2025 | Page 23 of 69 | Trendbrio.com

Fidelity Bank Distributes Food Packages to Communities in the FCT

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, Fidelity Bank Plc recently provided food packs to residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. The initiative, called the Fidelity Food Bank, saw the bank’s representatives distribute food supplies to seven communities within the Mabushi district of the FCT. At the distribution event, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, the Executive Director for the North at Fidelity Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to supporting community development and its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2, which focuses on eradicating hunger. “This initiative is a reflection of our deep-rooted responsibility to assist underserved communities and combat hunger across Nigeria,” said Mr. Garba. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe that addressing the underlying causes of poverty and hunger allows us to create lasting change. While we cannot solve all societal issues, our contributions are making a real difference, as shown by the positive responses we continue to receive.” He further emphasized the bank’s dedication to empowering communities: “We understand the importance of promoting growth and prosperity within the areas where we operate. By investing in the well-being of these communities, we are helping build a more sustainable and just society.” The Fidelity Food Bank is a core part of the bank’s CSR strategy, focusing on health and social welfare. The nationwide initiative aims to provide food relief to underserved communities, with a special focus on women and children. Mr. Hassan Danagna, the District Head of Mabushi Community, expressed gratitude for the bank’s support, calling it “unprecedented” and noting the relief it brings to vulnerable households. “Fidelity Bank’s generosity has had a profound impact on our community, providing much-needed relief to struggling families. With the current economic climate, this support is particularly timely as we approach the holy month of Ramadan,” said Mr. Danagna. One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Mukhtar Mohamed, also shared his appreciation, acknowledging the positive impact of the food distribution. Fidelity Bank Plc, a fully-fledged commercial bank, serves over 9.1 million customers across its 251 business locations and various digital platforms in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The bank has received numerous local and international accolades, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award from the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application Award for its Fidelity Mobile App from Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider Award from Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, Fidelity Bank was named the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) to promote sustainable plastic waste management in Lagos State through circular economy practices. The initiative, titled *UNIDO Project 210184: Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices*, is funded by the Government of Japan and aims to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable industrial development by addressing plastic pollution at the source. The project involves the establishment of four plastic waste collection facilities and thirty designated collection points across the Lekki and Lagos Mainland municipalities. LAWMA will provide the necessary land and infrastructure, while UNIDO and FBRA will co-finance the development and lead public awareness campaigns under the zero plastic waste initiative. LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed that two land parcels in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland have been secured for the project. Dr. Osuji Otu, the National Programme Officer at the UNIDO Sub-Regional Office in Abuja, emphasized the significance of the partnership in driving positive change for Nigeria. He highlighted the project’s role in laying the groundwork for a nationwide waste management strategy. Otu also called for greater involvement from other agencies to support environmental sustainability, particularly in plastic waste management, which is a global priority. The project, which was initiated in 2022, is aligned with LAWMA’s mission to enhance waste management and environmental sustainability in Lagos. The collaboration is led by a cooperation committee consisting of representatives from UNIDO, LAWMA, and FBRA. The committee is responsible for monitoring progress, selecting private sector recycling companies to operate the facilities, and addressing any challenges during implementation. The initiative will continue beyond its official timeline, which runs until September 2026, to ensure long-term sustainability and impact. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing plastic pollution in Nigeria, promoting recycling, and supporting green job creation. The facilities will be managed by private sector operators selected through a transparent process, and FBRA will lead community awareness campaigns in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland. The success of this initiative is expected to set a benchmark for future waste management efforts in Nigeria.

LAWMA Partners UNIDO and FBRA to Tackle Menace of Plastic Waste

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) to promote sustainable plastic waste management in Lagos State through circular economy practices. The initiative, titled UNIDO Project 210184: Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices, is funded by the Government of Japan and aims to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable industrial development by addressing plastic pollution at the source. The project involves the establishment of four plastic waste collection facilities and thirty designated collection points across the Lekki and Lagos Mainland municipalities. LAWMA will provide the necessary land and infrastructure, while UNIDO and FBRA will co-finance the development and lead public awareness campaigns under the zero plastic waste initiative. LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed that two land parcels in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland have been secured for the project. Dr. Osuji Otu, the National Programme Officer at the UNIDO Sub-Regional Office in Abuja, emphasized the significance of the partnership in driving positive change for Nigeria. He highlighted the project’s role in laying the groundwork for a nationwide waste management strategy. Otu also called for greater involvement from other agencies to support environmental sustainability, particularly in plastic waste management, which is a global priority. The project, which was initiated in 2022, is aligned with LAWMA’s mission to enhance waste management and environmental sustainability in Lagos. The collaboration is led by a cooperation committee consisting of representatives from UNIDO, LAWMA, and FBRA. The committee is responsible for monitoring progress, selecting private sector recycling companies to operate the facilities, and addressing any challenges during implementation. The initiative will continue beyond its official timeline, which runs until September 2026, to ensure long-term sustainability and impact. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing plastic pollution in Nigeria, promoting recycling, and supporting green job creation. The facilities will be managed by private sector operators selected through a transparent process, and FBRA will lead community awareness campaigns in both Lekki and Lagos Mainland. The success of this initiative is expected to set a benchmark for future waste management efforts in Nigeria.

SquirrelPR Releases RANKED2025 Report, Showing 4 Billion Visits to Africa’s Digital News Platforms

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

SquirrelPR, Africa’s leading PR management software, has released its highly anticipated RANKED2025 report, analyzing the performance and influence of digital news platforms across the continent. The latest edition highlights shifting consumption patterns, platform influence, and trends in five key African media markets: Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, and Ghana. The report features a key insight from Egypt, where a single digital news platform recorded over 450 million visits in 2024, despite a population of about 114 million. This reinforces the notion that digital media influence relies on strategy, content relevance, and cross-border reach rather than just population size. Top Findings from RANKED2025 The report categorizes digital platforms into four main content categories: News & Public Affairs, Business & Financial News, Technology News, and Entertainment & Lifestyle. In total, over 4 billion visits were recorded in 2024 across the five markets. Platforms are also classified into three tiers based on influence: Leading Tier 1 platforms include Youm7 (Egypt), News24 (South Africa), Daily Nation (Kenya), GhanaWeb (Ghana), and Vanguard Online (Nigeria). Social Media’s Amplification Role The report underscores the powerful role of social media in boosting digital influence. Platforms with stronger social media followings show higher rankings, illustrating how audience engagement impacts visibility. A Strategic Tool for PR Professionals Beyond providing rankings, RANKED2025 offers actionable insights for PR professionals to optimize campaigns, enhance media partnerships, refine SEO strategies, and inform crisis communications with a deeper understanding of media influence. SquirrelPR co-founder James Ezechukwu stated, “RANKED2025 is more than just about rankings – it reshapes how we understand influence and communicate across borders.” Click HERE to download RANKED2025. About SquirrelPRSquirrelPR offers African-focused PR management software with advanced tools for data-driven communications. It empowers brands and agencies to build strategic media relationships, offering smarter PR solutions.

NAF’s Global Outreach: CAS Abubakar Partners with Brazilian Counterparts to Enhance Operational Efficiency

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

As part of efforts to transform the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) into a more resilient and agile force capable of addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, has reaffirmed NAF’s strong commitment to deepening strategic partnerships with friendly nations, as well as key players in the aerospace and defence sectors. Director of Public Relations and Information,Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame stated this in a press statement on Sunday noting that the Air Chief made this known during an official visit to Brazil from 1 to 4 April 2025. Highlighting the importance of international collaboration, the CAS stated, “In an increasingly complex and dynamic security environment, strategic partnerships remain a critical pillar in building a more agile, innovative, and combat-ready air force. “Nigeria and Brazil share a long-standing history of military cooperation, and we are here to strengthen that bond for mutual benefit.” During the visit, the CAS participated in the Latin America Aerospace Defence and Security (LAAD) Fair 2025 held in Rio de Janeiro. At the event, Air Marshal Abubakar held high-level meetings with the President/CEO of Embraer Defence & Security, Mr Bosco Da Costa Junior, as well as the representative of the Chief of the Brazilian Air Force, Lieutenant General Malt Discussions centred on enhancing the operational and technical capacity of the NAF, particularly in sustaining the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft fleet and other platforms in its inventory. The engagements also focused on fostering collaboration in pilot, technical and logistics training, as well as research and development initiatives. In addition to his meetings with Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force, the CAS interacted with several international exhibitors, including Messrs Arsenal, FN Herstal, OGMA, and representatives of the Portuguese Air Force. These interactions underscored the CAS’s commitment to building a modern and capable Air Force that can effectively address Nigeria’s dynamic security landscape. Following the LAAD Fair, the CAS visited Embraer Defence & Security’s facility at Gavião Peixoto, where the A-29 Super Tucano and KC-390M aircraft are produced, as well as the facility of GESPI in São José dos Campos. During the visits, Air Marshal Abubakar appreciated both companies for their continued partnership with the NAF and urged them to sustain their support in enhancing the Service’s operational efficiency and mission readiness. The CAS’s visit to Brazil forms part of a broader effort to deepen global partnerships in line with the NAF’s 2025 Strategic Objectives, which prioritise enhanced operational readiness, force modernisation, and international collaboration.

Uncovering the Secret Costs of Buying a Home in Lagos—What You Didn’t Know!

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago09 mins

By Dennis Isong Purchasing a home in Lagos is a dream come true for many, but beyond the excitement of having your own space, there are hidden costs that can catch you off guard if you’re not well-prepared. Whether you’re buying a property for personal use or as an investment, understanding these extra expenses will help you avoid financial stress. Let’s break it down in simple terms. 1. Legal Fees (Your Lawyer’s Share) Once you find your dream home, you’ll need a lawyer to check the documents and guide you through the transaction. Legal fees typically range from 5%–10% of the property value, though some lawyers may charge a flat fee. Expect to pay more for properties in high-demand areas like Lekki, Ikoyi, or Ikeja. Why it matters: A reliable lawyer will help you avoid buying problematic property. It’s better to spend money upfront on legal fees than to face issues down the line. 2. Agency Fee (The Agent’s Cut) If an agent connects you to the property, they will take an agency fee, usually 5% of the property value. Even if you found the house online, if an agent steps in, expect to pay. Pro Tip: Agree on the agency fee before you proceed to avoid any surprises later. 3. Survey Plan Cost You’ll need a survey plan to confirm the exact size and boundaries of the land or house. The cost varies depending on the location but can range from ₦150,000 to ₦1 million or more in Lagos. Hidden truth: Some properties may already have a survey, but you’ll still need to verify and possibly update it in your name. 4. Governor’s Consent or C of O Charges Many Lagos properties come with either a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or Governor’s Consent. If the property you’re buying has a C of O and you’re not the first owner, you’ll likely need to process Governor’s Consent. This could cost millions, depending on the property’s size and location. Don’t overlook this: Without proper consent, you might not have full ownership rights. It’s a necessary legal step to ensure the property is yours. 5. Development Levy In some estates or newly developed areas, you may be asked to pay a development levy. This covers costs for roads, drainage, streetlights, and sometimes security. It’s not always mentioned upfront, so be prepared. The cost can range from ₦500,000 to ₦5 million or more, depending on the estate. 6. Documentation Fees (Paperwork Isn’t Free) Developers or property sellers will charge for documentation like the Deed of Assignment, receipts, and allocation letters. These could cost anywhere from ₦100,000 to ₦1 million or more. Reality check: Buying a property isn’t just about paying for the house itself—documentation ensures you have legal ownership. 7. Omo Onile (Land Grabbers & Local Challenges) If you’re buying undeveloped land, especially in certain areas, you may face demands from local “omo onile” or land grabbers. These individuals may charge you for fencing, laying the foundation, or even just visiting the site. The costs can range from hundreds of thousands to millions. How to avoid this: Stick to verified estates or areas with government allocation. 8. Cost of Title Verification (Not All Documents Are Legit Even when a property has a C of O or Governor’s Consent, you’ll still need to verify the title at the Lagos State Land Registry. This can cost between ₦50,000 to ₦300,000. Why it’s crucial: Some property documents can be forged. You want to verify them before making any payments. 9. Utility Connection Charges After moving in, you might need to pay for the connection of utilities like: These costs can add up to ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 or more. 10. Renovation or Finishing (Especially for ‘Buy & Fix’ Properties) If you’re buying a second-hand home or a fixer-upper, be prepared for renovation costs. This could include painting, plumbing, tiling, roofing repairs, and more. Expect to spend between ₦500,000 to ₦5 million depending on the property’s age and condition. Note: Always get a builder or engineer to inspect the property and give you an estimate before buying. Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Budget for the House—Budget for the Extras! Many people save, say, ₦50 million for a house but realize they need another ₦5–₦10 million for all the extra costs they didn’t anticipate. Smart tip: Set aside 10%–20% of the property price for these hidden costs so you’re not caught off guard. Bonus Tips: Need Help Navigating the Lagos Property Market Without Falling Into Hidden Cost Traps? Think of me as your real estate bodyguard. I’ve seen it all and helped countless clients avoid expensive mistakes. Let me help you buy smart, safe, and stress-free. #DennisIsongYour Lagos Property Plug.(And unofficial Omo Onile negotiator. I’ve got it covered.) STOP LOSING MONEY IN LAGOS REAL ESTATE! Learn How to Protect Your Investment Today.=> LandProperty.ng/free Your future deserves the assurance of due diligence.

Deputy Speaker of LAHA Gbenga Olowo, SWAN Lagos Olori Yaba and Other Notable Figures Praise InterGuide Academy

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago07 mins

Sports as a Weapon for Economic Growth: Social Vices Best Tackled in Schools and Homes As InterGuide Academy Holds Maiden Inter-House Sports The rise in social vices currently plaguing the nation can best be addressed within schools and homes. This was the view expressed by Dr. Gbenga Olowo, Group Chairman of InterGuide Group, during the Academy’s maiden inter-house sports event held at Agege Stadium, Lagos. Dr. Olowo, an international aviator who also served as the chairman of the occasion, stated, “Parents have a role to play, and schools also have a responsibility. School discipline must be revisited. There is no beauty in a child without discipline.” The event kicked off with a march past, showcasing the four major houses. The Red House delivered a special presentation, clinching an impressive gold medal, while the Yellow House secured second place. The competition underscored the significant role children and youths play in society. This is why it’s crucial to engage them in various sporting activities alongside their academics as they grow. As the special guest of honor, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda, represented by her SA on Legislative Matters and Administration, commended the performances of all the sports houses. She highlighted that school sports is a key element of youth development and character building, which ultimately enhances the credibility of any progressive society. “To grow, it is crucial that we embrace, support, and develop school sports. Only then can we have renewed hope for sustainability in socio-economic development,” she said. On the day of the event, Red House (Grace Adegboyega House) emerged victorious, lifting the Golden Trophy. Yellow House (Dcns Stella Olowo House) took second place, Green House (School House) secured third, and Blue House (Dr. Gbenga Olowo House) finished fourth. Dr. Olowo urged the government to encourage sports development through school inter-house sports and inter-company games. Vice Chairman of InterGuide Group, Dcns Stella Olowo, reflecting on her school days when she was active in sprints and jumps, urged participants to embrace fair competition and good conduct. “Good values and discipline are key elements of success. They determine the level of greatness one can achieve in the future,” she noted. Royal guest of the day, the Queen of Yaba-Iwaya-Kingdom, Lagos, Olori Rebecca Temitope Oloko, a Paris-based women’s advocate, expressed that her passion for children’s welfare motivated her to attend the event. “As a lover of children, today’s event means a lot to me. I’m already thinking about schools I will engage with to replicate such initiatives, as they will help children explore different sports and find where they excel.” Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos Chapter, and UN Peace Ambassador of Nigeria, Olatutu Oladunni, commended InterGuide Academy for the initiative, stressing that it serves as a way to identify and groom talent, which in turn strengthens social development, tourism, and cultural values. “Sports is one of the key factors that boost economic growth and bilateral cooperation. It also contributes to effective foreign relations that influence economic policies across nations. The power of sports can never be underestimated,” she said. She also thanked corporate sponsors like Promasidor (TWISCO chocolate drink) for their significant contributions to the event and urged corporate institutions to engage in more productive collaborations with schools and youth organizations to support developmental growth. Air Vice Marshal Segun Philip (Rtd) emphasized the importance of adopting sports in all schools, stating, “Sports teach discipline, perseverance, and commitment. These values help children develop the right mindset.” Similarly, Vice President of Sabre, Engr. Allen Awosikunde, remarked that sports is the only activity that teaches teamwork. “In the classroom, teamwork may be seen as cheating, but in sports and business, it’s key. Teamwork is the future of any successful business. So, we should encourage more sports, as it teaches teamwork,” he said. The Principal of the Elementary School, Mrs. Blessing Kukoyi, expressed her gratitude to the parents, pupils, and teachers for their impressive cooperation and contributions toward the success of the event. She was particularly amazed by the students’ performance and the strong turnout of parents supporting their children. She also commended the corporate sponsors, including Promasidor (TWISCO chocolate drink), Golfview Hotel and Suites, and Sabre, for their support. “School sports is one of the major areas to invest in, as children are the leaders of tomorrow,” she added.

TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON, Morocco 2025 Media Match Day Pack is now available for download

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago02 mins

The TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 has entered the pivotal third round of matches in the group stage, with four thrilling fixtures scheduled for Sunday, as Groups A and B resume action. To support media coverage of the tournament, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) is offering daily statistics packs. These detailed packs delve into the history of the competing teams and provide fascinating insights and facts surrounding their participation in the event. You can download the Media Match-Day Pack for 6th April 2025 HERE. Sunday’s Fixtures: GROUP A GROUP B For more details on the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, visit www.cafonline.com. Further Inquiries:communications@cafonline.comCAF | Communication Department

Abuja Protesters Flee for Safety as Police Fire Tear Gas During Demonstration

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

Protesters in Abuja were forced to flee for safety on Monday as the police fired tear gas to disperse a crowd participating in a demonstration in the Nigerian capital. The protest, which began peacefully, turned chaotic when security forces intervened, resulting in widespread panic among the demonstrators. The protesters had gathered to voice their concerns about national issues such as economic hardship, government policies, and social injustice. As the protest unfolded, police officers monitoring the scene began moving in to break up the demonstration. Without warning, tear gas was deployed, causing confusion and panic as the gas spread through the area. Protesters scrambled to escape the choking fumes, with many running in different directions to avoid the burning sensation in their eyes and throats. Witnesses reported that several people were affected by the gas, though no serious injuries were immediately reported. The demonstration, which had been peaceful at the start, was intended to highlight pressing issues such as Nigeria’s struggling economy and controversial government actions. However, the police’s response quickly turned the event into a tense and dangerous situation. The use of tear gas drew criticism from activists and human rights groups, who argued that the police’s heavy-handed approach was an overreaction to a peaceful protest. Despite the police’s efforts to disperse the crowd, some protesters attempted to regroup in other parts of the city, continuing to voice their frustrations. The intervention by law enforcement raised concerns about the right to peaceful assembly and the use of force by security agencies in handling public demonstrations. Critics of the police’s actions have called for more protection of citizens’ rights to express their views without fear of violent retaliation. In the aftermath of the protest, organizers vowed to continue their push for change, calling for increased public support and international attention to the issues raised. While the protest in Abuja was met with police resistance, it is part of a larger wave of discontent across the country, as Nigerians demand accountability from their government. The situation remains tense, and further demonstrations are expected in the coming days.