Distinct Media

  The Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) on Sunday devoted its 2025 annual thanksgiving service to fervent prayers for Nigeria, appealing for divine intervention amid persistent security concerns and economic hardship. The service, held at the church’s headquarters in Ikotun, Lagos, attracted thousands of worshippers from within and outside the country. It opened with energetic multilingual praise sessions in Swahili, French, English and Ashanti, underscoring the ministry’s diverse global following. Leader of SCOAN, Pastor Evelyn Joshua , expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the church throughout the year. She said that despite the uncertainties facing Nigeria and the wider world, the ministry continued to experience testimonies of healing, deliverance and transformation—signs, she said, of God’s enduring presence in the church. “We appreciate God for His preservation and faithfulness,” she said, urging Nigerians not to despair. “Our prayer today is for God’s interven...

  The Oyo State Head of service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni has urged  Retired Civil Servants in the State to use their retirement as a continuation of their contributions to serve humanity.  She stated this during the send -off programme for retired Heads of Ministries Departments and Agencies and annual End -of -the year Get-together of the forum held at Omolayole Hall International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.  The Head of Service appreciated  the Forum’s social activities which continue to foster unity and provide emotional and psychological support to members, especially those facing personal or professional challenges, just as she  encourages members to further leverage the platform for intellectual engagement and knowledge sharing, hinting that.  Knowledge is power and when it is shared with a unity of purpose, it becomes a formidable force that will propel the service to move to the greater heights. She  said "connect more deeply wi...

    At the 2025 Brands and Marketing Conference hosted by the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President and Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Interswitch Group, emphasised the need for marketers and journalists to adopt a balanced, collaborative approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI). Her keynote address was delivered on her behalf by Tomi Ogunlesi, Divisional Head, Brands and Communications, Interswitch. Speaking to the conference theme,  “AI and the Future of Marketing Workflow: Disruption or Opportunity?” , Dr. Eromosele noted that AI has already reshaped how content is created, distributed, and evaluated. She emphasised that while the technology unlocks new levels of efficiency, it also requires responsible adoption and continuous human oversight. In her words: “The real risk is not in the technology itself, but in the reluctance to adapt. AI will enhance human output, but it still requires human ...

  Lagos, 5 December 2025  -  FirstBank Basketball Club of Nigeria, popularly known as the “Elephant Girls”, have secured their spot in the final round of the Women’s Basketball League Africa (WBLA), scheduled to hold in Cairo, Egypt from 5-14 December 2025. The Elephant Girls put on a commanding performance at the FIBA Africa Zone 3 Qualifiers in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, winning all three games. Representing Nigeria as the country’s sole team in the tournament, they overcame fierce competition from Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Benin Republic, Ghana, and Togo in the Zone. Their undefeated run included a 66–55 upset against home favourites CSA of Côte d’Ivoire and a thrilling 63–59 comeback win against FBA of Côte d’Ivoire, after trailing by 20 points in the second quarter. The remarkable performance, marked by resilience, discipline skill, and mental strength, earned the team a triumphant return to continental basketball after a six-year absence. Emerging as champions of Zone 3 ...

    The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has deferred the date for its maiden annual Public Relations, Reputation, Ideas, Concepts and Excellence (PRICE) Awards and Prizes to  January 25, 2026,  instead of December 7, 2025, as earlier announced. The postponement became necessary to balance out and ensure no one is left behind as the observance of Christmas seems to have commenced much earlier for some of the NIPR’s critical stakeholders.   “The NIPR leadership appeals to all stakeholders to take note of the change in date, adjust their calendars and prepare to participate in the event that will not only motivate professionals, practitioners and scholars, but also enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness in the global public relations ecosystem while strengthening brand equity for all stakeholders, including the NIPR,” Israel Opayemi, Chairman of the Organising Committee, stated.   Opayemi expressed his Committee’s determination and commitment t...

  The Chairman of the Orumogege Football Tournament, Mr. Amos Adewale Ado, has congratulated the Chairman of Pre-Cradle Carnival Events, Mr. Banji Patrick Ojo, on the occasion of his birthday. In a goodwill message issued in Ogbomoso, Mr. Ado described Mr. Patrick Ojo, who also serves as the Managing Director of Talking Drum Apartment and Hotel Ltd., Ikose Area, Ikoyi Road, Ogbomoso, as “an exemplary man with an enviable track record of excellence and integrity.” Mr. Ado commended Mr. Ojo’s contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and cultural promotion across Ogbomoso land. He noted that Mr. Ojo’s leadership at the Pre-Cradle Carnival Events and his strides in the hospitality industry continue to inspire many. He further praised the celebrant’s unwavering support for grassroots initiatives, including sports development, saying such commitment has earned him respect from different sectors of society. “Mr. Banji Patrick Ojo is a role model whose vision, humility, a...

The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) hereby alerts the Nigerian public, civil society, the media, and all advocates of justice that a tragic and deeply disturbing case of drugging, rape, intimidation, and attempted cover-up involving Miss Isola Oyinkansola, a 20 years old student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba (AAUA), is currently unfolding in Ondo State. CHSR expresses grave concern over emerging threats, institutional negligence, and deliberate attempts by connected individuals to obstruct justice. We therefore announce that formal petitions have now been submitted to the following authorities: The Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ondo State The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command The Vice Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba (AAUA) These petitions demand urgent intervention to ensure proper investigation, prosecution, and protection for the survivor...

  In the pantheon of exceptional leaders, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba stands tall among his contemprories, wielding a magic wand that has catapulted Apapa Premier Port to unprecedented heights within  the short period of his stay at the command. As the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the biggest command in the federation and the whole of Customs formation, Oshoba has demonstrated astute leadership, driving sterling performance in trade facilitation, national security, and revenue growth for the Federal Government. His outstanding performance in revenue drive is second to none. When Oshoba assumed office, he inherited a robust framework established by his predecessor, Assistant Comptroller General Babatunde Olomu. Rather than being daunted by the challenge, he seized the opportunity to innovate and elevate the Command's performance. Within 24 hours of taking charge, Apapa Command under his mandate recorded a staggering ₦20.1 billion single-day revenue collection, the highest e...

  By Ambrose Obioma Okehi  The Tin Can Island Port Command (TCIPC) of the Nigeria Customs Service is riding high on a wave of success, thanks to the leadership of Comptroller Frank Onyeka. The Command has recorded a staggering ₦1.45 trillion in revenue from January to November 2025, a testament to Onyeka's expertise in revenue generation and trade facilitation. The impressive revenue figure is a result of the Command's relentless focus on revenue optimization and trade facilitation. Despite the challenges posed by the transition from NICIS 11 to the Unified Customs Management System (B'Odogwu software platform), TCIPC has performed impressively well. In November alone, the Command generated ₦135.21 billion, surpassing the ₦120.19 billion recorded in November 2024. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the Command's ability to adapt to new systems and processes. TCIPC's success extends beyond revenue generation. The Command has made significant strides in ant...

  By Ambrose Obioms Okehi (News Emperor) The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has unveiled its iconic book, "50 Drivers of Nigeria's Marine and Blue Economy," a comprehensive chronicle of the contributions and achievements of outstanding individuals and institutions to the maritime industry. The event, held at Providence Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, brought together the cream of stakeholders in the maritime industry. In his address, the Chairman of the occasion, Capt. Emmanuel Ihenacho, a former Minister of Ministry of Interior, described the gathering as a defining moment for a sector that remains one of Nigeria's most powerful but underutilized economic engines. He highlighted the industry's central role in trade facilitation, job creation, and national revenue generation, stressing that its true potential is only beginning to unfold. The well researched book, which took two years of intense documentation, and industry consultations, profiles outstandin...

  Aare Adetola Emmanuelking has joined well-wishers across Remoland and beyond to celebrate the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, His Royal Majesty Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, Torungbuwa II, as he marks his 63rd birthday. The Chairman/CEO of Adron Group and Otun Akile of Remoland delivered a heartfelt tribute to the revered monarch in honour of the milestone. In his message, Aare Emmanuelking described the Akarigbo as a ruler whose life radiates uncommon wisdom, authenticity, and grace. He noted that under Oba Ajayi’s steady and visionary leadership, the Remo Kingdom has continued to flourish, earning him the admiration of his people and respect across Yoruba land. He praised the monarch’s intellectual brilliance, humility, and deep compassion, qualities he described as central to the Akarigbo’s enduring impact. “Your Majesty’s wisdom illuminates minds, your presence uplifts hearts, and your life exemplifies the harmony of intellect, humility, and grace,” Aare Emmanuelking...

  The Lagos State Government has announced the commencement of the Second Round of the Polio Outbreak Response (OBR) campaign, a coordinated effort led by the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) in partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other development partners. This latest phase of the campaign will run from Saturday, 6th December to Tuesday, 9th December 2025, and forms part of the State’s continuous strategy to halt the spread of the poliovirus and strengthen immunity among children. This round builds on the achievements recorded during the initial OBR exercise and aims to further fortify vulnerable communities, especially those that are densely populated and considered high-risk. During the four-day exercise, vaccination officers will be deployed across all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas in Lagos State.  The target population remains child...

  The Lagos State Government on Thursday honoured 17 retired Permanent Secretaries at a vibrant Pens-Down Ceremony, celebrating the conclusion of more than three decades of distinguished service to the State. The event was held at Bero Auditorium Alausa ikeja  Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro , described the ceremony as a fitting tribute to a career journey marked by commitment, perseverance, and exceptional public service. He noted that every public servant aspires to end their career strong—in good health and sound mind—an achievement attained by the honourees. Agoro welcomed dignitaries, family members, friends, and colleagues to what he described as a unique occasion, recognising individuals whose exemplary service has positively impacted Lagos State. He expressed gratitude to God on behalf of the retirees for sustaining them through their years of public service. He commended the retirees for their “unquestionable loyalty, unwavering commitme...

 * * Wema Bank has announced that it will be giving its customers a turn up December shopping experience at Fashion Souk 2025, scheduled to hold on December 6 and 7, 2025 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.   Building on previous successes, this year’s souk powered by Wema Bank promises to be one of the biggest lifestyle destinations for fashion, lifestyle and beauty, enthusiasts to shop, discover, and celebrate the season.   For shoppers, Wema Bank is making the experience seamless and rewarding by offering a twenty percent cashback on every purchase when they pay with the Wema or ALAT debit card. Customers can also open Wema Bank accounts on-site, fund them, and participate in spin-and-win rewards to unlock cash and gift prizes.   Beyond the shopping experience, the Wema X Fashion Soak further reiterate Wema Bank’s commitment to empowering SMEs, supporting entrepreneurs, and delivering exceptional experiences that blend lifestyle, fashion, and financial conve...

  The Lagos State Government has called on students across the state to steer clear of drug abuse in order to safeguard their future and fulfil their potential. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu , made the appeal during the Official Flag-Off Ceremony and Sensitisation Campaign Against Drug Abuse in Schools , held on Thursday at Government Girls’ College, Agege . Oke-Osanyintolu expressed concern over rising statistics showing an increasing number of young people—students included—falling into substance abuse, a trend she described as a major threat to their development and life aspirations. “As the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, this School Advocacy Campaign Against Drug Abuse speaks directly to the heart of our vision—to create a safe learning environment where every student can thrive without the shadow of drugs,” she said. “Every young person carries a dream to be great and ...

  A renewed warning has been issued over the rising number of residential and commercial structures illegally erected beneath high-tension electricity transmission lines across Nigeria, with experts and observers describing the practice as “self-induced suicide” due to its severe risks to life, health, and property. Shelter, widely recognized as a fundamental human necessity in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, remains a major challenge for millions of Nigerians. The persistent housing deficit has driven many citizens to unsafe or prohibited spaces, including road setbacks, waterways, and most alarmingly, beneath high-voltage power lines. Despite repeated government warnings, demolition exercises, and public sensitization campaigns, construction in these danger zones has continued. A recent visit by a concerned citizen to a state outside their residence highlighted the scale of the problem. According to the eyewitness, numerous buildings of various sizes have sprung up directly unde...

* Eko United, a coalition of Lagos professionals and innovators, has launched the Progressive Lagos Initiative, a policy-driven platform designed to increase elite participation in governance and shape Lagos’ next phase of development. The initiative was unveiled at a press conference earlier today in Lagos, convened by Eko United under the Chairmanship of Mr. Wole Olagundoye, alongside other leaders of the group including Dr. Idowu Agarawu, Mr Ahmed Buhari, and Mrs. Aderonke Oyelakin. Eko United said the Propressive Lagos Initiative would serve as a hub for technocrats, academics, and professionals to contribute reforms that address the growing complexities of Lagos. The group maintained that while the grassroots have historically driven political participation, the time has come for Lagos’ intellectual class to play a stronger role in policy formation. The coalition announced its unanimous adoption of Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran JANDOR as the preferred figure to implement Lagos’...

  ***As Sdenuga Describes Suiliaman As The Best PRO in The Entire Service  By Ambrose Obioma Okehi (News Emperor) In a heartwelling ceremony, the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) bid a reluctant farewell to its esteemed Public Relations Officer (PRO), Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Isah Sulaiman, as he embarked on a new journey at the PRO of Apapa Area command, the Premier Command of the service. The emotional send-forth ceremony, which brought together colleagues, heads of sister security agencies, officers, stakeholders, community members, and the media, was a testament to Sulaiman's unwavering dedication, professionalism, and humility. This is as the amiable Customs  Area Controller CAC, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, who was full of mixed feelings, praised Sulaiman's exceptional service, describing him as an embodiment of humility and one of the best PROs in the entire Customs Service. "I will truly miss you and I have enjoyed working with you,...

Fidelity Bank’s leadership in digital innovation and public sector collaboration has once again been spotlighted as the tier-one lender was honoured at the Comptroller General of Customs Award Night 2025. At the ceremony, which took place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel Grand Ballroom, Abuja, on Friday, 21 November 2025, Fidelity Bank was presented with a prestigious award by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for being the first bank to successfully process Customs Duty and the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) on the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS). The award, presented under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi (MFR), serves as a formal recognition of the bank’s “Distinctive Performance and Commitment to the Ideals and Vision of the Nigeria Customs Service.” Receiving the award on behalf of the bank, the Executive Director, FCT & North, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, stated, “This award is a testament to our commitment to operational excellence and ...

  The Oriade Indigenous Civil & Public Officers Forum has announced plans for the inauguration of its Pioneer Executive Officers as announced by the electoral chairman, Prince Sekoni Adetokunbo, alongside the presentation of awards to notable individuals for their outstanding contributions to the development of Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and Lagos State in general. In a formal notice issued by the Forum and signed by its Chairman, Mr. Raufu Ashiru Kehinde, and Secretary, Mrs. Adebuile Aminat Adebesi, the organisation said the event will also feature the presentation of gifts to retired indigenous members in recognition of their service and dedication. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on 13th December, 2025, at the Pa Yunusa Adisa Akinlola Memorial Hall located within the Oriade LCDA Secretariat, Mumin Adio Badmus Road, Ijegun-Egba, Satellite Town, Lagos. Proceedings will commence at 10:00 a.m. According to the organisers, the event aims to further stren...

  L–R: Ademola Adeniran, Divisional Head, Product Management and Solution Delivery, Verve International; Elliott Sangoleye, Divisional Head, e-Business and Digital Banking, Providus Bank; Paul Ohakim, Vice President, Issuing and Acquiring Management, Africa, Verve International; and Lanre Ogundare, Group Head, e-Business and Digital Banking, Providus Bank, at the launch of the ProvidusVerve Travel Card, held recently.   Lagos, Nigeria — December 2, 2025  — Verve, Africa’s leading payment cards and digital tokens brand, has announced a strategic partnership with Providus Bank, one of Nigeria’s most innovative financial institutions, to launch the ProvidusVerve Travel Card — a naira-based travel card designed to give inbound travellers a smooth, secure, and convenient payment experience throughout their stay in Nigeria. Created to support the surge of tourists, expatriates, business visitors, conference delegates, and returning diaspora expected during the festive...