Niger Coup: Protesters Wanted to Attack the Embassy – Nigerian Ambassador to Niger
Nigerien protesters tried to attack the Nigerian embassy in Niamey but were repelled by the Nigerien military, an official has said.
The attempted attack happened on Sunday, 30 July, four days after presidential guards toppled the democratically elected government of President Mohamed Bazoum who has since remained in detention with his family.
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Niger, Mohamed Usman, stated this in a Friday statement signed by a staff of the embassy Liti Auwalu, following a video shared on social media of a building being set ablaze which many claimed is the Nigerian embassy.
“At the moment, the Embassy is well guarded by the Nigerien Military and other Security Authorities,” the statement said, reiterating that the videos are fake and should be disregarded.
Nigeria has continued to operate its embassy in Niger despite the coup there and the strong response of ECOWAS.
Presidential guards led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, 26 July, arrested Mr Bazoum, dissolved the government and assumed leadership of the country.
In response, ECOWASimposed sanctions on Niger in a bid to have them reinstate Mr Bazoum. It also gave a seven days ultimatum to the putschists which they ignored.
The bloc held another meeting last Thursday where it ordered the activation and deployment of its standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger.
Fake News: Blogger Who Published Lies Against Former Lagos Gov. Fashola begs Netizens for Help
Fake news is a disaster currently ravaging the Nigerian information space and the fact that many affected are not pressing charges seems to be emboldening the propagators. This is responsible for the current dilemma a blogger currently find himself when one of the victims of the lies in the person of Babatunde Raji Fashola, the immediate former Minister of Works and Housing refused to allow it fly by seeking the intervention of the security agencies.
The situation which started last week Saturday, when the Nigeria twitter space was awashed with unfounded stories of how armed Army personnel are allegedly guarding the estate where the former Minister resides in the FCT allegedly because the Senior Advocate is at that time writing the judgement that the justices currently overseeing the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) will be reading as their submission, whereas the former Minister was at that moment in Lagos, where he’s attending the wedding ceremony of the son of a former Senator.
Findings also shows that the allegations is a mischievous imagination of the carrier as there is no military or even police presence in the mentioned estate. The perpetrators who felt they will go scot-free really got it wrong as the minister who is a lawyer decided to take scapegoats on the issue of the rising proliferation of the fake news as he asked his lawyers to petition all security agencies about the matter.
One of those whose names or organizations was listed in the petition, one Ibezim Nnamdi, known as Iruefi on Twitter is currently soliciting for help and public sympathy on the X app, as the men of the Department of State Services (DSS) about two days ago visited his house and met his absence but met his brother who they invited to their office for questioning to aid their investigations into the matter.
Ibezim who runs a blog had been warned against fake news by many Netizens in the past, but will rather abuse them, though he claimed he was never invited before the visit but since the visit he has been in hiding, while his brother is fielding questions from the DSS.
FIRSTBANK ANNOUNCES CALL FOR APPLICATION IN THE SECOND EDITION OF ITS FIRSTBANK TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY
FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria’s premier and leading financial inclusion services provider has announced the call for participation in the second edition of its FirstBank Technology Academy.
The application, which closes on Friday, 11 August 2023, is open to individuals in Nigeria and the Bank’s subsidiaries in Africa – FirstBank in The Gambia, FirstBank in Sierra-Leone, FirstBank in the Republic of Congo, FirstBank in Guinea, FBNBank in Ghana, FBNBank in Senegal.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and assessments to gain entry into the Technology Academy in the coming weeks.
FirstBank Technology Academytargets young and recent graduates with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) background. These tech enthusiasts will undergo a comprehensive and practical programme that will expose them to a wide array of cutting-edge technologies – including: IT Fundamentals, Application Support & Development, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure and Data Science – which will strengthen their hands-on experience in the field of digital technology.
According to Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, FirstBank “As a digitally led financial services institution in Africa, we recognise the impact of technology in shaping the world in all spheres of human endeavours, including the global financial services industry. Technology is indeed the gateway to unlocking endless possibilities in the banking industry.”
“We invite young graduates with a passion for innovation and a strong desire to create a positive impact on the banking landscape to join us on this transformative journey as we collectively contribute to leaving no stone unturned in plugging FirstBank to being the Bank of first choice in the continent,” she concluded.
95% of customer-induced transactions on FirstBank’s digital channels are enjoyed by 22 million of its digital product users. The Bank processes over 12% of the industry payment volume in Nigeria.
FirstBank Technology Academy is one of the many ways the Bank reinvents itself to leave no stone unturned in exposing its customers to state of the art and leading digital banking experience in the the continent.
ALAT by Wema Unveils Exciting Summer Internship Programme
ALAT by Wema, a trailblazing digital bank, has announced the launch of its eagerly anticipated Summer Internship Program which will not only serve as a remarkable learning opportunity for young talents but also highlights Wema Bank as an exceptional place to work.
The initiative, according to the Divisional Head, Brands, People and Culture, Ololade Ogungbenro, is designed with a commitment to nurturing future leaders, offering hands-on experience that bridges the gap between academia and the corporate world.
She says participants will gain invaluable insights into the dynamic banking industry while contributing to real-time projects that impact the country.
“The summer internship program isn’t just about professional development; it’s a testament to Wema Bank’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and collaborative work environment. Participants will have the chance to interact with seasoned professionals, immerse themselves in innovative projects, and truly experience the bank’s unique culture.” Ogungbenro adds.
The ALAT Summer Internship Program is open to undergraduates between the ages of 15 and 22. Selected participants will undergo a comprehensive orientation and mentorship, working side by side with seasoned professionals across various departments.
Wema Bank continues to be at the forefront of digital transformation in the banking industry, and the ALAT Summer Internship Program is a reflection of its commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, learning, and growth.
FIRSTBANK GRADUATES THE FOURTH SET OF PARTICIPANTS IN ITS SENIOR MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (SMDP)
The SMDP is an intensive skill development programme structured to enhance core leadership and business competencies of selected senior management staff within the Bank and 20 successful participants were graduated in the recently concluded fourth edition.
SMDP is one of the three core leadership programmes aimed at internally identifying and developing high-potential talents positioned to take up the mantle of the next generation of the Bank’s leaders. Leadership Acceleration Programme (LAP) and FirstBank Management Associate Programme (FMAP) are the others.
First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria’s premier and leading financial services provider, has announced the graduation of 20 successful participants in the fourth edition of its Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP) at an event held recently at Oriental Hotel, Lagos.
Before the 2023 graduation, the SMDP had produced 52 graduates. The Bank successfully graduated 23 participants in its inaugural edition, held in 2018; 17 in 2019 and 12 in 2020.
The Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP) is FirstBank’s intensive modular programme for a select group of senior managers to principal managers who are proven leaders in their respective functions and identified as central to the Bank’s succession plan.
The SMDP is an intensive skill development programme structured to enhance core leadership and business competencies of elite senior management staff within the Bank. It consists of three instructor-led modular periods adopting a blend of classroom lectures, experiential activities, flipped learning strategies and peer-to-peer discussions to develop the desired talent pool.
“This programme is one of FirstBank’s key initiatives designed to create a dependable pool of highly skilled, favourably competitive, and globally minded Senior Managers. It is also aimed at accelerating their journey through the very demanding process of becoming outstanding leaders and management executives,” said Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, CEO of FirstBank Group.
“FirstBank is widely acclaimed for sound corporate governance and this programme is further proof of our commitment to grooming and development. Through the Senior Management Development Programme, we emphasise sound leadership as the ethos and language of Bankwide conversations; this provides an empirical means of guaranteeing the Bank’s leadership bench strength both for now and the future,” he concluded.
The Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP) is among the three core leadership programmes and strategic approaches designed to sustain performance, build capacity and promote the empowerment of employees from the lower cadres to the upper levels. The other programmes are Leadership Acceleration Programme and FirstBank Management Associate Programme (FMAP).
These programmes aim at internally identifying and developing high-potential talents who could take up the mantle of being the next generation of the Bank’s leaders, thereby building on its over 129 years of heritage since its founding.
UBA Offers Customers Unforgettable #Fun Summer Treat with ‘Fun Summer’
Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has assured customers of a memorable summer treat with the recent launch of exclusive benefits and discounts tied to its cards during this period.
Tagged, the #FunSummer campaign, customers are set to enjoy a wide range of privileges and savings between now and the end of August 2023, and this service is open to all customers and non-customers of UBA.
Unveiling the campaign in Lagos, UBA’s Group Head, Retail Products and Sales, Prince Ayewoh, said the bank, understands the relevance of the summer season to Nigerians who use their cards both home and abroad, online or in-store and has worked towards creating a value-driven campaign on how UBA Card holders can best achieve their desires this season and beyond.
He said, “We are thrilled to introduce our Summer Campaign, providing our esteemed customers with remarkable benefits through the UBA card. With our exclusive discounts on staycations and lifestyle services as well as subscriptions, we aim to enhance our customers’ summer experiences and contribute to their personal growth and well-being.”
“With the UBA card, customers gain access to an array of exceptional offers. For starters, customers can now enjoy a 5% discount when booking a staycation or availing other lifestyle services through the Aura by Transcorp hotel app,” he noted.
Ayewoh pointed out that UBA recognizes the importance of keeping children engaged and learning during the summer holidays, which is why UBA cardholders will be entitled to enjoy a special 10% discount on uLesson subscriptions, an innovative and interactive online learning platform.
“With uLesson, parents can provide their children with fun and educational content, enabling them to expand their knowledge and skills while enjoying their summer break, and so I urge all our customers and non-customers to take advantage of these offers and create lasting memories this summer,” he said.
The summer campaign will also see customers benefit from the use of the UBA Prepaid Cards – the UBA Dollar and Naira Prepaid Card or the Debit card which also comprises of Debit Card for a Naira account, Gold Debit MasterCard, Platinum Debit Mastercard and the Visa Dual Currency Debit Card (DCDC) all of which boast of an array of benefits.
The UBA card is accepted in over 210 countries of the world and is protected with second to none technology to ensure the security of all cardholders. Cardholders are encouraged to share their summer desires on UBA’s social media pages to qualify for amazing prizes.
For useful travel tips and content, customers are encouraged to follow the conversation on the UBA social media pages and campaign page.
United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees’ group wide and serving over 35 million customers globally. Operating in 20 African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.
Second Pay Rise In 90 Days UBA Improves Staff Welfare in Quick Response to Rising Cost of Living
Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritise the welfare of its staff and their families reflecting the current economic realities and its impact on living conditions.
To this end, the bank’s Board of Directors have announced the implementation of a cost of living adjustment for its staff effective immediately
The bank said that over the past few months, it has been closely monitoring the effect of the rising cost of living on its employees and recognises the importance of addressing these challenges proactively.
It is interesting to note that even when the bank had previously implemented cost of living adjustment for staff on October 1, 2021 and more recently on April 1, 2023, the persistent economic challenges faced by employees and the broader society as a whole, informed the unanimous decision to again implement another adjustment.
Also in line with its commitment to promote staff for excellent performance every year, UBA had in March 2023, announced the promotion of over 1,500 staff across Africa, and had also elevated close to 1,000 staff in 2022.
UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, who made the announcement, said, “We are aware of the impact of recent economic policy pronouncements on prices and your capacity to meet your financial commitments to family and personal needs. As an organisation focused on the well-being of our people, I am pleased to inform you that the Board of UBA Plc has approved a Welfare Allowance for all employees.”
Alawubaexplained that the decision to adjust the staff’s remuneration package once again demonstrates UBA’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the standard of living for its employees at a level that is commensurate with prevailing economic conditions.
“This move will serve to alleviate the financial burdens faced by our staff and their families, reinforcing the bank’s position as a responsible and caring employer,” he explained.
He took time out to appreciate the staff for their effort and dedication and hard work of its employees, which remains the bedrock of its success, as he noted that the bank recognises the critical role played by its workforce in navigating challenges and ensuring the continued growth of the institution.
“My profound appreciation to you for your commitment to our corporate goals and adherence to our core values, as demonstrated in our remarkable half-year 2023 results. By enhancing staff welfare, we aim to boost employee morale and foster a conducive and rewarding work environment that empowers employees to thrive both personally and professionally,” the GMD added.
United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees’ group wide and serving over 35 million customers globally. Operating in 20 African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.
Access Bank Polo 2023: A Grand Affair for Education and Philanthropy
The annual Access Bank Polo and Charity event at the Guards Polo Club in Egham, Surrey was once again a remarkable gathering of royalty, diplomats, political leaders, the business community, and supporters of Access Bank. This prestigious event not only showcases the elite sport of polo but also serves as a fundraising platform to support underprivileged children’s access to quality education.
The Access Bank Polo event is held in partnership with the Fifth Chukker Resort, with the primary objective of empowering underprivileged children through education. The proceeds from the event go towards building the much-needed infrastructure and facilities, ensuring that these deserving children have the opportunity to dream, learn, and grow.
This year’s event witnessed an incredible milestone, with an astonishing 100 classroom blocks being pledged by generous contributors. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of Access Bank, its partners, and donors to make a lasting impact in the lives of underprivileged children. With these new classroom blocks, countless more children will have access to a safe and nurturing educational environment.
Since the inception of the initiative, over 80,000 children have already benefitted from the schools built as a result of the fundraising efforts. These facilities not only provide education but also serve as a beacon of hope for the future generations, inspiring them to aspire for a brighter future.
Access Bank takes great pride in being a driving force in championing equal education opportunities. The organization firmly believes that every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, should have the chance to thrive and succeed.
With the success of the Access Bank Polo event, Access Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a world where every child has the opportunity to access quality education. The ongoing support and collaboration of its partners, sponsors, and attendees will continue to play a crucial role in changing lives and uplifting communities.
The Access Bank Polo with this noble Charity event has established itself as an extraordinary corporate event in London, bringing together influential individuals and organizations for a noble cause. The commitment to providing underprivileged children with access to education is commendable, and the results speak for themselves. With each passing year, more lives are transformed, and the potential for a brighter future becomes a reality for countless children. Access Bank’s endeavors are a beacon of hope, highlighting the power of collective efforts to make a meaningful difference in society.
In attendance His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse Ill, the Twenty-First Olu of the Warri Kingdom; Her Majesty, the Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom, Olori Atuwatse IlI; HH, The 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State; Mosun Belo-Olusoga, former Chairman, Access Bank PIc (2015-2019); Dr. Ajoritsedere Awosika, former Chairman, Access Bank PIc (2019-2023); Paul Usoro (SAN), Chairman, Access Bank Plc and Chairman, Coronation Capital, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Herbert Wigwe, Group MD/CEO, Access Holdings PIc; Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc and Amaechi Okobi, Chief Brand and Communications Officer, Access Holdings Plc among other dignitaries.
Adron GMD Aare Adetola and Olori Aderonke Greets Ogun State First Lady, Bamidele Abiodun on 57th Birthday
The Group Managing Director of Adron Homes and Properties; Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King and his beautiful wife, Olori Aderonke Emmanuel-King has felicitated with the First Lady of Ogun state, Her Excellency, Chief Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun on the occasion if her 57th birthday today.
Via a statement signed by his Senior Special Adviser on Media, Aare Adetola appreciates the good work of her excellency as a mother in ensuring that Ogun state gets the very best in terms of women and children empowerment using her pet projects as a bait. He also extolled her for being a woman of virtues, a supportive wife who is passionate about development and a supportive mother who has made Governor Dapo Abiodun function optimally bringing peace and tranquility to their home.
Aare Adetola further said; “Our wives plays a pivotal role in our overall performance. If the house is not at peace, don’t expect Governor Abiodun to perform well but in the case of Mrs Abiodun, she has been a supportive wife and a dear mother to our state. She has prioritize health care, children education, women empowerment through her SHEVENTURE initiative and through philanthropy she has reached out to many downtrodden within the state. This has further proven that she is a mother indeed and she is worth celebrating on her birthday today. On behalf of me and my family, I want to wishing her many more years in good health and wealth. I also want to pray for more grace to be able to intensify the good works in putting our dear state on the map in women empowerment among other.”
Olori Aderonke also hailed Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, refers to her as a symbol of hope for womanhood. She also added that; Mrs Bamidele is a beacon of hope and also a woman everyman should always have beside them as a co-pilot in any journey. “Our First lady is a type of woman everyman should pray for. Her strength, resilience, prayers and positive energy has helped made things easier for our Governor in Ogun State. She is also a role model to many women with her heart of Gold. Celebrating her on her birthday today is a clarion call for all women across the county to emulate her and also be supportive to their husband in achieving their dreams. She has been a solid rock and I pray that; the power to remain strong and firm like a pillar, may Almighty God grant her. I also pray for Good life in health and wealth for her. Happy Birthday Your Excellency ma.”
Breaking: Lagos Assembly Demands Constitutional Amendment To Accommodate State Police
The Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday held its first plenary since its inauguration with a call on the National Assembly to commence actions that would lead to the establishment of state police.
The House also called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently equip the Neighbourhood Safety Corps of the State so that its personnel could effectively perform the task of community policing.
These actions, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, said, would stem the increasing spate of insecurity in the country.
Dr. Obasa noted with concern, recent attacks on communities in some states of the federation with many citizens losing their lives and belongings.
Recalling some of the latest attacks, the Speaker said he read about the killing of some residents in Plateau State. He also noted the abduction of the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Mr. Paul Omotoso.
Obasa said though the Lagos Assembly had consistently clamoured for the establishment of state police, it is an appropriate time for the Senate and the House of Representatives to begin an amendment of the Constitution to contain the creation of the alternative policing system.
“While I commend the ninth National Assembly for doing a lot to amend the constitution, there is a need for us to call on the 10th National Assembly to see it as a matter of urgency to make the issue of state policing a major factor of development,” Obasa said.
Supporting the Speaker, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, commended the Speaker for bringing up the issue of state policing again.
“We remember very well that it was you that sponsored the bill on Neighbourhood Safety Corps and we see what it has done for our State and how other states are copying it,” Yishawu said.
While noting that President Bola Tinubu started well with moves to rejig the economy, Hon. Yishawu said security remains at the heart of a country’s progress urging for more focus this area.
The motion was supported by other lawmakers who complained about the inadequate number of police personnel in Lagos and also suggested police reforms at the national level.
The lawmakers argued further that the establishment of state police would boost employment across the country.
Meanwhile, the House, through Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu over his election as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The House said it believes in Tinubu’s capacity to bring the countries under ECOWAS to work together.
At the plenary, the House also resolved a report relating to issues of legislative compliance on appointment of some Governor’s nominees without approval of the House of Assembly. The lawmakers called on the Executive arm to henceforth act in conformity with the law.
