Egunjobi, said his council and the Orile-Agege Local Government Development Area decided to partner with the organisers to be a part of the passion that Obasa exhibits for sports.
“Sport has proven to be a cost-effective and flexible tool for promoting peace and development objectives. Sport is also an important enabler of sustainable development,” he said urging residents to always imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship
Adron Homes Welcomes New Executive, Emphasizing Commitment to Professional Excellence
In a strategic move to foster growth and elevate the quality of service delivery, the Management of Adron Homes and Properties is thrilled to announce the appointment of exceptional staff members who have exemplified remarkable professionalism and have significantly contributed to the advancement of the Adron brand. We proudly introduce our newly appointed leaders: Adenike Ajobo as Managing Director, Olubunmi Akinfe as Deputy Managing Director, Ihuoma Azuru as Assistant Managing Director of Sales and Marketing (Lagos Nigeria), Barbie Ette as Assistant Managing Director of Sales and Marketing (Northern Nigeria), Odunola Ogundapo as Assistant Managing Director of Sales and Marketing (Western Nigeria), Olasumbo Oguntoye as Assistant Managing Director of Housing Nigeria, and Haastrup as Director General of Customer Service. Together, they will drive our mission forward and ensure continued excellence at Adron Homes.
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, the Chairman and Group Managing Director of Adron Homes, has issued an important directive to the newly appointed directors of the company. He emphasized the critical need for quality delivery in all aspects of their work. Aare King highlighted that each director must align their actions and decisions with the overarching vision and mission of the organization. He urged them to remain committed to the company’s goals and to foster a culture of excellence, ensuring that their contributions not only meet but exceed the expectations set forth by Adron Homes.
Adenike Abosede Ajobo stands out as a highly regarded authority in the fields of corporate branding, public relations, business repositioning, and organizational strategy. She holds a degree in Linguistics from the prestigious University of Ibadan and has further enhanced her expertise with an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Marketing from The Polytechnic of Ibadan.
Her dedication to professional growth is reflected in her memberships with esteemed organizations, including the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (MNIMN), the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and the Nigeria Institute of Personality Development and Customer Relationship Management (NIPD-CRM-dsgnt). These affiliations illustrate her unwavering commitment to continuous learning and excellence within her industry.
Adenike’s professional journey with Adron Homes commenced in January 2024 when she took on the role of Group Company Secretary. Her exceptional leadership skills and strategic vision quickly propelled her up the ranks, and she soon became the Deputy Managing Director of Southern Nigeria. Her impressive performance has now garnered her a well-deserved promotion to the position of Managing Director at Adron Homes, where she is set to steer the company toward a promising future, leveraging her insights and experience to craft innovative strategies for growth and development.
Akinfe Olubunmi Omolara is an esteemed leader and achiever, recognized for her dedication to maximizing her potential in every role she undertakes. She is a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, lle-Ife, Osun State, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology. Her career journey at Adron Homes and Properties, reflects her remarkable growth and commitment to excellence. She has progressed through a range of pivotal roles, from Deputy Group Sales Manager, District Sales Manager, and Deputy District Sales Manager to Deputy Group Customer Relations Officer, Regional Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Operating Officer. Her leadership and strategic acumen continued to shine through her promotions as the Director of Sales and Marketer and later promoted as the Director General of Sales and Marketing. She has now been promoted to the position of Deputy Managing Director , where she will drive growth and operational efficiency for Adron Homes.
Ihuoma Udodirim Azuru’s journey is a testament to exceptional leadership and dedication. Her academic prowess shines through with a B.Sc in Accounting, M.Sc in Business Management, MBA in Human Resources and currently studying Law at the Leadership City University, underscoring her commitment to ongoing personal and professional development. Her career with the company began as Group Head Admin and HR, where she showcased her adaptive leadership style. Subsequently, she transitioned to the role of Director of Sales and Marketing (Southwest). Moreover, she was promoted to the prestigious role of Director General for Sales and Marketing at Adron Homes. Her exceptional leadership, dedication, and strategic vision within the organization leads to her appointment as the Assistant Managing Director Lagos Nigeria.
Odunola Ogundapo is a highly regarded sales and marketing professional, celebrated for her steadfast dedication and strategic insight, which have contributed to her impressive track record of success in the industry. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Olabisi Onabanjo University, where she developed a strong foundational knowledge of earth sciences. Further enhancing her expertise, she earned a Master’s degree in Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology from the prestigious University of Lagos, a program renowned for its rigorous approach and focus on the energy sector. This combination of academic credentials allows Odunola to meld deep scientific understanding with strategic business acumen, enabling her to deliver exceptional results in her professional endeavors.
Odunola embarked on her career in 2017 at Adron Homes and Properties Ltd, starting as a Business Executive. In this role, she quickly demonstrated her innate talents and passion for sales and marketing, employing a goal-driven approach that not only set her apart but also paved the way for her rapid advancement within the company. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to forge strong relationships with clients and stakeholders led to her recognition as a rising star in the organization.
Currently serving as the Assistant Managing Director, Odunola plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing innovative strategies aimed at driving growth and enhancing the company’s market position. Her forward-thinking mindset and comprehensive understanding of market dynamics allow her to identify and seize new opportunities effectively. Under her leadership, the team is not only motivated but also encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries, resulting in increased productivity and morale.
Odunola’s leadership style is characterized by a unique blend of optimism and resilience, which fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment. She prioritizes the development of her team members, nurturing their potential and empowering them to become future leaders in the organization. This commitment to mentorship and professional growth among her staff has created a culture of excellence that thrives on teamwork and innovation, ensuring that everyone is aligned with the company’s vision and goals. Through her unwavering dedication to her work and her ability to inspire those around her, Odunola Ogundapo continues to make a significant impact in the sales and marketing realm.
Aminat Olaniyan Haastrup is an inspirational customer service specialist, deeply committed to creating exceptional service experiences. With a strong educational background in Estate Management and Customer Experience, she earned her degree from Yaba College of Technology. An Associate Member of The Association of Business Practitioners (ABP) in the UK and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Customer Relationship Management, Aminat’s journey began as the Director of Customer Services. Renowned for her dedication to customer-centric strategies, she passionately pursues unparalleled service excellence. Through transformative initiatives across the company’s customer relations landscape, Aminat has inspired those around her and achieved her new role as the Director General of Customer Service.
Wema Bank Announces Grand Finale of Hackaholics 5.0: Set to Reward Winners With ₦75 Million Worth of Prizes
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s foremost innovative financial institution and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has announced the grand finale of the 5th edition of its flagship youth and startup-focused tech competition, Hackaholics.
Launched in 2019, Wema Hackaholics is a groundbreaking initiative designed to harness the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigeria’s youth, providing them with a platform to turn their tech-driven ideas into reality. The highly anticipated Hackaholics 5.0 grand finale will take place on November 27th, 2024, under the theme, “Meta Idea: Capitalizing Africa’s Growth Through Innovation.” This year’s theme aims to showcase how tech-driven solutions can fuel Africa’s development by tapping into the continent’s growth potential through innovation and digital transformation.
The grand finale will bring together the brightest innovators from universities and tech communities across the country. These innovators will pitch their Digi-Tech solutions designed to solve real-world problems and contribute to Africa’s economic and social progress. The event promises to be the culmination of months of intensive competition, collaboration, and mentorship, providing a platform for youth-led tech ideas to reach new heights.
Announcing the date of the grand finale, Moruf Oseni, MD/CEO of Wema Bank, highlighted the bank’s vision for Hackaholics. “Hackaholics is more than a competition; it is a movement to equip Nigeria’s youth with the skills, networks, and resources needed to drive Africa’s digital transformation. The Meta Idea theme for this year is a call to action for young innovators to think beyond the present and design solutions that will catalyze on Africa’s growth. We are excited to see how our participants envision and build the Africa of tomorrow.”
Speaking on the prizes, the MD/CEO said “At the grand finale, participants will compete for exciting cash prizes, grants, and access to Wema Bank’s extensive network of investors, mentors, and industry experts. The total worth of prizes for this year is ₦75,000,000. The winning team will receive ₦30,000,000, the first runner-up will receive ₦20,000,000 and the second runner-up will receive ₦15,000,000 worth of prizes. Additionally, we will be awarding a special grant of ₦10,000,000 worth of prizes to the female-led team to encourage gender diversity in tech innovation.” He concluded.
Wema Bank’s Hackaholics is a testament to the Bank’s commitment to shaping Africa’s future through innovation and entrepreneurship. Hackaholics 5.0 began with a nationwide call for entries earlier in the year and has engaged over 10,000 aspiring tech innovators and entrepreneurs across Nigeria. With 2,297 applications across 8 physical pitch centers and 1 virtual pitch center, 34 innovators across all locations are set to pitch their ideas at the pre-pitch stage ahead of the grand finale scheduled to hold in Lagos.
Through Hackaholics, Wema Bank has provided a platform for youth to channel their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into actionable tech solutions that address Africa’s most pressing challenges. Over the years, Hackaholics has grown into one of the largest and most influential tech competitions in Nigeria, impacting thousands of young minds.
The competition not only offers winners cash prizes and grants, but also access to mentorship, industry networks, and resources to help scale their innovations globally. This initiative is a key part of Wema Bank’s broader strategy to harness technology as a driver of socio-economic growth in Africa.
Interested individuals can register to attend the grand finale via https://hackaholics.wemabank.com/grandfinale
Society Herald Magazine Honors Distinguished Entrepreneur Hon. Babatunde Samuel Seidu as Youth Ambassador
…Acknowledging his tireless and selfless dedication to humanitarian causes and promoting youth empowerment
Babatunde Seidu, a distinguished entrepreneur and trailblazer, was recently recognized with an honor as Youth Ambassador by the management and staff of Sunnyadious Communications Concepts, which publishes Society Herald Magazine and manages related online platforms at www.societyherald.com.ng.
We proudly recognize his exceptional dedication to improving entertainment, sports, youth empowerment and hospitality experiences, and commend his selfless contributions to humanity and exceptional youth empowerment within his jurisdictions
Sunday Adeyemi, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Society Herald Magazine, conferred upon him a certificate of excellence, recognizing as proactive youth ambassador for his exceptional contributions in Nigeria and globally, notably as Co-founder and CEO of Empahyah Football Academy, in conjunction with his award
Honorable Babatunde Samuel Seidu, a rising figure in the entertainment industry, commended the management’s endeavors and pledged to further develop his entertainment and sports initiatives within Lagos, Nigeria, and beyond
Babatunde Samuel Seidu, with ancestral ties to Kogi State, completed his primary education in Lagos and continues to excel in his pursuits
Undoubtedly, Babatunde Samuel Seidu exemplifies youthful achievement, making significant contributions to empowering future generations
The factors contributing to his reputation as a sophisticated and handsome achiever among his global counterparts
What a sincere commendations on earning this well-merited recognition.
Access Bank Hosts 2024 French Business Forum, Affirms Boost to Nigeria-France Trade Relations
L-R: Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings PLC and President of the France-Nigeria Business Council; Laurent Favier, Consul General of France in Lagos; Zahrah Mustapha Audu, Technical Adviser to the President on Foreign Direct Investment; Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment; Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/Chief Executive Director, Access Bank Plc; Florent Mangin, Head of the Regional Economic Department French Treasury, at the French Week 2024 Business Forum at the Access Bank headquarters in Lagos…Tuesday, November 12, 2024.
Access Bank PLC has hosted the French Week 2024 Business Forum at its headquarters in Lagos, affirming its commitment to bolstering trade relations between Nigeria and France. The event, which kick-started the annual French Week celebration, highlighted Access Bank’s dedication to fostering bilateral business collaborations and creating a platform for growth, trust, and innovation in the France-Nigeria economic space.
The Business Forum attracted high-profile dignitaries, including Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Consul General of France in Lagos, President of the Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Chairman of Access Holdings Plc. Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment in Lagos, as well as the Technical Adviser to the President on Foreign Direct Investment, conveyed the federal government’s full support for advancing cross-border partnerships with France, appreciating Access Bank’s leadership in organising such impactful forums.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Laurent Favier, the Consul General of France, acknowledged Access Bank’s growing presence in France, further underscoring the bank’s pivotal role in facilitating trade between the two nations. He lauded Access Bank for championing France-Nigeria economic relations by establishing both a strong footprint in Paris and a dedicated French Desk in Nigeria to facilitate seamless business transactions.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings PLC, who also serves as President of the France-Nigeria Business Council, emphasised the council’s role in supporting economic policies that enhance the business environment for both nations. “The France-Nigeria Business Council seeks to play a crucial role in supporting our government, businesses, and citizens to create a more enabling, uplifting, and secure environment for cross-border businesses,” he stated.
During the first panel discussion, Roosevelt Ogbonna, CEO of Access Bank Nigeria, highlighted the bank’s efforts in supporting African presence in global markets. “Access Bank is dedicated to giving Africa a voice on the international stage, helping local businesses scale through better access to information, credit, and capital. Our presence in Paris not only strengthens Nigeria’s influence, but also facilitates investments that align with the ongoing economic transformations on the African continent.”
In his closing remarks, HE Marc Fonbaustier, the Ambassador of France emphasized the significance of the forum as a platform to elevate Nigeria-France trade and investments. “Events like this provide a rare opportunity to enhance our bilateral economic relationship, strengthening existing trade and investment channels and fostering new partnerships.”
With the successful launch of the French Week 2024 Business Forum, Access Bank reaffirms its commitment to positioning Nigeria as a key player in the international business landscape, promoting shared economic growth and sustainable partnerships that benefit both nations.
L-R: Moses Umoru, Director General, Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Guillaume Niarfeix, President, Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings PLC and President of the France-Nigeria Business Council; Laurent Favier, Consul General of France in Lagos; Zahrah Mustapha Audu, Technical Adviser to the President on Foreign Direct Investment; Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment; Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/Chief Executive Director, Access Bank Plc; Florent Mangin, Head of the Regional Economic Department French Treasury; Jean Haas, Secretary General, France Nigeria Business Council, at the French Week 2024 Business Forum at Access Bank headquarters in Lagos…Tuesday, November 12, 2024.
The Access Bank (UK) Limited to Acquire Mauritius-based AfrAsia Bank Limited
Access Holdings PLC (“Access Holdings”) today announces that its banking group’s, subsidiary, The Access Bank UK Limited (“the Access UK”) has entered into a binding agreement to acquire a majority equity stake in AfrAsia Bank Limited (“AfrAsia Bank”), the Republic of Mauritius’ third largest bank by total assets.
Mauritius, renowned for its robust financial services sector which contributes 13.4% to its Gross Domestic Product, provides Access UK with a solid foundation to expand its operations in the high-growth personal and corporate banking segments. Furthermore, Access Bank will utilise Mauritius as a strategic hub for trade finance and regional connectivity, thereby enhancing its capacity to facilitate cross-border transactions across Africa and beyond.
The transaction represents a transformational step forward for the Access UK and the overall Access Holdings’ banking franchise. At the end of its fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, AfrAsia Bank recorded Total Assets of more than US$5.7 billion and Net Profit After Tax of US$152.4 million.
Commenting on the acquisition, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank Plc and the CEO of the Banking Group said:
“This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in our African growth strategy, reinforcing our position as a leading Pan-African financial institution. Mauritius offers immense potential as an international financial hub, and through AfrAsia Bank, we are excited to unlock new opportunities to drive trade, support businesses, and foster economic inclusion across the region as we continue our mission to be the World’s Most Respected African Bank.”
Jamie Simmonds, Managing Director of the Access Bank UK added:
“With a strong balance sheet and a well-established brand in Mauritius, AfrAsia Bank provides us with a sustainable platform to scale and achieve long-term profitability. The deal aligns with our strategy to diversify and future-proof our earnings; and offer bespoke solutions enabling our clients to access global markets with ease.”
The Access Bank UK remains focused on fostering sustainable growth and delivering innovative financial solutions that empower businesses and individuals, while advancing intra- and inter-African trade, unlocking opportunities, and contributing to its economic transformation. Access Bank UK remains committed to providing innovative financial solutions and fostering trade relations between Africa and the rest of the world.
The parties would be working in the coming months to complete the acquisition and would continue to make the required disclosures.
Breaking: Lawmakers Pass Vote Of Confidence In Obasa
…as Speaker turns 52
Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday passed a vote of confidence on Speaker Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa saying they remain satisfied with his leadership of the House.
The vote of confidence on the Speaker coincided with his 52nd birthday as the lawmakers eulogised him for uplifting the country’s democracy through laws that impact positively on the people.
“I rise this afternoon to move a motion that a vote of confidence be passed on the Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa to continue the good work that he has always done, especially in this 10th Assembly.
“It is good to note that every decision the Speaker has taken in the House has been with the full consent of his fellow lawmakers. He consults the members and gets their opinions,” Majorit Leader Noheem Adams raised during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.
Hon. Adams said his motion, seconded by Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun I), followed a wide consultation.
Deputy Majority Leader Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, while supporting the motion, added: “We have absolute confidence in his leadership and there is no better way to show this than to pass a vote of confidence on the Speaker.”
As part of the birthday celebration, the lawmakers praised the Speaker for his influential leadership.
“I celebrate my Speaker and note his impactful leadership. On behalf of my constituents in Eti-Osa, I wish him a happy birthday,” Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) said.
On his part, Hon. Nureni Akinsanya commended Dr. Obasa for his loyalty to whatever he believes in.
“No matter the circumstances, Obasa stands by you. I pray to Almighty Allah to grant him more wisdom and to bless him and his family. May he have no cause for regret in life. I wish him all the best,” he remarked.
Hon. Aro Moshood, who conveyed his birthday wishes, acknowledged Speaker Obasa’s instrumental role in shaping Lagos and Nigeria as well as his dedication to public service.
Other lawmakers joined in extending their congratulations, wishing the Speaker long life filled with greater achievements.
The House commemorated the occasion by showcasing a clip of Speaker Obasa’s significant contributions to major laws passed in the Assembly.
Obasa @52: Photos As Lagos Speaker Celebrates With School Kids
– warns students against social vices
– Aminat Alege, victim of shot teargas canister, gets N5m
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Friday celebrated with children from various schools in the State as part of activities to mark his 52nd birthday which comes up on November 11.
Dr. Obasa, who gifted brilliant pupils from across the 20 local government areas of Lagos and students in the six districts of the state with cash rewards, urged the children to abstain from social vices as such could redirect their purposes in life.
At the event which was held at the Oyewole Primary School, Agege, the Speaker said he loves celebrating his birthday with school children as a way to motivate them and make them serious with their studies.
“We want you to develop that confidence, that dream that you will become something tomorrow. This was my school. As a child, I never thought that I would be where I am today.
“Therefore, you must be hardworking. It does not matter the name of your school, what matters is your ability and how much you can put into your study. So start reading now.
“I was in class three when I finished preparing the processes for WAEC exams. I can display my result and how I passed at one sitting. You don’t have to feel oppressed because you’re not in a private school. That’s why we are always here to encourage you and make you see that you’re truly our future.
“You can be better than us but you must make sure you are serious with your education. I want a situation where in the future, you would remember today and also find yourself in positions to inspire others.
“Please, I beg you. Never give in to crime. For the girls, do not be corrupted or influenced negatively. Don’t be enticed with money. Be upright and adopt morality,” the Speaker advised.
AMINAT ALEGE: 12-YEAR-OLD STUDENT SHOT IN EYE GETS N5M
One of the highlights of the event was the award of N5 million to Aminat Alege, the student who was mistakenly hit in the eye by a teargas canister shot by a policeman on February 9, 2024.
The money was contributed by the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly as part of efforts to help the victim’s family mitigate the educational challenge she may have faced since the incident.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues during the presentation of a cheque to Aminat’s parents, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, (Eti-Osa II), said Speaker Obasa had been disturbed since the incident happened to the student of the Adams Yakubu Memorial school Agege.
He said the lawmakers decided to assist after watching Aminat’s parents appeal for assistance from the public.
“There was a programme where the parents cried out for assistance. So we at the Lagos State House of Assembly have contributed the sum of N5 million. We have also offered a scholarship for the young lady so that she can continue her education,” he said.
The lawmakers further donated 15 computer sets to three schools, Oyewole Primary School, Thomas Aquinas school and Royal Apple School.
2 STUDENTS WIN SCHOLARSHIPS
For winning in a current affairs question-and-answer session, two students at the event won scholarships by the chairman of Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area, Babatunde Johnson.
Ishola Moyinoluwa of Ikeja Junior High School and Isiaka Bashar Ayomiposi of Eko Junior College were among the students who participated in the competition.
While Moyinoluwa came first, Ayomiposi came second during the competition.
Commending Obasa, Mr. Johnson, noted God’s mercies on the Speaker who he described as “a leader that has paid his dues.”
The Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Noheem Adams, said Obasa had become a pride to the people of Agege because of the massive infrastructural development the Speaker has attracted to the area.
Speaking for the educational sector, Tutor-General Adekanye Oladele, commended the Speaker for always uplifting education in the state.
She promised that the students would continue to make the state proud.
