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2025 Global Ranking: Zenith Bank Retains Top Spot in Nigeria’s Banking Sector for 16th Straight Year

Banking

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July 4, 2025

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Bank of the Year (Nigeria)

2025 Global Ranking: Zenith Bank Retains Top Spot in Nigeria’s Banking Sector for 16th Straight Year

Zenith Bank Plc has retained its position as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the sixteenth consecutive year, in the 2025 Top 1000 World Banks’ Rankings, published by The Banker, Financial Times Group, United Kingdom. This ranking places Zenith Bank Plc as the 581st Bank globally, with a Tier-1 Capital of $2 billion.

The global rankings, published in the July 2025 edition of The Banker, was based on the 2024 year-end Tier-1 capital of banks. This is the primary basis for most international organizations’ assessments of banks.

Commenting on this achievement, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, said, “We are thrilled to have retained our position yet again as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 capital for the 16th consecutive year. This achievement is a reflection of the bank’s robust financial performance, prudent risk management and steadfast dedication to delivering exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders”. She thanked the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his visionary and transformative leadership which has played a pivotal role in cultivating a resilient and thriving institution. She also expressed her deepest appreciation to the bank’s esteemed customers for their continued loyalty to the Zenith brand, the Board for the sound corporate governance, and the staff for their relentless & tireless efforts in ensuring the bank’s success.

Tier-1 Capital describes capital adequacy, the core measure of a bank’s financial strength from a regulator’s perspective. According to the ranking, Tier-1 Capital, as defined by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) guidelines, includes loss-absorbing capital, i.e., common stock, disclosed reserves, retained earnings, and minority interests in the equity of subsidiaries that are less than wholly owned. A strong Tier-1 capital ratio boosts investor and depositor confidence, indicating the Bank is well-capitalised and financially stable.

According to the audited financial results for the 2024 financial year presented to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), the Bank recorded a double-digit growth of 86% in gross earnings, increasing from N2.13 trillion in 2023 to N3.97 trillion in 2024. This growth was driven by a 138% increase in interest income, supported by investment in high-yield government securities, and growth in the Bank’s loan book. Zenith Bank’s profit before tax (PBT) rose by 67%, reaching N1.3 trillion in 2024 from N796 billion in 2023. This performance saw the bank record an unprecedented total dividend payout of N195.67 billion at N5.00 per ordinary share in the 2024 financial year.

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and 2024; Best Bank in Nigeria from 2020 to 2022, 2024 and 2025, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; and being listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023.

Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for four consecutive years from 2021 to 2024 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank was acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards from 2022 to 2024 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.

The Bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BAFI Awards. The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.

Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics. The Bank’s Hybrid Offer was also adjudged ‘Rights Issue/ Public Offer of the Year’ at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025. Read More

Policy Strategist, Political Visionary: Meet Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo… Her Plans to Power Change from Grassroots

Politics

Lukman Omikunle

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July 3, 2025

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Policy Strategist, Political Visionary: Meet Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo… Her Plans to Power Change from Grassroots

As Nigeria looks toward the next generation of leaders, voices like Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo offer a compelling case for a new kind of politics

By Lukman Omikunle | Newsheadline247

Policy Strategist, Political Visionary: Meet Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo… Her Plans to Power Change from Grassroots

In an era where Nigerians are increasingly calling for competence and integrity in governance, Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo stands out as a shining example of technocratic excellence, global exposure, and an unwavering commitment to public service.

With a formidable résumé that spans over two decades across multinational corporations and strategic UK government departments, Okuboyejo brings a refreshing blend of private sector precision and public policy intelligence to the political space. Her journey from the oilfields of the North Sea to the corridors of Whitehall, and now to community-building in her ancestral Ado-Odo/Ota homeland, tells the story of a woman driven not just by ambition—but by purpose.

“I have learnt that the synergy of creativity and experience consistently delivers success,” she says with calm conviction. “I believe politics can benefit from that same balance.”

From Oil Giants to the Ministry of Defence

A petroleum engineer by training, she transitioned seamlessly from technical roles in oil and gas with ExxonMobil, Chevron, and Centrica, into policy-making at the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, and later, as Chief of Staff at the Defence Infrastructure Organisation under the UK Ministry of Defence. She is currently a Cyber Risk Consultant at the UK’s National Energy System Operator.

Her contributions to national energy security, information risk governance, and cybersecurity have earned her a respected place among professionals working to protect the UK’s critical infrastructure. And yet, she remains firmly connected to her roots.

A Technocrat with a Deep Sense of Heritage

Born to Nigerian parents studying in the UK in the 1970s, Okuboyejo’s heritage has been a constant compass. Her NGO, the Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Renaissance Project (TAORP), reflects her commitment to education, human capital development, and local empowerment in Ado-Odo/Ota, Ogun State.

“TAORP is my way of honouring my grandfather and father—community advocates whose legacies I am proud to continue,” she explains. “What we do may seem small, but the smiles of the children we support keep us going.”

A Fresh Voice in Nigerian Politics

In the last general election, Okuboyejo took her passion for service a step further by contesting for office. Though unsuccessful, the experience only reinforced her resolve.

“Politics is a marathon, not a sprint,” she reflects. “I now understand that you need to build trust, earn your stripes, and never lose sight of why you came.”

Her political philosophy is rooted in the belief that diasporan Nigerians—particularly those with technical, policy, and leadership experience—must play an active role in reshaping the country.

“The Nigerian diaspora can contribute far more than just remittances. With the right policy environment, we could unlock $100 billion annually in investment. But first, we must rebuild trust,” she argues.

Breaking Glass Ceilings in Male-Dominated Fields

In the highly competitive and male-dominated field of engineering and cybersecurity, Okuboyejo has remained unfazed. She credits her upbringing for instilling in her the belief that gender should never be a barrier.

“I never saw myself as a woman in engineering. I saw myself as a human being with goals,” she says. “And my parents encouraged me to always aim for excellence, regardless of the environment.”

Her wide range of professional certifications—including CISM, GICSP, and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor—underscores her technical credibility.

Bridging Policy and People

With three academic degrees—including an Executive Master’s in Public Administration from the London School of Economics and Political Science—she is uniquely equipped to bridge policy ideals with on-the-ground realities.

“My time in the UK Civil Service taught me that private sector ideals cannot simply be transposed into government. You need experience, empathy, and structure. I bring all three.”

A Role Model for Young Nigerians

Okuboyejo, fondly known as NaijaBabe, has become something of an icon in the diaspora community—celebrated not just for her trailblazing career, but for her authenticity and community spirit.

To young Nigerians, especially women, she offers this advice, “Don’t ignore the power of networks. Seek mentors. And remember—success isn’t gendered. It’s earned.”

As Nigeria looks toward the next generation of leaders, voices like Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo offer a compelling case for a new kind of politics: one grounded in merit, community, and an unshakeable belief that change is not only possible—it is overdue. Read More

Princess Orelope-Adefulire Gifts Innovation Hub to LASU in Honour of Late Father, Pa Jimoh Orelope

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July 3, 2025

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Princess Orelope-Adefulire Gifts Innovation Hub to LASU in Honour of Late Father, Pa Jimoh Orelope

“A bridge between legacy and the future,” says Olota of Otta as LASU celebrates Awori heritage

By Lukman Olajide | Newsheadline247

Princess Orelope-Adefulire Gifts Innovation Hub to LASU in Honour of Late Father, Pa Jimoh Orelope

LAGOS, NIGERIA – In a remarkable fusion of legacy, innovation, and community development, Lagos State University (LASU) has officially launched a state-of-the-art Innovation Hub donated by Her Excellency, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, in honour of her late father and Awori patriarch, Pa Jimoh Orelope.

The commissioning ceremony took place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the LASU Ojo Campus. The new facility, christened “Jimoh Orelope (Awori) House,” was established in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the aim of fostering digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and youth-focused development.

Princess Orelope-Adefulire, a proud daughter of Otta’s Iyanru Royal Dynasty, is Nigeria’s current Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State. In donating the edifice, she said the gesture was both a tribute to her father’s values and a commitment to advancing education, youth empowerment, and the Awori legacy.

His Royal Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, the Olota of Otta and a key dignitary at the event, commended Princess Orelope-Adefulire for what he described as “visionary leadership and a deeply symbolic contribution to national development.”

“The Innovation Hub is not just a building; it is a bridge between the legacy of our forebears and the future our youth must create,” the monarch stated. “If well utilized, it will become a solution centre to many challenges confronting our society, much like similar initiatives in developed nations.”

Speaking during the Open Day inauguration, LASU Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, lauded the donor for her consistent dedication to educational advancement and her exemplary service to the nation. She described the Innovation Hub as a milestone achievement in the university’s journey toward becoming a globally competitive institution.

The event also drew high-ranking personalities from government, academia, traditional institutions, and the Awori community. Among those present were Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule; National Chairman of the Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria (AWAN), Asiwaju Muhammad Olagbaye; Senator Gbolahan Dada and his wife; and other notable dignitaries.

High Chief Ezekiel Bamisaiye Fadipe (Aro of Otta) and Baale Jamiu Komolafe (Baale of Ipamesan Oke, Otta)

In attendance alongside the Olota of Otta were respected traditional chiefs, including High Chief Ezekiel Bamisaiye Fadipe (Aro of Otta) and Baale Jamiu Komolafe (Baale of Ipamesan Oke, Otta), underscoring the strong cultural significance of the event.

The Innovation Hub is expected to serve as a catalyst for youth-led digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and SDG-aligned projects in Lagos State and beyond.

Details as Dangote Cement Creates 50 Agric Entrepreneurs

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July 3, 2025

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Details as Dangote Cement Creates 50 Agric Entrepreneurs

Determined to support the governments in its food security effort, the Dangote Cement Plc has launched a Farmers Empowerment Programme in Benue State.

The initiative is aimed at enabling 50 farmers to produce subsistence and cash crops in commercial quantity from Benue State, considered to be the food basket of the nation.

The programme is coming barely two months after the company empowered businesswomen in Gboko host communities of the State with cash grants, thus deepening business activities in the State. Earlier, the company had increased bursary payments to students of host communities by more than 100 per cent.

Speaking Thursday at the launch of the Farmers Empowerment Programme, General Manager Social Performance, Johnson Kor, described the programme as ‘historic and innovative.’

He said the beneficiaries were selected from the company’s host communities of Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to him, the beneficiaries were carefully selected from the six catchment areas of the Local Government.

Mr. Kor said the projects have been earmarked for the communities as captured in the extant Community Development Agreement (CDA), adding that the contents of the CDA are progressively being executed.

“Today we are witnessing an historic occasion in our journey of mutual development. Farmers Empowerment Programme is the first programme to be launched since we signed the CDA with the immediate host communities in December 2024,” he said.

In his speech, Plant Director, Dangote Cement, Gboko Plant, Munusamy Murugan, said the company will also support farmers with fertilizers, Agro chemicals, Knapsack Sprayers and various types of seedlings.

Mr. Murugan who was represented by Head of Production Department, Engr Soom Kiishi said: “This is the first batch but certainly just the beginning, and certainly not the end. We plan it to be an annual event, but the choice of the Farmers programme may change, depending on the choice of the benefiting communities.”

He said other economic empowerment programmes are lined up in the coming weeks.

“The Youth Empowerment Programme will soon be launched, and selected beneficiaries will receive training in Welding & Fabrication, and Solar Electrical Installation from Professional personnels,” he added.

He said the company’s scholarship scheme cuts across students from various disciplines and tertiary institutions.

In his address to the communities, Consultant from Abbass Corporate Services, Dr. Ahemen Aondoaver Samuel, advised the beneficiaries to make use of what he described as a rare opportunity from the Dangote Cement Plc.

The Consultant said the company’s effort will help transform beneficiaries into entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector and enable them to support the government’s food security effort.

Responding, a member of the community, Kwaghgba Isaac, described the Farmers Empowerment Programme as a historic and huge intervention from the company, noting that the effort will not only boost subsistence farming, but help feed the nation.

He urged members of the communities to sustain the peaceful coexistence currently being enjoyed with the company.

Afenifere Hails Appointment of Hon. Kayode Oladele as Acting Chairman of Federal Character Commission

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July 3, 2025

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Within Afenifere, Oladele is recognized as a committed member whose contributions continue to resonate with the group’s vision for a just and equitable Nigeria

Afenifere Hails Appointment of Hon. Kayode Oladele as Acting Chairman of Federal Character Commission

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has warmly welcomed the appointment of Hon. Kayode Oladele as the Acting Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

In a statement issued in reaction to the appointment, Afenifere described Oladele as a “detribalised Nigerian and social crusader of impeccable character, whose life’s work has been defined by a deep commitment to equity, justice, and fairness for all Nigerians.”

Afenifere highlighted Oladele’s historical role during Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, recalling his courageous activism during the dark days of military rule. As a member of Afenifere, the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Oladele was firmly in the trenches, contributing immensely to the June 12 struggle and the quest for the actualization of the presidential mandate won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola in the 1993 Presidential elections.

His involvement in the pro-democracy movement and his enduring sacrifices for the enthronement of democratic governance, the group noted, mark him out as a patriot with a consistent track record of public service and moral clarity.

“Even as a member of the House of Representatives, he introduced and co- sponsored the Public Holiday Amendment Act which shifted the Democracy Day from May 29 to June 12 every year.

He also introduced and sponsored the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit Act which was signed into law by President Muhammad Buhari setting up a central body for processing intelligence related to financial transaction in Nigeria”, the statement said.

“Within Afenifere, he is recognized as a committed member whose contributions continue to resonate with the group’s vision for a just and equitable Nigeria.

“As one of us, we have unflinching confidence in Oladele’s demonstrable competence, experience, and integrity to deliver on the new mandate,” the statement concluded.

APC Women Leaders Rally Behind Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman During Courtesy Visit

Politics

Lukman Omikunle

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July 3, 2025

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APC Women Leaders Rally Behind Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman During Courtesy Visit

“Your leadership is a breath of fresh air,” women leaders applaud Lawal Adewale Wasiu

In a show of solidarity and support, women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the 16 wards of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government paid a courtesy and congratulatory visit to the Executive Chairman, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, FCA, at the Council Secretariat on Tuesday.

Led by the Local Government APC Women Leader, Alhaja Waliat Ogunbiyi, the delegation commended the Chairman for his inclusive approach to leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to the success of his administration.

“We are here to felicitate with our Chairman and to assure him that the women of APC in Ado-Odo/Ota are solidly behind him,” said Alhaja Ogunbiyi. “Your leadership is a breath of fresh air, and we are confident that you will address the pressing needs of women across our local government.”

The visit, which was both a congratulatory gesture and a platform to discuss women-centric developmental issues, was warmly received by Hon. Lawal, who lauded the women’s role in strengthening the APC’s grassroots structures.

“I deeply appreciate your visit and the unwavering support you have shown,” Hon. Lawal said. “Women have always been instrumental to the party’s success, particularly during electioneering campaigns. My administration is fully committed to ensuring women have a strong voice and active role in the governance of Ado-Odo/Ota.”

He encouraged the women to remain active participants in leadership and governance, referencing the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Her Excellency, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele FNSE, as a symbol of what women can achieve in leadership. He described her as a worthy role model for aspiring women leaders, especially within Awori land.

During the visit, Alhaja Ogunbiyi also presented concerns affecting women in the area, urging the local government to prioritize issues around community development, economic empowerment, and healthcare for women.

“We trust your capacity to deliver on our expectations,” she said. “Our women structure will continue to work closely with your team to ensure grassroots development.”

The meeting was attended by several top local government functionaries, including:

Hon. Ogabi Mohammed – Secretary to the Local Government
Elder Agbeleye – Supervisor for Agriculture and Food Security
Mrs. Abimbola Tijani – Supervisor for Community and Women Affairs
Hon. Jamiu – Special Adviser on Agriculture and Food Security
Mr. Kehinde Ikudayisi – Special Adviser on Community Development and Women Affairs
Hon. Kunle Badmus – Special Adviser on Special Duties

The visit ended with prayers and expressions of mutual commitment to advancing the interest of women and fostering inclusive governance across the local government. Read More

Aregbesola Reignites Political Flame, Becomes Coalition’s ADC National Secretary

Politics

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July 2, 2025

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Aregbesola’s emergence as ADC National Secretary comes two years after a high-profile fallout with his former party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Aregbesola Reignites Political Flame, Becomes Coalition’s ADC National Secretary

In a dramatic return to Nigeria’s national political scene, former Osun State Governor and ex-Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has been appointed the Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—a move widely seen as a strategic bid to redefine the country’s political direction and inject fresh ideological energy into opposition politics.

Aregbesola’s appointment was officially announced during the adoption of the ADC as the platform of the National Opposition Coalition Group on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

In a stirring acceptance speech, the former governor called for a reawakening of Nigeria’s party politics rooted in ideology, internal democracy, and people-centered governance.

“A political party is not a platform for opportunism. It is not a mere vehicle to power for the few,” Aregbesola declared. “It is a living institution—built on values, guided by ideals, and accountable to the people it seeks to serve.”

Reflecting on Africa’s rich political history, Aregbesola cited the African National Congress (ANC) as a reference point in building a party with soul, structure, and commitment to justice.

“Sadly, in Nigeria today, we cannot say the same about many of our political parties. They are empty shells—merging and splitting, not over policy or principle, but over power and personality,” he lamented. “That is not the kind of party we must be. That is not the kind of party I will serve.”

He pledged to reform the ADC into a model institution of integrity and grassroots participation.

“We must build a party where internal democracy is not just preached but practiced, where young people and the marginalized have real voices, and where every structure—from ward to national level—functions effectively,” he said.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm by his supporters and members of the Omoluabi Progressives, a sociopolitical movement rooted in the South-West. In a congratulatory statement, the group’s Chairman, Alhaji Isaa Adesiji Azeez, hailed the appointment as a “turning point” for opposition politics.

“This marks a new chapter in the journey toward a more people-centered, accountable, and visionary political leadership in Nigeria,” Azeez said.
“Ogbeni’s leadership represents a return to values, discipline, and true service.”

Aregbesola’s emergence as ADC National Secretary comes two years after a high-profile fallout with his former party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, once his political mentor. The rift became public during the 2022 Osun governorship primaries, when Aregbesola backed a rival faction against Tinubu’s cousin, then-Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

Following APC’s loss in Osun and his quiet withdrawal from the political spotlight after completing his ministerial tenure in 2023, many speculated Aregbesola’s career had reached its twilight. However, his continued engagement with youth and professionals under the Omoluabi ideology signaled a potential comeback—one now confirmed with this latest appointment.

A Strategic Shift in Osun Politics and Beyond

Analysts view Aregbesola’s move as a deliberate effort to carve out an independent political path outside Tinubu’s shadow. The ADC, previously seen as a marginal third force, could now become a central player in Nigeria’s evolving political chessboard.

With President Tinubu likely to seek re-election in 2027 and the APC focused on reclaiming Osun in 2026, Aregbesola’s position may prove pivotal. Political observers suggest he could act as a kingmaker—or even emerge as a candidate—depending on how the ADC performs under his stewardship.

Alhaji Azeez, meanwhile, urged Osun residents to begin voter registration ahead of the 2026 elections, signalling potential groundwork for a major political offensive.

“The vision is to usher in a new leadership—one that will uplift Osun State, improve security, banish hunger, and give our state a more dignified facelift,” he stated.

As political alignments shift and the ADC garners renewed attention, Aregbesola’s return could redefine not only the opposition space but also the dynamics of 2026 and 2027. In a crowded and often personality-driven political terrain, his emphasis on values, party discipline, and ideological revival may resonate with disenchanted voters seeking meaningful alternatives.

“This is not an easy task,” Aregbesola acknowledged in his speech.
“It will take time. It will demand sacrifice. But it can be done.”

With renewed energy, loyal grassroots structures, and a party eager for reinvention, Aregbesola’s political chapter may be far from over—it may just be beginning.

SABRINA Returns with Soulful New Single “Faraway” Ahead of Anticipated Album Release

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July 2, 2025

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With this release, she takes a bold step forward in what is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most talked-about albums

SABRINA Returns with Soulful New Single “Faraway” Ahead of Anticipated Album Release

Rising star SABRINA is back with her second single, “Faraway,” a lush, emotionally resonant track that offers fans a deeper glimpse into her evolving sound.

The new single sets the tone for her highly anticipated upcoming album, FREELY, slated for release in mid-summer 2025.

Following the success of her breakout single “Alone,” Faraway amplifies SABRINA’s unique blend of heartfelt lyricism and dreamy, genre-blurring production.

With this release, she takes a bold step forward in what is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most talked-about albums.

“Faraway is about distance—emotional, physical, spiritual. It’s about longing, but also letting go,” SABRINA shared in a recent teaser on social media. Read More

“Our Hearts Yearn for Africa, Our Ancestors Traced to Nigerian Roots” – Saint Lucia Senate President

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July 2, 2025

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“Our people have been separated, but nothing has ever been able to separate us spiritually and culturally from West Africa, where some of our ancestors came from and for whom our hearts continually yearn”

“Our Hearts Yearn for Africa, Our Ancestors Traced to Nigerian Roots” – Saint Lucia Senate President

In a moving session steeped in emotion, history, and unity, President of the Saint Lucian Senate, Alvina Reynolds, on Monday declared that many Saint Lucians trace their ancestry directly to Nigeria.

Her remarks came during a joint session of Saint Lucia’s bicameral parliament to welcome Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his state visit to the island nation.

Reynolds, drawing on archival British census data from 1815, revealed that a significant portion of the African-born enslaved population in Saint Lucia originated from Nigeria.

“Of the 16,282 enslaved people in Saint Lucia that year, 3,488 were born in Africa,” Reynolds said.

“Of these, 34 per cent were from Nigeria, 11 per cent from Nigeria-Cameroon, and 22 per cent from the Congo. The remaining 12,794 were born in Saint Lucia, with most of their forefathers coming from Sene-Gambia and Nigeria.”

Describing the visit as “historic,” Reynolds said it marks a symbolic reconnection with Africa, a continent whose people and culture are deeply woven into Saint Lucia’s identity.

“This mission to reunite us with our homeland and for our people to work together continues today. Your Excellency, Catholic priests from Nigeria have answered the call and come to Saint Lucia to serve, one of whom is our special guest this morning—Father Festus.”

She also paid tribute to Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice between 1975 and 1979, highlighting yet another powerful link between the two nations.

Reynolds noted the significance of the date, adding: “Your address to this Parliament today could not have occurred at a more auspicious time, for today is World Parliament Day—an occasion to reflect on the essential role of Parliament and the service we provide as representatives to our people.”

In his response, Prime Minister Philip Pierre hailed President Tinubu’s visit as “a moment of freedom and celebration.” He echoed the emotional and cultural ties that bind Saint Lucia to West Africa.

“Our people have been separated, but nothing has ever been able to separate us spiritually and culturally from West Africa, where some of our ancestors came from and for whom our hearts continually yearn,” Pierre said.

He emphasized the pride of Saint Lucians in their African roots, stating: “We are African people who have made permanent homes for ourselves on this side of the Atlantic, on the hills and valleys of the plantations on which we were enslaved. But we have built these homes… in the service of all humanity, especially Africa, in whose direction we continually watch, wait, hope and pray for our future redemption.”

With characteristic humour, Pierre noted, “Our population is even smaller than Eti-Osa Local Government in Lagos,” but affirmed that Saint Lucia remains “a sovereign nation deeply connected to the world, Nigeria, and West Africa.”

He also lauded the contributions of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia across various sectors, “We warmly welcome every Nigerian hand of support and embrace with gratitude their contributions to Saint Lucia’s cultural, social, and economic development. We are the richer for it.”

Looking ahead, Pierre referenced growing momentum in Africa-Caribbean ties following the 2021 Africa-CARICOM Summit. He listed potential areas for collaboration including fintech, tourism, renewable energy, medical services, sports, and cultural exchange.

Despite Saint Lucia attracting over a million tourists annually, Pierre noted that direct traffic from Nigeria remains minimal due to limited air connectivity. He proposed expanded partnerships, especially in sports like football and cricket, as well as medical and financial sectors.

The joint session was attended by regional leaders, diplomats, and top officials from across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), reinforcing the growing significance of Africa-Caribbean diplomacy.

President Tinubu’s visit to Saint Lucia is part of his broader outreach to deepen ties between Nigeria and the Caribbean—a connection now rekindled with historical resonance and modern purpose. Read More

CP Lawal Adebowale Assumes Duty as 46th Commissioner of Police in Ondo

Lukman Omikunle

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July 1, 2025

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CP Adebowale pledged to prioritize intelligence-led policing, robust community engagement, and inter-agency collaboration to strengthen law and order across the state

CP Lawal Adebowale Assumes Duty as 46th Commissioner of Police in Ondo

…Vows to Deepen Community Trust and Public Safety

Akure, Ondo State – The Nigeria Police Force has announced the deployment of a seasoned crime-fighter, Commissioner of Police Lawal Adebowale, psc(+), mnips, as the 46th Commissioner of Police for Ondo State Command, taking over from CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi who has been redeployed to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Ondo State Police Command on Monday, emphasizing that CP Adebowale brings a distinguished and diverse career experience spanning over three decades in law enforcement across multiple states and international assignments.

CP Adebowale officially assumed duty amid high expectations from the people of Ondo State, as security challenges persist in various parts of the country. He has pledged to prioritize intelligence-led policing, robust community engagement, and inter-agency collaboration to strengthen law and order across the state.

“I am deeply honored by the confidence the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has placed in me. I assure the government and people of Ondo State of my total commitment to sustaining peace, upholding justice, and rebuilding trust between the Police and the communities we serve,” CP Adebowale said during a brief handover ceremony at the Command Headquarters in Akure.

He added, “Security is everyone’s business. I call on traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society, and all stakeholders to work closely with us. Together, we can build a safer Ondo State for all.”

An Officer with a Global Footprint

CP Lawal Adebowale holds a Bachelor of Arts in French from the University of Ilorin and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH). His academic foundation is reinforced by extensive professional training—both within and outside Nigeria.

Throughout his illustrious career, he has served in key positions across Edo, Yobe, Lagos, Ogun, Anambra, Rivers, Cross River, Katsina, Enugu, and at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. He has worked as Divisional Police Officer, Area Commander, Officer-in-Charge of Anti-Robbery and Anti-Kidnapping Units, and later rose to become Assistant Commissioner in the IGP X-Squad and Deputy Commissioner in charge of Professional Studies at the Nigeria Police Academy.

Notably, between 2006 and 2009, CP Adebowale was seconded to INTERPOL as a Sub-Regional Bureau Officer. He managed sensitive crime portfolios such as stolen vehicles, travel documents, DNA and fingerprint records, and stolen works of art across West and Central Africa, advancing cross-border collaboration and international policing standards.

Before his latest assignment, he served as the Commissioner of Police in charge of Force Quartermaster at the Force Headquarters, overseeing logistics and operational readiness nationwide.

Tribute to Outgoing CP Afolabi

The Ondo State Police Command also paid tribute to the outgoing CP Wilfred Afolabi for his dedicated service and professionalism.

“CP Afolabi served with distinction and left behind a legacy of discipline and proactive policing. We wish him greater success in his new national assignment,” the Command said in the statement.

Public Engagement and Contact Channels

In a move that underscores his commitment to accessibility and transparency, CP Adebowale has released a dedicated phone line—09060588958—through which members of the public can reach him directly for credible security tips or crime-related matters.

The Command also urged residents to follow verified social media platforms for real-time updates:

X (formerly Twitter): @OndoPoliceNg
Instagram: @ondopolicecommand
Facebook: Ondo Police Command
Email: ondopolice@gmail.com

As CP Lawal Adebowale settles into his new role, the people of Ondo State and security observers across Nigeria will be watching with keen interest as one of the nation’s most experienced police officers charts a new course for safety and security in the Sunshine State. Read More