Category: General News

NICOWA secures release of inmates in Enugu, launches new uniform

The Nigerian Correctional Officers’ Wives Association (NICOWA), Enugu State Command, has secured the recent release of six inmates within custodial centres in Enugu State.

The Coordinator of NICOWA, Enugu State Chapter, Mrs Peace Igwe, disclosed this during the association’s End-of-the-Year Get Together and Launch of its New Uniform on Sunday in Enugu.

Igwe said that the initiatives were carried out under leadership of the Controller of Corrections in Enugu State, Mr Valins Obizue; and Deputy Controller of Corrections in-charge of Enugu Custodial Centre, Dr Sunday Igwe, and management.

She said, “On Friday, Dec.19; NICOWA facilitated the release of six inmates through the payment of fines, restitution and the sponsorship of bail perfection.

“Two of the beneficiaries were inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Nsukka; while four were from MSCC Enugu.

“Upon their release, the inmates were empowered with cash support to enable them to start small-scale businesses and reintegrate meaningfully into society.

“On Saturday, Dec. 20; the association extended its outreach with a health screening exercise for officers and their wives and it was complemented by a skill acquisition organised for officers’ wives and members of the host community.”

Igwe said that the initiatives and programmes of NICOWA in 2025 underscore the association’s commitment to welfare, rehabilitation, empowerment and community development in line with the broader objectives of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

Earlier, the Assistant Controller General (ACG) of Corrections in-charge of Zone M, ACG Prisca Oku, commended NICOWA for uplifting humanity and building peaceful homes.

Represented by the Controller of Corrections in Enugu State, Mr Valins Obizue, Oku said that the zone and various state commands under the zone would continue to support NICOWA’s initiatives meant to better the society.

“I commend NICOWA for unity and mile-stone achievements this year and I urge you not to relent as the entire NCoS is supportive of all their laudable humanitarian initiatives.

“NCoS wants NICOWA members to give their husbands maximum support at the home front for them to continue to excel and work with a relaxed mind while on duty,” she added.

Contributing, Deputy Controller of Corrections in-charge of Enugu Custodial Centre, Dr Sunday Igwe, lauded NICOWA for being an instrument of change and association exemplifying positive thought and unity.

“We are proud to associate and support a forward-thinking and vibrant NICOWA and I believe that sky will surely be the association’s limit in its good intentions to their husbands, inmates and the entire NCoS community,” Igwe said.

The high points of the event were the launch of the new NICOWA uniform and cutting of the End-of-Year Get Together cake.

By Taiye Olayemi

The Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS) has appointed Mr Shehu Shantali as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective Jan. 1, 2026, following the receipt of regulatory no-objection.
The company said in a statement on Friday that Shantali would succeed Mr Haruna Jalo-Waziri, who is stepping down after eight years marked by strategic growth and significant contributions to Nigeria’s capital market infrastructure.
Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of the Board, Mr Temi Popoola, said, “On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our profound appreciation to Haruna Jalo-Waziri for his outstanding service to CSCS.
“Under his leadership, the company recorded notable milestones and built an impressive legacy of operational excellence, innovation, and stakeholder confidence.
“We thank him sincerely for his dedication and impact.
“We are equally delighted to welcome Shehu Shantali as the new Chief Executive Officer of CSCS.
“He brings a wealth of experience, deep industry knowledge, and a strong strategic vision.
“The Board is confident that he will build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor and lead the company into its next phase of growth.”
Reflecting on his tenure, the outgoing CEO, Mr Haruna Jalo-Waziri, said, “It has been an honour to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of CSCS.
“I am proud of what we have achieved together as a team and grateful for the support of the Board, management, regulators, and all our stakeholders.
“I am confident that CSCS is well positioned for the future, and I wish my successor every success as he takes the Company forward.”
In his remarks, the incoming CEO, Mr Shehu Shantali, said, “I am deeply honoured by the confidence the Board has placed in me with this appointment.
“CSCS plays a critical role in the capital market ecosystem, and I look forward to working with the Board, management, staff, regulators, and market participants.
“This is to further strengthen the company’s leadership position, deliver value to stakeholders, and support the continued growth and stability of the capital market.”
While Jalo-Waziri waa in the office, he demonstrated forward-looking, performance-focused leadership that drove consistent growth and wide-ranging transformation across the organisation.
He successfully implemented key strategic initiatives, reinforced governance and operational efficiency, and upgraded systems and processes, thereby strengthening the company’s long-term resilience and competitiveness.
His stewardship boosted stakeholder confidence, expanded the organisation’s relevance locally and globally, and laid a solid, future-oriented platform for sustained success.
Shantali holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and an Executive MBA from Kingster Business School.
He has over two decades of experience in accounting, finance, and financial services across Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with expertise spanning investment and asset management, financial advisory, and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
His career cuts across capital markets, investment banking, real estate, and financial services, and is underpinned by a decade at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria, where he championed the migration of publicly listed and significant public interest entities from Nigerian GAAP to IFRS and led the Commission’s transition to the contributory pension scheme in 2012.
CSCS is the Central Securities Depository for Nigeria’s capital market and is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

NEM Group has celebrated its 2025 end-of-year thanksgiving in Lagos, attributing its strong performance to divine grace and the contributions of its employees, partners and clients.

The event, held at the Group’s head office, brought together staff of NEM Insurance Plc, NEM Asset Management and NEM Health, alongside clients, friends and well-wishers.

The Group Chairman, Mr Tope Smart, commended employees and customers for their roles in the achievements recorded in 2025.

He notes that the group exceeded its performance projections for the year.

Smart said the impressive contributions of the subsidiaries earned the Group several awards and recognitions during the year, adding that NEM would continue to strengthen service delivery and support economic growth.

He disclosed that, as part of its expansion drive, the Group opened two new branches in 2025 and plans to acquire a Life Assurance licence and establish foreign branches across Africa in 2026.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of NEM Insurance Plc, Mr Andrew Ikekhua, expressed gratitude to God for a successful year and appreciated staff and clients for their commitment and support.

As part of the celebration, outstanding employees were rewarded for exceptional performance.

Those honoured included Miss Damilola Ajewole of Legal and Compliance, NEM Insurance Plc, as Best Staff of the Year; Mr Julius Elusakin of the Strategy Unit, NEM Insurance Plc, as Best Manager of the Year; Miss Pham Blessing Nnyagu of NEM Health Ltd., as Best Staff of the Year; and Mr Oluwaseun Adeoye of NEM Asset Management Ltd., as Best Staff of the Year.

The Group also recognised retiring staff members, Mr James Onorienbohwo and Mr Amos Omolewa, for their years of dedicated service, alongside several other employees who received awards for outstanding contributions.

The celebration reaffirmed NEM Group’s commitment to excellence, quality service delivery and positive economic impact as it positions for sustained growth in 2026.

By Taiye Olayemi

The Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), Dr Umaru Kwairanga, says the North-East is defined by ideas, resilience and ambition, not by its challenges.
Kwairanga said this at the maiden North-East Youth Investment and Innovation Summit held in Gombe on Friday.
The NGX chairman, in a statement on Saturday, said the summit sent a strong message about the region’s future.
“This summit sends a powerful message that the North-East is not defined by its challenges, but by its ideas, resilience and future-facing ambition,” he said.
Kwairanga described Nigeria as a youthful nation, noting that over 60 per cent of the population was under 30 years.
He said the demographic reality leaves the country with a clear choice to invest intentionally in the youth or risk underutilising its greatest asset.
According to him, the youth are a nation’s future and any nation that wishes to progress must harness the drive and creativity of the youth to move forward.
“At Nigerian Exchange Group, we strongly believe that Capital Markets must work for everyone, across regions, sectors, and generations.
“When young people are equipped with financial knowledge, access to funding, and the right ecosystem of support, they do not merely seek jobs, they create them. They do not wait for opportunity they build enterprises that drive economic transformation.
“This is why initiatives that focus on investment readiness, innovation, sustainability, and youth empowerment are aligned with our broader vision for Nigeria’s economic future.
“They help bridge the gap between talent and capital, between ideas and execution,” he said.
Kwairanga urged young people to recognise that their ideas and voices were important, as he emphasises that their participation in the economy was not optional but essential.
He encouraged them to learn the language of finance, understand how markets work, and position themselves not merely as consumers of opportunities but as creators of value.
He also charged policymakers and industry leaders to live up to their responsibilities by continuing to build systems that were transparent, accessible and supportive of enterprise.
He said deliberate efforts must be made to ensure that no region was left behind in Nigeria’s development journey.
The NGX xairman further stated that the Exchange was ready to support youths in organising similar summits.
He urged that the initiative be made a regular event to attract more targeted investors to the state in particular and the North-East region in general.
Speaking on behalf of the Gombe State Government, Alhaji Abdulwahab Sabo, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to youth entrepreneurship and enterprise development.
He highlighted ongoing government interventions aimed at strengthening MSMEs through policy support, capacity building, access to finance, and strategic partnerships designed to nurture innovation and economic inclusion. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity and collective responsibility in navigating the nation’s diverse opportunities for sustainable development.

Omotoso made the call at the 2025 reunion lecture of the Anglican Grammar School (AGS), Iju/Itaogbolu (ITAJU) 1983 set, on Friday in Lagos.

The commissioner spoke on the topic: “One Nation, Many Paths: Navigating Nigeria’s Opportunities Together”.

He said Nigeria’s diversity, rather than being a burden, remained one of its greatest strengths.

He noted that ethnic, cultural, linguistic and religious differences could be harnessed to drive innovation, resilience and national growth.

“Our paths may differ, but our destination is shared. Every Nigerian desires a nation where peace, justice, prosperity and hope can flourish,” Omotoso said.

The commissioner described Nigeria as a country of immense potential, in spite of it facing economic headwinds, insecurity and infrastructure challenges.

He identified agriculture, technology, creative industries and renewable energy as key sectors with vast growth prospects, capable of generating jobs and expanding economic opportunities across the country.

According to him, agriculture offered opportunities for innovation and agribusiness, while Nigeria’s fast-growing digital economy, particularly in fintech and e-commerce, continued to attract global investment.

Omotoso also noted that Nigeria’s creative sector, driven by Nollywood and Afrobeat, had gained global recognition, while renewable energy presented solutions for long-term energy security.

He emphasised that effective utilisation of these opportunities required collaboration among government, citizens, professionals, alumni groups, the private sector and civil society.

“Government alone cannot build the Nigeria we desire. Every positive action, no matter how small, contributes to national development,” he said.

Omotoso cited community-driven initiatives such as school rehabilitation, scholarships, community policing and diaspora remittances as examples of how collective action complements government efforts.

Speaking on Lagos State, Omotoso said the state had demonstrated the power of collaboration under Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, through inclusive governance and the THEMES+ Development Agenda.

“Lagos shows that when people from different backgrounds work together, progress becomes inevitable,” he said.

The commissioner commended the AGS Iju/Itaogbolu 1983 set for sustaining unity after more than four decades and for giving back to their alma mater and communities.

He urged the alumni to continue mentoring young Nigerians and promoting unity, responsible citizenship and national development.

“As we walk different paths, let us remain committed to a shared future. Nigeria is a project worth building,” he said.

Omotosho expressed optimism that with unity, shared responsibility and purposeful leadership, Nigeria would not only survive but thrive.

Speaking earlier, Mr Segun Adeleye, President of the Itaju ’83 Set, said the association was building on the legacy of the previous administration, which initiated the refurbishment and equipping of the school’s Physics laboratory.

He noted that, in keeping with the tradition of giving back to the institution that united them over 40 years ago, the group had, in the past two years, introduced a prize-giving scheme for outstanding students at all levels.

“The association also fully sponsored the academic journey of a student, Olubodun Gbemisayo Taiwo, covering school fees, JAMB, WAEC, NECO, uniforms, textbooks, sandals, PTA dues and lesson fees throughout the student’s final three years,” he said.

Adeleye expressed delight that the student recorded an impressive WAEC result and had secured admission to Osun State University to study Computer Science.

He further observed that the period had also been marked by notable career advancements among several members of the association.

Looking ahead to the new year, he urged members to consider a group life insurance scheme, noting that they were all advancing in age.

He appreciated all members of the alumni association for their consistent and invaluable support over the years.

Also, a registered nurse at Alimosho General Hospital, Mrs. Opeyemi Durosanya, who delivered a health talk, advised members on healthy living, proper nutrition, regular exercise and routine medical check-ups.

Durosanya said, “As we advance in age, we should desist from stressful lifestyles. We must focus on eating healthy foods, minimise alcohol and soft drink consumption, and avoid excessive salt intake, as it can negatively affect the heart.”

Makinde praises Workers’ commitment to Oyo

By Adewale Owoade

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has commended public and civil servants for their dedication and support to the state’s development.

Makinde gave the commendation at the 2025 Public Service Week and 2024 Merit Award Ceremony held at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Makinde said, “Public and civil servants have two legs: the career officers and us, the elected officials.

“ In my six years plus as governor, we’ve been extremely lucky to work with civil servants who have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to the state.

“That is why, when some people ask what the government intends to achieve with the 13th-month salary, the answer is simple: despite facing economic headwinds in the past six years, we have continued because we enjoyed your support.

“These two legs must continue to work together in the interest of our state. For me and this administration, we will continue to prioritise your welfare and well-being.

“To those who have received awards, congratulations — and more strength to your elbows. Don’t relent. And for those who didn’t win this time, strive harder; your time will come.”

Chairman of the event and former Oyo State Head of Service, Mr. Soji Eniade, stressed the importance of synergy and cooperation between elected officials and career civil servants, describing both as essential pillars of effective governance.

In her welcome address, the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, praised Governor Makinde for his commitment to workforce development and for institutionalising the Public Service Week.

Oni said, “This year’s theme ‘Digital Transformation and E-Governance for Effective Service Delivery in Public Institutions’ reflects the global reality that the future of governance rests on technology, innovation and digital inclusion.

“The Public Service remains the cornerstone of national stability and progress.

“For us in Oyo State, it provides an opportunity to demonstrate our values of integrity, accountability, professionalism, innovation, courage and commitment wherever we found ourselves.

“I must commend the extraordinary commitment of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, FNSE, D.Sc., GSSRS, who has not only sustained, but elevated the Public Service Week into an institutional platform for growth and excellence.

“Under your watch, the Civil/Public Service has recorded landmark achievements in 2025.

“These are not mere policy achievements but legacies of a labour-friendly Governor who recognises that the Public Service is the engine of development.”

Forty-two outstanding workers from the Ministry of Health, Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) and the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) received merit awards.

Dignitaries present included the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima (represented by Justice M. O. Ishola); Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi.

Others are Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; labour leaders and other senior government officials. (NAN)

Flowerbud News/ Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has named the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as one of the top five 2025 best-performing Federal Government agencies under the Transparency and Efficiency Category.

Head, Public Affairs, NCC, Mrs Nnenna Ukoha, made this known in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Ukoha said that NCC was recognised alongside the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, which emerged overall best-performing agency.

She said that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, emerged second, as well as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Ports Authority.

“The recognition was announced at the PEBEC Awards and Gala Night held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.

“The award celebrates transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s public service and was presented to the Commission for its “commitment to openness, accountability and operational excellence in Public Service Delivery,” she said.

Meanwhile, receiving the award on behalf of the commission, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining transparency and accountability in its regulatory approach.

Maida stated that these principles remained central to improving industry performance and fostering a conducive environment for telecommunications businesses to thrive.

He said, “The commission is proud to be listed among the Top Five Best-Performing Federal Government Agencies for 2025.

“This recognition is an affirmation of the values that guide our work, transparency, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to regulatory excellence.

“It signals that the reforms we have pursued, the systems we have strengthened, and the decisions we have taken are yielding the right results.”

Maida said that this award was a validation and responsibility to NCC, adding that it reassures the commission of being on the right path, and a challenge to deepen commitment to the Nigerian people.

“For us at the NCC, this honour is both a validation and a responsibility.

“As an economic regulator, our mandate is to create an environment where operators can thrive an environment that attracts investment and sustains healthy competition, ensuring consumers enjoy the best possible choices.

“Nigerians can rest assured that we will not rest on our oars. We remain fully committed to ensuring that the telecom consumer receives the highest quality of service, supported by a fair, transparent, and competitive industry.”

The EVC assured that the commission would continue to strengthen its collaborations with stakeholders, adding that meaningful progress in the sector can only be achieved through shared commitment and collective action.

Speaking at the awards, the PEBEC Director-General, Zahrah Mustapha-Audu, said the event was organised to celebrate reform champions and highlight progress made in improving the country’s business climate.

“This evening is not merely an awards ceremony, it is a powerful affirmation of possibilities, honouring the champions who have moved beyond compliance, embracing excellence as the new standard for public service delivery.

“The achievements we acknowledge are the tangible result of collective resolve to make Nigeria the most attractive and predictable competitive destination for business in Africa.

“Under the unwavering leadership of President Bola Tinubu, and the active chairmanship of the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, our reform efforts have been characterised by intentionality, accountability, and the strategic deployment of data.

“We understand that to fix the operational environment for businesses, we must first fix the government’s framework,” she said.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the council, said the awards reflected the government’s commitment to a more efficient and competitive public service.

“The PEBEC has spent the last couple of years championing reforms that speak to the whole of our economic aspirations.

“The reforms that make it easier to do business, that restore your best confidence, that ensure our institutions work in the spirit of national growth.

“Tonight, we salute the men and women driving these institutions, when we commit to working together across MDAs, across states and across sectors, Nigeria wins,” he said.

Igbo-Etiti council chairman, Dr Odo, receives overall best chairman of the year award

The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr Eric Odo, has received the overall best chairman of the year award fri Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ) Enugu State Council.

Odo was presented with the award on Thursday in Enugu by the NUJ State Chairman, Mr Obinna Ogbuka, during the 2025 Press Week held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Enugu.

Speaking after receiving the Best chairman of the year: “Champion of impactful development award”, he applauded the NUJ for identifying numerous projects his government had executed in the last one year.

The council boss reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to sustain the rapid development strides in the area.

He described the award as a call to deepen his administration’s efforts in infrastructure renewal, social services, economic empowerment, and community peacebuilding.

The council boss noted that the recognition was not just a personal one but a testament to the collective dedication of his team and the cooperation of the people of Igbo-Etiti.

According to him, his administration remains focused on delivering quality projects that have direct impact on the people of the council area.

“This award is a reminder that the work we are doing in Igbo-Etiti is visible, appreciated, and impactful.

“But more importantly, it challenges us to do even more for our people.

“I want to assure the people of Igbo-Etiti that this recognition will not make us relax but strengthens my resolve to continue delivering credible, measurable and inclusive development across every community.

“We are committed to sustaining our investments in water, education, health social welfare rural infrastructure and rural road interventions across various communities.

“These are the foundations of human development, and we will not relent until every community feels the full impact,” Odo hinted

Odo said that the recognition by the NUJ reinforced his resolve to pursue even more people-centred projects and consolidate the positive transformation already taking shape in Igbo-Etiti.

“I deeply appreciate the Nigeria Union of Journalists for finding me worthy of this honour.

“It is a motivation for service, and I dedicate it to the hardworking people of Igbo-Etiti whose support has made our progress possible,” the council boss stressed.