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NASRE Applauds, Charges Tinubu On Economic Revival Amid 72nd Birthday

The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE), has extended heartfelt felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his 72nd birthday.

This is even as the group urged the president to use this occasion to ponder on the challenges confronting the country and evolve active ways to resolve them.

The President of NASRE, Femi Oyewale who, on behalf of the association, joined esteemed members of the general public to celebrate this significant milestone in the life of a distinguished leader, acknowledging President Tinubu’s dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Nigeria.

According to him, “on this auspicious occasion, NASRE acknowledges President Tinubu’s notable achievements and contributions to the socio-economic advancement of our great nation. However, amidst the celebrations, we urge President Tinubu and his administration to redouble their efforts to further revamp the economy and prioritise our dear country’s security.

“As editors representing various media outlets across Nigeria, we are acutely aware of the challenges facing our nation. We must collectively work towards addressing these challenges and creating an environment conducive to sustainable growth and development.

While apprlauding steps taken so far to address forex volatility and the formation of Economic Team as well as re-opening of borders to ease suffering of the masses, he said, solutions such as Tax waivers for Businesses, especially, SMEs; addressing epileptic power supply; construction of and embarking on palliatives on major Federal roads that are in bad state; harmonisation and cordiality of fiscal and monetary policies for maximum economic impacts; tackling insecurity, escalating food price and so on should be prioritised.

“We call upon President Tinubu to leverage his wealth of experience and leadership prowess to implement pragmatic policies that will stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and alleviate poverty.

“Additionally, we urge his administration to intensify efforts to ensure all Nigerians’ safety and security, safeguarding lives and property across the nation”, he said.

He, however, pointed out that as stakeholders in the Nigerian project, NASRE pledges its unwavering support to President Tinubu’s administration in its quest to build a prosperous and secure nation for present and future generations.

“Together, let us forge ahead with renewed determination and resilience, towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.

“Once again, we extend our warmest felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 72nd birthday, wishing him good health, happiness, and continued success in all his endeavours”, he said.

$87m Theft Case: Abayomi Oluwasesan, Wife Re-arrested, Remanded In Prison As Court Demands Stringent Bail Conditions

Abayomi Segun Oluwasesan who allegedly committed the heinous crime of defrauding the leading global crypto space known as Afriq Arbitrage System has been Re-arrested alongside his wife and arraigned in Federal High court, Jabi in Abuja.

Abayomi and his wife were tracked to an estate in Lagos and brought back to Abuja on Sunday, March 24th, 2024 over the lingering financial scam to the tune of 87 million dollar and criminal activities he perpetrated against AAS and the CEO, Jesam Micheal.

The arraignment of Abayomi by the IG of police at the Federal High Court in Abuja witnessed a significant development on Thursday, March 28th, 2024, as the case involving the alleged theft of 87 million dollar by Abayomi OluwaSesan charged by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, proceeded with significant deliberations.

The accused individuals were charged for purportedly accessing millions of subscribers’ investments at the Afriq Arbitrage Company’s online trading platform until October 9th, 2023.

In the courtroom presided over by Justice Ms. Idris, both parties, including the defendants’ lawyer and the complainant lawyer Sidi Abdulrasheed, were present alongside individuals whose investments were affected by the alleged fraud at the Afriq Arbitrage Company.

During the session,the defendants’ lawyer appealed for bail on behalf of Abayomi OluwaSesan citing their prolonged detention and promising their availability for trial if granted bail. However, the complainant lawyer, Sidi Abdulrasheed, opposed the bail request, highlighting previous instances where the defendants had allegedly fled after being granted bail.

Upon hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Ms. Idris urged the parties to come to a consensus before he delivers his ruling.

He emphasised the importance of punctuality and adherence to court proceedings if bail were to be granted to the defendants.

After a brief recess, court proceedings resumed at 2:38 pm, with Justice Ms. Idris adjourning the case until April 18th, 2024. The judge mandated that the suspects remain in police custody until the specified date unless they meet stringent bail conditions.

These conditions include providing two sureties each with 500 million Naira, owning property in Maitama, and also two directors in the federal civil service. Additionally, the sureties must deposit the title documents of their properties in court.

Justice Ms. Idris said the hearing will be April 29th and May 2nd 2024.

He reassured those present in the courtroom, including individuals affected by the case, of a fair and timely judgement. He affirmed his commitment to ensuring that the matter is resolved within the year, providing closure to those impacted by the alleged financial misconduct.

Speaking to Jesam Micheal the CEO of Afriq Arbitrage Company’s (AAC) after the court proceedings, he said he is Satisfied by the proceedings of the trial judge.

ADRON HOMES BOSS, AARE ADETOLA EMMANUELKING ADVOCATES FOR CONSOLIDATION BEFORE TRANSFORMATION AS LAGOS REDAN CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANT PAID COURTESY VISIT

Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, The Executive Chairman Adron Homes, advocates for Consolidation first before Transformation as he declares his support for Dr Segun Oshundairo, The Aspiring REDAN Chairman For Lagos Chapter(Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria)

He stated his full fledged support during an exclusive interview with the REDAN Chairman Aspirant, Dr Segun Oshundairo, the CEO of Arcview Investment Limited. During the Aspirant’s visit, Aare Adetola admonished him on steps to take to ensure that his tenure birth policies that would revolutionize the Real Estate Industry. He urged the Aspirant to embark on Intense Media publicity and collaborative advocacy efforts to influence government policies and decisions affecting the Real Estate Industry.

During this Meeting, The Aspirant talked about his Manifesto which he would implement once he emerges the Chairman. He declared the following Intentions:
– Create a Developers Mortgage Plan. With this, he would be collaborating with the government to create a plan that would ensure that developers can buy affordable estate from the government which would facilitate their ability to create reasonable and affordable houses for the masses.
– Establish an Advisory Board for REDAN. He stated that he would create an Advisory Committee that would consist of 7 stakeholders to advise and train members of the group every quarter on the right policies and procedures to implement.
– Open up lands in rural Areas and convert them to Mega cities. He revealed his intention to collaborate with the government in order to open up lands in Ofada, Papalantoro and environs as well as create affordable real estate in such areas.
– Rebrand and Publicize REDAN: The Aspirant stated that under his tenure, REDAN would have a new look, which would include a new logo, better policies as well as increased visibility .

Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, In addition to advising the Aspiring Chairman on Strategic Media Publicity for REDAN, also implored him to pay attention to increasing the number of members in the group as well as present comprehensive strategies poised to shape the future landscape of real estate in the country.

He Admonished and stated that “There can’t be a greater Lagos without REDAN” He further advised the Aspirant on the need for a Universal market price of Landed Properties for Real Estate Developers in Lagos State when purchasing from the government. Also, this would foster and aid the creation of affordable housing for the good people of Lagos State and Nigerians at large.

The interview session concluded on a positive note in which Dr Segun Oshundairo expressed his enthusiasm and appreciation for the collaboration between REDAN and the CEO of Adron Homes. The Interview Session laid the foundation for future partnership opportunities aimed at driving positive change within the real estate industry. Dr Segun reiterated that once elected, he would set up a board of trustees that would consist of veterans and real estate pillars to serve as an advisory board for the pressure group.

Coronation Group, Access Holdings Plc, Safaricom and M-PESA Africa Partner to Explore Remittances

A transformative collaboration aimed at broadening access to remittances across Africa has been forged among Coronation Group, Access Holdings Plc, Safaricom Plc and M-PESA Africa (the parties) as the parties come together in a strategic alliance dedicated to propelling financial inclusion and nurturing economic prosperity for millions across the continent.

The parties aim to explore solutions that will provide a remittance corridor between East and West Africa, connecting some of the continent’s largest economies.

The collaboration will see the convergence of Access Holdings’ robust Pan-African banking infrastructure, spanning 14 African countries, with Coronation Group’s comprehensive array of technology-infused financial services offerings in West Africa, coupled with M-PESA and Safaricom. M-PESA is the continent’s leading mobile money and digital payments service, connecting more than 60 million customers and 5 million businesses across 8 countries and processing more than $1 billion a day in transaction value. Safaricom is Kenya’s leading telecommunications, ICT and financial services provider with more than 32 million of its customers using M-PESA services every month.

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings and Coronation Group, emphasised the ethos of empowerment that forms the foundation of this collaboration. “We stand at the threshold of an extraordinary journey, one poised to shape the financial landscape of Africa. This partnership encompasses more than a convergence of capabilities; it signifies the fusion of collective expertise, resources, and an unwavering commitment to drive financial inclusion, empowering millions throughout Africa. Through collaborative innovation, shared vision, and resolute determination, we are primed to unlock unprecedented opportunities, transform lives, and make an indelible imprint on Africa’s trajectory,” Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede added.

Sharing insights into the transformative potential of the collaboration, Bolaji Agbede, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, affirmed, “Our conviction remains steadfast – this collaboration has the power to recalibrate the trajectory of financial services in Africa. By combining our strengths with those of Coronation Group, Safaricom and M-Pesa Africa, we will deliver on our promise of sustainably impacting our stakeholders, empowering individuals, and significantly contributing to the continent’s economic ascension.”

“African countries trade more with nations outside the continent than within themselves. Initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seek to address the lack of intra-continental trade. This partnership with Safaricom, Coronation Group and Access Holdings seeks to explore remittance corridors between East and West Africa bringing alive the AfCFTA spirit,” said Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, MD – M-PESA Africa.

“We will be collaborating with M-PESA Africa, Coronation Group and Access Holdings to explore secure, convenient, and affordable remittance solutions that will connect our customers to opportunities in West Africa. Africa remains an underserved region especially for remittances within the continent making such partnerships crucial in closing the gap,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO – Safaricom.

The initial phase of the collaboration will concentrate on pivotal markets, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania.

The collaboration is subject to commercial discussions and definitive agreements, internal corporate approvals of the respective parties and relevant legal and regulatory processes. The partners remain steadfast in their adherence to regulatory frameworks and their dedication to establishing an enabling environment that empowers individuals and enterprises alike, fostering significant contributions to Africa’s economic advancement.

Forge Ahead Fearlessly: Secure Your Dream Home with Adron Homes

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In the face of economic uncertainties, Adron Homes stands as a beacon of opportunity, urging Nigerians to embrace courage, conquer fears, and seize the chance to become proud property owners. Regardless of financial constraints, Adron Homes offers incredible discounts and flexible payment plans designed to make homeownership achievable without breaking the bank.

Amidst economic fluctuations, the call to action remains clear: take a bold step forward and conquer your fears with Adron Homes. By leveraging their remarkable discounts and adaptable payment options, individuals can overcome financial barriers and secure their dream homes in any of their serene estates nationwide.

Joining the league of happy property owners with Adron Homes signifies not just ownership, but empowerment and financial security. By standing firm and taking advantage of the opportunities presented, Nigerians can pave the way for a brighter future and a sense of accomplishment.

Let courage be your compass as you navigate the path to homeownership with Adron Homes. Don’t let economic uncertainties deter you; instead, seize the opportunity to secure your dream home without compromising your financial stability. If others have succeeded, so can you. Stand your ground, take the leap, and embark on this transformative journey with Adron Homes by your side.

Take a bold Step Now ,walk-into Any Of Adron Homes Branch Offices Nationwide or check their website on :www.adronhomesproperties.com ,Or simply call : 07055277727,08022122490 ,08023781123 and 0802323 6621 ,for further enquiry and site inspection…

Adron Homes
Building Cities,Communities And Homes

+234Art International Fair Opens In Lagos at Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC)

Left Mr. Jide Sipe, Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Ecobank Nigeria Ltd; Mrs Tola Akerele, Founder, Soto Gallery and curator +234 Art Fair; Mr. Austen Osokpor, Head, Corporate Communications, Ecobank Nigeria and Maeva Sabot, PR Manager, +234 Art Fair at the media briefing to announce the +234 Art Fair sponsored by Ecobank, Africa Finance Corporation and Soto Gallery held on Thursday at Ecobank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos

The +234Art Fair, an international art exhibition commenced today in Lagos. The 10-day exhibition which is holding at Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos will run till March 31, 2024. The art fair curated by Soto Gallery, in partnership with Ecobank and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), has over 200 artists with thousands of art works already on display at the venue.

Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, Bolaji Lawal, said: “Specifically, we have invited emerging and ‘un-galleried’ Nigerian Artists to participate in this international art exhibition, as they stand to gain wide reaching exposure that would enhance their works.” “Un-galleried artists” typically refer to artists who don’t have representation or exhibition opportunities through traditional art galleries. These artists usually face challenges in gaining exposure and selling their creative works. The creative industry is an essential driver of economic growth, well-being, and global connectivity. We will continue to invest in the potentials of our young people for a brighter future for Nigeria as a country”.

Speaking on the details of the exhibition, Founder Soto Gallery and Curator +234 Art Fair, Mrs. Tola Akerele, said, “+234Art Fair is a 10-day exhibition starting on Friday 22nd March through the 31st, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) 2,000 sqm exhibition centre. It is expected to attract Nigerians from all walks of life, Africans and non-African residents in Nigeria, top government officials, policy makers, and members of the diplomatic corps and art enthusiasts across the globe.

“The fair is dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the burgeoning art industry in Nigeria by providing a platform to support emerging artists and encourage increased interest in art acquisition, thereby contributing to the growth and prosperity of the local art sector and its international recognition. This maiden edition takes the thematic direction of ‘A New Heritage’ and is designed to serve as a melting pot of artistic creativity from different strata of the society.”

NASRE Congratulates Adaora Umeoji On Appointment As Group CEO Of Zenith Bank

The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors, NASRE, congratulates Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, on her appointment as the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc with effect from June 1, 2024.

In a congratulatory message personally signed by the President of the association, Comrade Femi Oyewale, the media group describes Umeoji’s elevation from deputy managing director to group managing director as a new dawn given that Umeoji would be assuming her new role as the first female GMD/CEO since the inception of the bank in May 1990.

The association also commends the board of Zenith Bank, led by Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR ,CON, for its consistency in grooming leaders from within in a well-tailored transition and succession plans and strategies.

The association noted with optimism that Umeoji’s appointment would add value to the remarkable achievements of Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, the out-going Group CEO, whose five-year term expires on May 31, 2024.

The association assures Umeoji of its supports as she embarks on a mission of taking Zenith Bank to greater heights.

The statement which was released to the press by the association’s PRO, Adeyemi Obadimu, reads in part: “As you assume this new role, we are confident that your vision, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence will propel Zenith Bank Plc to even greater heights of success.”

JUST IN: 287 Abducted Kaduna Schoolchildren Regain Freedom

The Kaduna State Government has announced the release of the 287 schoolchildren kidnapped from Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

This was contained in a statement signed by the state governor, Senator Uba Sani, on Sunday.

The statement partly read, “I wish to announce that our Kuriga school children have been released.

“Our special appreciation goes to our dear President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for prioritising the safety and security of Nigerians and particularly ensuring that the abducted Kuriga school children are released unharmed. While the school children were in captivity, I spoke with Mr. President several times. He shared our pains, comforted us, and worked round the clock with us to ensure the safe return of the children.”

The governor also appreciated the courage of the officers of the Nigerian Army for seeing to the successful release of the schoolchildren.

He said, “The Nigerian Army also deserves special commendation for showing that with courage, determination and commitment, criminal elements can be degraded and security restored in our communities.

“We also thank all Nigerians who prayed fervently for the safe return of the school children. This is indeed a day of joy. We give Almighty Allah all the glory.”

On March 7, 2024, the schoolchildren from LEA Primary School and Government Secondary School, Kuriga, were abducted by the hoodlums who took them into the forest.

The abductors demanded N1bn for their release while giving a deadline of March 27, 2024, for the payment of the ransom.

Access Bank PLC and KCB Group PLC Sign Binding Offer on Acquisition of National Bank of Kenya (NBK)

Access Bank PLC and KCB Group PLC (“KCB”) have today signed a binding agreement to acquire 100 percent shareholding in National Bank of Kenya Limited (“NBK”) from KCB.

The successful completion of the transaction is subject to conditions that are customary for transactions of this nature including receipt all regulatory approvals from, amongst others, the Central Bank of Kenya, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the COMESA Competition Commission, and notifications to other relevant regulators.

For Access Bank, this move underscores its commitment to bolstering its presence in Kenya and the broader East African region. Furthermore, the acquisition builds on the Bank’s growing operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, as well as its impending acquisitions of a majority stake in Uganda’s Finance Trust Bank Limited, the acquisition of majority equity stake in African Banking Corporation (Tanzania) Limited (“BancABC Tanzania”), and Standard Chartered Bank’s Consumer, Private & Business Banking business in Tanzania.

Commenting on the transaction, Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/Chief Executive of Access Bank Plc said:

“The transaction represents an important milestone for the Bank as it moves us closer to the achievement of our five-year strategic plan through increased scale in the Kenyan market. We are building a strong and sustainable franchise to support economic prosperity, encourage Africa trade, advance financial inclusion thereby empowering many to achieve their financial dreams.

“Trade flows in East Africa revolve around key trade corridors, with Kenya being a key player in the region. With the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, these corridors will continue to expand and by deploying our best-in-class financial solutions, we are strategically positioned to deliver sustainable value for our stakeholders. The consolidation in Kenya will support the realisation of our aspiration to be Africa’s Payment Gateway to the World. Subsequent to the completion of the transaction, NBK would be combined with Access Bank Kenya Plc to create an enlarged franchise in the pursuit of our strategic objective for the Kenyan and East African markets.”

KCB Group CEO Paul Russo said: “This transaction represents what we believe is a great opportunity to maximise value for our shareholders while strengthening the competitive position for the Group. The past four years have been defining for NBK as a KCB Group subsidiary and this step marks the opening of new opportunities.”

“During the period, we have made progressive investments in the Bank, and we believe that this is in the best interest of the Group and its sustainability. Our growth strategy is premised on both organic and inorganic plans, and we shall continue to seek opportunities that increase our shareholder’s value,” said Mr Russo.

All parties will be working together in the coming months to fulfil the conditions precedent relating to the proposed acquisition, which include the regulatory approvals of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Central Bank of Kenya. Access Bank will continue to provide a full range of banking services and continuity for its stakeholders including employees and customers in Kenya.

In the meantime, NBK customers will continue to access seamless services across various touchpoints including through the branch network and mobile banking platforms.

Upon conclusion, stakeholders will benefit from the from an enlarged franchise, with best-in-class customer service and governance structures committed to empowering the communities wherein the Bank operates. The combined entity will leverage Access Bank’s dedication to economic development by extending financial services to the unbanked, thereby deepening financial inclusion across the region.

In recent months, Access Bank has embarked on a strategic expansion drive, marked by significant acquisitions. In January, the Bank completed its acquisition of Atlas Mara Zambia, thereby becoming one of Zambia’s top five banks by revenue with prospects to be in the top three by 2027.

DAME (DR.) ADAORA UMEOJI NAMED ZENITH BANK GMD/CEO

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the appointment of Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive with effect from June 1, 2024, subject to approval by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). She takes over from Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, whose five-year term expires on May 31, 2024, after a very successful tenure. Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji is the first female GMD/CEO since the inception of the bank, and her appointment is consistent with the bank’s executive transition tradition, succession plan, and strategy of grooming leaders from within.

Prior to this appointment, Dr. Umeoji has been the Deputy Managing Director of the bank since October 28, 2016 and has close to thirty (30) years cognate banking experience of which twenty-six (26) years has been with Zenith Bank.

She is an alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School where she attended the Advanced Management Program (AMP) and an alumnus of Columbia Business School with a Certificate in the Global Banking Program. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and a First-Class honors in Law from Baze University, Abuja. She holds a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar, and also has a doctorate in business administration from Apollos University, USA.

She holds a Certificate in Economics for Business from the prestigious MIT Sloan School of Management, USA, and has attended various management programmes in renowned Universities around the world including the strategic thinking and Management programme at Wharton Business School, USA. She also attended the executive program in Strategic Management, and has a Certificate in Leading Global Business all from Harvard Business School, USA.

She is a fellow of notable professional bodies including the Chartered Banker Institute, UK, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Nigerian Institute of Management, Institute of Credit Administration, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria among others.

In 2022, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored Dr. Umeoji with Officer of the Order of the Niger, as a recognition of her contributions to nation building. She is a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UN-POLAC).

She has impacted many lives through her philanthropic and humanitarian activities through her NGOs; Pink Breathe Cancer Foundation and the Adorable Foundation that educates, caters for Cancer patients and indigent children education especially the Girl-Child. Her contribution to humanity was recognized by the Sun Newspaper which recently bestowed on her the Humanitarian Service Icon Award for 2023.

As a result of her passion for promoting professionalism in the banking industry and improving the well-being of the less privileged, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON founded the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria (CBAN), a platform she uses to promote ethical banking and service to humanity.

She is a Lady of the Order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI), and was awarded a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester by His Holiness Pope Francis.