Distinct Media

 * The Oyo State Government has commenced a major road rehabilitation project in key areas of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo state, to improve transportation infrastructure and enhance mobility.  The projects cover roads, including Bashorun Oluwo-nla, Agbowo road, Eleyele-Water road, and Zion plaza-Olusoji Road. They are expected to be completed in less than 8 weeks.  This is according to a statement signed by the Chairman, Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency, OYSROMA, Hon. Busoye Ogunlade on Friday, in Ibadan.  He said the ongoing rehabilitation is based on fund availability and the economic viability of those roads. Ogunlade said the move was in line with the commitment of the Seyi Makinde-led administration to make the state more attractive to both local and foreign investors. "Governor Seyi Makinde has given us the mandate to rehabilitate roads across the State, and we have mobilized Engineers, through direct labour to these sites," he said. He noted that to make the e...

 * * The Oyo State Government has commenced a major road rehabilitation project in key areas of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo state, to improve transportation infrastructure and enhance mobility.  The projects cover roads, including Bashorun Oluwo-nla, Agbowo road, Eleyele-Water road, and Zion plaza-Olusoji Road. They are expected to be completed in less than 8 weeks.  This is according to a statement signed by the Chairman, Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency, OYSROMA, Hon. Busoye Ogunlade on Friday, in Ibadan.  He said the ongoing rehabilitation is based on fund availability and the economic viability of those roads. Ogunlade said the move was in line with the commitment of the Seyi Makinde-led administration to make the state more attractive to both local and foreign investors. "Governor Seyi Makinde has given us the mandate to rehabilitate roads across the State, and we have mobilized our men to these sites," he said. He noted that to make the exercise have the desire...

  January often feels like the longest month of the year. A time when the excitement of the new year fades, giving way to tighter budgets and slower days. But for Showmax customers, the month doesn’t have to feel endless. With a premium lineup of local hits, international blockbusters, and Showmax Originals, there’s always something exciting to watch, making every day in January a little brighter. Here are some must-watch series to add to your January watchlist. THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF LAGOS S3 | NEW EPISODES MONDAYS   Episode 1 of The Real Housewives of Lagos Season 3 is now streaming on Showmax. Fan favorites Laura Ikeji Kanu, Mariam Timmer, and Carolyna Hutchings are back, joined by newcomers Dabota Lawson, a celebrated beauty entrepreneur; Adeola “Diadem” Adeyemi, a beauty mogul and influencer; and Sophia Momodu, a media personality and humanitarian. This season promises even more excitement as these dynamic women light up the screen with their unique flair and captivating ...

  17 Jan. 2025, Lagos, Nigeria – In a strategic move to sustain its impressive performance, leading financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc has announced significant changes to its Board of Directors, effective January 14, 2025. According to a regulatory filing on the corporate disclosure portal of NGX Regulation Limited, the Bank has received the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) approval to appoint Alhaji Abdullahi Sarki Mohammed as an Independent Non-Executive Director, Ms. Obiaku Augusta Okam as a Non-Executive Director, and Mr. Sufiyanu Ibrahim Garba as an Executive Director, all effective January 14, 2025. Alhaji Mohammed brings over 36 years of experience in financial services, public administration, and human resources development, having held key leadership and executive roles at prestigious institutions including First Bank of Nigeria Plc and Polaris Bank Limited. His extensive expertise encompasses banking, public service, and business advisory. Ms. Okam boasts more than 3...

  * * Oyo State Government has announced that private health facilities caught operating with  unqualified personnel in the State will be shut down with immediate effect. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi stated this in a meeting relevant stakeholders in the private healthcare industries, held at the Conference Room of the Ministry.  According to her, valuable lives are constantly being lost to quackery practices, hence the need to call the relevant bodies into order for proper regulations among their members. The Commissioner reiterated that hospitals without qualified personnel constitute a danger to the society.  "Therefore, any private hospital operating in the State without qualified personnel will be shut down", she said. Dr. Ajetunmobi explained that hospital owners who are not in the medical line must have a qualified doctor on the ground with an up-to-date Annual Practicing License and other staff must also have their registration up to...

  LAGOS, January 16, 2025 – Olam Agri in Nigeria has again been recognised as a Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute, marking the fifth consecutive year it has achieved this prestigious certification. Announced during an event celebrating organisations that excel in the Institute’s annual HR Best Practices Survey, this milestone underscores Olam Agri’s exceptional workplace culture, innovative HR strategies, and growing appeal to talent locally and globally.  The Top Employer Institute evaluates organisations based on a comprehensive survey covering six key HR domains and 20 topics: People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Wellbeing. Since 2020, Olam Agri’s operations in Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and the Africa region have consistently earned top rankings, solidifying its reputation as an employer of choice.  As a leading agribusiness in food, feed, and fibre, Olam Agri is deeply commit...

  … for competitive pump price   Attracted by the bulk-purchase agreement incentives being offered by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, more oil marketers in the country are jostling to be listed as beneficiaries of the agreement.    The bulk-purchase agreement, the petroleum marketers reasoned, offers a guaranteed price stability as against purchase from depot owners whose price is opened to incessant upward review as has just been announced.   Recall that two prominent players in Nigeria's downstream oil and gas sector - Ardova Plc and Heyden Petroleum - have entered into a bulk purchase agreement with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery after MRS; a situation they have leveraged on to sell petroleum at a much cheaper pump price.   The depot owners recently jerked up their loading price to N950 per liter from N909 citing increase in the price of crude oil in the international market, a situation that has forced most independent marketers to raise their pump pric...

  JMG Limited, a leading provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria, recently extended its act of kindness to children in orphanages in Lagos by donating food items and supplies to them as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. The foremost company with efficient and reliable solutions for homes and businesses demonstrated that giving back to its host communities is an integral part of its operations with the donations to the Bales of Mercy Orphanage, Compassionate Orphanage, and Missionaries of Charity/Contemplative Gift of Mercy Home, in Lagos, to bring comfort and joy to the children. Presenting the gifts to the management of the Orphanage Homes, the Head of Marketing, JMG Limited, Oluwatomi Faniran, said the company is committed to making meaningful differences in the lives of those who need it most, driven by compassion, empathy, and a vision of a brighter future for all. She affirmed that the company through its kindness has deemed it necessary...

  The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is elated to unveil its remarkable accomplishments for the year 2024, epitomizing its unwavering dedication to preserving lives, optimizing traffic flow, and executing timely interventions throughout Lagos State. Through its expeditious and harmonized actions, LASTMA valiantly salvaged 1,075 lives from the brink of road traffic catastrophes in 2024. The Agency proficiently addressed 2,051 road traffic incidents, encompassing an astonishing 3,754 vehicles. These incidents were meticulously categorized as 143 fatal accidents, 502 severe accidents and 1,406 minor accidents. This monumental achievement underscores LASTMA’s pivotal role in curbing fatalities and mitigating the grievous repercussions of road mishaps. In tandem with its accident response efforts, LASTMA skillfully resolved 5,108 cases of vehicular breakdowns, underscoring its operational dexterity and technical acumen. The breakdown cases comprised: 423 cars, 746 bus...

 * * The Chairman of Adron Group, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Rt. Hon. Otunba (Dr.) Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, the Yeye Oba of Makun Kingdom, popularly known as IJAYA. In a tribute filled with heartfelt emotion, he described her as a beacon of hope, an exceptional leader, and a compassionate servant who dedicated her life to championing justice, empowering women, and working tirelessly toward societal development. Until her untimely passing, Rt. Hon. Oriyomi Adewunmi Onanuga served as the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, representing the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State. Her contributions to her constituency and the nation at large earned her widespread respect and admiration. He reflected on their decade-long relationship, which he said to have been built on mutual respect and support. He recounted her efforts in supporting the global vision of Adron Homes, and her instrumental role in the dev...

  The former Lagos State House of Assembly member, Hon Jude Chukwuemeka Idimogu, has congratulated Hon. Mojisola Meranda on her emergence as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Idimogu who made this known on Wednesday, describing the new speaker as "a round peg in a round hole"  Her emergence as the Lagos House speaker marks another milestone in the history of Lagos State House of Assembly.  Hon Mojisola Meranda, the first female speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, represents the good people of Apapa Constituency 1, and was previously the Deputy speaker of the 10th Assembly. May her emergence continue to be a magnet of positive values towards making Lagos Assembly a cynosure of all eyes. "As Lagosians celebrate the first female speaker, it is our prayers that God in whom we are serving continues to furnish her with more wisdom and understanding to pilot the affairs in the House and beyond" Idimogu added.

  The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has announced his decision to refrain from offering further counsel to the administration of President Bola Tinubu regarding the nation’s economic challenges. Speaking as chairman at the 21st Memorial Lecture in honour of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, organized by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch in Lagos, the former Central Bank Governor expressed dissatisfaction with the government's approach to economic reforms and stated that he has withdrawn his support. Sanusi revealed that while he had initially rendered assistance, he has chosen to desist from doing so, citing the administration's perceived mishandling of critical issues. “I have decided not to speak on the economy or the reforms, nor to explain any aspects of them. To explain would be to aid this government, and I am unwilling to do so,” Sanusi declared. He continued, “Although they are my friends, should they fail to act in a manner befitting of friendship, I to...

  The just-concluded retreat by the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) has re-energized to consolidate the monumental achievements of  Governor Charles Soludo's administration. The retreat, themed "Changing Gear—Accelerating the Execution of the Solution Agenda in 2025," brought together members of ANSEC, Mayors of the 21 Local Government Areas, and other key stakeholders on January 13, 2025, at the International Convention Centre, Awka, Anambra State. In a release by the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, Governor Soludo presented a comprehensive review of the state's government progress at the event, highlighting achievements and areas for improvement, with emphasis on collaboration among stakeholders for development. Other areas of deliberations include education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, with solutions to key challenges and highlighted opportunities for growth purposes. Also on the front burner was the safety of the people o...

  In a sympathetic mood, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State on Tuesday, consoles victims of the midnight fire incident that occurred at Ahịa Mgbede, opposite the New Motor Spare Parts Market in Nnewi. The Governor was saddened about the tragic occurrence that resulted in substantial loss of property and source of income for the entrepreneurs in the market, a terrible situation in the country's present economic climate. According to the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo applauded the efforts of Anambra State Fire Service and other emergency responders who worked tirelessly to put out the fire to minimize further damage. The governor further urged market leaders and business owners across the state to always adhere to fire safety regulations and have firefighting equipment in their possession to avert disastrous circumstances in case of fire outbreaks.

  Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State congratulates the pioneer Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr. Mark Okoye, as he gets confirmation on his appointment by the Senate. Soludo commended President Bola Tinubu for Okoye's appointment and expressed confidence that Okoye's role as MD of SEDC will significantly benefit the entire Southeast region. In a statement from the governor's Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo avowed that Okoye fits the job, considering his wealth of experience in investment banking and dedication to public service while serving as the MD/CEO of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA) and previously as Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning in the state. Soludo, in his message, wishes Okoye greater wisdom and unparalleled success as he takes on this crucial responsibility of driving development initiatives in the Southeast region. While commending President Tinubu ...

  * The Aseyin of Iseyin, HRM Oba Sefiu Olawale, has called for stronger collaboration with the Oyo State Water Corporation to improve water supply in Iseyin and its environs. He made the call during a recent visit by the Agency’s Chairman, Mr. Elias Adeojo, to Iseyin. Adeojo stated that the Oyo State Government would not relent in its efforts to provide potable water to residents across the state. He disclosed that the major obstacle to adequate water supply in Iseyin and its surroundings is epileptic power supply; a challenge faced across the state. The Chairman emphasized that efforts are ongoing to address this issue, adding that Governor Seyi Makinde has mandated him to restore water services to all geopolitical zones in the state. "Provision of potable water is one of Governor Seyi Makinde's key agendas, and he has given directives in that regard, with adequate support and assistance," the Chairman said. Earlier, in his remarks, the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Olawa...

  Renowned Lagos-based cleric, Prophet Godwin Ikuru, has called on leaders in Nigeria, Africa, the United States of America, and Russia to turn to God, as a divine wind of humility is set to sweep through these regions. Prophet Ikuru, the founder of Jehovah Eyes Ministry, described this "Wind of Humility" as God's way of humbling leaders who have exalted themselves as emperors over nations and their people. According to him, this divine intervention serves as a reminder that no power surpasses that of God. Referring to the devastating wildfires in Southern California, Prophet Ikuru remarked, "Consider how a state as prominent as Los Angeles is engulfed by wildfires—an inexplicable phenomenon. Homes have been destroyed, lives lost, and remedies sought in vain. This tragedy is a demonstration of God's supremacy, exposing the arrogance of leaders who consider themselves invincible. This also aligns with my earlier prophecy that the world will face significant challe...

* The Distance Learning Institute (DLI), University of Lagos, has celebrated the achievements of its students at the convocation ceremony for the 2023/2024 academic session, held at the institution.  Among the highlights of the event was the recognition of Ms. Innocent Faith Edewede, of the Department of Management Sciences (Accounting), who emerged as the Best Graduating Student for the session, a remarkable feat in academic brilliance and dedication. Ms. Edewede distinguished herself through exceptional performance across all her courses, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence throughout her academic journey. Her achievements set a high standard, showcasing the rewards of focus, discipline, and hard work within the institute’s rigorous academic framework. The Director of the Distance Learning Institute, Prof. Risikat Dauda, commended the graduating class for their efforts and perseverance. She highlighted the outstanding performance of Ms. Edewede, noting her achiev...

  The last has not been heard about the bursted Multi-Million Naira scam involving some ex-staffers of the Brila media group. It has been reliably confirmed that Mr. Babafemi Raji aka Topmost Striker, a former staff of Brila Media group, was last week arrested by the operatives of the Federal Intelligence Department, Force Headquarters, Lagos. According to a source in the know, the arrest of Babafemi Raji is not unconnected with the over N150,000,000(One Hundred and Fifty Million Naira) fraud allegedly discovered to have been committed by a cartel formed with some other criminal elements to defraud the Media Group for many years, while working in the organization. His arrest is coming on the heels of others who have been invited and investigated by the authorities. Source claimed Mr. Babafemi Raji’s arrest is a fallout of police investigation where other investigated persons have allegedly fingered him. It is interesting that some of the arrested and investigated members have accep...

  The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen consumer protection within the telecommunications sector. The MoU was officially signed by the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, and the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, Aminu Maida, during a formal ceremony held at the FCCPC headquarters in Abuja. Speaking at the event, Mr. Maida described the MoU as a landmark initiative that establishes a strategic partnership between two pivotal regulatory bodies. He emphasised the shared commitment of both organisations to safeguard the interests of Nigerian consumers while fostering fair competition and innovation within the telecommunications industry. “In an era of rapid technological advancement, collaboration between regulatory institutions is more essential than ever,” he stated. “The telecommunications sector is a cornerstone ...

    Our attention has been drawn to recent media reports regarding a commercial transaction between First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FirstBank) and General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) that is currently a subject of litigation.   As a responsible and law-abiding corporate citizen of Nigeria with utmost respect for the courts, FirstBank will not be able to offer comments on issues which are pending for determination by the courts, as such issues are sub-judice.   However, we are constrained to issue the following clarifications to correct the sponsored but false narratives on the matter presented in some of the media publications.   There is a subsisting commercial transaction between FirstBank as lender, and GHL as borrower, where FirstBank extended several credit facilities to GHL for the development of some Oil Mining Lease assets.   These facilities are backed by very robust loan agreements executed by the parties in which the obligations of the parties are ...

  The state coordinator   of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) New Era, Oyo State Chapter, Comrade Rotimi Olumo, together with all members of the OPC New Era in Oyo State, extends heartfelt congratulations to the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, on his appointment as the new Alaafin of Oyo. This was conveyed in a statement signed by Comrade Rotimi Olumo, wherein he felicitated with the monarch and the people of Oyo Town and Oyo State at large on this momentous occasion. Comrade Olumo urged the newly appointed Alaafin to prioritise peace and unity within the kingdom. He described the prince’s emergence as a pivotal step towards a prosperous and culturally enriched Oyo Kingdom. “The ascension of Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade heralds the dawn of a new era of prosperity, unity, and cultural preservation for Oyo. I am confident that he will uphold the esteemed legacy of his predecessors, particularly the late Oba Lamidi Atanda Adeyemi III, whose reign was marked b...