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DEPOSITORS’ REIMBURSEMENT TO RECEIVE MAJOR BOOST AS  NDIC, NIBSS SET TO SIGN MOU

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and the Nigeria Inter-
Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) Plc. are set to sign a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) aimed at ensuring a more efficient process of
reimbursement of depositors in the event of bank failure.
This development was disclosed by the Managing Director/Chief
Executive of the NDIC, Mr. Thompson Oludare Sunday, during a
courtesy visit to the Corporation’s Head Office in Abuja by the NIBSS
Executive Management team led by its Managing Director/Chief
Executive, Mr. Premier Oiwoh.
Mr. Sunday commended NIBSS for its longstanding partnership and
invaluable contributions to strengthening the Corporation’s mandate of
protecting depositors and enhancing public confidence in the banking
system. He highlighted the pivotal role played by the NIBSS in driving
digital verification processes, particularly through the deployment of the
Bank Verification Number (BVN) platform, which enabled seamless
payment to the alternate bank accounts of depositors of failed Heritage
Bank Limited.
“You have been a reliable partner and NDIC remains committed to that
partnership. Without NIBSS’s support, it would have been difficult to
achieve the milestone we attained with the closure of failed Heritage
Bank despite the impromptu nature of the arrangement. That is why it is
important for us to concretise our partnership through this MoU”, the
NDIC MD/CE stressed.
Mr. Sunday highlighted key areas to be covered by the MoU such as
real-time synchronization of NDIC’s deposit registers and electronic
records to allow for swift verification of eligible accounts during bank
resolution; expansion of disbursement channels for depositor claims to
include Mobile Money Operators (MMOs) and possible NDIC-branded
mobile interface; and investment in Single Customer View (SCV) and
interoperability infrastructure for instant validation in the event of bank
failure.

2 | Page
The NDIC Boss commended NIBSS for reforming the payments system
in Nigeria and putting it ahead of its peers in most part of the world,
adding that efforts of the NIBBS platform in mitigating frauds in the
financial system are laudable.
In his response, the NIBSS MD/CE, Mr. Premier Oiwoh, expressed
appreciation to the NDIC leadership for the sustained partnership that is
geared towards a safer and smooth payment system in Nigeria over the
years. He reaffirmed NIBSS’s full commitment to supporting the
Corporation in the delivery of its mandate of depositor protection,
emphasizing that NIBSS exists to serve Nigerians and stands ready to
provide the technological backbone required to enhance financial
system stability.
Mr. Oiwoh emphasized the critical importance of prompt and efficient
reimbursement during bank failures, noting that the NDIC’s efforts in this
regard directly contribute to public trust and financial inclusion. He
assured that his organisation is working closely with law-enforcement
agencies to proactively reinforce the safety of the nation’s payment
system, as well as strengthen its infrastructure to lower the cost of
transactions on its platforms.
The MoU between both institutions is expected to usher in a new era of
digitized, responsive, and technology-driven depositor reimbursement
process, ultimately reinforcing confidence in Nigeria’s financial safety-net
framework.
Hawwau Gambo,
Head, Communication & Public Affairs Department
December 17, 2025
www.ndic.gov.ng

NDIC Commences Liquidation Of Aso Savings, Union Homes

Following the revocation of the licenses of Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced liquidation of the two financial institutions.
NDIC was appointed as the liquidator of the defunct banks in line with the provisions of Section 12(2) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 and the corporation

Commencement of Liquidation:

In line with Section 55, subsections 1 & 2 of the NDIC Act 2023, the Corporation has commenced the liquidation process for Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc. Accordingly, the verification and payment of insured deposits to depositors of the closed banks have begun as outlined below:
Verification and Payment of Depositors

Depositors will be paid their insured deposits up to the maximum amount of N2,000,000 (Two Million Naira) per depositor, using the Bank Verification Number (BVN) as a unique identifier to locate their alternate bank accounts, into which the insured sums will be automatically credited.
Depositors with balances in excess of N2,000,000 will be paid the initial insured amount, while their outstanding balances will be settled as liquidation dividends upon the realisation of the assets and recovery of debts owed to (of) the failed banks.

To this end, the Corporation will commence the sale of the banks’ assets and continue recovery of outstanding loans in order to expedite payment of uninsured sums.
Submission of Claims
Verification and processing of depositors’ claims may be carried out online or physically, as follows:

Online Submission of Claims:

Depositors are advised to submit their claims online by visiting the NDIC claims portal at https://ndic.gov.ng/claims-verification-forms/ completing the digital claims form with all required information, and clicking the “Submit” button.

Physical Submission Of Claims:

Depositors who prefer physical verification are advised to visit the nearest branch of the closed banks between Tuesday, December 16, 2025 and Thursday, December 30, 2025, where NDIC officials will be available to attend to them.
For verification of deposits and subsequent payment of insured sums, depositors are required to present:
Proof of account ownership;
A verifiable means of identification (Driver’s License, Permanent Voter’s Card, or National Identity Card); and
Details of their alternate bank account and Bank Verification Number (BVN).

Activate Transaction Alerts

Depositors are advised to ensure that transaction alerts are activated for their alternate bank accounts in order to receive notifications of payments. Where alerts are not active, depositors may check their account balances using their banks USSD codes or by visiting their bank branches.

Verification And Payment To Creditors

Creditors of the closed banks are advised to submit their claims online or by visiting the nearest branch of the banks between Tuesday, December 16, 2025 and Thursday, December 30, 2025.
In accordance with the provisions of the law, payment of liquidation dividends to creditors will commence after all depositors have been fully paid.

Payment To Bank Staff

After the full payment to all depositors, payment of deposit of staff of the defunct banks will be made from the proceeds of the sale of the banks’ assets, as liquidation dividends.
Payments to Shareholders
Following the full payment to Depositors and Creditors, Shareholders shall subsequently be paid from further realisation of the banks’ assets and the recovery of outstanding debts, as liquidation dividends.

Debtors’ Repayment of Outstanding Loans

Debtors of the defunct banks are advised to visit the Corporation’s Asset Management Department to ensure the settlement of their indebtedness in full.

Enquiries and Further Information
For further information or clarification on claims verification and payments, depositors and other stakeholders may contact the Corporation through the following channels:

E-mail: claimscomplaints@ndic.gov.ng

Claims Resolution Department:
(Weekdays: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Telephone Numbers:
09037273810, 09038197064, 08109313326, 08104220807,

Depositors’ Reimbursement To Receive Major Boost As NDIC, NIBSS Set To Sign MOU

L – R: EXPLORING COLLABORATION: Deputy General Manager, Enterprise Support Services, Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS), Mr Bola Enigbokan, Managing Direxctor/CE, Mr. Premier Oiwoh; Managing Director/CE, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Mr. Thompson Oludare Sunday; and ED (Corporate Services, Emily Osuji during a courtesy visit by NIBSS Management team to the NDIC.
The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) Plc. are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ensuring a more efficient process of reimbursement of depositors in the event of bank failure.
This development was disclosed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the NDIC, Mr. Thompson Oludare Sunday, during a courtesy visit to the Corporation’s Head Office in Abuja by the NIBSS Executive Management team led by its Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mr. Premier Oiwoh.
Mr. Sunday commended NIBSS for its longstanding partnership and invaluable contributions to strengthening the Corporation’s mandate of protecting depositors and enhancing public confidence in the banking system. He highlighted the pivotal role played by the NIBSS in driving digital verification processes, particularly through the deployment of the Bank Verification Number (BVN) platform, which enabled seamless payment to the alternate bank accounts of depositors of failed Heritage Bank Limited.
“You have been a reliable partner and NDIC remains committed to that partnership. Without NIBSS’s support, it would have been difficult to achieve the milestone we attained with the closure of failed Heritage Bank despite the impromptu nature of the arrangement. That is why it is important for us to concretise our partnership through this MoU”, the NDIC MD/CE stressed.
Sunday highlighted key areas to be covered by the MoU such as real-time synchronization of NDIC’s deposit registers and electronic records to allow for swift verification of eligible accounts during bank resolution; expansion of disbursement channels for depositor claims to include Mobile Money Operators (MMOs) and possible NDIC-branded mobile interface; and investment in Single Customer View (SCV) and interoperability infrastructure for instant validation in the event of bank failure.
The NDIC Boss commended NIBSS for reforming the payments system in Nigeria and putting it ahead of its peers in most part of the world, adding that efforts of the NIBBS platform in mitigating frauds in the financial system are laudable.
In his response, the NIBSS MD/CE, Mr. Premier Oiwoh, expressed appreciation to the NDIC leadership for the sustained partnership that is geared towards a safer and smooth payment system in Nigeria over the years. He reaffirmed NIBSS’s full commitment to supporting the Corporation in the delivery of its mandate of depositor protection, emphasizing that NIBSS exists to serve Nigerians and stands ready to provide the technological backbone required to enhance financial system stability.
Mr. Oiwoh emphasized the critical importance of prompt and efficient reimbursement during bank failures, noting that the NDIC’s efforts in this regard directly contribute to public trust and financial inclusion. He assured that his organisation is working closely with law-enforcement agencies to proactively reinforce the safety of the nation’s payment system, as well as strengthen its infrastructure to lower the cost of transactions on its platforms.
The MoU between both institutions is expected to usher in a new era of digitized, responsive, and technology-driven depositor reimbursement process, ultimately reinforcing confidence in Nigeria’s financial safety-net framework.
Alpha Morgan Bank Establishes New Branch In Sango Ota

By Winifred Bosa

Alpha Morgan Bank has further strengthened its physical presence with the official opening of its Sango Ota Branch, reaffirming its commitment to delivering satisfying banking experiences to customers across Nigeria.

The new branch, located at 149, Lagos Abeokuta Expressway, Sango Ota, was formally commissioned by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, representing His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, at a well-attended ceremony. The event attracted government officials, business leaders, community stakeholders, and members of the Bank’s executive management team.

The launch was also graced by respected royal dignitaries, including the Olota of Ota, His Royal Majesty, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege, alongside other traditional rulers, underscoring the significance of the Bank’s expansion within the host community.

In her remarks, the Deputy Governor commended Alpha Morgan Bank for its investment in Ogun State, noting that the bank’s decision to site its first branch in Ota reflects the confidence it has in the community and its future, commending the bank for sponsoring this year’s Odun Omo Iganmode, saying it has demonstrated a clear commitment to promoting culture and community identity.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Ade Buraimo, MD/CEO of Alpha Morgan Bank, expressed gratitude to the Ogun State Government, traditional institutions, and the people of Sango Ota for their warm reception. He reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to providing seamless, customer focused, and consistently satisfying banking experiences to individuals and businesses.

The Sango Ota Branch features a modern banking hall and offers personalized retail and commercial banking solutions tailored to meet the financial needs of customers within the community.

FirstBank Powers Mainland Laffs 3.0 To Light Up Lagos

By Winifred Bosa

The Balmoral Convention Centre at the Sheraton in Ikeja underwent a remarkable transformation on Sunday December 7th 2025, becoming the epicenter of Lagos Mainland’s entertainment scene as the highly anticipated Legends Decemba/Mainland Laffs 3.0 event unfolded.

This spectacular gathering, which brought together an exhilarating blend of comedy, music, dance, and drama, successfully reaffirmed its reputation as an essential cultural highlight of the year.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation. Attendees were greeted by a beautifully adorned red carpet, lined with vibrant branded banners and sponsor displays, creating a glamorous entryway for the array of celebrities, entertainers, and enthusiastic guests.

The audience was treated to an impressive lineup featuring comedy royalty and high-energy musical performances.

The evening was headlined by the legendary Nigerian ace comedian Ali Baba, who brought his signature blend of humor and wisdom to the stage, elevating the event’s prestige.

He was accompanied by the dynamic Kenny Blaq, celebrated for his innovative approach to musical comedy, and Phronesis, who captivated the crowd with his rapid-fire, sharp-witted jokes.

The mood of the night was expertly maintained by the charismatic host, MC Husband Material (Eze Chuwudi), whose engaging rapport with the audience ensured seamless transitions and heightened enthusiasm throughout the performances.

Additional comedic talent was showcased by MC Bishop, Dr. Smile, MC Trick, Abadei, and 16 Onirun, each contributing to a relentless stream of laughter that filled the venue.

Beyond the comedy, the event was a celebration of diverse artistic expressions. Gospel rapper Protech opened the show with an electrifying performance that infused spiritual energy into the evening, followed by CJ the Violinist, whose melodic tunes created moments of reflection and tranquility.

Mauren’s Art took the stage with a breathtaking dance performance, mesmerizing the audience and encouraging moments of joy and engagement across every artistic discipline.

The interior of the venue resonated with a positive, infectious energy. A creatively designed vendor village offered a vibrant marketplace featuring an array of local cuisine, refreshing drinks, unique fashion, and accessories, enhancing the festive atmosphere for all attendees.

Inside the main hall, elegant seating arrangements ensured comfort and unobstructed views, while the professional stage, equipped with cutting-edge lighting, LED screens, and sound systems, provided a captivating backdrop for each performance.

The flawless organisation of the event was made possible through the support of First Bank Nigeria Limited through its annual DecemberIssaVybe lineup of events, along with backing from the Lagos State Government and LASAA. FirstBank’s contributions underscored the significance and scale of this cultural extravaganza, making it a landmark fun event for its numerous customers and also making the yuletide season an extravaganza.

Guiding the evening with charm and wit, MC Husband Material (Eze Chuwudi) kept the energy levels soaring high. The comedy segment was a showcase of both established stars and emerging talents.

The crowd erupted in laughter at Kenny Blaq’s musical comedy interludes and Phronesis’s clever punchlines, while the talents of MC Smiles, Larry J, MC Trick, Abadei, and 16 Onirun ensured a varied and entertaining comedy showcase that spanned generational humor.

As the night progressed, the entertainment spectrum expanded to include a rich tapestry of musical and artistic performances. The high-energy opening by gospel rapper Protech was followed by the soul-stirring melodies of CJ the Violinist, who captivated the audience with his unique musical interpretations.

A dynamic dance performance by Mauren’s Art added another layer of depth, while artists like Oba Richie, Angelo, Switch, and Ozzy transformed the venue into a lively concert hall, energizing the crowd with their infectious tunes.

The climax of the show arrived when Innocent Idibia, famously known as 2Baba or 2Face, graced the stage, taking the audience on a journey through nostalgic memories with his timeless hits. Despite the controversies that have occasionally surrounded him, he delivered a stunning performance that resonated deeply with fans old and new.

As he performed, the crowd became a chorus of voices, singing along with enthusiasm to his classic songs from his debut album through to his latest releases. 2Baba’s charisma was evident as he moved among the audience, engaging with fans and soaking in the palpable love emanating from the crowd.

His performance was nothing short of electrifying and served as the perfect crescendo for the evening.

With an impressive command of the stage, 2Baba showcased why he is considered a legend in the music industry. His ability to captivate the crowd was remarkable, every note he sang, every gesture he made drew the audience in, creating a shared experience that felt intimate yet grand. Even as he neared the end of his set, the audience was reluctant to let him leave, chanting for more as they were spellbound by the magic of his music.

2Baba’s performance was not just a concert; it was a celebration of his legacy and contributions to the Nigerian music scene. It solidified his status as an icon, one who has not only defined a genre but has also connected generations through his artistry. The night truly belonged to him, a testament to his enduring influence and the deep affection fans have for him and his work.

As the event drew to a close, attendees left buzzing with excitement, carrying with them the vibrant memories of a night that perfectly balanced professional production with genuine talent. Mainland Laffs 3.0 proved to be more than just an entertainment event; it was a powerful celebration of community pride and a vivid showcase of the creative spirit flourishing on the Lagos Mainland.

According to FirstBank Representatives, “We supported the event because it was meticulously designed to embody the essence of community’s talent and vibrancy,”.

“From the laughter to the music to the palpable energy in the room, it was the ultimate ‘DecembaIssaVybe’ experience. We are incredibly pleased with the outcome and extend our gratitude to the organisers, performers, and most importantly, the wonderful people of Lagos who joined in the celebration.”

NDIC Begins Liquidation Pays Insured Deposits to Aso Savings, Union Homes Customers

By Fidelia Okafor 

 

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced the liquidation of Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc, following the revocation of their operating licences by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on December 15, 2025.

In a statement to depositors and the general public, the NDIC said it was appointed liquidator of the two defunct primary mortgage banks in line with Section 12(2) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020, and has already begun the process of verifying and paying insured deposits.

The Corporation explained that the liquidation is being carried out pursuant to Section 55 (1 and 2) of the NDIC Act 2023, which mandates it to reimburse insured depositors of failed banks without delay.

Under the arrangement, depositors of Aso Savings and Union Homes will be paid up to the maximum insured limit of ₦2 million per depositor. Payments will be processed automatically using customers’ Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) to locate their alternate bank accounts, into which the insured sums will be credited.

Depositors with balances above ₦2 million will first receive the insured amount, while the outstanding portion of their funds will be settled later as liquidation dividends, subject to the realisation of the banks’ assets and recovery of outstanding debts. To fast-track these payments, the NDIC said it will commence the sale of the banks’ assets and intensify loan recovery efforts.

To facilitate verification and claims processing, the NDIC has provided both online and physical submission options. Depositors can submit claims digitally through the NDIC claims portal by completing the required form.

Those who prefer physical verification are advised to visit the nearest branch of the closed banks between Tuesday, December 16, 2025 and Thursday, December 30, 2025, where NDIC officials will be available to attend to them.

For verification and payment, depositors are required to present proof of account ownership, a valid means of identification—such as a Driver’s Licence, Permanent Voter’s Card or National Identity Card—and details of their alternate bank account and BVN.

The NDIC also urged depositors to ensure that transaction alerts are activated on their alternate accounts to enable them to receive notifications of payments. Where alerts are not active, depositors may confirm payments through USSD codes or by visiting their bank branches.

Beyond depositors, the Corporation said creditors of the defunct banks should also submit their claims within the same December 16–30 window, either online or physically.

However, payment of liquidation dividends to creditors will only commence after all depositors have been fully paid, in line with existing laws.

Payments relating to bank staff deposits will be made after depositors are settled, while shareholders will only be considered after full payment to depositors and creditors, subject to asset realisation.

The NDIC also directed debtors of the closed banks to report to its Asset Management Department to settle outstanding loans, noting that recoveries are critical to expediting liquidation payments and protecting the interests of all stakeholders.

Seplat Energy Appoints Mohammed, Ettah As Independent Non-Executive Directors

Seplat Energy Appoints Mohammed, Ettah As Independent Non-Executive  Directors • Channels Television

The Board of Seplat Energy today announces the appointment of Engineer Saidu Aliyu Mohammed and Mr. Larry Ephraim Ettah as Independent Non-Executive Directors of the Company with effect from 1 January 2026. 

Following the resignation of Mr. Bello Rabiu and Mr. Babs Omotowa from the Board in April 2025 due to their appointments to the Board of NNPC Limited by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Company embarked on the recruitment process for their replacements in line with the Board of Directors’ Succession Plan and today announces the appointment of Engineer Saidu Aliyu Mohammed and Mr. Larry Ephraim Ettah as Independent Non-Executive Directors of the Company effective 1 January  2026.

Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed is a seasoned energy executive with over 37 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, specializing in natural gas development, commercialization, and infrastructure. He served as Group Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer, Gas & Power Directorate at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), where he provided strategic leadership for major gas projects and policy frameworks, including the Gas Masterplan, Gas Network Code, and contributions to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

 

He played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and delivering critical gas infrastructure projects such as the Escravos–Lagos Pipeline Expansion, Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, and Nigeria LNG Train 7. His leadership extended to international engagements, representing Nigeria at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and the West African Gas Pipeline Authority.

 

Engr. Mohammed previously held top executive positions as Managing Director of Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company, Managing Director of Nigerian Gas Company, and chaired boards of several strategic entities, including West African Gas Pipeline Company, Nigeria LNG subsidiaries, and NNPC Retail. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) and the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (FNSCHE), and a registered engineer with COREN. He holds a B.Eng. in Chemical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

 

Mr. Larry Ephraim Ettah is a highly respected Nigerian business leader with nearly four decades of corporate experience. He spent 30 years at UAC of Nigeria Plc (UACN), rising from Management Trainee in 1988 to Group Managing Director/CEO, a role he held from 2007 to 2018. As CEO, he reshaped UACN’s portfolio through strategic partnerships with global firms such as Tiger Brands, Imperial Logistics, and Famous Brands.

 He also led key acquisitions including Livestock Feeds Plc and Portland Paints Plc, repositioning the conglomerate for sustainable growth across multiple sectors.

Following his retirement from UACN, Mr. Ettah founded Barracuda Capital Partners Ltd in 2018, where he serves as Executive Chairman. He holds several board roles, including Founding Director of Coronation Merchant Bank Ltd and Non-Executive Director of Mixta Africa Plc, and until February 2025, he co-chaired the board of LEAP Africa. He has chaired and served on the boards of several publicly listed companies and advised major consumer goods firms.

 He has played influential roles in industry associations such as Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), and Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and contributed to national economic policy through presidential and technical advisory committees.

Mr. Ettah holds a B.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry and an MBA from the University of Benin, complemented by extensive executive education from leading global institutions including Harvard, Stanford, Oxford, INSEAD, IMD, and the University of Michigan. His international exposure, strong governance expertise, and broad sector experience underpin his reputation as a strategic, principled, and effective boardroom leader. Overall, he is recognized for his vision, leadership, and commitment to corporate excellence and economic development.

 

Mr. Udoma Udo Udoma, Chairman of Seplat Energy commented: “On behalf of Seplat Energy, I am delighted to welcome Engineer Saidu Aliyu Mohammed and Mr. Larry Ephraim Ettah to the Board. Their experiences are complementary, combining extensive industry knowledge with extensive business success. We look forward to the significant contributions they will make in advancing the Company’s strategic growth objectives and driving our continued success”

ROADBLOCK Clinches Dual BJAN Honours As Nigeria’s Top Dance Event And Rave Project

ROADBLOCK has been officially voted Nigeria’s Biggest Dance Event and Nigeria’s Most Modern Rave Project 2025 by the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), a prestigious recognition celebrating innovation, cultural influence, and youth engagement in the Nigerian entertainment landscape.

This was contained in a statement signed by the 2025 BJAN Awards Committee Chairman, Mr. Lukman Ayobami Ishau, and titled ‘Announcing Roadblock as the Biggest Dance/Engagement Event 2025’.

The letter, which was sent to the Founder/Chief Experience Architect of ROADBLOCK, Dr. Felix King Eiremiokhae, stated that “On behalf of the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) Awards Committee, it is with great enthusiasm that we announce that Roadblock has been voted Nigeria’s Biggest Dance Event for 2025.”

The statement added, “This landmark recognition celebrates a movement that continues to redefine nightlife and ADM (African Dance Music) culture across the country. Roadblock’s unparalleled energy, innovative programming, and unwavering commitment to showcasing homegrown talent have set a new benchmark for dance events in Nigeria.

The award will be presented at the upcoming BJAN Marketing Conference/Awards ceremony, where we look forward to honoring the visionaries behind Roadblock and sharing this milestone with industry peers, artists, and fans alike.”

According to Ishau, “We trust that this recognition will further amplify the impact of Roadblock and inspire even greater creativity within Nigeria’s Afrobeat and Afro Dance Music scenes. Thank you for your continued support in promoting the vibrant cultural landscape of our nation.”

Speaking on the development, Dr. Eiremiokhae said, “This landmark announcement has solidified Roadblock’s position as the country’s leading modern rave movement, pushing forward the new genre and culture known as ADM (Afro Dance Music) while redefining the future of nightlife, festival culture, and experiential youth entertainment across Africa.”

The formal crowning ceremony will take place during the BJAN National Conference, scheduled for November 28, 2025, in Lagos. The event will bring together top brand custodians, media executives, cultural influencers, and industry leaders as Roadblock receives these distinguished honours.

Dr. Eiremiokhae, expressed gratitude to BJAN and to the thousands of young ravers who have embraced the movement adding that “This award is a historic milestone, not just for Roadblock but for Nigerian youth culture. ADM is becoming a voice, a movement and an energy beyond anything we imagined. We are honoured to be seen, to be celebrated, and to lead the new wave of African dance experiences.”

This award precedes Roadblock’s highly anticipated December edition, themed: ‘RISE. REBEL. GET DETTY.

“Roadblock will continue to champion creativity, dance culture, and immersive youth experiences, setting new standards in festival production, stagecraft, and cultural storytelling,” he added.

Sterling Bank Champions Collective Action……To Accelerate Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Transition

L-R: Mr. Ayo Ademilua, President, Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria; Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, Group Executive, The Alternative Bank; Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, The Honourable Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources; Mr. Dele Faseemo, Group Executive, Coprporate and Investment Banking, Sterling Bank; Engr. Bem Samuel Anyangeuor, Representative, Honorable Minister of Power and Mr. Oluwaseyi Okunnuga, Group Head, Renewable Energy & Sustainability Finance, Sterling Bank at the just concluded Renewable Energy Colloquium held in Lagos recently.
Sterling Bank Limited has brought together stakeholders in the renewable energy industry to explore ways to accelerate action in the sector.
The premier colloquium, held in Lagos on Monday, aimed to identify priority areas for action to increase energy access and drive economic growth in the quest to attain a one trillion-dollar economy.
Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Bank Limited, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, gave the charge in his address at the colloquium organized with the theme: Beyond The Grid; Unlocking New Frontiers in Renewable Energy.
The   CEO,   who   was   represented   by   Dele   Faseemo,   Group   Executive, Corporate & Investment Banking, explained that Sterling Bank will be paying closer attention to policy actions in two or three key priority areas, especially regulation and financing.
He noted that by focusing on these areas, the Bank can do more  to   drive   progress  and expand access to energy, which he described   as   essential   for   supporting   economic   growth   and   overall development.
In a keynote address titled Scaling Electrification in Nigeria, The REA Impact, Managing Director and CEO of The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Dr. Abba Aliyu, spoke on the vision, mission and mandate of the agency.
He noted that Nigeria requires about $26 billion to address its energy deficit. He said the energy transition in Nigeria is a strategic shift towards achieving universal, reliable and sustainable energy access by integrating the grid, mini-grid and off grid technologies while aligning with national development and climate goals.
The CEO who was represented by Mr. Abba Hayatudden, Senior Advisor to the   MD,   said  “REA  is  strategically  expanding  and  optimizing  channels  to accelerate the adoption and sustainable growth of renewable energy acrossthe   country   in   the   areas   of   value   chain   development,   regulation enhancement,   funding   windows,   alternative   resources   and   technical standardization.”
Minister   of   Power,   Adebayo   Adelabu,   commended   Sterling   Bank   for convening the conversation on renewable energy.
He stated that the Federal Government has placed renewable energy and rural electrification at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister who was represented by Engineer Samuel Ayangeaor said, “The Federal   Ministry   of   Power   has   continued   to   expand   electricity   access   to underserved communities in a bid to drive economic growth, foster industrial activity and create jobs across the nation.”
In his goodwill message, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy   and   Mineral   Resources,   noted   that   the   current   administration   is implementing the most ambitious energy transformation ever undertaken.
He highlighted the state’s efforts in renewable energy and sustainability, including the two-gigawatt Lagos grid scale solar project.
The CEO of Sterling One Foundation, Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, emphasized the need for collective action. She urged participants not to allow the day’s deliberations   to   end   as   mere   conversations   or   points   documented   in   a communiqué.
Instead, she encouraged everyone to leverage the strength of their   networks,   act   with   intention,   and   remain   focused   on   delivering meaningful impact.
The colloquium featured two panel sessions on financing and scaling green energy solutions in Africa, among others.
Lagos State Applauds Leadway, Ouida For Inspiring Festember Read Along With Onakoya And Shoneyin

 

 

Leadway Group, one of Nigeria’s foremost non-banking financial services providers, has received commendation from the Lagos State Government. This followed Leadway Group and Ouida’s successful hosting of the 2025 Lagos Festember Read-Along Initiative, a platform that spotlights and simplifies access to the city’s diverse arts, literary, and creative experiences.

 

This year’s edition brought together pupils from schools and learning centers across Lagos for an enriching reading session. It featured Guinness World Record holder, celebrated Chess Advocate, Founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, alongside renowned Author and Publisher, Lola Shoneyin. They led the reading of her book, “Tunde Onakoya, The Chess Champion,” a story that explores his journey of grit, vision, and impact from the chessboard.

 

This strategic partnership aligns with Leadway’s mission to inspire learning, creativity, and community impact. The collaboration fosters cultural engagement and sparks curiosity, imagination, and a love of storytelling among young learners.
Speaking on the initiative, the Brand Communication Manager of Leadway Group, Niyi Abiola, said the Read-Along reinforces the Group’s long-standing commitment to education, creativity, and cultural preservation across generations.

 

“Through this Read-Along initiative, we want to reignite a love for books among children by connecting them with influential innovators, creatives, and storytellers. Seeing children connect deeply with Tunde Onakoya’s story reminds us why platforms like this matter. When young learners engage with stories, they imagine broader possibilities, build empathy, and strengthen critical-thinking skills. These are the foundations of productive future citizens. We are proud to contribute meaningfully to that journey.”

 

Representing the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mrs. Busola Williams commended Leadway Group and Ouida for launching an initiative that develops literacy. She emphasised that the program brings relatable Nigerian stories directly to children. She affirmed that these efforts align strongly with Lagos State’s commitment to improving reading culture and educational outcomes in public schools.

 

The initiative also helped the young learners engage with curated books, participate in guided discussions led by facilitators, and explore new ideas shaped by storytelling. These efforts aim to improve learning outcomes and expand access to knowledge for children across Nigeria.

 

Leadway’s involvement aligns with its broader educational interventions. These include previous book donation drives, youth empowerment programmes, and mentorship efforts such as the Pages to Places Initiative. This collaboration highlights Leadway Group’s commitment to strengthening literacy as a catalyst for critical thinking, innovation, and enduring national development.

 

About Leadway Group

Leadway Group is a leading non-banking financial services organisation in Nigeria with strong expertise in Insurance, Pension Administration, Investment, and other financial solutions. Backed by decades of industry leadership, Leadway continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s economic landscape. The organisation focuses on corporate social responsibility, community development, youth empowerment, and initiatives that promote national progress.