The people of Bichi Federal Constituency in Kano State can look upon the accomplishments of their representative, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi, with immense pride. His contributions to their constituency, the state, and Nigeria at large have been both remarkable and impactful.
Nicknamed “Shine your Eyes,” the humble legislator was born on October 2, 1981, in Hagagawa village, Bichi town, the administrative seat of Bichi Local Government and the Bichi Emirate Council. His vision and commitment to democratic principles have set him apart as one of the leading figures of his generation. A champion of transparency and accountability, Rt. Hon. Bichi has earned a reputation as a transformative leader and a symbol of national unity.
While many legislators focus solely on their legislative duties—law-making, oversight, and appropriation—Rt. Hon. Bichi goes beyond these roles. Through his political acumen, he has broken barriers and extended his reach, bringing development not only to his constituency but also to other parts of the country. His dedication to using his personal resources and influence to uplift lives is a testament to his commitment to public service.
One of his most notable achievements is the asphalting of major roads in his constituency, which has greatly improved transportation and boosted the movement of goods, services, and agricultural produce. This infrastructural development underscores the effectiveness of a truly dedicated leader.
In education, Rt. Hon. Bichi has ensured that nearly all public schools in his constituency have well-equipped, conducive classrooms, fostering a better learning environment for students. He believes in empowering the youth while also taking care of the elderly, acknowledging that the future of every community depends on its young people, guided by the wisdom of its elders. His efforts include providing healthcare and resources for the elderly, further highlighting his inclusive leadership approach.
A forward-thinking leader, Rt. Hon. Bichi is not only focused on addressing current needs but also on leaving a lasting legacy. Among his various initiatives, his focus on agriculture has been transformative. By providing timely agricultural inputs, he has positioned his constituency as an agricultural hub, promoting food security and economic development.
Napoleon Bonaparte once said, “Ability is of little account without opportunity.” Rt. Hon. Bichi embodies this belief by empowering the youth through programs that advance skills, foster entrepreneurship, and create job opportunities. His initiatives have helped constituents build businesses and secure employment in government agencies. These efforts have opened avenues for personal and professional growth, making Bichi Federal Constituency a model of progress.
One of his hallmark programs is the annual scholarship scheme, which provides free education to tertiary students in his constituency. Over 10,000 beneficiaries have received this life-changing support, enhancing their intellectual capacities and opening doors to a brighter future.
Thanks to his pragmatic leadership, Bichi Federal Constituency has become a benchmark for others. His emphasis on human capital development, job creation, and wealth redistribution has improved social services and youth empowerment, setting a standard for national development.
In recognition of his achievements, Rt. Hon. Bichi has held key leadership roles, including Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, and Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Character. His extensive knowledge of Nigeria and his ability to foster unity have enabled him to oversee several federal road projects, including the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, Kano Light Rail project, and the Eko Bridge.
In the realm of law-making, Rt. Hon. Bichi has made significant contributions, including sponsoring the Bill for the Establishment of the University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Bichi, as well as the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (Establishment) Bill, 2021. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the 2024 Reps of the Year Award by the Democracy Heroes Award Africa, in recognition of his contributions to democratic values and community development.
A proud successor to a lineage of public servants, Rt. Hon. Bichi is the son of a former member of the Kano State House of Assembly and the Sarakuwa of Bichi. He received his early education at Hagagawa Primary School, Bichi, and went on to attend Government Junior Secondary School, Bichi, and Dawakin Tofa Science College, where he earned his Senior Secondary School Certificate. He later traveled abroad to further his education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Science in Energy Management from the New York Institute of Technology.
As we reflect on the achievements of this remarkable leader, we join the people of Bichi Federal Constituency in celebrating the life and legacy of Rt. Hon. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi on his birthday.
Unmarked Helicopter Spark Alarm in Obuama, Rivers State
Obuama, Rivers State – A youth leader in Obuama has raised concerns over mysterious unmarked helicopter flying over the home ot-[f Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Alabo Edi-Abali of Kalabari Kingdom.
On Saturday, during Local Government elections, two unmarked helicopters with armed men flew low over Obuama and Dokubo-Asari’s residence. Another helicopter appeared today.
Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, has been a longstanding advocate for resource control and minority rights. As the leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force (NDPVF), he has fought tirelessly for the rights of the Ijaw people and other marginalized communities. He is also a close abd long standing friend of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Residents, including the elderly, are uneasy as the town is typically peaceful and hosts an army formation. The unknown affiliation and mission of the helicopters have sparked anxiety.
“We are living in fear, not knowing what these helicopters are here for,” said Mrs. Blessing Ebenezer, a 65-year-old resident. “We can’t sleep at night, thinking something terrible might happen.”
Chief Barr. Opuene , a community leader, expressed similar concerns: “The presence of these unmarked helicopters is unsettling. We urge authorities to investigate and reassure us of our safety.”
Youth Leader, Comrade Preye Harrison, who first reported the incident, emphasized: “Obuama has always been peaceful. These mysterious helicopters are causing unnecessary tension. We demand answers.”
The town’s apprehension grows as authorities remain silent on the helicopters’ origin and purpose.
Further investigation is needed to determine the origin and purpose of these unmarked flights.
Zenith Bank Enhances Customer Online Experience with Revamped Digital Channels
Zenith Bank, one of Nigeria’s foremost financial institutions, has successfully restored full operational services across its electronic transaction channels, ensuring that customers can now enjoy seamless access to digital banking services.
This restoration follows temporary disruptions caused by a routine upgrade of the bank’s technology infrastructure, which aimed to optimize service delivery but impacted e-channel services recently.
In a post shared on Thursday through its social media platforms, the leading lender confirmed that all services across its electronic channels have been fully reinstated.
Reiterating its commitment to providing quality digital services, the bank assured customers of exceptional service with its newly enhanced technology infrastructure, designed to deliver seamless and innovative financial solutions.
The announcement stated:
“We are pleased to inform you that access to our digital channels has been restored, allowing you to perform transactions conveniently via your preferred platform.
We appreciate your patience during the IT infrastructure upgrade and sincerely apologize for any inconveniences you experienced.
Rest assured, we are dedicated to providing you with exceptional service, and the new IT infrastructure we have implemented will enable us to do so moving forward.
Thank you for choosing to bank with us.”
Important Reminder
Zenith Bank will NEVER call, SMS, or email you requesting your card details, PIN, token codes, mobile/internet banking login details, or any other account-related information.
We will also NEVER ask you to click on a link to update your bank information or activate your account. If you receive such messages, please DO NOT respond.
Access Holdings Leads Action in Sickle Cell Awareness Month
L-R: Amaechi Okobi, Chief Communications Officer, Access Holdings PLC; Ms. Timi Edwin, Sickle Cell Champions and Founder, CrimsomBow Sickle Cell Initiative, and Esther Graham, Team Member, Sustainability, Access Holdings PLC, at the Access Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative event to mark Sickle Cell Awareness Month at the institution’s headquarters in Lagos…recently.
In a heartfelt demonstration of solidarity and compassion, employees of Access Holdings PLC came together to donate 159 pints of blood as part of an initiative to commemorate Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
The donation drive, which saw over 200 employees participate, was executed in partnership with the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service and the Boat Foundation/Life Bank. This contribution will directly support sickle cell champions, who often require urgent blood transfusions due to life-threatening complications from the disease.
Amaechi Okobi, Chief Communications Officer at Access Holdings PLC, spoke on the significance of the initiative, stating, “Every pint of blood donated represents hope and survival for someone living with sickle cell. We are incredibly proud of our staff who volunteered and our partners who made this possible. Access Holdings is committed to championing causes that change lives and create lasting impact.”
In addition to the donation drive, Access Bank, the flagship subsidiary of Access Holdings, hosted a webinar, featuring a distinguished panel of speakers, including Prof. Ebele Uche, Professor of Haematology at the Lagos State University College of Medicine; Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service; Dr. Sola Adebekun, Executive Secretary of the Temitayo Awosika Help Foundation, and Ms. Judith Ojonugwa Mathew, a sickle cell champion. The webinar focused on raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals living with sickle cell and emphasised the importance of regular blood donations in managing the disorder.
The panellists shared insights on healthcare gaps, the need for increased blood supply, and the impact of public-private partnerships in supporting sickle cell patients. The event also included personal stories from sickle cell champions, highlighting their daily struggles and the importance of timely interventions like blood transfusions.
Access Holdings’ involvement in this campaign underscores its dedication to advancing healthcare initiatives that benefit vulnerable communities. As Africa continues to see over 300,000 babies born with sickle cell each year, the need for advocacy, support, and healthcare solutions remains urgent. Access Bank’s leadership in these efforts reinforces its commitment to building a healthier society and creating long-lasting positive impact.
Segun Agbaje’s GTCO (GTBank) under Scrutiny over Huge Net Income Interest Profit Declaration, despite Pending Court Cases on Overcharging
Mark Twain, American humorist, journalist, lecturer, novelist and moralist was ascribed to have said “A banker is a fellow who lends you his umbrella when the sun is shining, but wants it back the minute it begins to rain.” This simply means one can’t expect bankers to be of help when they are really needed, this much can be used to describe how the Segun Agbaje led Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc/ GTBank, has been working against its clients for personal profit.
There has recently been so much noise about the ₦1 Trillion plus profit declared by the financial institution. According to the report made available the Segun Agbaje led group was said to have made a large chunk of the announced growth of its income from the Net Interest Income (NII), which recorded a 176.9 per cent growth to ₦491.5 billion from ₦177.5 billion last year.
For a clearer understanding the Net Interest Income (NII), is the difference between the profit earned as interest on loans given to borrowers against the money it pays out as interest on deposits or loans to depositors and its lenders.
The most common effects of net interest income on borrowers according to findings includes; Higher Interest Rates (this is the period whereby financial institutions arbitrarily raise interest rates to enable them make money). Overcharging (this is such that the financial institution manipulate things so additional fees are imposed or charges on borrowers), Stifling Innovation and Growth and many more.
With Segun Agbaje’s GTCO announcing ₦314 billion increase on the previous year coupled with the current economic crisis facing the country, there is strong indication that the many accusations against the group as inherited from the GTBank on overcharging by several companies may be founded.
If it would be recollected, the bank before and after it metamorphous into the Holdings Company it currently is, is not new to sanctions that has to be with disregard for laid down rules, in 2018, the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) stopped GTBank UK from taking on new customers, note GTBank UK is an independent subsidiary of the GTCO.
The bank was later fined £7,671,800 for serious weaknesses in its anti-money laundering (AML) systems and controls between October 2014 and July 2019, the huge fine became necessary when lesser fine of £525,000 in August 2013 for serious and systemic failings fails to deter the bank.
In a similar action of disregard to rules for profit maximization the GTBank Ghana’s Foreign Exchange Trading License was suspended earlier this year over breaches of foreign exchange market regulations which include incidents of fraudulent documentation within their foreign exchange operations for a month in accordance with the relevant law in Ghana.
The Segun Agbaje led organization’s knack for bending the rules for profit was a major reason most people are calling on CBN and other relevant agencies to investigate the announced profit especially with regards to NII as the litigation against the bank on issues that has to do with overcharging is still pending before various courts in Nigeria.
If it would be recollected, overcharging is the main bone of contention of the now more than ₦20 billion case between GTBank and Innoson Motors. Innoson had dragged the bank to court for over-charging on a loan facility it got from the Segun Agbaje led bank.
Information was that Innoson has decided to conduct a proper auditing when they started getting strange charges in their account, it was the process that revealed GTBank has over-charged it to the tune of ₦786million over the course of several years dating back to 2004, after which Innoson informed the bank.
It was when the bank denied it and insisted that Innoson is still owing them that the company was forced to seek court help where a subsequently judgement was given in May 2013, and the Segun Agbaje led bank was asked to pay the sum of ₦559,374,072.09, “with a 22 percent interest on the admitted sum to be paid from March 1, 2004 since that was the interest rate on the loan, till satisfaction of the judgment debt.
The court also added a 100% penalty as stipulated in the CBN Guidelines for excess charges by banks, which brought the total judgment cost then to ₦2.4 billion, but is likely to be more that ₦2o Billion at the moment because the bank has been finding way to stop the execution of the judgement.
Another case pending in court against the Segun Agbaje led GTCO, was made public knowledge last year when GTBank through a receivers’ manager tries to illegally (by pronouncement of a court) take over properties of Stallion Group Nigeria over a purported ₦13 billion debt, whereas the CFO of Stallion Nigeria contends that it is not owing GTB any longer and that on the contrary, it is on record that it has paid more than what was outstanding to GTB by ₦6,423,700,000.
Stallion Nigeria in its application, which was granted by the Court had explained that the preliminary KPMG forensic audit report had established that GTB overcharged Stallion, in excess, fraudulent and illegal charges of ₦4,693,625,637.49, adding that GTBank had accepted this finding by the auditors.
Stallion has been in court with GTBank since 2019 over allegations and claims with Stallion winning against GTBank at the Court of Appeal, Nigeria. The Court of Appeal presided over by the Honourable Justices Daniel-Kalio, Sirajo and Banjoko, had previously delivered Judgment in favour of Stallion Nigeria against Guaranty Trust Bank Plc on 24 February, 2022 and set aside the Ruling of Honourable Justice Saidu in favour of GTBank.
The problems that come with the Overcharging and Higher Interest Rate are some of the profit driven actions the Segun Agbaje led group, has been heaping on many of their customers that makes doing profitable business difficult. While some are locked in prolong legal battle with the bank and the group as a whole, some had been forced to throw in the towel.
One of the companies that was not so lucky because of the nature of business is Toyin Subair led HiTV, in an interview the lawyer turned businessman granted a news media in 2019, he lamented how 25% – 27% interest rate becomes a burden that killed the company in his word “At 25-27% interest on debt, most businesses cannot survive and you will be a slave to the banks for life. That is why they take collateral from you. They lend against your collateral not your business case. Regardless of our strong cashflows, the funding requirements continued to increase.” He explained
Stating further while advising prospects, “HiTV was paying an average of 1.1billion Naira approximately in interests and guarantee charges annually, for over 5 years! For a new company, we did a damn good job but really got blown out. I never live by debt and so was really ignorant about how interest works up till HiTV and of course since then you won’t catch me near it. But what do you do when you have to? They say internationally that “equity is more expensive than debt”, but that is NOT true in Nigeria. Debt is way too expensive and destructive.” He continued.
Knowing the antecedent of the Segun Agbaje led financial group well-meaning Nigerians has been calling on relevant regulatory agencies to look into the declared Net Interest Income and put in place measures to make sure the effort of the government to revamp the economy will not be frustrated by the company’s insatiable appetite for profit.
Group Investigates and Exposes GTBank Unprofessional Banking Practices
An investigation report by a civic organization has been released bordering on allegations of “unscrupulous, unethical and criminal activities” levelled against the Guaranty Trust Bank Limited (GTBank), a subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (also known as GTCO PLC).
The report was released by the Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN) and signed by its President, Edwin Omaga on Friday.
The Guaranty Trust Bank is led by Segun Julius Agbaje who is presently the Group Chief Executive Officer since August 2021.
A statement signed noted that the Private Investigation Report (PIR) is compiled pursuant to Section 24 (d) and (e) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) read together with our Objective No.2.
The statement noted that it was pertinent on the group to help ensure that corrupt practices are abolished in the country.
It was noted in the report that the Guaranty Trust Bank Limited was incorporated on 19 July, 1990 and licensed to engage in commercial banking and other allied services within Nigeria and elsewhere.
The report further stated that the Bank has Ordinary Shares of 25 Billion with 8 Active Directors but its only Shareholder and Person With Significant Control is Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, represented by Segun Julius Agbaje.
“In the United Kingdom, Segun Julius Agbaje started the Bank by registering same at the Companies House as Rainsouth Limited with Number 5969821 on 8 December, 2006. The said Rainsouth Limited went through various changes until it became Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited on 17 March, 2008.”
The group further noted that as of the time of its report, there are over 10,000 customers exposed to grave danger without their knowledge, as accounts were allegedly opened in the Guaranty Trust Bank in their name without their consent.
“One of the corrupt practices recently linked to Guaranty Trust Bank Limited in Nigeria has to do with Unsolicited Accounts Opening. This is a situation where a customer did not approach the Bank or show any interest in maintaining an account with the Bank. Yet, the Bank goes ahead to source for the customer’s information such as telephone number, date of birth, Bank Verification Number (BVN) and other vital details to open account for the customer without his/her consent.”
“The aim of this practice is to increase the customer base of the Bank, thereby giving it high ranking in terms of size, capacity and profitability. We submit that Unsolicited Accounts Opening tantamount to breach of data privacy, identity theft and can expose the innocent account holders to lots of financial crimes. As at today, there are over 10,000 customers in the database of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited who are already exposed to grave danger without their knowledge.”
It was further noted in the report that some of the affected customers threatened to sue the Bank.
The Guaranty Trust Bank asides from this were alleged in the PIR of hurriedly putting together misleading financial statements and declaring false profits to mislead the public on its financial positions.
“We have equally uncovered that Guaranty Trust Bank Limited has been declaring profits that do not reflect its actual financial performance. For instance, GTCO PIc on 11″ September, 2024 released its Audited Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements for the period ended 30 June, 2024, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and London Stock Exchange (LSE) wherein the whooping sum of #1.004 Trillion was declared as Profit Before Tax. This caused the Group to be reported all over media as “the first Nigerian financial institution to cross the N1trillion mark in profit.”
“It is our finding that these figures as contained in the Audited Statements are mere conjectures hurriedly put together by Segun Julius Agbaje and his team to deceive the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), customers/investors and the general public into believing that all is well with GTB.”
It was further stated that the bank could not justify its stated profit of N1trillion which it released to the public, with a suspicion that the profit could have been declared through roundtripping.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, there is no gainsaying the fact that Guaranty Trust Bank Limited has become notorious over the years for engaging in deceptive accounting practices to artificially inflate profit figures. For instance, no substantial pieces of evidence presented by Segun Julius Agbaje to support the assertion that GTCO PIc made over #1 Trillion in profit as at 30 June, 2024. Even at that, it is very possible that the figures were generated through roundtripping.”
“This is a process where funds are moved in and out of the Bank through different accounts or entities to create an illusion of legitimate transactions. The combination of this process and other unethical business practices within the Bank points towards the direction of systemic corruption, fraud and money laundering, which are opened for further investigation by the relevant agencies.”
“It is feared that such ugly situation if not properly checked could have the tendency of not only undermining customers/investors’ confidence in the Bank but pose significant risks to the stability of Nigerian financial sector.”
It was also revealed in the PIR report that the Guaranty Trust bank had been punished severely for different violations at the international level.
“Surprisingly, Segun Julius Agbaje did not tell Nigerians that the corporate image of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited has been terribly battered in many foreign countries where it is carrying on business. He lied by stating in the recent Audited Statements that GTCO PIc ensures compliance with disclosure requirements under the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The truth is that Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited was sanctioned by the same FCA to pay a financial penalty of £525,000 for breaches of Principle 3 (Management and Control) of the Authority’s Principles for Businesses between 19 May, 2008 and 19 July 2010.”
“In another development, the FCA imposed on Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited a financial penalty of £10,959,700 pursuant to Section 206 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. As usual, the Bank agreed to resolve this matter at an early stage and was given a 30% discount which reduced the fine to £7,671,800. The FCA in justifying this financial penalty, which was paid with customers/investors’ funds not later than 24″ January, 2023, stated that Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited again failed to put in place policies and procedures to prevent and detect money laundering. FCA considered this repeated misconduct to be a direct result of the inability of the Senior Management within the Bank, over a prolonged period of time, to formulate and implement an effective plan capable of addressing the weaknesses identified in its AML and financial crime systems and controls.”
The statement further revealed that the Guaranty Trust Bank had been suspended in Ghana for various breaches of foreign exchange operations.
“our investigation took us to the Bank of Ghana where we discovered that the Foreign Exchange Trading Licence of Guaranty Trust Bank Ghana Limited (GTB) was suspended for a period of 1 (One) month with effect from 18 March 2024.”
“ The Press Release dated 4 March 2024 indicates that the said Licence was suspended as a result of various breaches of the Foreign Exchange Market Regulations, including fraudulent documentation in foreign exchange operations. By the Press Release, the Bank of Ghana cautioned GTB to put in place effective controls to ensure strict adherence to the extant Regulations and Guidelines.”
The statement wondered why the Guaranty Trust Bank allegedly carried out many infractions in Nigeria without any due sanctions to it.
“One begins to wonder the number of infractions committed by GTB in its originating country – Nigeria without due sanctions from Regulatory Bodies and Anti-Corruption Agencies. We are certain that it is not too late for the Regulatory Bodies and Anti-Corruption Agencies to act by rescuing the soul of GTB. The time to act is now!” the statement read.
The report also recommended that the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should forthwith dissolve the Board and Management of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited so as to allow thorough investigations.
They also called for the suspension of Segun Julius Agbaje as Group CEO of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc and retrieve from him all files or documents relating to Guaranty Trust Bank Limited to avoid interference with further inquiry into the issues raised in the PIR.
It was also stated that if found guilty of Corporate Governance, CBN acting jointly with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services (DSS) “should deal decisively with Segun Julius Agbaje and prosecute him like Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, who practically milked the defunct Oceanic Bank Plc dry before the Banks Consolidation era in Nigeria.”
Other recommendations made include that the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as well as Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) “should urgently step into the affairs of Guaranty Trust Bank Limited with a view to safeguarding customers/investors’ funds and portfolios before the Bank fails completely”
It was also stated that the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, “House Committee on Banking as well as House Committee on Banking Regulations should jointly or individually convene a Public Hearing whereat Segun Julius Agbaje will be summoned to appear and defend the weighty allegations contained in our Private Investigation Report (PIR).”
The group also called on the UK National Crimes Agency (NCA), Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Financial Ombudsman Service, British Prime Minister, Governor Bank of England, US Department of Justice, US Securities and Exchange Commission, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), US Federal Reserve Board (FRB), British High Commissioner to Nigeria and Governor Bank of Ghana to shut down all operations of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) in their territories.
“By so doing, GTB will be prevented from turning the United Kingdom, United States of America and Ghana into a safe haven for money laundering, terrorism financing and other sundry economic crimes.” the statement released noted.
“That in addition to the above, UK National Crimes Agency (NCA), Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), US Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are requested to commence prosecution of Segun Julius Agbaje in line with appropriate laws for all the infractions he has used GTB to commit within the territories of both United Kingdom and USA.”it further read
It was also recommended that all the properties allegedly acquired by Segun Julius Agbaje using proceeds of crime in Nigeria, United Kingdom, USA and other parts of the world be confiscated and forfeited permanently to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Appraising Ben Kalu’s Relentless Efforts at the Pan-African Parliament
By Philip Agbese
In Africa’s modern political landscape, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu stands out as a leader who exemplifies visionary leadership and diplomatic tact. As Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives and head of Nigeria’s delegation to the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), his tenure has been marked by a relentless drive to strengthen cooperation among African nations, propel the PAP’s objectives, and foster the emergence of a new generation of African leaders.
Through his work, Ben Kalu has embodied the core values of African unity, cooperation, and progress while also positioning the PAP as a vehicle for true continental integration. The Pan-African Parliament, established in 2004 as one of the African Union’s nine organs, serves as a symbolic and practical forum for unifying Africa’s disparate nations around common goals.
Based in Midrand, South Africa, the PAP provides a platform for debate, decision-making, and policy formulation aimed at addressing the continent’s socio-economic challenges. Initially established with an advisory mandate, the institution seeks full legislative powers to promote human rights, democracy, and good governance. The PAP’s vision is profound: empowering Africans, including grassroots organisations, to participate in shaping Africa’s future and addressing its most pressing problems.
While some argue that Ben Kalu isn’t the sole deputy speaker the Southeast region has produced, his exceptional track record unequivocally positions him as the most results-driven and impactful Nigerian leader since the inception of the Fourth Republic, which began in 1999. This marks a significant shift for Nigeria, transitioning from military rule to democratic governance.
Ben Kalu’s leadership stands out, demonstrating a unique blend of vision, expertise, and dedication. His outstanding performance and significant contributions have undoubtedly set him apart from his predecessors. By leveraging his expertise and diplomatic prowess, Kalu has consistently advanced the interests of the Southeast region and Nigeria as a whole.
It is against this backdrop that Kalu’s contributions become particularly remarkable. His diplomatic skills, intellectual prowess, and firm commitment to PAP’s goals have helped bridge divides between member states, enabling greater knowledge-sharing and policy alignment. Under his leadership, PAP has seen increased collaboration among its members, vital in an era where Africa must present a united front to tackle global challenges such as economic inequality, political instability, and climate change.
Kalu’s tenure as the leader of the Nigerian delegation has witnessed a palpable enhancement in diplomatic collaboration within the PAP. One of the most critical roles of PAP is to act as a forum for discussions on common problems, and here, Kalu’s leadership has been pivotal. His ability to foster meaningful dialogue among member states is not merely a reflection of his position but evidence of his diplomatic skill and deep understanding of the Pan-African cause.
Kalu has made it a priority to emphasise the importance of African unity. By encouraging member states to share experiences, particularly in areas such as governance, human rights, and economic development, he has helped create a culture of openness and shared learning within the institution.
Moreover, Kalu’s diplomatic finesse has proven instrumental in fostering peace and security within the continent. The West African sub-region, in particular, has faced persistent challenges related to political instability, terrorism, and economic disparity. In this context, Kalu’s efforts to galvanise cooperation among West African PAP members have been critical.
His interventions, emphasising collaboration over confrontation, have brought renewed hope to the region. Beyond diplomacy, Kalu’s leadership has also inspired a new generation of African leaders. In a continent where leadership often faces scrutiny due to governance issues and corruption, Kalu’s exemplary record stands out.
His firm commitment to transparency, accountability, and democracy offers a model for aspiring leaders, both within and outside Nigeria. Kalu’s journey to political prominence, marked by intellectual rigour and parliamentary acumen, sends a powerful message: African politics need not be dominated by populism or divisive rhetoric but by leaders capable of tackling complex policy issues with insight and integrity.
His achievements signal a promising shift toward enlightened and thoughtful African leadership, valuing collaboration, unity, and long-term developmental goals. This is not to say the road ahead for PAP and African leaders is devoid of challenges. However, Kalu’s leadership has proven that, through patient negotiation and shared purpose, African nations can come together to solve their problems.
His efforts have shown PAP’s potential to address the continent’s challenges and empower Africans from the grassroots up. One of PAP’s significant aspects is its ambition to evolve into a fully-fledged legislative body. Currently, PAP functions as an advisory organ, providing recommendations to the AU Assembly and Council of Ministers.
However, the vision for PAP is to one day exercise legislative powers over areas of common interest, including human rights, democracy, and good governance. Kalu’s contributions toward this goal cannot be overstated. As a parliamentarian with vast experience in Nigerian politics, he brings a wealth of knowledge on legislative processes. His efforts to advocate for PAP’s transition into a body with legislative powers have been persistent. By promoting discussions around this issue and galvanising support from other delegations, Kalu has helped keep the vision of a legislative PAP alive.
However, the path toward full legislative powers is fraught with challenges. Many member states are still wary of ceding legislative authority to a supranational body, fearing it might infringe on their sovereignty. Yet, Kalu’s approach has been one of balance; he recognises these concerns but believes a legislative PAP would enhance, rather than diminish, member states’ sovereignty by ensuring African problems are addressed through African solutions.
Moreover, the evolving nature of the global political landscape, characterised by increasing regionalism and multilateral cooperation, makes PAP’s legislative ambitions even more relevant. In a world where economic blocs like the European Union have shown the power of supranational institutions in driving development, PAP has the potential to become Africa’s legislative powerhouse, promoting harmonised policies that tackle the continent’s most pressing issues.
Perhaps the most fitting description of Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu is “a true champion of African unity and progress.” His commitment to the Pan-African ideal is not just rhetorical but deeply practical and exudes non-political affiliation. He understands that Africa’s strength lies in its unity and that PAP is uniquely positioned to harness that strength.
Through his efforts, Kalu has emphasised the importance of cooperation, both within PAP and across the African Union’s organs. His intellectual prowess and astute parliamentary skills are invaluable assets to the West African bloc in PAP, as he continues to advocate for policies benefiting not only Nigeria but the entire region. In doing so, he has earned widespread admiration as a visionary leader capable of navigating the complex waters of African diplomacy.
Moreover, Kalu’s relentless advocacy for African development, intellectual agility, and deep-seated belief in Africa’s potential position him as a towering figure in African politics. It is no exaggeration to describe him as an intellectual juggernaut, a leader whose vision transcends immediate concerns to focus on Africa’s long-term prosperity.
In conclusion, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu’s leadership at the Pan-African Parliament represents hope for the future of African politics. Through diplomatic skills, relentless advocacy for collaboration, and inspiring leadership, Kalu has advanced PAP’s goals and set a high standard for future African leaders. His work embodies the principles upon which the Pan-African Parliament was founded: unity, progress, and shared commitment to solving Africa’s challenges through dialogue and collective action.
As the Pan-African Parliament continues its transformative journey toward becoming a fully-fledged legislative body, Ben Kalu’s pivotal role will persist in shaping its trajectory. His exceptional ability to navigate Africa’s intricate and dynamic political landscape while inspiring a new generation of visionary leaders ensures his profound influence will resonate for generations.
In a continent marked by rich yet complex history, leaders like Kalu, who champion not only their nation’s interests but also the broader aspirations of the entire continent, are indispensable. Their visionary leadership and strong commitment to Africa’s progress will help harness the continent’s untapped potential.
With leaders like Kalu at the helm, Africa stands poised on the threshold of a new era of unprecedented growth and development. In essence, Ben Kalu’s legacy will continue to illuminate the path toward a brighter future for Africa. His impact on the continent’s political and economic landscape will undoubtedly endure, cementing his place as one of Africa’s most visionary and influential leaders.
This intervention was contributed by Agbese MHR, a member of the Pan-African Parliament writing from Agila, Benue State.
Infrastructure Upgrade: Zenith Bank Apologizes for Disruptions, Assures Customers on Improved Services
Nigeria’s leading financial institution, Zenith Bank, has reassured its customers of improved services following recent infrastructure upgrades.
In a message posted on Thursday, the bank apologised for the service disruptions experienced across its e-channels during the upgrade period.
The bank clarified that the glitches were a result of routine information and technology maintenance, which is essential for optimizing service delivery.
Zenith Bank emphasized its commitment to ensuring 100% uptime, stating that it takes this responsibility “very personally” and continuously allocates resources to maintain uninterrupted service availability.
In the statement, the bank expressed its sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused to customers during the upgrade process, highlighting that the information technology enhancements are designed to improve the quality of service for its esteemed clientele.
The message reads in part:
Dear Valued Customer,
We sincerely apologise for the service disruptions you experienced recently on our banking channels. This was due to an information Technology upgrade aimed at improving the quality of service we provide.
We have made significant progress with the upgrade and you can now perform transactions conveniently with the following Zenith bank Channels:
Your Zenith Bank Debit Card
The Zenith Bank Mobile App
The Zenith bank Internet Banking Platform
Zenith Agents nationwide (Agent Banking)
You can also visit any of our branches nationwide to perform your transactions
Please direct all enquiries to Zenith Direct on +234 201 278 7000,
0700ZENITHBANK, 0904 085 7000 Or via email at Zenithdirect@zenithbank.com
Wema Bank Shines at Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards 2024
…Awarded:
• SME Financier of the Year (Africa)
• Platinum Award for Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs (Africa)
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s foremost innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has received two awards of excellence at the Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards 2024 which held in São Paulo, Brazil between September 16 & 18, 2024. The awards received are SME Financier of the Year (Africa) and Platinum Award for Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs (Africa).
The Global SME Finance Forum is the world’s leading, technically oriented and geographically diverse platform focused solely on scaling SME financing worldwide. Managed by this Forum, The Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards is dedicated to acknowledging the effective and successful practices of financiers across the world, honouring the innovative products and services these financiers create for SMEs, recognising the impressive results in expanding finance and services to SMEs, and celebrating these exceptional financial institutions. Wema Bank emerged Africa’s top financier not just for the general SME landscape but also particularly for women-owned SMEs, at the 2024 edition of the annual Global SME Finance Forum Conference Awards.
Reputed as the Bank of choice for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Wema Bank received recognition for its commendable track record of developing innovative, sustainable and significantly impactful products, services, solutions and opportunities for businesses of all sizes across Nigeria. The Bank’s impact ranges from affordable financing options and seamless payment collection solutions to access to market, digital solutions for efficient business operation and management, SME Advisory services, and a vast range of products tailored to the needs of businesses across every part of Nigeria. Through its women-focused proposition, SARA by Wema, Wema Bank continues to tailor its SME offerings specifically for women, helping these women build sustainable businesses and access the resources needed to scale and thrive. The Bank further supports overall growth and well-being of these women with affordable to free healthcare packages. It is beyond doubt that Wema Bank is indeed deserving of its recognition as Africa’s top financier for SMEs and particularly, women entrepreneurs.
Expounding on the Bank’s glaring commitment to empowering MSMEs, the MD/CEO of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, articulated the big picture for the Bank. “MSMEs make up the bulk of Nigeria’s economy and they are critical to not only mitigating unemployment and other macroeconomic challenges but also promoting innovation and significantly boosting the economy towards national development. At Wema Bank, we recognise the potential that MSMEs hold as well as the challenges that threaten the maximisation of this potential, and we have made a lifelong commitment to providing viable, seamless, accessible, affordable, reliable and effective solutions tailored to the needs of businesses of all sizes across Nigeria; especially women-owned businesses. There is a rising need for intentionally inclusive empowerment strategies in not only stimulating growth in the SME sector but also bridging the gap in gender equality, and we have undertaken the responsibility of fulfilling that need. As a Bank, our mission is to empower lives through innovation, and as always, we will continue to seek more effective ways to empower businesses for optimal productivity and sustainable growth”.
“We are honoured by the global recognition accorded to us by the Global SME Finance Forum and as we receive these awards, we reiterate our commitment to providing businesses with the resources they need and a bouquet of intelligent solutions that mitigate prevalent challenges and make business management and operation seamless, maximally profitable and efficient. Thank you to the Global SME Finance Forum for the acknowledgement, and also to our valued customers who continue to entrust the future of their businesses and their financial well-being in our hands. This prestigious recognition honours our unwavering commitment to empowering SMEs and fostering innovation in SME finance, further fuelling our drive to consistently go above and beyond in accelerating growth for SMEs and delivering optimum value to every stakeholder. We are indeed the Bank of choice for MSMEs and women across Nigeria, and we will never relent in empowering women to thrive and businesses to scale regardless of economic fluctuations”, Oseni remarked.
Wema Bank continues to raise the standards of banking and financial services in Nigeria, demonstrating a commitment to generating positive impact across diverse verticals, a dedication to exceeding expectations and a passion for empowering lives and businesses for success.
Businesses interested in accessing the Bank’s tailored range of finance options and business-centric solutions are encouraged to visit https://wemabank.com/smes or send an email to smehelpdesk@wemabank.com to get started.
Adron Homes Champions Sports Sponsorship and Talent Discovery with 7th Edition of Adron Games
After six successful editions, Adron Homes & Properties continues to play a pivotal role in the development of sports and talent discovery in Nigeria through its annual sporting event, the Adron Games. What began as a corporate wellness initiative has now grown into one of the nation’s premier platforms for identifying and nurturing young talents, while promoting physical fitness and community engagement.
The 2024 edition, themed “Fit to Be the Biggest”, marks the 7th consecutive year of Adron Games, further cementing the company’s commitment to the sponsorship of grassroots sports. With each edition, Adron Homes not only creates a space for corporate teams and individuals to compete but also paves the way for the next generation of athletes to shine on a national stage.
This year’s event, set to take place at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan from November 29th to 30th, brings even more opportunities for young athletes to showcase their abilities across a wide variety of sporting disciplines, including Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and Tug of War. With two Nigeria’s Ex International, Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju both legendary figures in Nigerian football serving as ambassadors, the games underscore the crucial role of sports in shaping lives and fostering unity.
Daniel Amokachi, while addressing the media at the event’s unveiling, emphasized the need for consistent support from businesses and brands to nurture talent in Nigeria. “Sports in Nigeria need more support from businesses and brands to help discover and nurture young talent. Through initiatives like the Adron Games, we’re able to uncover the next generation of stars while also promoting a healthy lifestyle,” said Amokachi.
In line with Adron Homes’ strategic goals, Emmanuel Oladapo, Director of Sport Adron Homes and the Organising Department, shed light on the innovative developments and strategies being brought to this year’s games. During his speech, Oladapo emphasized the importance of preparation and structure in making this year’s Adron Games the most successful yet.
“We’re focused on ensuring that every aspect of this year’s games is elevated. From athlete development to team preparation, my team and I are introducing new strategies that will provide a more competitive and organized experience for all participants. We want to make sure the games grow bigger each year while also ensuring that they remain an important platform for talent discovery,” Oladapo stated.
He further highlighted a series of pre-event activities leading up to November, which have been designed to ensure that teams are fully prepared for the competition. These preparatory events, which include team training sessions, practice tournaments, and fitness camps, will help refine skills and foster teamwork among the athletes. “We want the teams to have ample opportunity to train, strategize, and perfect their game before the main event in November,” Oladapo explained.
As part of the unveiling, Oladapo also showcased the official team jerseys, which were presented to the respective teams. The jerseys, designed to promote team spirit and a sense of unity, reflect the vibrant and competitive nature of Adron Games. “These jerseys represent more than just clothing; they symbolize the hard work, dedication, and passion that each team will bring to the field. We’re proud to have created a look that inspires pride and excellence,” he added.
By investing in sports sponsorship, Adron Homes not only encourages a culture of fitness and wellness but also contributes to the larger goal of empowering youth and developing Nigeria’s sports industry. The company’s Group Managing Director, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, has been at the forefront of these efforts, recognizing the transformative power of sports as a tool for positive change.
Mutiu Adepoju, speaking at the media briefing, echoed this sentiment, stressing the unifying power of sports and commending Adron Homes for their ongoing dedication to its promotion. “Sports is not only about fitness but also about unity and creating opportunities for the youth. Adron Homes’ commitment to this cause is invaluable in the continued development of sports in Nigeria,” Adepoju remarked.
As Adron Games 2024 approaches, the spotlight is once again on sports as a catalyst for talent discovery and community development, with Adron Homes & Properties leading the charge.
For more information, sponsorship, vendor registration and inquiries, please contact:
Mr Emmanuel Oladapo: 08100760100
Adron Sports Foundation: 08061594375
