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Ecobank Nigeria and Soto Gallery: Invites Emerging Nigerian Artists to Participate in an International Art Exhibition

Ecobank Nigeria has entered a strategic partnership with Soto Gallery to organize an international art exhibition for emerging young Nigerian artists. The exhibition tagged: +234Art is a 10-day art fair in the heart of Lagos and is scheduled to commence on Friday, 22nd March, 2024. It 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.

Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, said the partnership is in line with the Pan African Bank’s policy of promoting the creative industry in the country and African continent. According to him, “our objective at Ecobank is to project Nigerian creatives by highlighting their talents and providing a platform as well as opportunities for them to showcase their works locally and globally. 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”.

Specifically, he extended an invitation to ‘un-galleried’ emerging Nigerian Artists to submit applications for their participation in the international art exhibition, stressing that 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 work.”

Tola Akerele, Founder, Soto Gallery, stated that the maiden edition of this event 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.

According to her, the free entry fair aims to be an immersive showcase of Painting, Photography and Sculpture, providing the general public with a closer look at what emerging artists, and photographers in Nigeria today are up to. “The exhibition’s title – ‘+234Art’ is an amalgam of Nigeria’s country calling code, and the all-encompassing word – ‘Art’, indicating that this experience aims to be a thorough exposition of what Nigerian art looks like today, as well as how it interacts with the larger art community in Africa and beyond. Paintings and sculptures for display will be beautifully curated by local and international experts.”

She explained that the art fair will among other things seek to create a sustainable platform for young and emerging artists in the country, provides an opportunity to enhance skills and understanding of the industry through workshops that run concurrently with the art fair, adding that it would also showcase the talent of Nigerian art and encourage economic exchange by purchasing of art pieces while moving the artists into a better socio-economic class by giving them tools to earn locally, regionally and internationally

Ms. Akerele further highlighted other benefits of the exhibition as an avenue for cultural resonance, the discovery of emerging art talent, wealth creation, learning experiences, networking opportunities and social Impact. To submit your artworks, please send a mail to: submissions@plus234art.com.

Ecobank Nigeria now a key driver of tourism, culture and the creative industries in Nigeria is behind the yearly Adire Lagos Experience; also organized the Photography, Art, and Design Exhibition (PADE) to commemorate World Photography Day in 2022. The bank also partnered “Songs & Stories” With Cobhams Asuquo; Redbull Dance Your Style; BellaNaija Style Summit and Loosing Daylight (An exhibition of the history of Nollywood organised by Nse Ipke-Etim).

Adron Homes at 12: Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence in Real Estate

On this monumental day, we celebrate the fruition of a vision conceived 12 years ago – the vision to redefine Nigeria’s landscape with quality and affordable housing. Adron Homes emerged as the embodiment of that vision, empowering millions to realize their dream of home ownership.

One of the key features that sets Adron Homes apart from other real estate companies is our commitment to making housing affordable for everyone. We understand that owning a home is not just a luxury, but a necessity. That is why we offer flexible payment plans laced with modern innovation and real transformation to suit our client’s budgets and incomes.

Adron Homes has pioneered real estate affordability through flexible payment plans spanning several years, coupled with enticing discounts. This commitment extends across all of Adron Homes’ diverse locations, ensuring that the dream of owning a home is within reach for many.

We thrive on creating serenity, CCTV, infrastructure, power supply, 21st-century structures, 24/7 security, and street lights – these are not just features; they are the hallmarks of Adron Homes’ consistency in delivering modern estate amenities. Each of our estates reflects our dedication to creating conducive environments that prioritize safety, comfort, and innovation.

That is why we invest in providing modern and functional infrastructure, such as roads, drainage, water, electricity, and security. We also ensure that our estates are aesthetically pleasing, with landscaped gardens, recreational facilities, and street lights.

In 12 years, Adron Homes has not merely constructed buildings; we’ve built cities, communities, and, most importantly, homes. Our footprint spans various locations, including Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Badagry, Osun, Ado Ekiti, Shimawa, Atan-Ota, Ikorodu, Shagamu, Papalanto, Ijebu Ode, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Abuja, Nasarawa, Jos, and Niger. Each location is a testament to our commitment to creating vibrant and sustainable living spaces.

We express gratitude to our loyal customers, partners, and dedicated staff who have propelled us to this milestone. While proud of our achievements, we remain unwavering in our determination to grow, improve, and exceed expectations. Adron Homes stands tall at 12 – a symbol of strength, innovation, and consistency in the real estate industry.

As we commemorate this remarkable anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to providing quality housing solutions that transform lives. Adron Homes is not just a name; it’s a legacy, and we look forward to many more years of redefining the landscape and making dreams come true.

Thank you for choosing Adron Homes, the leading pan-African real estate company. We look forward to serving you better and making your dreams come true.

Lagos Assembly Urges Government Support for Schoolgirl Suffering Teargas Injury

The Lagos State House of Assembly has urged the government to support Amina Alege, a 12-year-old student of the Adam Yakubu Memorial High School in Lagos State, who suffered an eye injury after she was allegedly tear-gassed by the police.

The incident occurred on Friday, February 9, 2024, in front of a mosque near Adam Yakubu Memorial High School in Iloro, Cement, Agege, Lagos.

The House called on the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, and the ministry to offer necessary support to the young girl, who is billed for surgery.

The matter was brought to the attention of the House by Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, chairman of the House Committee on Sports and Youth Development during a plenary session on Thursday presided over by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda on behalf of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

Orekoya said he received the information through a human rights organisation, adding that the incident happened when two schools were embroiled in a clash and the police intervened with tear-gas.

He said the student’s parents have been borrowing money to pay for her treatment and that she is currently admitted to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

Orekoya pleaded with the House to call on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to offer support to the parents and help save Amina’s life before the situation worsens.

Supporting Orekoya’s appeal, Hon. Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho 2) emphasised that since the student attends a government-owned school, it was necessary for the governor to step in.

Joseph further requested that the House investigate the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Deputy Speaker Meranda directed the Chairman of the House Committee on Education (Secondary) to summon the management of both schools involved in the clash and investigate what led to the clash.

They are expected to report back within one week.

Eromosele Ebhomele

Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Lagos Assembly Suggests Ways To Strengthen Naira Against Dollar

The Lagos State House of Assembly has decried the continued downward slide in the value of the naira against the dollar.

As at Tuesday, a dollar hovered between N1,474 and N1,500 and the lawmakers, at plenary, advised the federal government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on some bold steps to take so as to shore up the value of the naira.

Part of the resolutions by the House was that the federal government should come up with a mechanism to reduce foreign trips for seminars and conferences by ministries and agencies adding that this should apply to states.

While stressing the need to strengthen security across the nation, the House also called on the CBN “to embark on sensitisation of Nigerians on the steps being taken by the apex bank to reduce the pressure on naira while informing on the expected roles of Nigerians at this time.”

The Assembly urged that depositors of dollars in banks can be engaged for an acceptable arrangement where such funds can be utilised by the government to help reduce pressure on the naira.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over the sitting, lamented the disparity between the dollar and naira while commending the CBN for taking some measures with the hope that such actions would yield positive results.

Dr. Obasa, who further commended the National Assembly for inviting the CBN governor for discussion recently, said: “In my opinion, the CBN and government should embark on sensitisation and information dissemination to make people understand what the government is doing.

The pressure on the naira is too much, but the CBN should make sure that national interest is supreme.”

Obasa urged the government to regulate religious pilgrimages as they attract undue interest in dollars and put pressure on the naira. According to him, this action could be sustained until the naira stabilises.

“To save the naira, the federal government and states can stop foreign conferences and seminars. If possible, we can bring the resource persons to Nigeria to deliver their lectures.

We all need to look inward to support the government.

“Locally, some people in Nigeria doing businesses demand dollars instead of naira. Even at parties now, you see people spray dollars instead of naira. We need a way out and to do this, we need the support of citizens. That’s the essence of sensitisation.

Speaking earlier under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’, Hon. Femi Saheed (Kosofe Constituency 2), said the current naira-dollar disparity is the direct consequence of the policies of the Godwin Emefiele-led CBN.

According to him, the naira will gain strength if measures including fixing the nation’s refineries, strengthening the education and health sectors are taken.

“I think the current CBN governor should work on moral suasion to get people to pull out the dollars in their domiciliary account,” he said.

Eromosele Ebhomele

Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Insecurity: Lagos Assembly Tasks NASS on Immediate Commencement of Constitutional Amendment

– reiterates call for state police

In response to the growing threats of kidnapping and other forms of insecurity in Nigeria, the Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the National Assembly to commence urgent constitutional amendment to allow for the creation of state police.

At a plenary session on Monday presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the House also called for the proper equipping of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps, a body initiated by Speaker Obasa and backed by law to support other security agencies in the state.

Expressing concern over the pervasive insecurity across the country, Dr. Obasa, who spoke under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’, said: “At the weekend, we heard of the attack on a commercial bus and the passengers abducted.”

Highlighting a recent kidnapping incident in the Ikorodu area of Lagos, Obasa noted the constant call by the House for the establishment of state police adding that the country’s security system is overstretched.

“This time around the National Assembly should be our focus. They don’t have to wait till the twilight of their tenure to start a constitutional amendment.

“This administration is at the beginning of its four years. So the National Assembly should begin the amendment now and we should be part of it to put an end to the issue of state police,” he said.

The Speaker allayed fears that governors could hijack the state police to their advantage as he said the law should put a system in place to check excesses.

While urging the Lagos government to allocate a specific percentage from the Security Trust Fund to empower and strengthen the Neighbourhood Safety Corps of the state, Obasa said it would be good for the root causes of insecurity to be addressed through effective youth engagement initiatives including sports.

“We must consider factors that lead to insecurity. Poverty – in this period of rising inflation – we can continue bringing relief to our people. Sports has been a very effective tool to take our youth away from crime,” he added.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Aro Moshood, who represents Ikorodu Constituency 2, shared a harrowing account of the recent kidnapping incident in Igbogbo Bayeku, Ijede Local Council Development Area, and appealed to the government for enhanced security surveillance in the area.

Hon. Ajayi Oladele representing Ibeju-Lekki Constituency 2 stressed the need for proactive measures by the government noting the influx of people into Lagos without proper accommodation plan.

Hon. Nureni Akinsanya representing Mushin Constituency 1 urged the state government to equip the Neighbourhood Safety Corps.

Eromosele Ebhomele

Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly

Sustain Late Wigwe’s Legacies, Lagos Assembly Tells Late Banker’s Colleagues

– House observes a minute silence

The Lagos State House of Assembly resumed plenary on Monday with a call on colleagues of late banker, Herbert Wigwe, to sustain his legacies.

Wigwe, the Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, lost his life in a helicopter crash in the United States of America. He was with his wife, Doreen, son and Abimbola Ogunbajo, a former chairman of Nigeria Exchange Group.

Speaking under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, described Wigwe’s demise as “shocking, painful, disturbing and unexpected.”

Dr. Obasa recalled his last encounter with the late Wigwe on their way back to Lagos from Abuja describing the deceased as one who was passionate about Nigeria’s development.

“The demise of Wigwe is painful because this is someone who struggled to establish himself in terms of professionalism, his contributions and activities in the banking industry and even his personal life.

“There is no doubt that he was a philanthropist, at least we know of the Lagos City Marathon which he had supported for many years.

“My last encounter with him was on my way from Abuja to Lagos in his aircraft. Within the one-hour flight, we had a lot of discussions,” the Speaker said recalling how Wigwe spoke concerning the economy, the nation and its polity.

“All we can do now is mourn and accept what happened as what fate has brought upon us. He did not die alone. His wife, son and friend were with him.

“The lesson from this is that even though none of us wants to die, we must put the best of us in our relationships with others and contribute our best to our society and nation as these are what people will remember after us.

“I want to urge his colleagues to sustain his legacies, his philanthropic activities part of which is the Lagos City Marathon which has been expanded beyond the shores of Nigeria as well as the Wigwe University which, I am sure, was for the benefit of Nigerians,” the Speaker added as he prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed.

In their contributions, some of the lawmakers described the late Wigwe as a man who was humble despite his financial strength.

“Though very wealthy, he brought himself to understanding people. He was a friend of this state for many years. He despised domestic violence and spoke against it vehemently,” Hon. Desmond Olusola Elliot said.

Hon. Abiodun Tobun also described the late banker as easy-going and unassuming.

Eromosele Ebhomele

Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Kayode Ajulo’s Nomination: A Masterstroke by Governor Aiyedatiwa

After the series of events that led to the appointment of Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as the substantive governor of Ondo State, there was great anticipation among interested Nigerians, residents of Ondo State, and other stakeholders regarding the new commissioner nominees. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s release of the nomination list partially quelled the suspense. As expected, the list included the names of former commissioners who had stood by him during his path to power.

However, what surprised everyone was the inclusion of the renowned legal expert and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo. Ajulo’s name on the list created a buzz and became the center of discussion across various media platforms.

While some people argued that Ajulo’s stature as a self made successful lawyer was too big for a commissioner role, others praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his decision. The general consensus, excluding the opposition and cynics, was that the governor had made a strategic move and accomplished a significant feat by convincing someone of Kayode Ajulo’s caliber to join his administration. The appointment of Ajulo, a young successful legal figure, was seen as a substantial asset to governance in the state. It sent a strong message to the opposition that Governor Aiyedatiwa was well-equipped to handle challenges and had more plans up his sleeve.

It is worth noting that Ajulo played a crucial role in breaking the grip of a cabal that held the state hostage during the illness of the late governor. His legal intervention and public declaration exposed the forgery of the late governor’s signature and put an end to their manipulative tactics. While some mischievous individuals propagated the idea that Ajulo sided with Aiyedatiwa during the struggle to secure an appointment, those in the know dismissed it as a baseless falsehood. They affirmed that Governor Aiyedatiwa recognized Ajulo’s experience and wanted to utilize it for the benefit of the state. The governor believed that Ajulo’s inclusion would contribute to the successful administration of the state, especially during crucial times.

Commentators and pundits commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his decision to bring Ajulo on board. They recognized it as a step in the right direction, highlighting Ajulo’s expertise and worldwide contacts in the legal profession and politics.

Many believed that Ajulo’s appointment as Attorney General would greatly enhance governance in the state and unsettle the opposition. They considered Governor Aiyedatiwa’s move as a demonstration of his visionary leadership and ability to achieve results.

Contrary to the claims of cynics, Ajulo’s appointment received widespread commendation from various groups and well-meaning individuals. It was viewed as a testament to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s ability to identify capable individuals for important roles.

Ajulo’s presence at the Assembly confirmation ceremony of the commissioner nominees further solidified this perception. Dressed impeccably and surrounded by supporters and admirers, he captivated everyone’s attention. The applause that filled the chamber when his impressive profile was read out attested to his remarkable credentials and garnered immense admiration.

Overall, Kayode Ajulo’s nomination as a commissioner by Governor Aiyedatiwa was seen as a masterstroke. It showcased the governor’s astuteness and brought accolades from various quarters.

Ajulo’s inclusion was considered a valuable addition to the state’s executive council, with his exceptional qualifications and reputation preceding him as many are praying that his contribution to national discourse and development should not be abated.

Access Holdings Plc Announces the Passing of its Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR

The Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) has announced the passing of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR, the Company’s founding Group Chief Executive Officer and former Group Managing Director of its flagship subsidiary, Access Bank Plc (‘the Bank’). Dr. Wigwe died alongside his wife and son on Friday, February 9, 2024, in a helicopter accident in the United States of America.

The entire Access Family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones. Dr. Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the Bank in 2002.

Commenting on the passage of Dr. Wigwe, Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings said:

“The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe who was a great friend and fine gentleman. He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience which he brought to bear on the Access Family and for which we owe him a debt of gratitude.

We remain confident that the Access Group will build further on Dr. Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.”

Dr. Wigwe was instrumental in the growth of Access Bank, which he co-founded with his friend and business partner Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede. He took over as Access Bank Group CEO in 2014, focusing on the Bank’s expansion in Nigeria and Africa before taking the helm at Access Holdings in 2022. Under his leadership, Access Bank drove its African strategy to become Sub Saharan Africa’s largest retail bank by customer base.

Dr. Wigwe was a member of the Access Bank UK board as well as the board of the Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NiBUCAA). He has long been an advocate for the eradication of malaria in Africa, working with the Corporate Alliance on Malaria to support this objective. He also sat on the board of the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company and Friends Africa and was an honorary member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and Institute of Credit Administration.

A two-time winner of the African Banker of the Year award from the African Banker Awards, Dr. Wigwe was a passionate advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which form the bedrock of Access Holdings’ growth strategy.

His academic credentials include a degree in Accounting from the University of Nigeria, an MA in Banking and Finance from the University College of North Wales (now Bangor University), and an MSc in Financial Economics from the University of London. He also completed the Harvard Business School Executive Management Program.

Dr. Wigwe recently founded Wigwe University, Africa’s first ivy league institution dedicated to providing a world-class education and raising the next generation of fearless leaders.

Ministry Announces Selection of Learning Community Managers for 3MTT Initiative

Following the announcement of the N1 billion partnership with IHS Nigeria to support the 3MTT Learning Community, the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy is proud to announce the 3MTT Community Managers for all 36 states in Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The selection of Learning Community Managers marks a significant milestone in our efforts to empower Nigeria’s tech talents. These individuals will play a crucial role in managing and assisting participants in the 3MTT programme as they leverage the Learning Platform designed by IHS Nigeria. With their guidance, 3MTT participants will have the support they need to navigate the learning platform and maximise their learning experience.

Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovations & Digital Economy, expressed his excitement about the collaborative effort, stating that significant collaboration between the public and private sectors is required for the national digital transformation journey. This partnership with IHS Nigeria is the first of many that will help achieve our goal to make Nigeria a net exporter of tech talent, as outlined in the Strategic Blueprint.

As part of IHS Nigeria’s support, the company has committed to paying the salaries of the 37 dedicated learning community managers nationwide. Additionally, access to the IHS Learning Platform will play a significant role in supporting 3MTT talent development efforts.

Mohamad Darwish, the CEO of IHS Nigeria stated that the company’s collaboration with the Federal Government on the 3MTT initiative aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy’s Strategic Plan. He went further to mention that the initiative also aligns with one of their sustainability pillars which is Education. He continued by saying that investing in digital skills helps to build a skilled and qualified talent pool that will stimulate job creation, innovations, business growth, and the diversification of the economy. It is further evidence of IHS’s continued commitment to building a prosperous nation, along with their recently announced milestone commemorating a rollout of over 10,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, which is aimed at improving the quality and access to broadband and next-generation digital services for individuals, businesses, and organisations throughout the Country.

As we continue to build momentum, we look forward to seeing the impact and the contributions of the 3MTT Community Managers in empowering Nigeria’s tech talents.

Adron Homes Announces Massive ‘Love’ Discount to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

February 14 known globally as Valentine’s Day is a special day celebrated across the world to show love and affection to our loved ones. It’s the only day celebrated by all sundry regardless of their race, religion and class strata. Adron Homes and Properties, one of the giant real estate companies in Nigeria, celebrates this day with its customers by offering them discounted prices on all their landed properties and homes.

In celebration of this year’s edition, Adron Homes and Properties have rolled out a massive Valentine’s Discount Promo for both existing and prospective customers. You can gift your loved ones a piece of land from Adron Homes as it is a unique and valuable asset that portrays commitment and investment qualities.

Adron Homes has made it easy for customers to buy a piece of land and they will personally deliver the property papers to your loved ones as a proper Valentine’s Gift with pomp with your cakes, and perfumes, roses and cards. Adron Homes has various landed properties located in Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, Niger, Abuja, Nasarawa, Jos, and other places. This is a good Valentine’s gift idea because it will create memories that cannot be forgotten in a hurry. It’s a unique and valuable asset that portrays commitment and investment qualities.

To take advantage of this offer, you can visit any of Adron Homes and Property offices nationwide or contact them via their social media channels on Facebook (Adronhomesofficial), Twitter (@adronhomes), and Instagram (@adronhomesofficial). You can also visit their website at www.adronhomesproperties.com to read more about Adron Homes and schedule an inspection with their well-trained sales representative who is always ready to answer your questions and take you round their facilities.

With Adron Homes and Properties, you can make memories that will last a lifetime. Use this opportunity to surprise your loved ones with a piece of land in a well-secured estate with the best amenities like perimeter fence, 24/7 Surveillance Camera, Security, Interlocked roads, massive gatehouse, recreational ground, Mall, street light, Concrete Drainage, well-ventilated and green areas, swimming pool, Gym, and many more. A Valentine’s gift is incomplete without a land purchase document from Adron Homes. Let us be part of your love story. Visit us today and put a smile on the faces of your loved ones.