Author: Salisu Sani-Idris

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for its professional handling of the security situation in Plateau, Benue, and other states.

The National President of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, expressed the association’s commendation in a statement released on Friday in Abuja.

He noted that the DSS had managed the security challenges in the mentioned states with utmost professionalism, deserving of recognition.

Othman-Ngelzarma also lauded President Bola Tinubu for appointing Mr Tosin Ajayi as the Director-General of the DSS, describing it as one of the best decisions of his administration.

He urged other security agencies to learn from the way the new DSS leadership had approached securing lives and property.

The MACBAN President highlighted the efforts of the DSS to investigate the root causes of the problems affecting the states.

“We salute the professionalism with which the DSS has been handling the delicate security challenges in Plateau, Benue, and several other states,” he said.

He also noted that the DSS, under Ajayi’s leadership, had successfully distinguished between law-abiding Fulani herdsmen and criminals.

Othman-Ngelzarma further alleged that more than 20 per cent of MACBAN members and four million heads of cattle have been forced to flee Nigeria due to insecurity, with many families displaced.

He pointed out that the exodus of herders had driven up the cost of beef, which had traditionally been the cheapest source of meat in Nigeria.

The MACBAN leader reiterated the association’s readiness to cooperate with both the Federal and State Governments to support security agencies in restoring peace, thereby ensuring the smooth functioning of business and economic activities.

He also thanked President Tinubu for fulfilling one of his campaign promises with the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, which he said would significantly improve Nigeria’s livestock industry.(NAN)(www.nannews,ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

Timi Dakolo, Victor Thompson, prominent Nigerian gospel artistes and others, to perform at the maiden edition of “Jesus + Nothing” worship, in celebration of the Easter.

The Love of God in Christ (LOGIC) Church, organisers of the music concert said that the session was to put people in the right frame of mind to usher in the Easter celebration.

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Friday, ahead of the concert, Mr Flourish Peters, Lead Pastor of LOGIC Church, said that the session would be centered on the fundamental message of redemption of mankind through Jesus Christ.

Peters said Nigeria’s leading gospel artistes and emerging talents would be coming together for an evening of heartfelt worship.

According to him, the worship session is slated to hold on Friday, April 18, at The LOGIC Church headquarters, located in Lekki area of Lagos at 4.00p.m.

He said the essence of the worship experience was for the purpose of salvation, to preach the message of love and project gospel artistes within the LOGIC church.

He said, “Attendees will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the message of grace and salvation through soul-stirring performances by award-winning gospel ministers.

“These ministers include the acclaimed rave of the moment artiste, Victor Thompson, the inspiring Timi Dakolo, the dynamic Greatman Takit, and many more gifted artistes.

“The maiden edition of ‘Jesus + Nothing Worship’ presents an opportunity for individuals to experience the unifying power of worship.

“This is important as we collectively reflect on the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and the abundant life we find in His resurrection.

“The worship experience will also feature captivating performances by other gospel music ministers such as: Neon Adejo, SMJ, Noble G, Steve Hills, Lily Perez, Joxie, Anderson Qozan and Pastor Victor Paul.

“Others are EmekaSongz, Flo, Dorcas Moore, Magpsalms, Mera Owili, Gerald Bishung, Phebe Lion, and the vibrant Evolution Children’s Choir.”

Peters noted that the Jesus + Nothing Worship served as an inspiring prelude to The LOGIC Church’s annual ‘Jesus + Nothing Conference’, scheduled to hold from May 28th to June 1st, 2025.

He explained that the worship event and the conference underscored the church’s unwavering commitment to a pure, Christ-centered understanding of the gospel, expressed vibrantly through the power of music and the transformative Word of God that reveals the gospel of Jesus Christ.

He said the worship experience promised to be a life-transforming event, focusing on the profound significance of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, and the redemptive grace freely offered through Him.

“Attendees can anticipate an evening of deep spiritual connection and sincere worship.

“The 2025 edition will be building on the significant momentum and success of the 2024 ‘Jesus + Nothing Conference’, which garnered substantial attendance.

“We anticipate welcoming approximately 6,000 attendees to the subsequent conference in May.

“ ‘Jesus + Nothing Worship’ directly aligns with our mission to cultivate a family, where grace and faith are central to our teachings, and where the transformative Love of God in Christ is tangibly felt, a welcoming home for everyone.

“It also supports our broader vision to preach the Gospel to all generations through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to empower and impact individuals to flourish in every facet of their lives,” he said.

The lead Pastor of the church noted that the church would be looking into partnering with a good music streaming platform to create a playlist of the music rendered in the course of the worship experience.

He said this was neccesary to ensure it inspires more people later on as the worship experience would be held annually on Good Friday henceforth.

Speaking on plans for the worship experience, Neon Adejo revealed that the song lyrics for the worship experience were inspired by Pastor Peters’ series of preachings, serving as the foundation for most of the song renditions at the event.

Also, Timi Dakolo said, “I am doing this because I love God, he loved me first. The message is clear, it is a worship not a concert.

Margaret Benson, popularly known as Mag Psalm, appreciated the church for believing in the crop of artistes involved in the worship experience.

“The message to expect from us tonight is the from the love of God expressed on the cross which characterise the season.

Mera Owili said Nigerians should expect a different Express of appreciating God.

By Taiye Olayemi

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has partnered with James Hope University and LIMBSimple Company Ltd. to promote inclusive growth through enterprise development within the banking and finance ecosystem.

The partnership was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday at the Bankers House in Lagos.

CIBN’s President, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, said the partnership was aimed at boosting academic excellence, professional growth, and entrepreneurial development in the banking and finance sector.

He said the agreement would establish the CIBN’s MSc. Finance and Chartered Banker (ACIB) linkage programme, allowing students to earn dual qualifications: an MSc. in ACIB professional certification.

According to him, the programme is a Nigerian adaptation of the renowned Chartered Banker MBA (CBMBA) programme, jointly delivered by Bangor Business School and the Chartered Banker Institute, Scotland before now.

He said the partnership with LIMBsimple Company Ltd. would also empower professionals, entrepreneurs, and retired bankers with structured entrepreneurial training.

“It will also provide SME clinic, improved access to funding, global learning platforms, and robust mentorship support.

“We are indeed delighted to formalise our collaboration through the MSc. Finance and Chartered Banker (ACIB) Linkage Programme.

“This is a bold and forward-thinking initiative designed to offer students and practitioners the unique opportunities of graduating with dual qualifications: an MSc. ACIB professional certification.

“The concept of extending the linkage programme to postgraduate studies was initiated in 2015.

“With today’s signing, James Hope University becomes the 13th institution to join the elite league of universities in Nigeria, participating in the M.Sc, MBF and MBA ACIB linkage programme,” he said.

Olanrewaju noted that the initiative aligned with the “Y” pillar of the LEGACY Agenda, focusing on youth and entrepreneurial engagement

“The two agreements we are executing today reflect our broader institutional strategy to build a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative financial system.

“This is a vision deeply rooted in my LEGACY Agenda as the 23rd President and Chairman of Council of the Institute.

“Let us therefore move forward, hand in hand, to build a future where academic excellence, professional certification, and entrepreneurial resilience are accessible to all,” he said.

Also, Prof. Abiola Babajide, Ag. Vice Chancellor, James Hope University, appreciated the CIBN for the collaborative opportunity to advance the vision of the university.

Babajide said, “James Hope University Business School was established as a forward-thinking postgraduate institution, designed to bridge the critical skill gaps and address the growing capacity challenges in business, management, and the social sciences.

“We recognise the urgent need for a new generation of professionals, equipped not only with knowledge but with the mindset, leadership, and innovative skills required to drive transformation across the continent.

“I thank the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) for this collaborative opportunity to advance the vision of the University.

“James Hope University Business School is not just a school. It is a movement. A movement committed to excellence, leadership, and the future of Africa.”

Chief Executive Officer of LIMBSimple, Mr Ezekiel Solesi, noted that the firm was established 15 years ago.

” It has been providing simplified, technical, inspirational, and motivational information that will make deliberate improvements in people’s lives and businesses.”

He said that having worked with over 4,500 businesses in the last 15 years, the partnership would help these individuals gain access to additional knowledge on accessing funds.

“So, on one hand, we’re providing our technical expertise to the entrepreneurs within the CIBN community, trying to help them figure out strategies on how to scale their businesses.

“On the other hand, CIBN is also providing for us access to high-level bankers and banking opportunities.

“And then they’re also going to be able to bring their banking knowledge into our community to get our people ready.

“So we want to take a deliberate step in getting our people to be ready for funding, and CIBN is the banker’s bank.

“They’re the ones that can provide us with all that knowledge, resource people that can get our 4,500 member community ready for the opportunities for funding within the banking sector,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

By Taiye Olayemi

Dr Chizoba Ehiogu, Rector of the College of Insurance and Financial Management, has unveiled adaptive strategies to enhance insurance companies’ resilience in times of uncertainty.

Speaking at the 2025 Business Day Insurance Conference on Wednesday in Lagos, Ehiogu stressed the importance of resilience amid weak consumer confidence, persistent inflation, and currency instability.

Addressing the theme, ‘The Business of Insurance: Building Resilience in the Face of Economic Uncertainty’, she urged insurers to explore strategic alliances.

She recommended partnerships with banks, fintech firms, and reinsurers to extend reach, share risks, boost resources, grow market share, and improve credit ratings.

Ehiogu also advised insurance firms to reassess existing portfolios frequently and adjust offerings in line with current economic realities.

“Regularly evaluate products to meet shifting needs. During hardship, offer affordable options to attract cost-conscious customers and boost policy renewals.

“Enhance customer journeys by improving digital interactions and providing personalised services tailored to individual preferences and behaviours,” she said.

She further encouraged the use of data analytics to refine products, improve engagement, foster loyalty, and enhance customer retention.

Ehiogu highlighted the role of human capital and leadership in navigating industry challenges and driving sustainable growth.

She emphasised retaining skilled employees, noting that a motivated workforce is vital for successful adaptation and long-term stability.

“Focus on employee well-being and offer incentives to reduce turnover and maintain essential skills,” she added.

She also stressed the need for resilient leadership capable of managing disruptions and swiftly addressing emerging risks.

“Strong leaders ensure agility, adaptability, and guide strategic responses to enhance market competitiveness,” Ehiogu said.

She recommended attracting top talent in technology and digital innovation through competitive packages and career development opportunities.

On financial performance, Ehiogu noted the importance of sustaining solvency and profitability amid inflation and forex volatility.

“This can be done through strict cost control, especially in claims and administrative processes.

“Streamline operations and use technology to reduce inflationary pressures while supporting profitability and efficiency,” she said.

She added that improving working capital and accelerating cash conversion would also help maintain solvency.

Mr Aminu Tukur, Vice Chairman of Noor Takaful Insurance Ltd., also addressed the event and called for deeper insurance penetration.

He noted that conventional insurance still struggles to reach the grassroots due to trust issues, religious concerns, and affordability challenges.

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), has honoured the former military governor of old Kano State, retired Col. Sani Bello, with a lifetime achievement award in business, leadership, and philanthropy.

The newly inaugurated 20th National President of the chamber, Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, made this known in a statement on Monday, said the award ceremony held in Lagos.

Balogun explained that the award was conferred on the elderstateman in appreciation of his remarkable leadership, entrepreneurial excellence, and outstanding philanthropic contributions.

According to him, the contribution of Col. Bello has significantly impacted Nigeria’s business, media, and energy sectors.

He also said the award recipient, who is the esteemed Chairman of Qausain TV and Mainstream Energy Solutions Ltd, retired Col. Bello has successfully operated major hydropower plants like Kainji, Jebba, Zungeru, and Kashimbila.

He added that the television station of Bello Qausain TV continues to grow as a major voice in broadcasting industry.

Balogun said that the chamber remains committed to fostering stronger economic and business relations between Nigeria and the United States.

By Taiye Olayemi

Victory High School (VHS) Ikeja Old Students’ Association, 1981 set, says quality education is crucial in alleviating poverty in Nigerian society.

The group urged all tiers of government to boost the education sector by increasing annual funding and reviewing the curriculum regularly.

Mr John Kayode, President of the group, stated this during the Annual General Meeting and New Year Get-Together held on Saturday in Lagos.

Kayode said: “Education plays a key role in reducing poverty and enhancing national development. Government must prioritise budgetary allocation to education.”

He added that UNESCO recommends allocating 4 to 6 per cent of a country’s GDP to education and Nigeria should adopt this benchmark.

“Between 10 and 20 per cent of the education budget should be channelled into teacher training, infrastructure, and educational equipment,” he said.

He further stated that the curriculum should be frequently reviewed by experts across sectors, focusing on 21st-century skills, especially technology.

“Well-paid, well-motivated and qualified personnel must be engaged at all levels—primary, secondary and tertiary,” Kayode stressed.

He also advocated for the implementation of genuine free education, including tuition and boarding, up to senior secondary school level nationwide.

Kayode acknowledged that the current Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme is commendable but insufficient, as it ends at junior secondary level.

He called for a holistic educational approach, urging collaboration between non-profits, corporations and religious bodies to support government efforts.

Such support, he said, should include scholarships, school meals, and other forms of assistance for students and schools.

He explained that collaboration would reduce Nigeria’s high number of out-of-school children, a longstanding challenge to the sector.

“Improving education also means ensuring security across schools nationwide,” he said.

Kayode urged community participation in school development, involving both local authorities and residents in the process.

He said communities must ensure children are in school during class hours, not roaming the streets.

“All of us must ensure our children, and those of our neighbours, receive an education. Education is not a scam,” he added.

Mr Taiwo Salami, Global President of the Alumni Association, urged members to uphold unity and advance the group’s mission.

He revealed plans to create a website for the group and renovate its global secretariat, which is in poor condition.

Chief Richard Ahonaruogho, Global Board Chairman and Patron, praised the 1981 set as “first among equals”.

He said they had shown great dedication and unity in the alumni community.

“You’ve set a high standard. The first to produce an OFR awardee and a governor. Truly admirable,” he stated.

By Taiye Olayemi

The Tinubu Family Youth Initiative, formerly known as the Olodode Youth Initiative, empowered 19 youths in Lagos on Saturday.

 

Each received a N100,000 cash gift to support their businesses and education.

 

Mr Akintunde Tinubu, Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, said the initiative was part of a broader effort to equip young people with essential resources for success.

 

By providing financial assistance, the organisation aims to foster entrepreneurship, educational growth, and economic development among young family members.

 

He announced Mrs Feyisara Atobatele-Tinubu as the face of the empowerment project and confirmed that the second phase would be launched soon.

 

Additionally, four other family members received N300,000 each for welfare support.

 

“Today, we take a bold step toward a future where every Tinubu youth is empowered, supported, and positioned for success.

 

“This initiative is more than financial aid. It represents our shared responsibility and commitment to uplifting one another.

 

“Economic uncertainty and limited opportunities threaten many dreams. We must empower artisans, traders, and professionals within our family.

 

“As a family known for generosity and strength, we must ensure that no member is left behind,” he said.

 

According to him, the programme prioritises education, entrepreneurship, and career growth.

 

“We extend financial aid to students, helping them complete their education without undue hardship. But our vision goes beyond scholarships,” he said.

 

Mr Rotimi Tinubu, Secretary of the group, urged the family to remain committed to leveraging its network to create sustainable empowerment.

 

He expressed appreciation for donations from privileged family members and encouraged them to make empowerment a tradition.

 

“This is not just an event. It is a movement toward self-reliance and progress, defining the Tinubu family’s future for generations to come,” he said.

 

Yekini Tinubu, a beneficiary and entrepreneur in the luxury wear industry, plans to use the funds to acquire digital skills and enhance his marketing strategies.

 

He expressed gratitude for the financial support extended to him.

 

Atobatele-Tinubu praised the organisers for their efforts and said she would invest her fund in expanding her fruit juice business.

 

As the face of the project, she pledged dedication to uniting the family.