₦airaland Forum

In furtherance of its commitment to empower, enhance and promote healthy living amongst Nigerian women, Keystone Bank Limited has announced its partnership with Medplus Pharmacy, Nigeria’s leading health and beauty retailer to offer its PINK Network card holders who purchase health and beauty products from the pharmacy, a discount ranging from 5 to 10 percent.

In a statement by the lender, the bank said it’s partnering with the health and beauty company to proffer solutions to the challenge posed in accessing quality, genuine healthcare and beauty products in Nigeria.

The bank further explained that the partnership would see its female customers with a Keystone Bank PINK debit card get 10% discount off all drug purchases and 5% discount off non-drug purchases in any Medplus Pharmacy nationwide.

Commenting on the partnership, Keystone Bank executive director, Adeyemi Odusanya stressed: “Women’s health needs differ at every life stage, from puberty to pregnancy, menopause and overall wellbeing. Women are also very conscious of their beauty and self-care, hence the growth of the beauty industry.

“However, finding access to quality healthcare and beauty products can sometimes be a challenge, either they have to battle with the cost or the fear of counterfeit products which have infiltrated the market.

“And to solve this predicament, Keystone Bank is partnering with the renowned pharmacy, Medplus through its PINK Initiative for women, giving them access to quality health and beauty products at a discount.

“Our partnership with Medplus is an indication of the priority we place on women; if the women are healthy then we can always be assured of healthy homes and a more productive nation at large.”

Odusanya further explained that to get a PINK debit card, all women need do is visit any Keystone Bank branch.

The Keystone Bank Pink proposition, launched on 18th of March 2015, which is an extensive bouquet of offering for every Nigerian woman. It seeks to provide women with all the necessary advantage required to thrive in their businesses, personal life, career, lifestyle, health amongst others.

Keystone Bank is a technology and service-driven commercial bank offering convenient and reliable solutions to its customers.

It is raining promos with your FirstBank Cards this season. The Bank recently announced its Verve Card Reactivation Promo to reward three customers with all-expense paid trips to Dubai for reactivating and using their Verve Cards to transact on PoS and online. The ongoing promo kicked off on December 2, 2019 and would end on January 25, 2020.

In addition to the Dubai trip, 600 customers will be rewarded with N3,000 worth of airtime and 60 customers with N50,000.00 cash prize during the 2-month promo period. The airtime and cash prizes will be delivered weekly and winners have begun to emerge already. Winners of the grand prize of a trip to Dubai will be announced at the end of the FirstBank Verve Card Promo.

In the same vein, FirstBank is also rewarding its customers for all transactions done with their Visa Gold and Naira Credit cards this season. Customers can get a percentage of their total spend with FirstBank Visa Gold and Naira Credit cards this season. This promo runs until January 8, 2020.

Speaking on the promo, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, e-Business & Retail Products, FirstBank said “we are pleased to reward our customers for the use of their FirstBank Verve, Visa Gold and Naira Credit cards this season. It is our own way of giving our customers more reasons to smile. We encourage our customers to reactivate their FirstBank Verve cards and keep transacting with their Verve, Visa Gold, and Naira Credit cards to enjoy these yuletide benefits from FirstBank.

Mr. Ezirim also noted that the promo supports the cashless policy whilst assuring customers of the safety and security of their transactions with FirstBank cards. For more information on the promotions, visit the Bank’s website at www.firstbanknigeria.com.

Forget the story.

Forget the acting.

Forget the hype.

Go see Kplai the movie for the aerial shots that make Lagos look nothing like the chaotic urban conurbation we all love to hate.

Ladi Johnson and his DoP get full marks for producing a crisp, visually stunning film.

But movies are much more than cinematography and visual clarity. Movies have to be visceral and relatable and realistic in a way that approaches verisimilitude.

Kpali ticks all those boxes as a movie revolving around a 20 something year old Amaka Kalayo whose sedate London life is set on a roller coaster when her bosses inform her that she has 30 days to close a big deal or lose not just her job but her Kpali; her visa, work permit and right to live and work in the UK.

Thrust into this career maelstrom, Amaka departs for Nigeria with her oyibo male colleague in tow. They arrive Lagos and for some curious reason head together to Amaka’s family home and thus ensues the comedy of errors that is almost always at the heart of a true rom-com.

Kpali is funny, quirky, relatable and clear in the audience it addresses itself to.

It has Nkem “Osuafia” Owoh as well as Seyi law for the laughs. When Amaka’s colleague introduces himself as Jake Hunter, Nkem Owoh’s character asks – “Who is the hunted?”

But it is not the ha-ha moments that hold the most appeal, it is those moments where the actors throw a curveball, where you, as the audience, has been led a certain way and then surprised by something least expected.

A case in point is where Jidenna looks deep in Amaka’s eyes on their first date and while you are cringing and hoping he doesn’t say “I love you” or “I want to marry you” he says something completely asinine but which cracks every one up.

This is a movie for naija millennials, young career minded Nigerians living within or outside the country and trying to find that elusive balance between work and living. They are educated, well-travelled, savvy and eloquent in the lingo of the woke generation.

But no matter how world savvy they are, they remain at the core, Nigerians who have to answer to their parents and bring a man or woman to perpetuate the family line.

Kpali is exciting to watch because it presents a movie that proceeds along multiple narrative strands. This is important in holding audience attention. There is the work angle with Amaka running against the clock to get the deal sealed but thrown into the mix is the emotional angle as Amaka begins to catch feelings not just for one but two men and then there is the IJGB angle, with Amaka as a potential “I Just Got Back” whose encounter with Nigeria begins to give her a fresh perspective to things.

By proceeding along these disparate trajectories, Kpali addresses itself to multiple audiences many of whom will find at least one strand appealing enough to go see the movie.

Ms. Okojie is a delight as leading lady. Her choice of outfits are spot on especially for a corporate highflier something Nollywood hardly ever gets right and her face is a study in emotional turmoil from hearing the news to running into Jake Hunter at the airport to taking a call from her parents, her pretty face is a mobile signboard of emotions.

Her attempts to get past IK Osakioduwa’s character is ennobling because it quickly helps situate her in a different context where she is seen as not just a pretty face but one with brains and business savvy.

The key message though is that when the world seems to be crashing all around you, take out time and seek a change of scene. It often provides fresh perspectives. Amaka is suddenly no longer all about work. She is finally stopping to smell the roses and let the petals of her heart unfurl to the kiss of the sun of love. Where does she find love? Who does she choose between the two men who make her heart go boom? Head to the cinema.

But Kpali is not a perfect film. There are contrived scenes especially when she gets her phone snatched. You have to wonder why she had to wind her window down or that market scene where Jake buys that hideous bag.

But as Nollywood movies go, this is a feel good romp and a very relatable movie that will appeal to millennials who are battling that transition from dependency to independence while evading that pesky question – Nne, when are you getting married?

Kpali hits cinemas, nationwide, today December 20, 2019

The management of Fifth Chukker Polo and Country Club have commended First Bank of Nigeria Limited for their support of the prestigious African Patrons Cup; a polo tournament which holds annually at the Club in Kaduna.

The commendation came at the closing ceremony of the 2019 edition of the competition which featured notable polo teams drawn from across the country.

The Bank was lauded for its contribution to the development of Polo at the club. A statement by the club’s management stated: “We will like to recognise the sterling efforts of our esteemed sponsors First Bank, the African Patrons Cup Polo Tournament will never be the same without your support.”

“We sincerely hope that this association will be maintained and that you will continue to support us in our future endeavours,” the statement concluded.

The Africa Patrons Cup Polo Tournament is an annual event put together by Fifth Chukker Polo and Country Club to create awareness about the prevalence of Breast Cancer among women in the society.

The weeklong competition which had the participation of over 10-teams saw YY Kangimi defeat Keffi Pony’s by 12-goals to 4-goals for the prestigious Patrons trophy.

Only recently, First Bank sponsored the prestigious Georgian Cup of Kaduna Polo Tournament for the 100th year, possibly the longest-running sports sponsorship in the world and a Guinness Book of Records potential.

Juliet Mgborukwe has announced that she has officially divorced her former husband, Chima Ojokwu.

The movie star and former TV girl made this known via her Instagram page on Thursday, December 19, 2019. According to her, even though it has been the most stressful one year, she is happy to be finally done with the divorce preceding.

“After a whole year of sleepless nights amidst the most challenging and emotional phase of my life going through a divorce, The meetings, the mediations, the conferences, the trials, the �the tears, the joy, the fights, the prayers, the guilt, the smile, the laughter, the goal, the strength, the courage, the regret, the confusion, the depression, the glory, the loneliness, the truth, IT IS FINALLY OVER. Divorcing a Narcissist is one of the most painful and stressful situations you can ever imagine!. I wish it didn’t have to end this way but at the end of it, all that counts is what is in the best interest of my beautiful babies.

“After years of not wanting to let go, I have conquered my greatest fear of losing my family but I also gained the strength to never give up and the love to put my children’s needs before my own. I am a ‘MOM’ first and that is what I will always be. Divorce is no joke and shouldn’t be an option in your marriage, but if it puts your life and your kids’ life at risk, all I will say to you is please be brave. OFFICIALLY DIVORCED TODAY! Plus Donald Trump got impeached today too��… OH Well!!! To all the people that stood by me through this journey, THANK YOU SO MUCH! I LOVE YOU�� Old chapter closed❌ HELLO NEW CHAPTER!��‍♀️ Cheers to 2020�� #QueenJuju�” she wrote.

Juliet Mgborukwe and her former husband, Chima Okokwu were involved in one of the messiest celebrity breakup scandal of 2018. From infidelity claims to even photos of domestic abuse, these guys made the headlines for weeks in 2019.

Back in 2018, Nollywood actress, Juliet Mgborukwe announced that she was set to divorce her husband over alleged domestic violence. The former SoundCity presenter made this known on her Instagram page where she shared photos of injuries she sustained from the abuse she suffered in the hands of her husband, Chima Ojukwu.

After she released her statement, her former husband, Chima Ojokwu took to his Instagram page where he alleged that the reason behind their marital crisis was that Juliet was sleeping around. He also claimed that she only used him to get a green card to the United States of America.

Keystone Bank Limited, Nigeria’s most innovative banking services provider, has rewarded 34 winners in its ‘Growbiz Account Save and Win’ promo with cash and consolation prizes in different parts of the country.

The winners which were selected through a computerised and random process, were picked from the bank’s branches across the six geo-political zones, with members of National and Lagos Lottery Regulatory Commission in Nigeria in attendance, to ensure transparency and accountability. The event held at Keystone Bank headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday, December 17, 2019 also had in attendance top executives of the bank, customers, friends as well as representatives from the press.

According to the lender, it had on August 5, 2019 launched the promo as part of its efforts aimed at expressing appreciation to its loyal customers whilst engendering a good savings culture in the country. The promo which was open to both new and existing customers of the bank and scheduled to run till November 30, 2019 requires customers to grow their Keystone Growbiz Account balance by N50, 000 and maintain it for 90 days to qualify for the raffle draw.

In all, 9 customers won N100, 000 each, another 9 customers went home with N50, 000 each, while other consolation prizes of refrigerators, generators, standing fans and microwave ovens were given to other winners.

Speaking at the event, Helen Nwelle, Head, MSME & Value Chain Management of Keystone Bank Limited said: “MSMEs are

significant contributors to the nation’s economy, hence they consistently require intermittent support to scale up their business, thrive and also continue to create jobs which would impact the nation’s GDP.

“It will be all smiles as we announce winners who disciplined themselves to save for the period and for customers who do not win, we are still ever committed to being their preferred financial advisor.

“Let me also reiterate that the Keystone Growbiz account which we are rewarding loyal customers for today is designed to meet the needs of business owners and organizations; sole proprietors, partnerships & limited liability companies.

“The product is available in two variants: GrowBiz Gold Account (with minimum balance); GrowBiz Classic Account (without minimum balance). Each variant is broken down into three segments Individuals, SMEs/Traders and Corporates.

“At Keystone Bank, we are committed to delivering superior customer experience to all her customers,” Nwelle concluded.

One of the winners, Nnaemeka Anthony (from the Northern region), who won N100, 000 thanked the bank for the gesture stressing that the cash would go a long way to supporting her business.

Keystone Bank is a technology and service-driven commercial bank offering convenient and reliable solutions to its customers.

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) has been asked to commence committal proceedings against the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Unity Bank Plc, Mrs. Oluwatomi Somefun and commit her to prison for allegedly flouting orders made by the court.

The request formed the relief in a motion filed by 25 ex-staff of the bank in whose favour the Lagos division of the NICN had given a monetary judgment on July 3, 2019.

The ex-staff, led by John Adeola Taiwo, stated, in the motion filed on December 2, 2019, that Unity Bank was in open disobedience to the orders made by the court on November 12, 2019 and therefore deserved to be committed to prison for allegedly being in disobedience of valid and extant court orders.

The ex-staff had individually sued the bank in 2016 alleging non- payment of some of their outstanding entitlements and gratuity.

The court later consolidated the suits with the consent of parties and on the grounds that the issues were related.

In a judgment on July 3, 2019 in the suit marked: NICN/LA/84/2019, Justice R. H. Gwandu held in favour of the ex-staff and ordered the bank to pay them various sums of money.

But rather than comply with the judgment, the bank appealed and applied to the court for a stay of execution pending the determination of its appeal.

In a ruling on November 12, 2019, Justice Gwandu granted a stay as prayed by the bank but upon certain conditions.

The judge, in the ruling, said: “By the powers vested in this court under Order 64 Rule 8(3) and in the discretion of this court, I hereby grant the stay of execution of this judgment pending the outcome of the appeal.

“This goes with the condition that the judgment debtor pay the judgment sum into the account of the Chief Registrar, National Industrial Court (an interest yielding account), such judgment sum shall be released to the party that is victorious in the outcome of the appeal.

“The payment of the judgment sum is ordered to be made within five working days, failure of which shall be treated as contempt of orders of this court.”

The pronouncements of the judge are what Taiwo and others are now accusing the Unity Bank of flouting and in respect of which they seek the committal of the bank’s CEO in the fresh motion filed on December 2, 2019.

They argued, in court documents, that “the order of the court has been respected by the judgment debtor in the breach rather than observance, in spite of the stern warning by the court that failure to comply shall be treated as contempt.

“It is trite law that the order of a court of competent jurisdiction remains inviolate until set aside and so, anyone who an order is made against, must obey it until the order is set aside or discharged. Once an order exists, it must be obeyed.

“It is a clear fact that, in spite of the clear and explicit order of this honourable court, directing the defendant/judgment debtor to pay the judgment sum into the court’s account with the name of the Chief Registrar, the defendant/judgment debtor has continued, with impunity, to do the exact opposite of the order of the court”.

They added that the alleged failure of the bank to pay the judgment sum into an interest yielding account within five days, as directed by the court, “is an outright disregard of the order of this honourable court, making the defendant/judgment debtor liable for contempt of court”.

They added that since the defendant/judgment debtor is not a natural person, the law allows that its principal officer be penalised.

“It is trite law that where the contemnor is not a natural person, it cannot be committed to prison, but the principal officer can.

“In this case, the defendant (a financial institution) is not a natural person, who can be committed for contempt thereby making any of its high ranking officers in the person of Mrs. Oluwatomi Somefun, being the Managing Director, liable to be committed to prison for contempt of court.

“We urge this honourable court to grant the leave to proceed against Mrs. Oluwatomi Somefun, the Managing Director of the defendant and to find her liable accordingly and commit her to prison for contempt of the order made on 12th November, 2019”.

The bank is yet to respond to the fresh motion.

For one of Nigeria’s oldest financial institutions, Ecobank Nigeria Limited, it has become a case of one day, one trouble as the bank led by Patrick Akinwuntan has continued to swim in the sea of controversies amidst financial improprieties. And as it stands, the bank is perfecting its acts that may qualify it as enfante terrible in the banking sector, as its name and staffers constantly prop up in one controversy or the other.

Reports available to this medium indicate that Ecobank Nigeria, a key subsidiary of the Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) and its management are currently the focus of Nigeria’s banking regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following several financial scandals by the bank and its staffers.

As a result of several alleged undercutting within the system and alleged fraudulent dealings of the bank, insiders have squealed that Akinwuntan may be axed soon for his incompetence to pave way for a new lease of life for the commercial bank.

Top on the list of financial controversies which have bedevilled the bank is an alleged fraud running into N800 or above against the Nasarawa State government. This was unearthed following the engagement of a forensic accounting consultancy firm based in Lagos by the Nasarawa State Board of Internal Revenue to assist in the improvement of its internally-generated revenue (IGR) base of excess bank charges, high network individuals, withholding tax on dividends, interest, and deposits against banks operating in the state from 29th May 1999.

After a hectic and thorough forensic auditing by the firm, it was discovered that the Akinwuntan-led Ecobank Nigeria Limited brazenly defrauded the Nasarawa State government of an earth-quaking sum of over N800 million in unremitted tax and 10 per cent withholding tax on credit interest monies.

Sources further alleged that apart from being a haven for fraudulent officials, the commercial bank is also grappling with many other crises that tend to threaten its survival. One of them is its alleged poor services which are staring its customers in the face. Already, most of its branches are awash with complaints of unsatisfied customers whose sing-song is their plan to close their accounts due to long hours they experience to get services from Ecobank staff.

“When Akinwuntan was appointed in 2018 as the managing director, the board of the bank gave a mandate to deliver the brand promise of the bank as the platform of choice for convenient, affordable and instant banking services to customers in Nigeria, but today, the reverse is the case,” the source divulged.

In line with our investigative journalism practice, our reporter contacted Ecobank’s head of media relations, Mr. Austen Osokpor for the bank’s angle to the report. The bank’s spokesperson, however, promised to get back to our reporter but never did as at the time of filing this report.

Source: THE WITNESS

The Niger Delta People’s Liberation Movement, has said the Niger Delta region has seen so much of confusion since the assumption in office of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Reacting to a call by six civil society organisations for the withdrawal of the presidential nominees into the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, the group said it was clear that the Minister has other motives other than forensic audit in mind for wanting the Interim Management Committee, IMC, to “assume much more permanent status than the legally constituted board.”

It cited the case of the IMC’s plan to carry out projects as a confirmation of the hidden motive of the Minister.

In a statement signed by Oghenekaro Joseph and Belema Diri, the group said the Minister’s hidden motives are clearly seen by discerning Niger Deltans.

“We are joining the Hon. Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and his media team to celebrate 100 days of confusion in the region. The region has seen more confusion in the 100 days than in all the years the ministry and the NDDC have been in existence,” the statement said.

The statement further said: “The Minister has hidden motives behind the IMC. If it was just for forensic audit, the IMC would not be having an Executive Director, Project who is even a Medical Doctor with the intent to award contracts or an Executive Director, Finance and Administration with plans to carry out financial transactions. It could just have been a committee of technocrats, not politicians, with no office, but with unfettered access to the commission. The mere fact that Minister Akpabio is carrying out as if he is the Managing Director of NDDC leaves much to be desired.

He was appointed Minister of the Niger Delta and not that of NDDC. He should leave NDDC for the constituted board to run it.”

The group said there has always been audits in the country, noting that the minister is making too much noise about an exercise that should ordinarily be a routine.

 “If he doesn’t know, he should ask the Auditor General of the federation. Does a Minister or Permanent Secretary leave office for the auditors to be seen as fair. Do they appoint IMC for Ministries, Departments and Agencies just because they are to be audited? How will the new board interfere in the work of the forensic auditors and how will the IMC help the auditors?”

The group called on President Muhammadu Buhari to save the region more embarrassment by reposting the Minister, saying the Minister is not the best person to carry out any audit related duties.

“He was one of the Governors of the region in the 16 years of the PDP sleaze and has his hands filled from the public till. He cannot say he had no hand in the NDDC. Our investigation shows that apart from nominating people to serve on the board of the commission at various times, including nominating his brother, one Jeremiah Akpabio to serve as Special Assistant to a Managing Director, the minister has been beneficiary of several NDDC contracts through fronts and cannot go to the audit with the stained hands.”

The group said the idea behind the audit is perfect and commended President Buhari for it, but said “Senator Akpabio, however, is not the right man to supervise the audit. For someone who left several uncompleted projects, most of which he had collected all the monies meant for the projects to sound like a saint now is a ploy to use the NDDC to continue the life of sleaze which he is known for.”

The group also querried the credentials of the members of the IMC, noting that the Minister has clearly downgraded standards in the commission by appointing a political medical doctor as EDP.

After a three day literary experience curated by the wave making Quramo Publishing tagged Quramo Festival of Words, (QFest2019) which featured literary masterclasses, panel discussions and exciting film screenings, the literary event climaxed with the announcement of the winner of the Quramo Writers’ Prize which is awarded to an unpublished fiction manuscript.

After the ‘Q-Conversations’ with Molara Wood interviewing Kadaria Ahmed and Toni Kan interviewing Bankole Olayebi, the three judges A. Igoni Barrett, Molara Wood and head judge Toni Kan mounted the stage to announce the Top 5 and the Top 3 after a short interlude.

The 3rd place entry went to Jaiyeola Temitayo Tomiwa for his entry, ‘You will be Fine’ with Joan Wawira Thatiah in second place for her manuscript ‘Guilty.’
The winning entry went to Vivian Onyekachi Ibe for ‘What Dreams Are Made Of’. She is the first female winner of the prize coming after Samuel Monye, QWP2017 and Emmanuel Michael QWP2018.

The judge’s citation described the winning entry “as an assured and astute work of fiction from a writer whose sensibility is popular without veering into the superficial… Our winning entry is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller with great characterization, and dollops of wit and humour. It will find legions of readers and spark urgent conversations especially among the millennials and so ultimately expand the universe of the prize.”

Responding to her win, Vivian Onyekachi Ibe said: “I am honestly overwhelmed by the outcome because I really didn’t expect it. My intention was to just come around and congratulate the winner.”

The winner of the Quramo Writers Prize goes home with a cash prize of one million naira and the possibility of a Quramo book publishing deal.

When asked how long it took to put the book together, Vivian Onyekachi Ibe who works in the administrative section of a Lagos law firm revealed that it took a shocking two weeks to piece the winning entry of 50,000 words together.

“I first saw the announcement for the entry on Okada books and I decided to go for it,” she said when asked about how she stumbled on the competition.

Christmas season is fun season and the fun begins on December 20 with the wide cinematic release of the Emem Ema produced movie, Kpali. Set in Nigeria and London, the movie which stars Ini Dima-Okojie in the lead role as Amaka, Nkem “Osuofia” Owoh, Gloria Anozie-Young, Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman and Kunle Remi amongst others is a romantic comedy with disparate narrative strands. Directed by Ladi Johnson, Kpali is crisp and fast-paced. Just a few days to opening day, we give you 6 reasons why every naija millennial must make a date to see Kpali this yuletide as it hits the cinemas on December 20.

Amaka is young, single and stressed out. Sounds like the typical millennial, abi? And that’s reason why you need to see this movie which is not just relatable but very realistic in its interpretation of millennial angst.

Are your parents on your case to get married? Are they hooking you up with dates who are just so bleh? Are you wondering why your parents think that at 26 you can’t jolly well find yourself a man or woman instead of trying to pair you up with their friends children? If this sounds familiar or is your reality then you have to watch Kpali to see how Amaka navigates this very touchy topic.

Do you love rom-coms, you know those mushy and schmaltzy laugh-out- loud comedies that thrive on double entendres and miscommunications and mistaken identities then Kpali is for you. Amaka arrives Nigeria with her white male colleague in tow and her parents mistake him for her boo. And thus begins the comedy of errors.

Are you an IJGB? Did you just come back to Nigeria after years studying and living abroad or maybe you are a 20 something years old Nigerian visiting home and family this Christmas. Well, go see Kpali and then compare notes. Is this lovely and infuriating country called Nigeria really where you want to come back to? When there is Canada, lol. Oya, go and watch.

Are you a career minded millennial? Are you so gung ho about work you seldom make out time for anything else? Are you finding it difficult to locate the BALANCE in Work/Life balance, then this is the movie for you. See Kpali and learn a thing or two from how Amaka navigates the craggy geography of work and life.

And finally, do you like mystery? Do you like watching people butt heads and sweat buckets trying to make a choice? Well, Kpali has lots to show you in that department as it riffs on a love triangle. Who gets the girl? Well you just have to watch this engaging moving to find out.

Kpali is in theatres from Friday December 20,  2019.

UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, on Friday held the 2019 edition of its annual Each One, Teach One initiative, hosting a huge impact day in Nigeria and across all its subsidiaries in Africa.

The Each One, Teach One initiative is part of UBA Foundation’s activities where the bank’s staff members give their time and skills to the communities around them. All across the continent, staff of the pan- African bank were seen within their communities, teaching and assisting the less privileged, especially students and people living with disabilities.

The Executive Director, Lagos and West Bank, Marketing, Mr. Ayoku Liadi, who represented UBA’s Group Managing Director, and the Chairman of UBA Foundation, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, at the event in Lagos, expressed his excitement over the initiative, adding that as a corporate entity, UBA, through its Foundation has decided to give back as a family, starting by impacting knowledge and skills to students and participants.

Liadi said: “Our goal with this initiative which is in its second year, is to help the under privileged and young children learn vocational skills that will assist them along the path to financial freedom as they start businesses of their own. We have therefore, created a platform to encourage people who have various skills and talents to pass this on to the younger generation.

Liadi also seized the opportunity to give the participants a short lecture about financial literacy, noting that it is important for students to embrace the culture of being financially cautious from a tender age.

He said: “At UBA, we want students to inculcate the habit of savings, especially for the rainy day. It is important that you are cautious about the future, because nothing is guaranteed. Therefore ensure that you bear this in mind when you receive your pocket money and allowance no matter how little; because when you save today, it will go a long way to help you tomorrow, “Liadi told the students who filled the Onikan Youth Centre.

Students from Modupe Cole Memorial Childcare and Treatment Home; Standard Hallmark College, Mushin; Child Life-Line,Lagos and Moyin Rainbow Foundation, Lagos; were some of the students who participated at the event.

The Chief Executive Officer, UBA Foundation, Mrs. Bola Atta, who threw more light on the initiative stated that it is aimed at helping to impact lives positively and in a very meaningful way. She added that the initiative, which was going on simultaneously in 20 countries across Africa, was being driven by UBA staff members who were very happy to give back to the society.

“At UBA Foundation, we are constantly being asked by other staff members how they can help. A lot of people are genuinely interested in doing good. With the Each One Teach One initiative, you don’t need a huge sum of money, you just need to give of your time and talent to at least one other person. It is simple. It is effective and the impact is ginormous imagine how many people across 20 countries in Africa benefitted today from someone just taking a little time to help them acquire new skills or hone old ones. There is something really gratifying about giving back. It helps the communities and helps you grow as an individual.’ Said Atta

Thousands of UBA staff members across Africa voluntarily committed their time today to teaching youths various activities such as foreign languages, photography, tae kwon do, fashion design, martial arts, first aid, coking, hair dressing, mathematics, reading, music and much more.

UBA, Africa’s global bank, is committed to being a socially responsible company and role model for all businesses in Africa. UBA recognises the need for a social contract between the bank, the community and its people.

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the UBA Group, UBA Foundation is committed to the socio-economic improvement of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Environment, Education, Economic Empowerment and Special Projects.

PepsiCo Inc. plans to offer a new way to get a jolt of caffeine.

Despite its first iteration of coffee and cola failing, PepsiCo seems to think today’s consumers will be more interested in the mixed beverage. That could be a good bet since today’s consumers are drinking more coffee and less soda.

In April, the snack and beverage giant will start selling Pepsi Cafe in the U.S. The drink blends the taste of coffee and cola, and nearly doubles the amount of caffeine in a regular Pepsi. It will come in two flavors, original and vanilla.

Pepsi Cafe is the latest product the company plans to introduce as it responds to changing beverage preferences. The company, which sells a wide range of products including Gatorade and Diet Pepsi, has faced sales pressure as consumers cut down on sugary soda and competitors enter the market with new options.

Rival Coca-Cola Co. is pushing deeper into the canned coffee market after its high-profile acquisition of the British cafe chain Costa for $5.1 billion. It offers Coca-Cola Plus Coffee in dozens of markets outside the U.S.

Todd Kaplan, vice president of marketing at Pepsi, said in a statement Thursday that the company has known the potential of blending cola and coffee for years. He said believes consumers are looking for drink products that provide energy and an opportunity for indulgence.

The minister of Niger Delta Affairs Godswill Akpabio has been accused of “telling serial lies in his grand design to appropriate and control the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).” This is the position of the Niger Delta Stakeholders, led by Chief Demiebi Jackson.
A statement credited to the minister, portions of which were reported in The Nation Newspaper of Tuesday, December 10, 2019 and Niger Delta Today, an online newspaper, where he said it was Bayelsa State’s turn to produce the MD of NDDC has been criticised by the Niger Delta Stakeholders who say “the minister is sowing seeds of discord to advance his agenda following opposition to the illegal interim management committee he set up for the commission.”
Akpabio stated in the newspaper reports as follows: “We have not had two full years of Managing Director for Bayelsa. We have had Engr. Godwin Omene staying as MD of NDDC for almost four full years. We have had Hon Emmanuel Aguariavwodo from Delta serving as MD for almost three years. So, it is not the turn of Delta.”
But fact-check shows that Akpabio lied. Public records from the NDDC show that after Delta State produced the MD for a total of five years, Bayelsa State held the MD position thereafter. From the records, Engr Godwin Omene was MD at inception from 2001 to 2003 when he resigned. Then, Timi Alaibe from Bayelsa State who was the ED Finance and Admin, stepped in as Acting MD until Emmanuel Aguariavwodo was appointed to complete Delta State’s term. Aguariavwodo was MD from 2003-2006.
Timi Alaibe again stepped in as Acting MD. Alaibe was subsequently confirmed as MD in 2006 and held the position until 2009, representing Bayelsa State. Thereafter, Rivers State produced the MD with Chibuzor Ugoha from 2009 to 2011 and Chris Oboh from 2011 to 2013. Akwa Ibom was next with Dan Abia from 2013 to 2015 and Nsima Ekere from 2016 to 2018. It is now the turn of Delta State, following the rotational policy for the MD position among the four major oil producing states. According to Chief Demiebi “Where then is the truth in Akpabio’s claim that Bayelsa State has not had ‘two full years as MD”?
“Not only is the minister’s claim that Bayelsa State has not held the position for long untrue, the claim that Omene spent four years is also untrue, because Omene spent just two years, from 2001 to 2003. Agwariavwodo spent three years, from 2003 to 2006, bringing the total for Delta State to about five years.
The group also took up the statement credited to the minister that Delta state should take the chairmanship position rather than the MD position, saying that “since Delta State is entitled to both, it should be given both or be allowed to take the one of its choice. It is the prerogative of Delta State to decide.
The minister should not try to make an issue out of this as a means to executing his personal agenda. Otherwise, how is it an issue that a state which is due to have both positions of Chairman and MD is being vilified for opting for the MD position. Indeed, Akpabio’s statement on the choice made by Delta State when he said that Delta State opted for the ‘bigger position’ contradicts his own statement that Delta State should not produce the MD based on tenure. It has exposed the lies in his many excuses since the new NDDC board was duly confirmed by the Senate and confirms his inordinate interest in the NDDC, contrary to the claims he made in the newspapers.”
The MD position has been rotated round all the four major oil producing states and it is now Delta State’s turn to produce the MD. Nothing should be done to shortchange Delta State”.

Fast growing financial services provider, Keystone Bank Limited, has unveiled series of exciting rewards for its customers to celebrate the yuletide season.

According to the lender, in the spirit of the season and as a gesture to loyal customers, the bank is giving out free debit cards to customers who reactivate their dormant or inactive accounts, make a deposit of N2500 into the account and carry out at least one transaction on any of the electronic channels.

Keystone Bank electronic channels include the USSD *7111#, Keystone Mobile, Online Banking or OXYGEN.

Commenting, Keystone Bank executive director, Olaniran Olayinka reiterated: “At Keystone Bank, customers are more than kings; they are our partners; hence we are always exploring all possible avenues to ensure they find their relationship with us memorable. Giving out free debit cards is one of the numerous customer loyalty rewards this festive season

“Beyond offering free debit cards, we are fully committed to delivering superior customer experience across all our banking channels in ensuring they get the best of banking services which they truly deserve.” Olayinka noted.

The offer, which commenced in November, is scheduled to run till January 2020.

Keystone Bank is a technology and service-driven commercial bank offering convenient and reliable solutions to its customers.

This weekend, literary aficionados will gather at the Quramo Festival of Words, in a 3-day literary experience to include book panel sessions, master classes and everything in-between. The event, which will climax with the prestigious Quramo Writers Prize will crown one winner with a prize of one million naira and bragging rights as the best entry for this year.

The amazing three-day line-up will kick off with an exclusive Book Presentation of ‘Mirror on the Wall’ by Jesutofunmi Fekoya hosted by Ugo Anidi and then we meet the winner of the 2018 Quramo Writers Prize, Samuel Monye as he unpacks his winning book ‘ Give Us Each Day’ in a session facilitated by Sope Martins.

Day 2 is prepped to unveil a plethora of exciting literary activities to include masterclasses from Toni Kan, Sefi Atta and Eghosa Emasuen. Then we meet the current NLNG prize winner and author of ‘Boom Boom’, Jude Idada in a convo anchored by Farida Ladipo-Ajayi.
Next is the panel sessions; ‘The A-Z of publishing’ featuring Toni Kan, Eghosa Emasuen and Deji Toye.

Next up would be another panel: ‘Edutainment The Pathway to Knowledge’ with Supo Shasore, Amanda Kirby, Aderonke Adeola and Femi Odugbemi.
The day ends with the screening of the Qcut Special, Journey of an African Colony and Awani.
Want some advice?
Day 3 should definitely be at the top of your ‘To- Do- List’ because it features a special ‘Q conversation’ with Kadaria Ahmed, anchored by Molara Wood and also the unveiling of the 2019 winner of the prestigious Quramo Writers Prize followed by a stage play by MC Seun.

Taidob College Abeokuta, winners of the 2019 National Company of the Year Competition (NCOY) organized by Junior Achievement Nigeria and sponsored by First Bank of Nigeria Limited on Friday 6 December 2019, represented Nigeria in Ghana at the 2019 African Company of the Year competition.

Taidob College left Ghana with four awards in the keenly contested competition, comprising representatives from 10 other Junior Achievement member countries in Africa, notably from the Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland), Ghana, Zambia, Gabon, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Botswana, Kenya and South Africa. Team Nigeria (represented by Taidob College) won the most awards of any other country present. The awards include; Client Focus Award, Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, Facilitator of the Year Award and was second runner up, Company of the Year Award.

The African stage of the Company of the Year competition is the sequel to the national event featuring 12 student companies who are zonal winners from across the country, including the eventual winner Taidob College Abeokuta. Terra Kulture, Lagos played host to the event on 3 October 2019.

Speaking on their performance, Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, First Bank of Nigeria Limited said “the youngsters from Taidob College have indeed made Nigeria and Nigerians proud. Winning four various awards is a recognition of the viability of the innovative solutions designed to save lives. The impact of their innovation – the Gas Leakage Detector – would go a very long way at solving the problem of fire outbreaks due to gas leakages in homes, offices, and industries. We congratulate Junior Achievement Nigeria on the strides achieved in Ghana”.

Last year, Inventive Explorers, from Caro Favored College Ajegunle, emerged the grand winners at the Africa Company of the Year competition in Ghana. Their rechargeable handheld LED traffic lights has solved a real problem in various congested communities and reduced traffic accidents, especially in areas with school children crossing busy streets. Over the years, FirstBank has been at the forefront of partnering with Junior Achievement Nigeria in Company of the year program and competition.

The National Company of the Year Competition (NCOY) is an annual flagship event by Junior Achievement Nigeria’s (JAN), which convenes the winners of the JA Company Program Regional Competitions across Nigeria together to compete for the National Company of the Year Award. The national winner then proceeds to represent Nigeria against other JA Africa member-nation companies.

Amaka is young, single and stressed out.

A London based investment banker, she is living her best life and navigating the constant pressure from her parents about getting married when life happens.

Her company is downsizing and to keep her job and renew her work permit, Amaka must fly down to Nigeria and close a huge deal all within thirty days.

And so unfolds Kpali, the quirky, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from the Emem Ema led Vzhun Films, a wave making Production Company.

Directed by Ladi Johnson and starring Nollywood heavyweights and playmakers like stunning and delectable Ini Dima-Okojie in the lead role as Amaka, Nkem “Osuofia” Owoh, Gloria Anozie- Young, Linda Ejiofo-Suleiman, Kunle Remi, as well as Uzor Arukwe, Abounce, Ik Osakioduwa, Ade Adefeko, corporate mandarin in a cameo role and comedian Seyi Law Kpali takes us from London to Lagos with large dollops of laughter.

Set to hit the Cinemas on Friday 20, December 2019, Kpali is a movie that will resonate with young and highly mobile Nigerians who schooled abroad, work abroad or are home for Christmas and even regular millennials trying to fend off their parents’ constant harangue – my dear, when are you getting married?

Executive Producer, Abhulime Ehiagwina, who is making his Nollywood debut with Kpali is pleased with the outcome of the movie with a story which he believes will further enrich the conversation about Nigerian immigrants in search of greener pastures.

For Producer Emem Ema, whose foray into the entertainment circuit began as a member of girl, band, Kush, “It was really exciting to see first-hand the deep connection between the actors and their roles on this project. It was a pretty intense production and we can’t wait to bring this remarkable experience to movie fans across Nigeria this December.’

(if you prefer youtube link pls visit -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6ofY7fWUz4)

Our attention has been drawn to an article published in The Guardian of Sunday, December 8 2019 titled ‘NDDC: Board Crisis, Power Play Cripple Agency’ and written by one Kelvin Ebiri who goes by the title ‘South-South Bureau Chief.’

Ordinarily, we would not have reacted to the issues raised in the said article, given the politicking that has attended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) since the list of board nominees was presented by President Buhari and confirmed by the Senate on November 5, but we are alarmed at the false claims made in that article, which can threaten the fragile peace in the Niger Delta region.

In trying to explain the crises in the NDDC, Mr Ebiri wrote: “The genesis of the current crisis plaguing the interventionist agency that was established to address the dire developmental needs of the Niger Delta, as well as oil-producing states, lies in the alleged flawed manner, which the new board members were appointed, particularly in the case of the chairman, Dr. Pius Odubu (Edo) and Bernard Okumagba (Delta) as managing director.”

He takes the argument further: “On the position of a managing director, NDDC Act stipulates that the persons must be indigenes of oil-producing areas, and the slot is to be occupied sequentially starting with member-states of the commission with the highest production quantum of oil. Owing to the fact that Akwa Ibom State, which is the presently the highest oil-producing state just vacated the position, and the position of the chairman ought to go to Delta State, which is the second-largest oil-producing, it follows that Rivers State ought to produce the next managing director being the third producer of oil based on current data obtained from the Department of Petroleum Resources.”

It is clear that Mr Ebiri is acting out a script, because the NDDC Act 2000 is very clear on the on the appointment of Board Members. It is obvious that the usurpers in the IMC are trying to sell a false narrative to justify their agenda to remain at the NDDC.

Nothing can be more revealing than the statements credited to the acting managing director of the interim management committee Ms Joi Nunieh, who decided to throw herself into the succession politics, contrary to what we were made to believe is a temporary role for her committee. The Guardian quoted Nunieh as justifying her position thus: “In reaction to the Senate stance, Nunieh, who said that the NDDC Act was clear on the matter of the Commission’s chairmanship, emphasised that after Cross River State, Delta State was supposed to produce the chairman of the NDDC board. ‘If the Act says that after Cross River State, Delta State should produce the chairman, why would anyone say no?’ “

What is apparent is that Nunieh’s comment and Ebiri’s analysis have one source and one objective, which is to sell the story that it is Rivers State’s turn to produce the MD, and strangely, labour to convince the public that the nomination of the MD of NDDC from Delta State is misplaced. This is the most ludicrous argument anyone can make.

The NDDC Act states clearly that the MD position was to commence with the state with the highest production then, as at 2001, which was Delta State, and rotate subsequently. This is why Delta State produced the first MD in the person of Engr Godwin Omene. That rotation came full circle with the position going from Delta to Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom State in the last four substantive boards. Now is the turn of Delta State to produce the MD. So where did Ebiri and Nunieh get their fictional conclusion that Rivers state should get the MD position ?

It is pertinent at this point to remind Mr President and Nigerians in general of the reports and agreements that predated the constitution of the new board, several of which were published in Nigerian newspapers. In The Vanguard of June 14, 2019, the paper reports under the headline: ‘NDDC BOARD: It’s Delta’s turn to produce Chairman, Managing Director, stakeholders insist,’ that “A coalition of activists and stakeholders drawn from the nine states that make up the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, yesterday insisted that it was the turn of Delta State to produce both the Chairman and Managing Director of the next Board of the commission.” The report stated further that: “While condemning in strong terms the report credited to one Chief Perekeme Kpodoh from Bayelsa State faulting the claim of Delta State to the two positions, the stakeholders took a swipe at Kpodoh, saying there was contradiction in his (Kpodoh) statement acknowledging that it was actually the turn of Delta State to produce the occupants of both positions. To this end, they called on President Muhammadu Buhari to follow due process and the law to let Delta State produce the occupants of both offices as enshrined in the NDDC Act 2000 in order to promote equity, fairness and justice and sustain the current peace in the region.”

It is incontrovertible that Delta State is entitled to both positions, and it was the state’s prerogative to choose whichever of the two it wanted. This is what the stakeholders did in choosing the position of MD since both may not be allowed because of governance issues. Having chosen to take the MD position, this was communicated to the presidency on which basis a Delta State nominee was presented for the position.

Following from Delta State’s preference for the MD position, the chairmanship was ceded and Edo State, being the next in line was asked to nominate someone for the position and did so. This was the settled position that produced the current board members, which the President presented to the Senate and who were subsequently confirmed. Everything was done in accordance with law, equity, due process and in line with good governance principles.

Therefore, the attempted false interpretation of the law as canvassed by Nunieh is fraudulent, dubious and quite unfortunate.

Unfortunately, too, this is something we have seen whenever an interim MD is foisted on the NDDC outside the system. It happened in 2015 when Ibim Semenitari of Rivers State was appointed and campaigners were raising false narratives to perpetuate her stay, until President Buhari appointed and promptly swore in a new board, with Nsima Ekere from Akwa Ibom state as MD. It happened this year when campaigners from Bayelsa State pushed to make the position of the acting MD Prof Nelson Brambaifa substantive. But when the facts were presented, that also crumbled and the President’ nominated the new board in line with law. Now, that there is another delay in inaugurating the board, the acting MD Nunieh is presenting her own false narratives in order to perpetuate her stay in office.

The Niger Delta region has undergone too many ethnic and interstate conflicts that we do not need another on our hands because of the inordinate ambitions of social climbers in the corridors of power who show no regard for law and due process.

We will not sit by and allow anyone usurp the legal and logical order. We urge President Buhari to inaugurate the new NDDC board without further delay to stem these latter-day revisionists of facts and due process.

Comrade Seiyefa Opuowei

Convener.

As a way of demonstrating its commitment to promoting fitness and healthy living amongst Nigerians, Keystone Bank Limited, recently partnered with Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), to host the maiden edition of the Valuejet IAU African Championship, Remo 2019 competition.

The 50km ultra-distance race event held on Saturday December 7, 2019 at Sagamu, Ogun State, was the first African championship in IAU’s 35-year history. The three-in-one championship had about 4000 athletes from across 35 IAU member countries.

The race which took off at the Gateway International Stadium had in attendance dignitaries including the governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, president of IAU in Africa, Solomon Ogba, executive director, Keystone Bank, Yemi Odusoya, ex- Nigeria athlete, Falilat Ogunkoya amongst others.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Bukola Olopade, the managing director of NSML said the race is one of the company’s numerous ways to create bond among Nigerians and the world at large. “The ultra-marathon is first of its kind in Africa and we are elated that our company is responsible for bringing youths together to harness their talents. “Valuejet IAU African Championships is a trendsetter. The ultra-race has set an excellent example for ultra-running on the continent”, he concluded.

Commenting on the bank’s involvement in the event, executive director of Keystone Bank Limited, Mr. Yemi Odusanya said the lender recognises the importance of health to nation building, stating, “A healthy workforce is considered the most productive workforce. Good health is critical to economic development and therefore, health remains one of our core CSR pillars in the bank. Keystone Bank will continually strive to promote advanced healthcare in Nigeria.

“The competition showcases the bank’s commitment to community investment and project financing.

“Therefore, sponsoring the Valuejet IAU African Championship, Remo  2019 competition is in line with our vision to promote a healthier   nation as a whole.”

At the event, winners of the 50-kilometre ultra-race in both foreign and local categories pocketed $2,000, while the second and the third placed runners received $1,500 and $1,000, respectively.

For the Nigerian local five-kilometre run, the winner received N500, 000, runner-up N300, 000, while the second runner-up went home with N150, 000.

Nigerian musical artistes, CDQ, Slimcase and Naira Marley were also on ground to add glamour to the event.

While Nilayo Sports Management is a sports management and marketing company, working with some of the biggest names in the world of sports like IAAF, CAA and AFN aimed at promoting sporting activities from grassroots level to international level in Africa, Keystone Bank is a technology and service-driven commercial bank offering convenient and reliable solutions to its customers.

Servant of God at INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Ejigbo Lagos, Primate Elijah Babatunde Ayodele (JP), has proclaimed that Nigeria would go into referendum as panache to myriads of challenges facing her.

The popular cleric, during a midweek service on Wednesday 4th of December, 2019, said God told him that the next stage for the country’s challenges to be settled is to have a referendum because already, people are weary of the policy somersaults of succeeding governments in Nigeria that have not favoured the citizens in any form.

”I see a referendum coming. What form it is going to take, I don’t know but I see Nigeria going into a referendum. People will get tired with the policies being run by this government,” declared Primate Ayodele whose prophecies have remained a point of reference on national and international issues.

It is recalled that Ayodele, in November 2018, warned the then ruling political party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) that it would find it difficult to stop President Muhammadu Buhari from getting a second term in office.

He had said specifically that PDP would find it uneasy in stopping Buhari because the party had refused to do the right things from the beginning of its plan. He had warned then that unless PDP give Bukola Saraki its presidential ticket, its efforts to win the presidency would be in vain.

Continuing, Primate Ayodele said: ”All that the government has been doing will not meet with people’s expectations. Nigeria needs prayer. I don’t see a reprieve yet as Nigerians are going to face more hardships in year 2020.

Vice President Osinbajo needs to seek the face of God for survival, otherwise his position will be weakened gradually. His powers will be reduced.

Mark my words, I don’t foresee a Southwest person becoming president in 2023. I see that the North in 2023 will hold the whole country to ransom. I see tension before and after 2023. I see the country boiling. We need prayer to stop the tension that is coming.

Let’s pray against tanker explosion on Lagos/Ibadan expressway and let’s pray to avoid mass deaths on the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway and on the Third Mainland bridge in Lagos. Let us pray.

Let’s pray against bloodshed between the factions of transport workers union, NURTW. Let’s pray.

I see death of a king this December. Four months ago, I called for prayer so that a king in the Southwest was not dethroned. Now, a Southwest king, Eleruwa, has just been dethroned after 21 years on the throne. So, let’s pray against the death of a Southwest king.

I foresee markets being shut and I see markets on fire. Let us pray to God to avoid these. Let’s pray against famine in Nigeria. I see scarcity of food.

I have said earlier that the PDP chairman, Uche Secondus, would be removed. He is still going to be removed. Also, I said that the APC chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, will be removed, he is still going to be removed but the method of removing him would be different.

I see diseases ravaging the land. Let us pray against such killer diseases as measles, cholera, coughs and others. Let’s pray against all forms of evil attacks in churches all over the world.

Ayodele who stated that though prayers can turn negative prophecies around, said he had no answer for skeptics querying the accuracy of his prophecies.

”I don’t have an answer for them. I’m only delivering the message as sent me by God. They are not God,” Ayodele stated.

Six months after a stunning knockout loss, Anthony Joshua used his size and feet to regain control of the heavyweight division and put both his career and status as a global boxing superstar back on track. Joshua (23-1, 21 KOs), who came in 11 pounds lighter than his upset loss in June, outboxed Andy Ruiz Jr. in Saturday’s rematch and avoided trouble to regain his WBA, WBO and IBF titles via wide unanimous decision.

All three judges in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, by scores of 118-110 (twice) and 119-109. CBS Sports also scored the fight 118-110 for Joshua, the 2012 Olympic gold medalist from Great Britain who put his seventh-round TKO loss during his U.S. debut in the rearview mirror.

Ruiz (33-2, 22 KOs) showed plenty of heart by getting up off the canvas in their first fight to floor Joshua and become the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent. But the robust native of Imperial, California, was never able to land more than one punch at a time after weighing in 15 pounds heavier than he did in the first fight.

Instead of looking to slug with Ruiz, Joshua relied on his athleticism and advantages of four inches in height and eight inches in reach to keep his opponent at the end of his jab and constantly circle out of trouble. Joshua held strategically at times and responded well anytime Ruiz did land clean power shots.

“I make no excuses. My boy [Dereck] Chisora said I could do this if I was willing to d-i-e [but] this is boxing,” Joshua said. “I gave [Ruiz] his credit in the first fight. There is no excuses. I respect Andy and his trainer so much but I wanted to put on a great master class and show that the sweet science of this sport is about hitting and not getting hit.

“As I always say, I’m not perfect but I’m trying. Never a change in mentality. You know the saying — stay hungry, stay humble. I’m hungry, I’m humble in defeat and I’m going to remain humble in victory.”

Joshua was visibly thinner after shedding 11 pounds of muscle from the first fight to the rematch. It helped the 6-foot-6 slugger look much quicker on his feet while Ruiz, whose stomach was noticeably larger than June, was never able to consistently cut off the ring.

Not only was Joshua smart to avoid exchanging for long periods of time, he outlanded Ruiz 107 to 60, according to CompuBox, over the 12 rounds.

“It was his night. I don’t think I prepared how I should, I gained too much weight. But I have no excuses,” Ruiz said. “But if we do a third fight, I’m going to get in the f—ing best shape of my life. I thought I was going to feel stronger and be better but next fight I’m going to be prepared. I tried to train myself for this preparation but I don’t want to give no excuse. Anthony Joshua did a hell of a job.

“I think I was chasing him too much instead of cutting off the ring. I know next time I will do better. Who wants to see the next trilogy fight here in Saudi Arabia?”

Both fighters talked up the idea of a trilogy fight although it’s one that would seemingly be a hard sell considering Ruiz’s poor performance and how wide Joshua’s victory was.

“It’s all about preparation,” Joshua said. “One day when I release a book on my career, I’ll talk about my experiences. Anyone can do it, life is a roller coaster. I took my L and came back. “If you heard, we are going to do it a third [fight].”

The fraud case between the Federal Government and Kenneth Amadi, CEO ABD Energy Solutions Limited is scheduled to come up on January 8, 2020.

Justice Liman Mahammad of the Federal High Court, Lagos, fixed the date for the arraignment at a subject suit, which came up on Wednesday, November 27.

Amadi is alleged to have obtained the sum of N2.9billion belonging to his former employer, Eunisell Limited, by false pretence with intent to defraud, from A-Z Petroleum and AMMASCO International Ltd.

The offences are contrary to section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other fraud related offences Act, CapA6, laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and punishable under section 1(3) of the same Act.

When the matter was called for hearing, the 1st defendant was absent, while the 2nd defendant, IDID Nigeria Limited was represented by an employee.

Chief State Counsel from the Department of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, A.K Aliyu informed the Court that attempts were made to serve the charge on the 1st Defendant through his counsel but the lawyer from the office of the learned silk declined to accept service.

However, the defendant’s counsel, Emeka Etiaba (SAN) told the court that they are not opposing arraignment and trial, adding it was an error of communication on the part of the junior colleague regarding the issue of acceptance of service.

He then accepted the charge and court summons of behalf of the 1st Defendant.

The charges against the defendants includes receiving and obtaining by false pretence, with intent to defraud, the sum of N2,900,000,000 belonging to Eunisell Ltd, from A-Z Petroleum Ltd and AMMASCO International Ltd; omitting to making full and true entry thereof in the books and accounts; suppression of data in respect of the financial transfer to Eunisell Ltd; and converting same amount without authority to create sufficient deposits to promote the credibility of his own company (Idid Nigeria Limited).

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced that Taidob College Abeokuta, the 2019 winners of the National Company of the Year competition organized by Junior Achievement Nigeria would compete against student teams from 10 other Junior Achievement member countries across Africa. The student team contestants comprise representative from the Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland), Ghana, Zambia, Gabon, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Botswana, Kenya and South Africa. The event is scheduled for Friday, 6 December 2019 at Alisa Hotel in Accra, Ghana.

The African stage of the National Company of the Year competition is a buildup and sequel to the national event hugely competed by 12 student companies from across the country, including the eventual winner Taidob College Abeokuta. Terra Kulture, Lagos played host to the event on 3 October 2019.

Speaking on the event, Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, First Bank of Nigeria Limited said: “The youngsters from Taidob College are indeed not just solution providers, but also life savers. The impact of their innovation – the Gas Leakage Detector – would go a very long way at solving the problem of fire outbreaks due to gas leakages in homes, offices, and industries. I no doubt believe that they would make Nigeria and indeed the rest of Africa proud at the competition. We are delighted to associate with them and congratulate Junior Achievement on the feats so far attained.”

Last year, Inventive Explorers, from Caro Favored College Ajegunle, emerged the grand winners at the Africa Company of the Year competition in Ghana. Their rechargeable handheld LED traffic lights has solved a real problem in various congested communities and reduced traffic accidents, especially in areas with school children crossing busy streets. Over the years, FirstBank has been at the forefront of partnering with Junior Achievement Nigeria in Company of the year program and competition.

The National Company of the Year Competition (NCOY) is an annual flagship event by Junior Achievement Nigeria’s (JAN), which convenes the winners of the JA Company Program Regional Competitions across Nigeria together to compete for the National Company of the Year Award. The national winner then proceeds to represent Nigeria against other JA Africa member-nation companies.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Omoyele Sowore, convener of RevolutionNow Movement, who has been in detention since August 3.

A DSS source disclosed this on Thursday night. Marshall Abubakar, one of the lawyers of Sowore, later confirmed the development.

“He has been released. I am with him as we speak,” he told TheCable over the phone, adding that Olawale Bakare, Sowore’s co-defendant, had also been set free.

The federal government had come under intense pressure over the detention of the activists despite fulfilling the conditions of the bail granted to them.

On Wednesday, Wole Soyinka, Nobel laureate, had rated the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari as the worst in the history of the country in terms of disregard for the judiciary.

Soyinka had said this while commenting on the detention of Sowore and Bakare.

On Thursday when the DSS arraigned the duo at a federal high court in Abuja for the commencement of their trial on charges of “treasonable felony”, Ijeoma Ojukwu, the presiding judge, gave the secret police a 24-hour ultimatum to release them.

The judge said after she signed the warrants for the release of the defendants from custody, and same was served on the defendants, the DSS had no justifiable reason to continue to hold them in custody.

The prosecuting counsel, Hassan Liman (SAN), had insisted that the DSS had not obeyed the court order for their release, the DSS had no power to constitute itself into a parallel court.

The judge also awarded the cost of N100,000 against the prosecution to be paid to the defendants for foisting “frivolous adjournment” on the court.

She ordered that the cost must be paid before the next hearing which is Friday.

In a video addressed to President Muhammadu Buhari and Yusuf Bichi, director-general of DSS, on Tuesday, Sowore’s mother had demanded the release of her son whom she described as someone who is always against injustice.

…Bola Atta wins Best Corporate Affairs Professional for 2019



Pan-African financial Institution, United Bank for Africa Plc once again got double recognition over the weekend as it emerged the best institution in support of Education(CSR) 2019 as the Chief Executive Officer, UBA Foundation & Group Head, Corporate Communications, Bola Atta, also received the award as Top Corporate Affairs professional 2019, at the 7th Annual Brands & Marketing Conference. The event was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce Exhibition centre last Friday.

Atta, beat other nominees to the prize as a result of her impressive contributions at the steer of UBA’s corporate Communications with various laudable initiatives that have further increased the banks market share and brand presence ahead of competition.

The successful organisation of the UBA Market Place, which took place in Abuja last July; positioning UBA as a foremost pan Africa Bank and the birth of REDTV, the fast-paced digital lifestyle channel were some of her achievements which were read out as she received the award.

UBA’s CSR arm, the UBA Foundation was crowned best institution in support of Education(CSR) 2019 for its dedication to improving access to education on the continent, particularly through the National Essay Competition where students have received grants from the foundation, for the past 9 years, at tertiary institutions in Africa.

Speaking about the National Essay Competition as she thanked the BJAN for the awards, Atta said “it is always such joy to see winners of this competition each year and to know that with the grants that they receive to go to university, they will be changing their lives, the lives of their families and impacting their communities positively.” Education remains one of the main pillars of the UBA Foundation.

Since 2012, The Brand Journalist Association Conferences Awards- have been celebrating outstanding companies who through their immense contributions have become the game changers driving the wheels of growth for brands and by extension development in Africa.

The President of BJAN, Princewill Ekwujuru, commended UBA Foundation for its strong footprint across Africa. “Through its Read Africa Initiative and the scholarship grants given to winners of the National Essay Competition, the Foundation has done very well to transform the lives of many’.

He said the awards were borne out of the need to recognise the Game Changers whose relentless contributions have helped give hope to Africa and at the same time, drive sustainable development amid strife.

“For these companies, they understand that agility, innovation, fluidity, decisiveness and commitment accelerate the pace of change, Africa craves for” he stated.

REDTV, the online lifestyle network powered by the United Bank for Africa Group, held its annual Rave on Saturday, November 30 to officially kick-off the ‘Dirty December’ season.

Over 25,000 guests attended this year’s event which was held in Lagos and true to its theme, ‘The shutdown’, the rave was the talk of the entire town this past Saturday.

REDTV hosted the creative industry and other guests to an unforgettable night with top business executives, entrepreneurs, celebrities and A- Listers, entertainers, fashionistas and many young people just wanting to have a fun evening.

UBA Group chairman, Tony Elumelu and the CEO, Kennedy Uzoka, were seen mingling with guests and having a relaxed night away from the rigours of work.

The REDTV rave, which has become the annual Christmas season opener to rival, started with a hot performance by Ajebutter 22, BOJ, SDC and TEMS. Upcoming artist, Fireboy, came in and brought guests to their feet with his hot and fresh releases.

The crowd was not disappointed and remained energised when Olamide jumped on stage to shake the venue with his famous songs that had everyone screaming and jumping for joy. International act, Jidenna thrilled the rave fans, just as Burna Boy sauntered in and brought the audience to a standstill at a party that lasted till the early hours of the following day.

UBA ambassador, the star boy, Wizkid had come into the party to the absolute delight of guests who saw him walking in. He mingled with guests for hours and then gave a surprise performance on stage that took the rave to another level.

DJ Consequence, Sparrow and hypemen Shody and Tosan also took turns to entertain the excited youths throughout the night of thrills.

Nigeria’s leading retail bank Access Bank Plc has unveiled series of exciting rewards for its customers to celebrate the yuletide season. The campaign tagged ‘More Xtravaganza’, will run from November 21 to December 31, 2019.

Speaking at the launch of the campaign in Lagos, Victor Etuokwu, Executive Director, Retail banking, Access Bank plc said “Access Bank is passionate about its customers and everything we do is centred around giving them more. This season, we have decided to launch this campaign to end the year on a high note in celebration of our customers. We appreciate them for their loyalty and support and this is our own way of saying thank you to them.

The More Xtravanganza campaign further demonstrates our promise to provide customers with the best banking products and services whilst rewarding them for banking with us. We will be rewarding 50 active and inactive Diamond Business Advantage customers with one-month free advert broadcast and production for signing up to the Ebony Life Access to Market package or reactivating their accounts respectively”. Victor said.

Commenting further on the campaign, Robert Giles, Head, Insights and capabilities, Access Bank Plc, said “Customers are the reason the bank is in business and they will always come first in our products, processes and services.

To show appreciation for their patronage, we are going to feature three different DiamondXtra draws; Senior citizens draw, Women’s draw and the National quarterly draw this December. We will reward 19 senior citizens who are 50 years old and above, 10 Women in which one of them will win a shopping allowance of N100,000 per month for one year and 9 others will win N300,000 each and of course 1,016 lucky customers will emerge winners from our quarterly draw”.

In an interview with newsmen, Adaeze Umeh, Head, Consumer Banking, Access Bank Plc said, “In the spirit of this yuletide season we will be rewarding our first 100 premium savers with daily airtime when they maintain their account balances for 30days. We are also going to reward the first 200 transfers on the mobile app with airtime. XclusivePlus customers who refer 3 new customers of their subscriber type will win one monthly/yearly plan. This reward will be for the first 200 customers. We will also reward our Early Savers with 20% bonus of their 13th savings for maintaining consistent savings over 12-month period.

“To join our winning train, all you need to do is to dial *901#, or walk into any Access Bank branch close to you to reactivate or open new account and start enjoying the More Xtravaganza benefits,” Adaeze concluded.

Access Bank is committed to delivering products and services tailored to suit the lifestyles of every Nigerian irrespective. To know more about the Access Bank ‘More Xtravanganza’ campaign please click HERE .

By David Ekuetafia, Esq.



In recent weeks, there has been a rash of misconception being peddled in both the print and electronic media about what next steps Mr President needs to take on matters relating to the Governing Board of Niger Delta Development Commission.

Most of these misconceptions are deliberate falsehood designed mainly to obfuscate the issues and confuse the non legal minds. Others are simply orchestrated to cover up and protect selfish individual or clannish interests without reference or empirical proof of facts.

In a number of cases, the positions have been very incorrect and misleading.

This was the case of what we read from the Punch Newspaper of Saturday 30th of November, 2019 and other social media platforms credited to the Chairman of the House Committee on Niger Delta, Rep Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo who was quoted as saying that he saw nothing wrong with the 3-man interim management committee of Senator Akpabio. This is against a 15 members Governing Board as provided for in section 10(a) of the NDDC Act 2000. Tunji-Ojo said he was willing to welcome the 3 members of the illegal interim management committee to come and represent NDDC to defend the 2019 and 2020 NDDC Appropriation Estimates submitted last week by Mr President to both Chambers of the National Assembly.

As if his position is not misleading enough, he went further to misinform his audience and members of the public that the provisions of section 171 of the Nigerian Constitution legalize the interim management committee, an assertion that is most contrary to the true meaning of that section of the Constitution.

For the avoidance of doubt, the bodies or agencies affected by the provisions of section 171 of the Constitution neither relate to nor include the NDDC.

In order to set the record straight and for a better understanding by stakeholders and members of the general public, the section of the Constitution under reference is hereby reproduced as follows: 171 –
(1) “Power to appoint persons to hold or act in the offices to which this section applies and to remove persons so appointed from any such office shall vest in the President.

(2) The offices to which this section applies are, namely –
(a) Secretary to the Government of the Federation;
(b) Head of the Service of the Federation;
(c) Ambassador, High Commissioner or other Principal Representative of Nigeria abroad;
(d) Permanent Secretary in any Ministry or Head of any Extra-Ministerial Department of the Government of the Federation howsoever designated; and
(e) any office on the personal staff of the President…”

Contrary to the statement credited to the House Committee Chairman, Section 171 does not relate to the NDDC.

To further compound and exhibit his lack of deep knowledge of the NDDC Act (even as a member of the National Assembly), and the Nigerian Constitution, he was quoted as saying that the provisions of the NDDC Act are inconsistent with those of the Constitution. This is most unfortunate. There is no section of the NDDC Act that conflicts any constitutional provisions at all.

There is no gainsaying the fact that some other individuals are being openly sponsored on live telecast particularly one Arc Nya Etok Ezekiel who appeared on AIT live show on Saturday night on November 30, 2019. He also erroneously hinged his defence of the illegal interim management committee on the same provisions of Section 171 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999.

He equally misinformed his audience and listeners that the section gives Mr President the powers to appoint an Interim Management Committee for the NDDC simultaneously with his appointment of a new Board for the Commission. This assertion is most incorrect, false and misleading as there is no such provisions in both legal instruments.

Let it be also noted that section 171 of the Nigerian Constitution came into force on May 29, 1999 even before the conception and eventual birth of the Niger Delta Development Commission in the year 2001. This implies that its provisions were not framed in anticipation of NDDC or any other body and their operations which are not referred to in the section under reference.

Like the provisions of sections 2(2)(a) and 5(3) of the NDDC Act 2000 that requires Senate confirmation of members of the Commission, subsection (4) of section 171 of the Nigerian Constitution equally states that “An appointment to the office of Ambassador, High Commissioner, or other Principal Representative of Nigeria abroad shall not have effect unless the appointment is confirmed by the Senate. The combined effects of the above provisions clearly confirm the illegality of the 3-man contraption which has been put in place against public outcry and contrary to every good will and notwithstanding the promptness and dispatch with which the Senate treated Mr President’s nominees by properly stamping them with the seal of legitimacy in accordance with the NDDC Act 2000.

The NDDC Act 2000 under section 2(1) states that ” There is hereby established for the Commission a governing Board which shall consists of a Chairman, a Managing Director, 2 Executive Directors, one board member each from the 9 oil producing states of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo and Rivers, ………………”

By this provision and others, the NDDC Act prohibits the 3-man interim management committee from assuming the responsibility to take over the functions and powers of the Commission.

Let it be noted by all Nigerians and Niger Delta stakeholders that, the fact that Mr. President, a few days ago, has invoked his right and power under section 18(1) of the NDDC Act 2000, by presenting budget estimates for the Commission in respect of 2019 and 2020 to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, does not give any legitimacy to the Dr Joy Nunieh led interim management committee. The Interim Management Committee is not the appropriate authority of the Commission to appear before any relevant committee of the National Assembly to defend such budget proposals.

For a deeper and proper understanding of the provisions of the NDDC Act and the intentions of members of the National Assembly that worked on its bill and passed it even through a two-third majority vitoe (a few of whom are still present in this 9th National Assembly), it would be advisable for the leadership of the House to make copies of the Act available to all members for better understanding of its content and in appreciation of the efforts of their predecessors.

However, one must commend the leadership of the Senate for consistently encouraging and appealing to the executive to do the needful by inaugurating the Board in order to nip in the bud further controversy.

In conclusion, I observe with dismay different statements and inferences credited to some respected members of the green chambers of National Assembly insinuating their readiness to work with the illegal interim management committee with regard to the NDDC budget proposals presented by Mr President instead of standing with the Senate in defence of an Act duly passed by the Parliament which impartiality and integrity they all swore to protect on June 11, 2019 when Mr President proclaimed the 9th National Assembly.

In my view, allying with the position of the Senate seems a better and proper option for the Representatives instead of attempting to dance to discordant tunes of some selfish political gladiators who appear to be desperate and determined to cover some old footprints.

No matter the interest, let every elected lawmaker remain a lawmaker and every political appointee remain an appointee. By this is meant to defend, maintain and protect your institution while the other does same to his or hers own institutions too.

David Ekuetafia, Esq. is a Constitutional Lawyer

Shareholders of Eland Oil & Gas Plc have given overwhelming backing to the £382 million takeover of the company by indigenous oil & gas producer, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc.

At two meetings of shareholders on Wednesday 20 November, resolutions in favour of the proposed takeover of Nigeria-focused Eland were approved by 99.9 per cent of votes cast. Subject to court approval, the takeover is expected to become effective on 17 December 2019.

The cash takeover announced in October provided recognition of Eland’s achievement in building a successful exploration, development and production business in Nigeria. Seplat has the financial and technical capacity to develop Eland’s assets and will deliver long-term benefits for employees, partners, host communities, and Nigeria as a whole. As a leading indigenous operator, Seplat understands the critical role it must play to drive a positive socio-economic impact among its communities.

With their knowledge of Eland’s producing assets and operations, Seplat’s management team will efficiently integrate them into Seplat’s existing portfolio.

On announcement of the deal Seplat acknowledged the importance and value of the skills and experience of existing Eland employees who built the company’s success, stating that the combination of the two businesses will result in a wider range of capabilities, as well as underpin Seplat’s ambition to be the leading independent E&P in Nigeria.

“We are glad to have contributed immensely to the growth of the Nigerian oil and gas industry,” commented George Maxwell, CEO of Eland. “Eland has, in a period which has seen a significant cyclical downturn in our industry, outperformed most of its peers and the London AIM Oil & Gas Index. We are proud to say that Eland has contributed greatly to helping the Federal Government achieve its mission of growing local participation in the sector.”

On 23 October 2019 the condition requiring a joint notification made by Seplat and Eland to the Nigerian Department of Petroleum Resources, notifying the Nigerian Minister of Petroleum Resources of the Acquisition and the acquisition of interests by Seplat in Eland, was deemed satisfied.

The condition requiring a joint notification made by Seplat and Eland to the Nigerian Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, notifying the Nigerian Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission of the Acquisition, was deemed satisfied on 12 November 2019.

For about two days, the Ogun State political environment has been really exciting, thanks to the well written wake up call by a true man of the soil, Segun Showunmi.

I have watched many of Hon. Showunmi’s interviews (as spokesperson for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar) on local, national and international television, with great respect for his intellect. But his two analyses (one subtle, one hot) of the happenings around the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led government have sealed my respect for him. I doff my hat.

It is expected that in our part of the world, political jobbers would, most likely, dance to the tune of either their pay masters, or any sitting government to curry favour at the expense of their own sustained wellbeing. So the barrage of self serving baseless comments against these candid observations are expected.

Any right thinking, patriotic Ogun indigene would give an applause to Hon. Showunmi for waking up the current front players of the gateway state and impressing on them the need to shelve propaganda for real work. The discerning should know that potential first class leaders in this clime have been relegated to the worst positions in history books as a result of the sycophancy of bootlickers who would continue to mislead a weak leader into believing he is a star until the center can no longer hold.

The last article, “Dapo Abiodun: setting the records straight” might not have happened, in my opinion, if the handlers of the Governor had been more strategic with their response. They left the issues to attack the person. Dapo is the sitting Governor, so no amount of paid responses would remove anything from the fact that Hon. Showunmi hit the nail on the head with his super clear message.

From my conversations with Ogun indigenes, at home and abroad, if we run a secret poll now, even those who have come out to criticise the articles would agree behind the curtains that Hon. Showunmi spoke their minds. I got many of those calls yesterday.

To the governor, please tell your handlers to halt the dance of shame where it is right now. Calling out Senator Ibikunle Amosun for attack from a piece that only challenged the governor to up his game, would only improve the rating of the former governor and drag the current governor deeper into a controversy that can never end in his favour.

Hon. Showunmi, we’ve not met in person. But I’m proud we’re from the same state, and even the same Abeokuta South.

Long live Ogun State!
Long live Nigeria!

Olatunji Matthew (PhD) writes from Lekki, Lagos.