₦airaland Forum

Abba Kyari, Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, passed on today. His death was announced in the wee hours of Saturday morning by the Presidency.

Specifically, the passing of the top presidential aide was confirmed by Special Adviser to the President on Media/Publicity, Femi Adesina. Equally important, the Presidency disclosed this in a brief statement released to the media on Saturday morning.

‘‘The Presidency regrets to announce the passage of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari. The deceased had tested positive to the ravaging COVID-19, and had been receiving treatment. But he died on Friday, April 17, 2020. May God accept his soul. Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.’’

Meanwhile, we reported that Abba Kyari had tested positive to the dreaded COVID-19 on March 23, 2020. However, he fought a losing battle against the pandemic.

In looking at the life and times of the deceased, here are the top 21 facts you probably did not know about him.

Abba Kyari was a Kanuri and hailed from Borno State in Nigeria’s North East
In 1980, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Warwick, UK
Abba Kyari also bagged a bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Cambridge
A lawyer by training; he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1983 after attending the Nigerian Law School
Abba Kyari holds a master’s degree in Law from the University of Cambridge obtained in 1984
Kyari worked for the law firm, Fani-Kayode and Sowemimo for some time after his return to Nigeria
He also had a stint in the media from 1988 to 1990, when he worked as Editor with the New Africa Holdings Limited, Kaduna
In 1990, he served as a Commissioner for Forestry and Animal Resources in Borno State.
From 1990 to 1995, Kyari was the secretary to the board of African International Bank Limited, a subsidiary of Bank of Credit and Commerce International.
Kyari was an executive director in charge of management services at the United Bank for Africa, and was later appointed the chief executive officer
Kyari was an executive director in charge of management services at the United Bank for Africa, and was later appointed the chief executive officer
He attended the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland. Also, he participated in the Program for Management Development at the Harvard Business School, in 1992 and 1994, respectively
On the home front, he was married to the sister-in-law of Ibrahim Tahir. Tahir was a prominent sociologist, writer, and politician during the Second Republic
Abba Kyari had four children.
He was first appointed Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari in August 2015
The deceased was a very influential figure throughout the period of his stewardship in Buhari’s cabinet
Signs of his growing influence further came to light in 2019 with Buhari’s re-election for a second term; when the President ordered his cabinet to channel all requests through Kyari’s office
In 2017, following a leaked memo, Kyari became embroiled in a public argument with the Head of Civil Service; Winifred Ekanem Oyo-Ita. She was later removed from office and arrested on corruption charges
In 2020, in another leaked memo, Babagana Monguno, the National Security Adviser; accused Kyari of meddling in matters of national security
He was honoured with the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON); one of the two orders of merit in Nigeria
Abba Kyari died in a Lagos hospital on April 17, 2020, after testing positive for COVID-19.

By Adedayo Adejobi

There are two great days in a person’s life, the day we are born and the day we discover why, so says William Barclay, the Scottish author.

To all who knows Ifie Sekibo, un-assuming MD/CEO of Heritage Bank, his birthday is a special time to celebrate his gift to the world. An astute administrator par excellence and a thorough-bred alumnus of the renowned Harvard Business School is a man whose greatness and accomplishment cannot be wished away in the business community within the country and beyond.

Everyone, who has crossed the path of Ifie Sekibo can attest to the fact that he is a man, who lived for others and has not only touched lives of others through several means, but has largely remained a blessing to others.

One of his favorite quotes speaks volume about him: “Every day we learn something new to discover who we are. Our lives have been made meaningful by the collective discoveries of many. Every life is interdependent on the other and none stands alone. Art teaches us that for everyone to be pure and visible, it depends on the contrast created by the adjacent tone. Therefore, our lives do not belong to us alone, but to our neighbors.

“It is important for us to touch lives of others; only then can we sign off for the day. This is why today we sweep the clouds and leave behind footprints and thunderstorms. We smile to defy sorrows of the age. No individual is done until they leave something behind that defies time, a heritage that creates, preserves, and transfers wealth across generations. In our world of possibilities, nothing is impossible, so it is our responsibility to help others who never thought they could make a name for themselves to do so. For those who have already done so to preserve it.”

At 55, Sekibo has remained a man of vision and an enigma in the field of business. Many consider him a passionate game-changer with a proven track record in turnaround management. His ability to turnaround dead businesses and make them profitable is one area, where he has excelled and this is evident back in 2003 when he led a team of technocrats to acquire a moribund company named Global Assurance Company Limited as executive vice chairman and steered the institution named International Energy Insurance (IEI), which later emerged as a frontline Insurance company in Nigeria after undertaking a capital raise and listing on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

His success story is not complete without his turnaround story of another major institution that has been dead for 10years before coming back to life after receiving attention of Sekibo. In 2009, Sekibo led another team of professionals, which nurtured the re-birth of the dead Societe Generale Bank and transformed it to an innovative regional bank called Heritage Banking Company Ltd, where he served as pioneer MD/CEO.

His passion and relentless efforts at turning around businesses that has nose-dived also took him to the South-Eastern part of the country where Golden Breweries in Umuahia, Abia state, was resuscitated after 16years of inactivity following a lifeline of $10 million it obtained from Nigerian Export and Import Bank, (NEXIM) and facilitated by Heritage Bank Plc. Heritage Bank’s involvement in financing the revival of the Golden Guinea Breweries under the amiable leadership of Sekibo remains one of his greatest achievement of bringing back another moribund business.

One of the cardinal points of his life is mentorship. Sekibo has been involved in mentoring the youths over the years despite his busy schedules, he is involved in mentorship and giving direction to the youths. He has led several business forums for entrepreneurs and mentorship sessions both within Nigeria and outside Nigeria.

According to him, one of the cardinal points of my life is mentoring the younger generation and this I do with all passion and God-given resources. I realised early the need for our youths to embrace entrepreneurship as a means of survival and this is my reason for supporting various programs the youths in their endeavors”.

As a leader, who believes the youths are the leaders of tomorrow, Sekibo has been involved in various youth’s empowerment programme through Heritage Bank and as such, the bank has received various accolades and laurels from non-governmental organisations and various state governments.

Nigeria’s leading financial inclusion services provider, FirstBank, has unveiled enhanced palliative measures to help its customers and Nigerians through these times of the extended COVID 19 lockdown in some states.

Amongst these measures are; the introduction of special waivers on repayment fees on the Bank’s credit cards as well as up to 90-days moratorium on SME loans. The aim of these is to cushion the impact of the toll on employment and livelihoods.

It was announced in the course of the week that the Lagos State Government & Roducate e-learning initiative – sponsored by FirstBank – had kicked off. The initiative includes the government accredited curriculum for primary, secondary and tertiary schools designed to ensure children are adequately guided and engaged through their learning experience.

Upon the lockdown in March, the Bank had announced to move One Million children to e-learning which is implemented with a number of renowned organisations that have come on board from within and outside the continent. These partners include IBM, which is providing opportunities for the acquisition of digital skills including Coding, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science & Analytics which would promote opportunities to learn skills of the future. These measures are taken in identifying with the roles of children at securing the future of any country.

Reflecting on the words by Benjamin Franklin, thus ‘an investment in knowledge pays the best interest’ Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, CEO, FirstBank said: “In keeping with who we are at FirstBank, our commitment to self-development and continuous improvement is never far from our thinking. As such we are encouraging all to consider and register for any of the excellent programmes being offered free by Ivy League schools and have curated a list of them covering topics such as management, personal development, and entrepreneurship which can be found on our website.

In addition, Dr. Adeduntan stated that “with these measures, we are delighted to support our customers because you all have empowered us to do so by choosing to Bank with us. This is indeed a time to double down efforts and explore opportunities to ease the impact of the extension on you.

Once again, we appreciate our customers for the giant strides achieved on our alternative channels, as we assure you of our commitment to continue to work tirelessly to provide essential banking services across these channels. The transaction volumes is a positive testimony to the resilience of our staff and your Bank to keep things going as COVID 19 will neither defeat nor slow us down. We remain fully persuaded that together we will overcome this too.”

“Our experience over 126 years tells us the solutions lie within us, more than ever as we uphold our promise to you to be here for you and put You First always,” he concluded.

Pan African financial institution, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has called on its customers to exercise utmost caution in their banking transactions and ensure that they do not fall prey to any nefarious activities during the Coronavirus lock down period.
Specifically, UBA has urged its customers not to divulge any sensitive personal information regarding their bank and or card details.
UBA’s Executive Director, Retail Banking & Payments, Chukwuma Nweke said the bank’s attention has been drawn to some fraudulent messages making the rounds, where customers have been asked to provide their card details for disbursement of funds into their accounts. He emphasised that customers should ignore such requests
“Some of our customers may have received a call or message asking for their card details and Bank Validation Number (BVN) for disbursement of COVID-19 funds. Others may have also received an email informing them of bonuses of between N30,000 and N70,000 upon validation of their bank details online. It is important to note that these emails and messages did not originate from UBA, and we would never at any point in time ask for your account details over the telephone of via SMS, emails, live chat or social media. We advise that you kindly delete these messages and do not entertain calls of this nature. Please also inform the bank of these incidences immediately they occur’.
Nweke further stressed that personal banking details including passwords, usernames, card numbers, security numbers at the back of cards, BVN, OTPs, security answers and other sensitive information should not be shared with anyone as UBA would never ask for them online or through phone calls or text messages.
“Your card is for your personal use alone, do not give out your PIN and do not share any information regarding your card with anybody; if your card is missing or stolen please contact us immediately’ he said
In the event of doubt, please contact UBA’s Customer Fulfillment Centre which is open 24/7 on 0700 225 5822,+234 1280 8822,+234 1631 9822 or send an email at cfc@ubagroup.com.

It’s been a tough month for Nigerians. We are grappling with a pandemic that has caused even developed countries to stagger. Lives have been lost. Some people have requested that the year 2020 be returned to its rightful owner. Who? We don’t know.

We are in very uncertain times, conspiracy theories swirl, questions are being asked. And now more than ever, answers are golden! Nigerians have demanded to know and this might be the perfect opportunity to assist with some answers.

With over 60 million subscribers, MTN Nigeria has the lion share of the Nigerian telecoms market. So, it’s obvious that at this time, millions of Nigerians would look to the telco for its input in such dire times.

Below, we have broken down how the company’s Chairman, Ernest Ndukwe answered tough questions on everything Nigerians are curious about. Here’s what we found:

Will MTN do anything during this COVID-19 wahala?
Actually, MTN Nigeria has already begun providing support to Nigeria and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, to help fight the pandemic.

“That’s why we have partnered with the NCDC to provide access to communications to co-ordinate their response. It’s also why we have provided support to State Governments, through the Nigerian Governors Forum, to ensure they can stay connected, have the data they need to target response including a bespoke vulnerability assessment for each state, and can continue to deliver governance remotely during this period,” Ernest Ndukwe mentioned.”

Also, every subscriber is entitled to 300 free SMS, interestingly.

2. Really, is that all?!

No. The company’s board chairman stated in an interview that the second batch of support will be in two phases.

The first is a 500-million donation. “we committed, through the MTN Foundation, N500 million to the provision of healthcare facilities and consumables, which MTN will procure and provide to the health services institutions across Nigeria”, he stated.

For the second, MTN has joined a coalition with the Central Bank of Nigeria. CBN facilitated the formation of the COCAVID initiative, bringing together private sector companies to donate funds that will be used in the wider fight against COVID-19.

Ernest explained that MTN is “a part of that coalition and have committed N1 billion to it. The more like-minded people are able to collaborate and pool resources to achieve scale, the more effective interventions will be.”

3. Will there be a reduction of voice and data cost?

Not at the moment.

As it turns out, it might be bad for Nigerians if the prices are reduced right now. Reduced prices would mean more people using the network than normal. That means more people than the network is equipped to cater to. “We must ensure that the overall network capacity is not exceeded, which would have catastrophic effects for all and mean that no-one would be able to communicate at all. If we provide free or cheaper access to voice and data services, then the usage level would go up astronomically, and we might get to a level where the network gets so congested that nobody will be able to communicate, defeating the purpose.”

4. What’s All This Talk About 5G destroying Things?

The Chairman explained that one of the biggest issues at this time has been combating the crippling effects of false news and conspiracies, “One of the hardest things about managing the COVID-19 crisis is the amount of fake news and conspiracy theories that are circulating, and the impact that this has on behaviour.

He was clear straight to the point when he stated that “to the best of my knowledge that 5G has not been linked to any adverse health effects not to talk of inducing the COVID-19. Any assertion to the contrary is absurd and scientifically flawed.”

5. Will MTN deploy 5G?

First thing – deal with COVID-19. “We can address the potential deployment of 5G and the issues that have been raised once we have overcome the challenge in front of us.”

Ndukwe then shared his thoughts on the possible future: “But, what I will also say is that I do think, once all the relevant tests and preliminary processes are complete, and the NCC and key stakeholders are of the view that the conditions are right, 5G will be available in Nigeria.”

Clearly, it is NCC’s responsibility to determine when 5G can be available in Nigeria.

So, we need to take a moment to get the right information. You may be shocked at the number of things we can miss!

The Conference of Registered Political Parties in Lagos, has comended the efforts of the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in curtailing the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic in the state.

The group also condemned the sponsored media criticisms for the Governor’s handling of palliative measures for less privileged Lagosians during the current COVID-19 lockdown.

The group through its Chairman, Engr Taiwo Fatai during a press conference held in Lagos, said those who were using the pages of newspapers and online media as “the altar of injustice” against the good governance of Sanwo-olu were those “who have added no value to the polity of Lagos State and would stop at noting to pull Lagos State down.”

Fatai said Sanwo-Olu deserved commendation for his reaction to COVID-19.

“We commend Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Governor of Lagos State for the steps he is taking to stop the spread of COVID 19 within the state. His motivating, proficient and consoling reaction to the pandemic in the state is highly commendable.

“We are satisfied with his response to the dictates of the times, by reactivating Lagos State profile banking and bio-security research facility at the infections sickness laboratory at Yaba.

“Without any doubt, the recent events that have locked down the Nations of the world, the monstrous COVID 19 have shown that leadership earned in an unusual trying moments as the COVID 19 represents. CRPP have been vindicated in our assertion that Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu embodies the true yarning and aspiration of the people of Lagos State,” the group said

The CRPP also commended the First Lady of Lagos State Mrs. Ibironke Sanwo-Olu who “has continued to give her husband, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State the needed and necessary support that informed the successes achieved within one year in office in the history of Lagos State.”

The group further praised the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi. “The professional touch he has brought to bear in fighting COVID 19 Scrounge is commendable. We salute the role played by all the COVID 19 Task force team in Lagos State,” it said.

Also getting the commendation of CRPP were the law enforcement agencies who it said conducted themselves professionally to execute the presidential order on lockdown.

The CRPP yet commended the National Leader the National Leader of All Progressive Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bolu Ahmed Tinubu, ” for his Fatherly support to the people and Government of Lagos State at this trying time, of the state.”

Speaking further about Tinubu, the CRPP said, ” He has really shown that nobody dare querry his paranormal intelligence as his leadership skills remains unequalled. We cherish his entrepreneurship value and kind heart.”

The CRPP enjoined Lagosians to support the Sanwo-Olu-led administration in the fight against COVID 19 by complying with all instructions.

By Bekeme Masade-Olowola

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is an unfolding global tragedy that has led to massive death tolls, damaged economies and caused disruptions to social order across the world. In Nigeria, while we may not yet have felt the full brunt of its effect on public health, we are already experiencing the pandemic’s assault on our economy.

It is an undeniable fact that Nigeria’s health system is weak and disorganised and cannot meet the need of its citizens even at normal times. It is, therefore, obvious that if the virus hits us with the same ferocity with which it has hit some western countries, the consequences will be too devastating for us to manage. As it is, we can only hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

It is, however, not all bad news. Just as they say, good times build confidence, but tough times build character. The COVID-19 pandemic has once again brought to the fore the enormous goodwill of Nigerians.

Several individuals, corporate organisations and religious bodies have stepped up to contribute to the fight against this invisible enemy that has laid siege on our country. The call for support from a beleaguered government at both the federal and state levels has been met with a robust response by Nigerians from all walks of life. Billionaire business people, religious leaders, celebrities and even children alike, have all pledged laudable contributions ranging from billions to thousands of naira.

Donations have not been limited to cash. Some organisations have funded fully equipped medical facilities for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, while others have made their spaces available to be used as isolation centres in the event of a surge in cases. Some have also supplied vital medical materials and equipment including face masks, ventilators and ambulances.

In this difficult period, Nigerians have demonstrated their enormous capacity to unite in the face of an existential threat and it shows that despite their consistent criticism of their government, many Nigerians truly love their country.

However, as Nigerians mobilise to give, they also want to know whom to send their donations to and how such will be utilised. For instance, in a stunning display of empathy and patriotism, Vera Akpan, a girl from Delta State wrote President Buhari Muhammadu a letter, requesting for how to donate her saving of N2,350 to the country in its fight against the coronavirus.

The 8-year-old ended her letter with a very important question: “How do I send the money to the federal government?”
Vera Akpan’s question reflects the desire of many Nigerians for a structured system of collection and disbursement of all the donations being received by the federal government. Both the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, have also added their voices to the demand for a coordinated collection of donations. While there have been donations to specific groups and state governments, which are being managed at those levels, the administration of funds donated to the federal government has largely been unstructured, creating confusion.

The government owes its citizens an explanation on critical issues surrounding these contributed funds. Authorities concerned, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Ministry of Finance, have a responsibility to declare exactly how much cash donation is currently in the federal government’s coffers and how the monies are being disbursed, along with clarity on who has primary authority to determine the use of funds and at whose instance, funds can be released.

To emphasise what should be done, we can borrow from what is being done in other countries to engender transparency in governments’ fight against the coronavirus. In Brazil, there exists a transparency portal that discloses specific federal spending related to combating COVID-19. The public can verify on a daily basis the budget and its execution by the federal government. The French government, in pursuit of online transparency, also created a portal for open supplier sourcing, which include a shortlist of suppliers and market analysis.

In Lithuania, the Ministry of Finance established a special fund for mitigating the consequences of COVID-19 in the country. All can donate to the special fund by e-transfer or by dialling short numbers, which means that monies contributed can be traced. In Panama, innovatively took traceability to a new level when the government converted National Identity Cards of citizens into debit cards in order to provide them with economic assistance to buy groceries, basic items and medicines.

In Nigeria, seeing as there is already a Treasury Single Account (TSA) in place which was recommended by the World Bank, which can easily be monitored and audited by relevant stakeholders, one wonders why the government would not robustly use this platform for centralised collection of contributions if transparency is what it is after. The TSA, since its introduction to the Nigerian economy in 2012 by the Goodluck Jonathan administration, and its ful implementation by the Muhammadu Buhari regime in 2015, has already saved the government several millions of dollars by blocking leakages and improving financial management.

It is commendable that the CBN has created a private sector led COVID-19 Relief Fund Account linked to the TSA. Donations can now be made into this account by individual and corporate organisations through multiple channels such as USSD, cards, internet banking, mobile banking, mobile money, electronic wallets, bank branches and agents. It is hoped that all other government agencies mobilising COVID-19 donations will toe the same line. At this stage, the government’s integrity will be greatly boosted if it can present a publicly available and accessible platform that would enable citizens easily track COVID-19 donations and disbursement.

Importantly, this crucial period in which we collectively face an existential threat is certainly not the time for squabbles between the executive and legislative arms of our government. We simply cannot afford any bureaucracy that would lock funds down in government coffers whilst huge needs remain unmet. In countries like Singapore, the fight against the virus is yielding good results because the people trust their government and readily comply with its directives.

This is an opportunity for the Nigerian government to regain the trust of its people and engender buy-in into its strategy. Just as the pandemic has spurred Nigerians to exhibit tremendous goodwill, it should also stimulate the government to be open and accountable to its citizens. Setting up a team of trusted and capable people to manage all donations in an efficient and transparent manner is, therefore, a matter of national urgency.

Masade-Olowola is the Chief Executive of CSR-in-Action and a GRI Amsterdam Board Member

Christians in Nigeria have been enjoined to seize the opportunity of the Easter festival to beseech God to heal the world and assist scientists to procure vaccines to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The grand masters of data, Globacom, stated this in a release to commemorate the 2020 celebration of Easter which marks the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The company charged Christians to use the lesson of Easter which symbolises selfless love and sacrifice to support their neighbours by staying at home and observing hygienic practices as the world grapples to contain the corona virus.

It also prayed for quick recovery for the victims of the pandemic and for God to comfort those who have lost loved ones to the pandemic in Nigeria and overseas.

“Let us use this Easter period to further reflect deeply on the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on the cross. This sacrifice is a pointer to the fact that God cares for the human race at all times and has plans for their redemption from sin and all evils. This should rekindle hope in our hearts at this difficult time,” Globacom said.

The company further reminded Nigerians to be mindful of the guidelines prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the National Council for Disease Control (NCDC) towards safeguarding their health against contracting the deadly disease. “Remember to wash your hands regularly and use alcohol-based sanitisers; eschew unimportant travels and refrain from holding or attending large gatherings,” the company advised.

The total telecom service provider also assured its subscribers of quality service on the network throughout the holiday period and beyond, while urging them to “spread the good news of Christ’s sacrifice and the hope of redemption of the human race” by using the network to make calls and send messages of goodwill to their loved ones.

The attractive offers on the network include Stay Home Data plan that gives subscribers up to 20% more data, the Sunday data plan that offers 1.2GB for N200 on Sundays and the Glo Amebo which gives customers five times the value of recharge to call any network.

The celebration of Easter is the conclusion of the Lenten period which prescribes a 40-day fast to purify believers through prayer, sacrament, repentance of sins, almsgiving, and self-denial in commemoration of the passion of Christ.

First Bank of Nigeria Limited, the leading financial inclusion bank in Nigeria, has reassured its customers that it would remain steadfast and ready to show up for them at these “unprecedented times.”

The Bank, in a statement released on Thursday and signed by its chief executive officer, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, hailed its Nigerian customers for their resilience especially in the last two weeks despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic ravaging the country.

“As I reflect on the last two weeks, I am comforted by the resilience of our people,” the bank’s chief said.

Commenting on FirstBank’s strides in the last one week, Adeduntan disclosed that the lender has over 53,000 agents across the country who have processed over 5 million transactions with differing values in the last week alone.

“We’ve recorded approximately 2.5 million withdrawals which amounts to N35 billion across our ATMs over the last week.

“Our larger corporate customers have done over 1,700 succesful transactions worth N6.8 billion on our e-bills platform during this challenging period.

“Nigerians with FirstBank cards have used them 21 million times to make payments or withdrawals worth N268 million as they rely on us to settle their banking needs.

“Our customers have made transfers over 10 million times with a total value of about N615 billion across our digital channels.”

The FirstBank CEO further assured its customers that the bank is working tirelessly to ensure that banking transactions continue seamlessly, and that COVID-19 will neither slow it down nor defeat its workforce.

“Expertise and resilience are in FirstBank’s DNA. We are holding up our side; and COVID-19 will not slow us down.”

“More than ever before, the bank will uphold its promise to its customers to be there for them “and put them First.

“We recognize our role in keeping the engine going, keeping society going and recognize further that it is our responsibility to remain at the forefront of this.

“Our unparalleled network and total coverage of the nation serve us all well at this time; ensuring that safe alternative channels are available for our customers 24/7.

“Rest assured that we are in this together and together, we will emerge stronger at the end of this period because this too shall pass,” he further assured.

Adeduntan, while reassuring Nigerians of FirstBank’s commitment to support the fight against COVID-19, however said that customers can reach the bank via its email – firstcontact@firstbanknigeria.com and through their relationship managers, throughout the lockdown period.

Since its establishment in 1894 (126 years ago), FirstBank has consistently built relationships with customers focusing on the fundamentals of good corporate governance, strong liquidity, optimised risk management and leadership. Over the years, the Bank has led the financing of private investment in infrastructure development in the Nigerian economy by playing key roles in the Federal Government’s privatisation and commercialisation schemes.

Florence Ajimobi, wife of the former Oyo state governor, says she caught her husband cheating on two occasions but forgave him for it.

The former first lady brought this revelation to light during an Instagram Live discussion with Bisola, her daughter, while sharing details about the ups and downs in her marriage to the former governor.

Florence described Ajimobi as her “leftover” who will always come back, adding that men are simply having sex when they cheat on their wives rather than making love as widely believed.

“Even on one or two occasions that I’ve caught him cheating, he would apologize. Once he does that, it ends. I never go back to them again. I never ever discussed it,” she said.

“To err is human but to forgive is divine. Even as a wife, sometimes I fall below his expectations. Sometimes, we do things that are even worse than cheating.

“I know some women that build houses without their husbands knowing. It’s as bad. Some keep dirty secrets from their husbands. Sometimes, when I do something, I can’t face my husband.

“I send him messages because I don’t want to see the hurt on his face. I send him a text and then he replies to me that it’s okay and that we can talk about the issue.”

She also dared ladies who think themselves cute enough to give her husband a try, bragging that he’ll only use and abandon them as she has “eaten a better part” of the ex-governor, as his wife.

“But I think when most men cheat, they just have sex with a woman. When a man Is having a relationship with a woman he loves, he’s making love not having sex,” Florence added.

“So if you cute enough, give yourself to my husband, he’s mine. He’ll use you and come back to me. He’s my leftover, I’ve eaten the better part of him.”

Assures customers of best-in-class service at this challenging times



Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s leading financial institution, has introduced an automated voice banking service, an interactive voice response (IVR) solution which enables customers to perform basic banking transactions by dialing a dedicated phone line through their registered phone numbers and following the prompts.

By simply dialing +234 (1) 278 7000 from the phone number linked to their accounts and following the prompts, customers can pay DSTV/GOTV bills, restrict their accounts or block their cards, request account statement via email, view the last five transactions, transfer funds, buy airtime, and do lots more.

Speaking on the launch of the product, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu said: “Zenith automated voice banking service is designed to ensure a truly amazing experience that will offer convenience for our teeming customers.”

The GMD added that the self-service product offers quick response to customers in addition to security entrenched by the multilayer authentication mechanism.

He urged the Bank’s customers to take advantage of this unique service particularly at this critical time when the physical interface with the Bank has been greatly impacted due to social distancing and the restriction of movement in some states of the federation due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Zenith Bank has clearly distinguished itself in the Nigerian financial services industry through superior service quality, unique customer experience and sound financial indices. The bank remains a clear leader in the digital space with several firsts in the deployment of innovative products, solutions and alternative channels that ensure convenience, speed and safety of transactions.

The Bank’s commitment to world-class service standards has led to several product innovations over the last couple of months including the “Zenith Timeless Account”, which allows Nigerians aged 55 years and above Bank for free, the “Zenith Save4me”, a high-interest target savings account and “Dubai Visa Service” on the Zenith Internet Banking Platform, which allows convenient application and payment for visas to Dubai.

As a testament to its excellent performance, commitment to best-in-class service and recognition as one of the most innovative financial institutions in Nigeria, Zenith Bank was ranked as the Best Digital Bank in Nigeria 2019 by Agusto and Co.

The Bank was also voted as the Best Commercial Bank in Nigeria 2019 by the World Finance and emerged as Bank of the Year and Best Bank in Retail Banking at the 2019 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Awards. Most recently, Zenith Bank was recognized as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria, for the third consecutive year, in the Banker Magazine “Top 500 Banking Brands 2020” and the Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020.

As part of its effort to ensure its customers have easy access to their funds and can carry out seamless transactions during these uncertain times, Nigeria’s leading retail bank Access Bank Plc has launched a revolutionary new mobile banking application.

The AccessMore app is an innovative mobile application that offers a ’more than banking’ experience, built on cutting-edge technology, offering tailored and personalised services, ease of use and excellent customer experience.

According to Herbert Wigwe, CEO, Access Bank Plc, “In a period like this, when we need to be more present and relevant in the lives of our customers than ever, we have risen to the challenge to ensure our customers have access to their funds to carry out transactions while keeping safe at home, by providing not just uninterrupted service but superior service. To deliver on our promise to continually give our customers ‘more’, we have worked with first class tech experts to build the AccessMore mobile app to suit our customers’ lifestyle and meet their financial needs.

As we mark our first anniversary post-merger with erstwhile Diamond Bank, this new addition to our array of solutions is also in line with our promise to adopt the best of both institutions.

The AccessMore mobile app does not only deliver the best combination of both mobile apps, it accommodates the unique needs of existing users, delivering the best mobile banking experience on a world class platform. Some of the unique features of the “AccessMore” mobile app include: dashboard personalization of theme and favourites, interactive promotional messages, intuitive beneficiary selection and of course a more rewarding banking experience,” he said.

In an interview with Victor Etuokwu, Executive Director, Retail Banking, Access Bank Plc, he said: “This month marks the one-year anniversary of our expanded institution and we are using this opportunity to reward our loyal customers who believed in us and stood by us throughout the integration period.

“From April – December 2020, we will be rewarding customers who complete ten (10) transactions using either our USSD service *901# or any of our mobile apps (old Access Mobile, old Diamond mobile or the new AccessMore app) per month.

So, the more a customer transacts in multiples of 10, the higher his/her chances of winning a BRAND NEW CAR in the quarterly draw. Our customers can download the new AccessMore mobile app from their Android Play store or IOS app store.”

Access Bank Plc is recognized as one of the most innovative financial institutions in Africa. With about 40 million customers and more than 600 branches nationwide, it offers a range of products and services tailored to suit needs and lifestyle of its customers across multiple segments. .

To register and learn more about the upgraded Access bank app, please click HERE.

Smile communications, West Africa’s pioneer 4G LTE broadband service provider, has enjoined all Nigerians to strive to be safe by observing all necessary safety precautions as the coronavirus pandemic persists.

To this end, the company has created data free access to websites for everyone, on its network, to have easy access to up-to-date information on the pandemic. The websites are: http://covid19.ncdc.gov.ng/ and https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus.

In a statement issued by the 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) broadband service provider, Smile said: “Appreciative of the current restriction of movement, aimed at combatting the ravages of Coronavirus in Nigeria, Smile has taken steps to remain fully operational and serve the best interest of its customers in this challenging time.

“Consequently, it has created many online platforms to enable its teeming customers to recharge, make enquiries and seek assistance.

“Smile customers can henceforth utilize these platforms: Instagram @smilecomsng; Twitter @smilecomsng; and Facebook Smile Communications Nigeria.”

The Coronavirus scare on Saturday rocked the multi-million naira private estate of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in Garki, Abuja as the news of an individual infected broke out.

The Corporation, which confirmed this, explained the circumstances of the reported COVID-19 infected individual at an apartment in the NNPC Estate, dismissed insinuation of mass outbreak of Coronavirus infection in the facility.

The National Oil Company said, in a statement on Saturday that it was aware of all the actions taken by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), to tackle the singular case, which for now, has remained an isolated incident.

The corporation in the statement issued by Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs division, Dr. Kennie Obateru, read: “Explained that the said case, involving a non-member of staff of the corporation, had to do with the individual who had just returned from the United Kingdom and developed symptoms of the decease.”

His case was said to have been confirmed positive by the NCDC after undergoing a laboratory test and in line with NCDC approved protocol; all residents of the affected apartment were moved out and placed in Isolation, while officials of NCDC undertook a disinfection of the flat and adjoining areas to eliminate the chances of community infection.

The NNPC said it had long embarked on public awareness campaigns within NNPC and beyond her borders including sharing with the residents of the Estate guidelines on successful self-supervised isolation to ensure strict adherence to all NCDC prescribed safety measures designed to tackle the COVID-19 Global pandemic.

Following the launch of its Coronavirus (COVID-19) initiative, Prudential Zenith Life Insurance has announced some additional benefits designed to address the negative impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which has claimed thousands of lives globally.

According to a statement released by the company, the benefits which apply for a period of 45 days – from April 3rd to May 18th 2020 – will ensure that customers who have purchased or who intend to purchase any of the following Prudential Zenith Life products: My Family Protection Plan, My Family Protection Plan Premier, My School Fees Protection plan, PZL Term Assurance, PZL Hospital Plan and My Savings Plan-Premier will enjoy a ‘Diagnosis Benefit’, which entitles the insured who has been diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus by the State to a cash amount of thirty-eight thousand and a ‘Treatment Benefit’ of nine thousand daily for a maximum period of 25 days to cater for losses or incidental expenses.

The statement further noted that the company has reduced the normal waiting period from 6 months to 14 days for these benefits to apply to any new customer, while for existing customers, these additional benefits apply immediately.

Also, for any customer who has bought a policy from the company and who is diagnosed with COVID-19 or who is formally retrenched as a result of a business having to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it will provide a three-month premium holiday. This means that the policy will not lapse and the customer will still enjoy the protection benefits of their policy even if they are unable to pay their regular premiums during this period. This is in addition to any ‘Death Benefits’ that are payable when due, as the company does not exclude death caused by COVID-19 under any of its policies.

To avoid any ambiguity, the company stated that it is important to note there are policy exclusions to this offering as listed below:

We are not liable to pay claims if:

Treatment is for any reason other than the contraction of the COVID-19 virus.
On or after the start of the policy, the Covered Person travelled to any country or area included in the list of “countries/ areas with active community transmission of COVID-19” as announced by the Nigerian Ministry of Health or World Health Organisation at the time of his/her travel.
The covered person is in self-isolation or hospitalised but has not been officially diagnosed and hospitalised by the State.
The following shall apply to new clients only:

The Covered Person(s) has already officially been diagnosed with or already has signs or symptoms of COVID-19 at the time of signing on to the Plan
The Covered Person(s) was under mandatory self-isolation in the past 14 days from the time of registration due to close contact with an infected person or having demonstrated COVID-19 symptoms.
Other Important Points to Note

The benefits will be provided for all clients that qualify with active policies.
Benefit are also available to ALL of our customers who’s employer has taken out a Critical Illness policy with Prudential Zenith Life” to “Group Life policy with Critical Illness rider
A claim can only be made once in respect of each Insured Life.
Covered Lives refers to all lives covered under the policyholder’s active existing insurance policy (ies) and includes all named individuals covered under a Group Critical Illness policy taken out by an employer of those individuals.
An Active Policy is a Prudential Zenith Policy which has not lapsed, been cancelled or terminated and on which premiums are received as stipulated in the contract of that policy.
All claim substantiating documents, should be duly stamped and signed by the issuing authority.

Telecoms firm Globacom has released a new plan to enable its customers to enjoy more excitement and connect with loved ones on Sundays especially at this period that citizens are advised to remain indoors to curtail the spread of the Coronavirus .

Tagged the Sunday Data plan, the new plan gives subscribers 1.25GB for just N200 worth of data on Sundays to chat, browse, stream and work, a statement from the company said, adding that the plan is for 24 hours.

Customers interested in choosing the Sunday Data Plan are enjoined to dial *777# and go to “Night and Weekend” tab or visit http://hsi.glo.com and follow the instructions.

With the company’s nationwide 4G services backed by the powerful Glo1 undersea cable, Globacom reiterated its capacity to provide reliable, high quality and efficient telecommunication services to Nigerians during this period

The company also added its voice to the call for all to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety in line with the guidelines provided by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

These include regular hand washing and use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, limiting non-essential travel and ensuring timely medical checkups.

“Our primary focus at Globacom is to ensure that all Nigerians remain safe to support their families and the economy. We urge everyone to stay aware of updated practices and strategies to combat Coronavirus. These are trying times. However, we are confident we will overcome. Stay connected, safety for all,” the company assured.

The Founder and president of the Synagogue Church Of All Nations widely known as SCOAN, Prophet T.B Joshua has debunked the widespread story that he donated $1 million and 5 trailers loaded with bags of rice to Lagosian, especially Ikotun residents at large.

In an exclusive chat with us this morning, one of his media aides who pleaded anonymity cleared the air on the widespread rumor. He stated that the internationally acclaimed TB Joshua only donated N30million Naira without rice and that he did that because the situation caused by the pandemic is a global one.

It would be recalled that some online platforms reported that the founder and president of the Synagogue Church of All Nations(SCOAN), Prophet, TB. Joshua has made donations of $1 million and a 5 trainer loaded with bags of rice to Lagosian, especially Ikotun residents at large.

The report also claimed that the church also donated medical resources and food items as part of it’s plead and continuous support to the Nigerian authorities in this trying time of the COVID-19 pandemic that has lockdown almost 15 countries worldwide.

“SCOAN as a faith-based Christianity with a global record wishes to register it supports to humanity, to the Nigerian government and global effects to the war against the virus.”

According to TB Joshua, “Each of the trainers of rice, will be donated a key spot in Lagos.”

He continued: “I strongly believe this virus is a big lesson to the entire world, God just made it happened to teach mankind a big lesson on earth.”

By Felix Onajite

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has saluted medical professionals tackling the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria and the world, THEWITNESS reports.

The Bank in series of tweets on its Twitter page on Friday, acknowledged the role medical experts are playing to fight the virus.

Some of the messages read: “No capes, just heroes. To all the health professionals at the frontline of efforts to tackle COVID-19, we say thank you. Your timeless efforts are much appreciated. The world called and they responded.”

“No cape, just lab-coats. No superhuman capability, just dedication, strength, and compassion. As we play our parts of staying at home, we thank our medical professionals for being our ‘Avengers’.”

“The world called and they responded. We salute our frontline warriors.”

FirstBank has been in the forefront of supporting the drive to flatten the curve with promoting public enlightenment being among its many measures to check the rising spread of Coronavirus since the outbreak of the disease in Nigeria.

Recall, the lender, as part of a robust effort to combat the deadly virus, recently announced a donation of N1 billion to the federal government of Nigeria for the expansion of health facilities, purchase of relief materials, critical care facilities, protective gears to contain the spread of the virus and treating individuals diagnosed with the disease.

The donation is in addition to the Bank’s drive to move one million children to e-learning, together with an early partner – Roducate – as recommended by the Lagos State Ministry of Education.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, the e-learning initiative is a complementary effort in education to support students and minimise the disruption to their education resulting from closure of schools.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Friday night confirmed 20 new cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country.

Eleven cases were confirmed in Lagos, three cases confirmed in the FCT, 3 in Edo, two in Osun and one in Ondo

“Two new deaths have been recorded in Lagos and Edo States, with 25 cases discharged. This brings the total number of confirmed cases in Nigeria to 210,” the centre said.

In the face of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting lockdown, Prudential Zenith Life Insurance is rolling out a range of services to help customers cope with the lockdown.

The new services include a range of additional COVID-19 insurance cover enhancements, without additional premium charges, and a waiver for ‘pandemic’ exclusions as contained in its policy language.

In line with the recent pronouncement of the federal government, the company will be temporarily locked down and has therefore set up a dedicated claims team with remote working capabilities, to enable customers make and receive claims virtually.

According to the statement from the insurance company, the claims procedure will be simplified to allow customers make claims through the WhatsApp channel.

This development makes it possible for customers to buy insurance products without any physical interface with sales personnel or visit to a physical branch.

Commenting on the changes, Prudential Africa CEO Matt Lilley said: “We realise this is a worrying time for everyone and we want to reassure you that protecting the health and wellness of our customers, employees and partners is our primary concern.

“At Prudential, we have been delivering promises for over 170 years and this time will be no different. I am proud of the measures we are announcing today and I know that they will provide our customers additional peace of mind.”

He added that the waiting periods for new cover have been reduced, and the company is providing additional training and incentives to sales personnel to continue providing advice and access to insurance, even as they work remotely.

He encouraged Nigerians to stay safe and adhere to the directives from the Ministry of health, Nigerian centre for disease control (NCDC) and other relevant authorities.

“We are going to get through these trying times together” he assured.

Prudential Zenith Life Insurance was born when Prudential Plc, one of the oldest and most strongly capitalized life insurance companies in the world, acquired a majority stake in Zenith Life Assurance.

In recognition of the stringent effort and measures so far taken by the Governor Okezie led administration to ensure that Abia State is secured against the globally ravaging corona virus (COVID 19), the United Bank of Africa Foundation, has donated a N28.5m (Twenty-Eight Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira) only to the state.

Though Abia State is among states within the federation that has no record case of COVID 19, the UBA Foundation in a letter addressed to the State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, by the MD/CEO of the foundation, Bola Atta, recalled that the virus presents a serious risk to humanity across the world.

Presenting the Cheque on behalf of the foundation, Mr. Raymond Ahumuibe the Regional Head of UBA in charge of Imo and Abia States, said: “We at the UBA Foundation would like to lend our support in fighting the spread of this global pandemic.

“On behalf of the UBA Foundation, I would like to reaffirm to you and the great people of Abia State that the United Bank for Africa is committed to partnering and contributing our resources to the collective effort that will ensure the response to the pandemic is swift and effective.

To this end, I am pleased to present the sum of N28.5m (Twenty-Eight Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira) to help with medical supplies, treatment and other essentials needed to combat the deadly virus.

Receiving the Cheque on behalf of Abia State Government, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Barr. Chris Ezem, thanked the foundation for their support.

He reiterated that, though there is no case of the virus in Abia, Governor Ikpeazu has instructed that everything necessary, including setting up a COVID-19 committee in the state is to ensure that the virus is prevented in the state.

“On behalf of the Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, Government and the good people of Abia State, I appreciate the UBA Foundation for this support.
“Though we don’t have any case of the virus in Abia, the Governor has directed stringent measures to be taken to ensure our people are secured. We have COVID-19 committee in state. We have been engaging in public enlightenment to educate and inform our people about the virus and measures they must take to secure themselves and others.

“We have also ordered closure of our boarders to restrict movement of people into the state. We have also announced a one lockdown in the stage with effect from tomorrow April 1.”

It is our prayer that we will overcome this time. Mr Okechukwu Irokwe, the Umuahia branch Manager of UBA and the Dr Joe Osuji, the Commissioner for Health, Abia State were present during the event in Government House Umuahia.

Roksie is the Ultimate couple as they have won the first season of Nigeria’s first love reality TV show.

Iykeresa (Iyke and Theresa) and Roksie (Rosie and Kachi) were the last Love guests standing.

One of the hosts of the reality TV show, Oluwaseun was on hand to announce the winner.

Prior to the announcement, the presenter had a chat with the last two couples standing, Iykeresa and Roksie said she can’t wait for the wedding proper.

They got to speak about their time in the house, the friction and the love triangles before everyone settled into the house.

While chatting with the couple, Seun asked the couple what their future plans were.

The winning couple leaves the game show with some phenomenal gifts to start them off including N5M in cash, a N10M traditional wedding and a dream home!

However, the prize comes with a clause, there has to be a commitment from the couple on the live show.

There also has to be a proposal within the first 90 days.

After the proposal and wedding, then the couple gets the fully furnished house.

Now the trick about the house is that, they only get to keep the house if they stay together as a married couple for twelve months together.

As part of a robust effort to combat the deadly Coronavirus outbreak in Nigeria, the management of Keystone Bank today announced the donation of N1 billion for the purchase of relief materials, critical care facilities and protective gear to contain the spread of the virus.

The pledge was made during the Bankers’ Committee meeting held recently to support the Central Bank of Nigeria in its bid to raise funds for the fight against coronavirus pandemic through the newly-formed Nigerian Private Sector Coalition Committee against COVID-19.

In a press statement, the Acting Managing Director, Mr. Olaniran Olayinka explained that the decision to make the pledge is part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility pillar to provide an enabling environment by improving the well-being and health of the communities wherein we operate.

“What we have is a situation that calls for an inclusive support for humanity. A time that all hands must be on deck to support the assiduous effort the government is making to manage the situation. The decision to support the government’s effort is consistent with our unshakable resolve to promote health initiatives which is very key pillar in our corporate social responsibility plans. It is also crucial in our role as a signatory to the principles of responsible banking by the United Nations Environment Finance Initiative working to achieve a sustainable future.”

“At Keystone Bank, we remain firmly committed to our promise of supporting Nigerians to thrive and this means for us showing up when it matters most. For us, this is one of such moments”.

Mr. Olayinka expressed optimism that the current pandemic will soon be a thing of the past. “I am very confident that the current prevailing health challenge will soon be an episode in the footnote of our history; We have the capable human resources, the will of the part of the government and the support of every Nigerian to end the pandemic at the earliest possible time.”

Commenting further, Mr. Olayinka noted that the donation is one of other support initiatives put in place by the bank to support the fight against the pandemic.

As encomium continues to trickle in for the celebration of the National Leader of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in celebration of his 68th birthday, ace entrepreneur Ayo Ogunsan, too, has sent in his goodwill messages.

In a press release issued recently, Ogunsan, while lauding the leadership qualities of Tinubu and wishing him well, said: “Thank you sir for being a brave, fearless, thoughtful and wise leader that I respect and admire so much.

“You have been an inspiration to us as we strive to improve our democracy.  Our democracy is now better because of your skill as a leader. Your leadership has meant so much to our great country Nigeria. You have been a role model and an example of selfless giving to our generation.

“Through your thoughtful leadership, great vision and sincerity, you have had a positive impact on every aspect of our country.

“You deserve our greatest respect for the lives you have touched and the stability you have brought to our democracy.

“Thank you for being our greatest asset. I am happy to celebrate another year with a very special leader, daddy, boss and mentor. Happy 68th Birthday, sir!”

Lagos State Government has taken delivery of a 110-bed isolation facility on the Lagos Island, where confirmed cases of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the State can be managed and treated. The facility was conceived and built in collaboration with the management of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank).

Managing Director of GTBank, Mr. Segun Agbaje, on Saturday, personally handed over the hospital facility to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, five days after the bank started the construction of the isolation centre sited on the main bowl of the Mobolaji Olufunsho Johnson Stadium in Onikan.

Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the bank’s management for the speed with which the structure was built, disclosing that the facility was equipped with “world-class” equipment and medical supplies that would aid the State Government to deliver adequate care to those infected with COVID-19.

He said: “I am very excited to take possession of this 110-bed isolation facility which the Lagos State Government and Guaranty Trust Bank have put together. In our assessment, it is a world-class facility which has been achieved within a week. Contractors at multilevel worked tirelessly to put up the structure.

“This is a reflection of strong can-do spirit of Nigerians, especially the brand called GTBank. I am happy that the GTBank saw the need for this collaboration. We are going through trying times globally, which is occasioned by unprecedented level of a pandemic. What we are doing in Lagos is that, we are building excess capacity in the event that we witness a spike in cases of COVID-19 infection.”

The Governor allayed the fear of the residents over the growing cases of the disease, saying the State was working assiduously to stem the rate of transmission, especially by those who returned from abroad.

The Governor hinted that there had been improvement in the recovery of some patients currently isolated at the State’s Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH) in Yaba. He said the State would continue to build capacity to enhance its response strategy and actions towards containing the pandemic.

Agbaje hailed the State Government for accepting the collaboration offer in building the structure, noting that half of the resources used to build the facility was donated by Africa Finance Corporation.

He expressed optimism that the effort would strengthen the capacity of Lagos to stop the spread of the virus.

The isolation facility, which sits on an expansive area in the stadium, is divided into operational sections, including Intensive Care Unit (ICU), regular-bed wards, pharmacy department, doctors’ quarters and consulting rooms. The facility is also equipped with ventilators for the use of patients that may develop acute respiratory symptoms.

National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has raised a nine-point suggestion to the Federal Government, including stimulus package and increase spending to prevent individuals, companies and even state governments from imminent disaster during hard times.

Specifically, he wants the Federal Government to increase naira expenditure to about 15 per cent, jack up health spending, lower interest rate, deal with the exchange rate by allowing some pressure on the naira, carry out tax reduction, food security, suspend pilling of debts and increase stipends’ payment to the poor.

In a statement titled “A message on the Coronavirus: A time for unity, a time for thought, a time for action,” issued in Lagos, on the occasion of his 68 birthday, today, Tinubu noted that: “Not only is the coronavirus a health and medical problem, it will bring heavy economic costs. China and the West face severe economic contractions. Cities are shuttered. Multiple industries have closed. Millions have suddenly been rendered jobless. Supply chains have busted. Economic activity is a fraction of what it was just a month ago. Deep recessions are forecasted.”

Tinubu said at this historic emergency, should the circumstances require increase spending, the Federal Government should not hesitate to do so; “but we must keep the watchful eye to ensure inflation does not climb too high,” assuring, however, that Nigeria shall rise above current challenges.

The party leader, who said he resorted to offering these “humble comments in hope that they contribute to halting the spread and ill consequences of this dreadful sickness” because the coronavirus put a brake on the colloquium, which has held regularly for the last 11 years, called on government, corporate organisations and individuals to raise their current efforts.

He added: “A touch of extra inflation from enhanced government spending is a small price to pay. In fact, it is a price that must be paid. The alternative may be a harmful deflation which historically has proven more difficult to tame and cure than a small inflationary increase.”

Tinubu said that in imitation of other countries like the conservative Donald Trump government which has abandoned its laissez faire ideology in the face of this exigency, and promised to inject $2trillion into the economy, with the possibility of raising the stimulus package to $4 trillion, and China, Britain and Germany with like sums, Nigeria should take drastic steps “to save both lives and livelihoods.

“We, fortunately, are not at the stage where we need to implement such strong economic measures; however, we should be preparing a response for that urgent moment may fall swiftly upon us. In doing so, we must be guided by the same lessons other nations have followed.

“When it comes to expenditures that can only be made in dollars, we must be extra careful. Dollars now come at a steep premium. However, when it comes to expenditures that can be made in naira, government cannot afford to be bashful or reticent when the need arises.

“Already, the price of oil has fallen to less than 30 dollars a barrel. This will bring a dollar shortfall. This does not, however, necessitate a corresponding shortfall in public sector naira expenditures. The US controls dollar issuance. We control naira issuance as is our sovereign right. Just as America has used its sovereign right to issue its currency to stave off economic disaster, so too may Nigeria issue naira for the same purpose.

“While individuals, companies and even state governments can go bankrupt during hard times, the Federal Government cannot become naira insolvent because it has the ability to issue our national currency. He who holds the printing press is never insolvent. The most serious concern and limitation on federal naira spending is not insolvency but inflation.

“For the past 11 years, a colloquium was held on my birthday. Each year, the colloquium gathered some of our best minds in both the public and private sectors. They would dissect and explore the weighty issues of the day in order to find solutions to the social, political and economic difficulties that confront our nation. However, the threat of the coronavirus obligated colloquium organisers to postpone the event; we did not want a large number of people gathered in a relatively compact physical space. This was a decision well taken,” he said.

Tinubu added that it was true that Nigeria and other African countries are among the nations thus far least affected. “However, we must not think this means geography and climate have erected a protective shield on our behalf. At best, these things constitute a partial barrier that may have slowed but will not prevent the growing threat.

“The foremost imperative is that we recognize that corona is here. We must cast aside the myths that we have comforted ourselves with these past weeks. We told ourselves this was not a black man’s disease. We took false comfort in this self-deception. Well, black people have contracted the ailment; black people have also died from it.

“China and other Asian nations took drastic, wholesale action to thwart the viral spread. North America and Europe initially took small steps against the virus. Those did not work. Now they are fast implementing lockdowns of whole cities and closures of key segments of their economies.

“We have entered a sobering period. We face a challenge we cannot see but one that can find us all too easily. As individuals, this puts every one of us at a startling disadvantage. Each is rendered vulnerable by the reckless act of his neighbour. Each is made safer by the enlightened conduct of a stranger. The very nature of this assailant calls us toward greater unity and kindness.

“In the normal push of our daily affairs, we tend to focus on what divides us. We are APC, PDP or another political affiliation. One person is rich. Another is poor. There is the labourer then there is the boss. One person is of the north, another of the south, with both often acting as if the boundary between the two cannot be traversed.

“We are of different ethnic groups; these identities mean so much to us that we behave as if the affiliations are the very source of our humanity. In this, we tend to forget God. Even when we worship God, we divide ourselves in ways that too often bring violence to a way of life meant to bring peace and compassion.

“But, the coronavirus is now here. If we carry forth in our usual ways, we may well carry ourselves into national disaster. Normal practices will not suffice. We all must do better lest we all fail and suffer the grave consequences of collective failure. We pray that this terrible cloud will pass from us. However, we must prepare for the possibility that it may linger to rain hard upon us.

“We cannot afford to put undue pressure on our system because it cannot bear the great weight of a pandemic. Thus, it is incumbent on us to thoroughly implement and obey social safety and distancing techniques so that we halt the spread of the disease and keep hospitalization to the barest possible minimum.”

The party leader called for limiting our social contacts, unless for necessary matters, no one should venture out, but to purchase food and other essential. “Places like banks offer needed services such as cash withdrawals. But they should limit the number of customers in the bank at any given time. Supermarkets and grocers should do the same.

“We should continue to postpone sporting events, weddings, and other large gatherings. Funerals, if they must take place, should be attended only by small numbers of family members. While we put aside the large events for now, we must do better looking after our fellow man. Please check on a neighbour. Make sure the elderly near you are well and have food and water.

“Use this moment to teach your children about compassion and the traditional values of care and concern that often get diluted in our rush toward modernity and growth,” he said.

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has said that all its branches across Nigeria are open to customers despite the COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the nation.

The lender in a statement by its Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mrs. Folake Ani-Mumuney and made available to TheMomentNG on Saturday. The statment disclosed that it will run skeletal operations in some of its branches following the state government directives.

“Following the directives for partial lockdown in several states across the country, we will be offering skeletal services in some of our branches across the nation.

“These branches will be open from 9:00am to 2:00pm, Monday to Friday. We have implemented all necessary health and safety measures across these branches to keep you safe at all our locations.

“For the list of branches, please go to https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/list-of-open-branches-nationwide/

“Our alternative channels are available for you 24/7 during this period.

“Thank you for your understanding at this period as we continue to work to put You First,” the statement said.

As of today, the Covid-19 pandemic has spread to 48 countries in Africa, having recorded the first confirmed case in continent in Cairo, Egypt, on February 14, 2020.
On the 55-nation continent, the total number of confirmed cases, as of today, stands at 3,499; with 186 recovered and 90 deaths.
Egypt recorded its first case on February 14, and now has 456 confirmed cases, 95 recovered and 21 deaths.
Recall that the first two cases of Covid-19 pandemic in Ghana were confirmed on March 12, 2020, when two people returned from Norway and Turkey. Today (just two 2 weeks and one day after), the country has 132 confirmed cases, one recovered and four deaths.
In South Africa, on March 5, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases confirmed the first case in the country.
Today, the country has more than 1,000 cases with two people dead.
As of today, the worst affected African country is South Africa with over 1,000 confirmed cases.
For Algeria, the first confirmed case came up on February 17 and now, confirmed cases hit
367, with 28 recovered and 25 deaths.
Morocco now has 275 confirmed cases, 8 recovered and 11 deaths, from a pandemic that had the first case recorded on March 2, 2020.
In Nigeria, it is exactly a month today since the first confirmed case was announced on February 27, when an Italian in Lagos tested positive for the virus.
According to the information on the website of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, as of 8:35pm on March 26, the total number of confirmed cases in Nigeria has hit 65, with three discharged and one death case.
Speaking on Arise TV, the Director General of the NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, said: “We are seeing more cases of #COVID19 in #Nigeria as a result of a combination of factors. We are working very hard to scale up our testing capacity to bring in more people for clinical management.”

Sterling Bank Plc, has contributed N250 million as part of its commitment to the newly formed Nigerian Private Sector Coalition Against COVID-19 created to help channel resources to combat the coronavirus disease under the theme: “We need you.”

The bank, in an email to its customers, disclosed that it is working with the Bankers’ Committee to lead the effort to raise N120 billion required by the Federal Government to fight the coronavirus pandemic and help achieve the shared goal of eradicating the virus.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman said: “While this will go a long way, more still needs to be done. We have come to acknowledge that this battle will require every one of us to play our part as corporate citizens and individuals.”

He enjoined other public spirited corporate organisations and individuals to join in the fight against COVID-19 by making a contribution to the Fight COVID-19 Fund (FCF) and help the coalition to defeat the pandemic for good. He said every Naira donated will go a long way in saving the country from the pandemic.

Suleiman said donations should be sent to:

Bank Name: Sterling Bank

Account Name: COVID Donations

Account Number: 0076813615

He urged Nigerians to show their strength by uniting against the virus, saying a Swahili proverb which translated into English means “Unity is strength; division is weakness,” is needed now more than ever.

The Lagos State House of Assembly led by the embattled speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday, 26th March, 2020 lifted the suspension of two lawmakers, Moshood Oshun and Raheem Kazeem, we learnt.

Hon. Obasa, made the announcement at the start of plenary activities on the floor of the House.

According to Obasa, the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, called a meeting earlier in the week to intervene in the matter.

The Speaker said at the meeting, it was agreed that the House should reinstate the suspended lawmakers.

Recall that aside the suspension of the two members, two other principal officers, Olumuyiwa Jimoh and Rotimi Abiru, who were the former Deputy Majority Leader and the Chief Whip, respectively, were relieved of their offices.

Recall also that the sanctions was slammed against them by their colleagues on Monday, 9 March, 2020.

Hon. Obasa has been battling allegations of fraud for weeks now.

Recall, we reported that a non-governmental organisation, Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA), recently accused the Lagos Assembly speaker of being reckless with funds meant for development.

In a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), and signed by its executive director, Comrade Buna Olaitan Isiak, the group called on the anti-graft agency to investigate and prosecute Hon. Obasa for “gross financial misconduct and abuse of office allegedly perpetrated by the speaker so as to avert a further bleeding of the public treasury under his care and restore sanity in the functioning of the state’s legislative establishment.”

Specifically, HURMA urged the anti-graft agency to probe Hon. Obasa’s alleged financial recklessness and cornering of public funds through illegitimate means; and the alleged corruption and compromise of laid down procedures and rules deliberately foisted on the workforce of the assembly.