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Zenith Bank Opens Manchester Branch To Support Cross-Border Trade, Investment

By
James Orji
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Adaora Umeoji - Zenith Bank Female GMD

Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, marking another significant milestone in the bank’s international growth and its commitment to strengthening financial connections between Africa and global markets.

The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to attract government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, customers, and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the growing economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.

The new Manchester branch will complement Zenith Bank’s existing operations in the United Kingdom and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses engaged in international trade and investment. Through the branch, the bank will provide corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and related financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.

Speaking ahead of the launch, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “The opening of our Manchester branch represents another important step in Zenith Bank’s growth as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents. Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres, and our presence here will further strengthen financial connections between businesses in the UK and opportunities across Africa’s rapidly expanding markets.”

Founded in 1990 by its Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a remarkable history of year-on-year profitability. Built on a strong foundation of people, technology and service, the Bank has consistently delivered innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. The impressive performance of the Bank has consistently earned it excellent ratings, recognition and endorsement from local and international agencies and institutions.

Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Bank currently operates subsidiaries in several African countries including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, while maintaining a presence in major international financial centres including the United Kingdom, France, UAE and China. In recent years, Zenith Bank has continued to expand its international network as part of its strategy to support global trade and investment flows involving Africa.

Manchester, widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic centres, hosts a diverse base of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods. The city’s strong commercial ecosystem and international outlook align closely with Zenith Bank’s expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.

The Manchester branch will work closely with the Bank’s London operations and its broader international network to support clients seeking to expand across markets and unlock new opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.

With the opening of the Manchester branch, Zenith Bank continues to advance its vision of building a truly global African banking institution that connects businesses, facilitates trade and investment, and creates stronger economic bridges between Africa and the world.

How Farmers Facilitated Arrest Of Four Suspected Kidnappers In Ondo

By
Ayodele Oni
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Police on Duty

By Ayodele Oni

Swift alarm and reactions by some farmers working on their farms have led to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers in Ondo state.

The incident, happened on Sunday after suspected bandits reportedly chased frightened farmers straight toward the airport’s runway, causing a dramatic security scare.

According to eyewitness accounts, the chaos began when several farmers suddenly ran toward the edge of the runway, screaming for help after spotting armed men riding motorcycles behind them.

It was gathered that the unusual movement quickly caught the attention of air traffic controllers inside the control tower, who immediately raised an alarm.

Within minutes, security operatives attached to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, alongside personnel from the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Army, launched a swift operation around the surrounding forest areas near the airport.

Their coordinated response paid off as four suspected bandits were successfully tracked down and arrested during the intense search operation.

An eyewitness revealed that the farmers had noticed suspicious motorcycle riders approaching their farmland behind the airport’s operational fence, forcing them to run for safety toward the runway area.

The suspects were eventually intercepted by security forces believed to include officers from local security outfits and police teams already responding to distress calls from nearby communities.

One suspect was initially captured during the pursuit, while additional searches led to the arrest of three more individuals linked to the incident.

All four suspects have now been handed over to police authorities for further questioning and investigation.

Reacting to the alarming breach, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, explained that the incident highlights why the government is speeding up plans to reinforce security infrastructure at airports across the country.

Authorities say improved perimeter fencing and stronger surveillance systems are now being prioritized to prevent similar security threats in the future.

The dramatic incident has since sparked fresh concerns about safety around Nigerian airports, especially those located close to rural communities and forested areas.

We’re In Edo As Economic Migrants, Not Kidnappers” –  Hausa Community Begin Sit-at-home Protest

By
Ayodele Oni
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Chief Bawa Muhammad
Chief Bawa Muhammad

By Ayodele Oni

For tagging their members as Kidnappers, Hausa community in Auchi, Edo State has began a sit-at- home protest, amid growing concerns over insecurity caused by incessant kidnappings in parts of Edo state.

One of the leaders of Arewa community in Auchi, Chief Bawa Muhammad told the media that the sit-at-home protest became necessary to address unjust prosecution and stereotype that sees every Northerner as a kidnapper.

He admitted that although there are criminal elements among them, but that this should not be an excuse to tag all of them as being the same.

In a statement he signed and made available to journalists, he called for calm, vigilance, and cooperation among residents of Auchi.

He noted that criminal activities “are often carried out by a small minority whose actions tend to be highly visible, even though the majority of people from Northern Nigeria living in Auchi are law-abiding residents seeking better opportunities.”

According to him, many northerners residing in the town are economic migrants who have moved to Auchi in search of safety and improved livelihoods, with some also fleeing violence in parts of Northern Nigeria.

Muhammad emphasized that the presence of a few criminal elements should not define the broader Northern community, many of whom had lived peacefully in Auchi for many years due to the town’s accommodating nature.

Chief Muhammed, however, stressed the need for collective action in addressing security concerns.

He called on both the host community and residents from the North to work together in identifying and isolating individuals involved in criminal activities.

“Criminals often live and move quietly among law-abiding citizens,” he stated, adding that vigilance and cooperation from all residents were necessary to ensure such individuals “do not operate freely within the community.”

He pointed out that ensuring public safety was a shared responsibility and urged residents to remain united, maintain mutual respect, and support efforts aimed at preventing criminality from taking root within their neighbourhoods.

Scare At Akure Airport As Kidnappers Pursue Would-have-been Victims Close To Tarmac; Six Arrested

By
Ayodele Oni
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Akure Airport

By Ayodele Oni

After weeks of terror in communities along Akure/Owo highway in Ondo state, caused by activities of kidnappers, efforts of security agents have yielded result as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the arrest of four suspected bandits at Akure Airport.

According to FAAN, the arrest was made possible by a coordinated security operation involving aviation and local security agencies.

Also the Ondo state Police command confirmed the arrest of two other suspects within communities in the area.

According to a statement by Henry Agbebire, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN on Sunday night, the operation was launched following a distress alert that suspicious individuals were sighted behind the airport perimeter towards the Eleyewo community.

”Security personnel comprising FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and other local security outfits immediately swung into action, conducting a joint search operation.”

The statement revealed that during the operation, some individuals were seen attempting to flee the area, but four suspects were eventually apprehended by the joint security team and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command for further interrogation.

FAAN commended the collaboration among security personnel, the military, the police, and local security groups, including Amotekun and community vigilantes, whose joint efforts led to the arrest.

The incident has highlighted the importance of strengthening airport perimeter protection.

The statement added that the “Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, with the support of the Presidency under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has accelerated the provision of modern perimeter fencing and enhanced security infrastructure at airports across the country.

“Work has already commenced in phases to ensure that airports under FAAN are better secured against unlawful access and other security threats.

“FAAN reassured the travelling public and airport host communities of its commitment to maintaining the safety and security of all airport facilities nationwide.”

Ondo State Police Command confirmed arrest of two suspected kidnap logistics suppliers and informants.

The command spokesman, Abayomi Jimoh, described the suspects as part of kidnapping syndicate terrorizing Ilu-Abo community and surrounding areas in Akure North local government.

“The suspects, identified as Alhassan Muhammad (20) and Faruq Muhammad Sanni (25), all residents of Sabon-Sango, Akure, were arrested on March 15, 2026, following credible intelligence provided by a concerned member of the Ilu-Abo community.

“The information indicated that one of the suspects, who operates as a commercial motorcyclist, had been assisting kidnappers in the area by procuring and delivering food items and other supplies to their hideouts.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence, operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad immediately mobilized to the location and carried out a targeted operation.

“The operation led to the successful arrest of the two suspects, while other members of the criminal syndicate fled upon sighting the approaching police operatives.

“Preliminary investigation suggests that the suspects have been playing supportive roles in sustaining the activities of the kidnappers operating within the forested areas around Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities.

“The suspects are currently in custody and have made useful statements that are assisting the police with further investigation and facilitate the arrest of other fleeing members of the gang.

“The Command has intensified efforts to track down the remaining suspects and dismantle the entire kidnapping network responsible for the criminal activities in the area. The arrested suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigation.”

As Electricity Supply Dips In Nigeria, Togo Begs For More

By
James Orji
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TCN - Transmission Line - Power

The Government of the Republic of Togo has urged the Nigeria’s Niger Delta Power Holding Company, NDPHC to increase electricity supply to the west African country, saying there’s a rising demand for electricity among Togolese customers.

The request was made during a strategic meeting between the NDPHC  and the country’s Energy company, Compagnie Energie Electrique du Togo.

The Togoles government demand was coming on the heels of the recent dip in electricity supply to Nigerians customers by Power Distribution Companies, Discos across the country.

The development has thrown most part of the country into total darkness, as business owners complained that the problem is having serious toll on their business. To mitigate the current problem. electricity firms have engaged in load-shedding in many parts of the countries, amidst  customers’ continuous lamentations that the situation is no longer palatable. 

For Instance, Nigeria’s popular flymaker, Afolayan recently cried out that he spent over 11 million within a month to fuel his diesel generation at his KAP film village in Oyo state, saying the situation is unbearable. 

“I’ve been sad because I can’t cope with the N1,500 per litre of diesel,” Afolayan said. “In one of the businesses that we run, the KAP Village, we spend about N11 million in four or five weeks on diesel. And we have solar power, but we’re still spending about N11 million.”

The Discos, on their part blamed the problem on the shortage of gas supply to power generation firms, Gencos.

According to a statement by NDPHC, the delegation was led by the Director-General of the organisation, Débo-K’mba Barandao, who visited the company’s management team to strengthen existing cooperation and explore opportunities for expanding cross-border electricity trade.

The Togolese State Energy firm said the country currently purchases about 75 megawatt-hours of electricity from the NDPHC, saying this has led to stable electricity in the country, aside from boosting economic activities in the West African nation.  

“The utility company is currently experiencing increasing electricity demand following the onboarding of new customers, including industrial and commercial users, as well as ongoing efforts by the Togolese government to expand access to electricity across the country. In view of this development, CEET expressed strong interest in increasing the volume of electricity it off-takes from NDPHC, noting that additional supply would support the country’s power expansion strategy and ensure that newly connected consumers receive stable electricity,” the CEET boss said.

Responding the Chief Executive Officer of NDPHC, Jennifer Adighije expressed the willingness  to increase electricity exports to Togo, emphasizing the need for bankable and sustainable commercial arrangements to guide future transactions between the two organisations.

“She stressed that a reliable payment framework would not only protect NDPHC’s commercial interests but also enable the company to continue supporting regional energy stability through power exports,” NDPHC said in the statement.

Information Minister: Criticism Over Tinubu’s Planned UK Visit Unnecessary; The Benefits

By
James Orji
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Mohammed Idris - Minister of Information and National Orientation

The Federal Government has dismissed the criticism trailing his planned visit to the United Kingdom, UK saying those against the trip are bereft of its benefit to the country.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris made the assertion while addressing journalists in London at the weekend.

Idris’ spoke amidst the reactions of not a few Nigerians to the president’s state visit to the UK, where he’s expected to meet with King Charles and British Prime Minister, Keir Stammer.

Critics of the president said he should stay at home to address the myriads of challenges facing the country, even though others said the country will benefit from the diplomatic visit.

According to the minister,  some of the reactions to the visit were either based on poor understanding of government policies or deliberate attempts to misrepresent the purpose of the engagement.

He said the historic visit will further straighten the relationship between the two countries,  describing it as a partnership built on trust in the major areas such as diplomacy, education, security cooperation and trade.

Idis stressed that the two countries will also explore other areas such as  climate action, education, and technological innovation during the president’s state visit.

Te Minister: “We know that Nigeria has had its own fair share of criticism about some of those policies that were instituted back home, some of them arising from a lack of adequate knowledge and some out of sheer mischief.

“President Tinubu’s visit provides an important opportunity to strengthen collaboration across critical areas, including trade and investment, security cooperation, climate action, education, and technological innovation.”

President Tinubu is the fifth Nigerian leader to be honoured with state visit by the UK government. visit the country. Other former head of state who enjoyed the honour include Nigeria’s late Prime Minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Yakubu Gowon, Shehu Shagari, and Ibrahim Babangida.

The president is expected to arrive the UK on March 18.

Details of The Ceremony

A ceremonial welcome will take place on Datchet Road, featuring the playing of the national anthems of both countries and a guard of honour inspection. The Nigerian leader will then proceed in a carriage procession to Windsor Castle, where he will be welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

The schedule includes a formal reception, a traditional 21-gun salute and a state luncheon to be held at St George’s Hall within Windsor Castle.

Later in the day, Tinubu is expected to hold bilateral meetings with senior British officials, with discussions expected to focus on strengthening cooperation in trade, security, migration management and port development.

The day’s events will conclude with a cultural exchange programme showcasing Nigerian artefacts and heritage, followed by a state banquet hosted in honour of the visiting president at Windsor Castle.

On March 19, President Tinubu will begin the day with a private breakfast meeting with King Charles III and Queen Camilla before departing for London.

While in London, the Nigerian leader is scheduled to lay a wreath at The Cenotaph in Westminster in honour of fallen servicemen.

Why Tinubu Directed Rice To Be Distributed Across The Country- Uzodinma

By
James Orji
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Hope Uzodimma
Governor Hope Uzodimma

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, RHA, to distribute rice across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, to assist Nigerians observing the Christian Lent and Ramadan fasting.

This was disclosed by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and Director-General of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, in a s statement eh signed at the weekend.

According to the details provided by the RHA, the rice distribution will be carried out through the state, local government and ward structures to ensure that the food item is evenly distributed.

Governor Uzodimma, stated that the initiative is an indication of the love the president has for Nigerians, and his effort to strengthen national unity during the ongoing fast by the two dominant religions in the country.

The governor stressed  that the distribution would be coordinated through the nationwide grassroots network of the RHA to ensure that families across Nigeria benefit from the intervention during the fasting period.

Uzodinma said a similar intervention was carried out during the last Christmas season, when rice was also distributed to assist Nigerians celebrating the festive period..

He said: “This initiative reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to unity and compassion. Ramadan and Lent are seasons that remind us of sacrifice, charity and care for one another.

“Through this distribution, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will ensure that families across Nigeria feel the spirit of togetherness during this sacred period.”

How Popular Broadcaster, Nollywood Actor, Ereke Ni Shop Died

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Timothy Agboola,- Ereke ni Shop

By Akinwale Kasali

Veteran Broadcaster and  Nollywood Actor, Timothy Agboola, popular as Ereke Ni Shop, is dead. Before he finally gave up, he had been  battling with an undisclosed illness.

Ereke Ni Shop passed away on about a week ago at a private hospital in Lagos after a prolonged illness.

The deceased had, over the years, built a strong reputation in Yoruba broadcasting and comedy.

Over the years, he became popular for programmes that mixed humour with story-telling while also promoting Yoruba culture and traditions.

Most of his listeners saw him as someone who loved his heritage and proudly represented Ijesa culture through his work.

Following the announcement of his death, many of his colleagues, friends and fans have continued to pay tribute and send their condolences on social media.

One of his associates, Idris Shogbola, was among those who first shared the sad news online while mourning the loss of the veteran broadcaster.

“May the soul of our boss rest in peace. Pa Timothy Agboola ‘Ereke ni Shop’. Baba Oloye Repete… A broadcaster, actor, comedian. May God Almighty give you eternal rest in peace. Amen. Ereke ni Shop sun re o,” he wrote.

Agboola gained wide attention through his unique storytelling style and lively comedy.

His radio shows often combined humour with social observations about daily life, which made him popular among many Yoruba listeners.

During his long career in the entertainment industry, he worked with several well-known entertainers, including Baba Alajeju.

Some of his comedy performances date back to the 1970s when he was already becoming known for his lively stage presence.

APC Budgets N500bn To Compromise Religious, Traditional Rulers Ahead  2027 – Sheikh Khalil Alleges

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Sheikh Sunusi Khalil

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

“I was approached, I rejected to be part of it”

Prominent Kaduna Islamic scholar and Cleric Sheikh Sunusi Khalil, has alleged that the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC, has earmarked a humongous sum of about N500 billion to execute the 2027 general elections in the North.

In a viral video online, the fiery and respected Muslim preacher said the money is for the purpose of securing the support of Islamic scholars and Clerics, as well as traditional rulers in the North  for the second term ambition of  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He alleged that he has been approached by some of the APC mobilisers and contacts including party chieftains, but maintained that he rejected their offer.

“They have budgeted N500 billion to mobilise Mallams ,and Traditional Rulers so that they can campaign for them.

“They invited me to join the project, but I rejected the offer with a warning to never bring something like that to me ” Sheikh Khalil stated.

He expressed shock and disbelief that such a large sum of money has been set aside to pursue political ambition ,at a time the masses of the country are facing untold hardships.

His position is coming on the heels of that of  Sheikh Alkali Abubakar Zaria who was a couple of weeks ago suspended over his scathing criticisms of President Tinubu and Northern Governors.

Sheikh Alkali Zaria who was deployed to lead the annual Ramadan exegesis at the popular Mokas Mosque in Damaturu was on Wednesday March 4, 2026, suspended by the leadership of the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah JIBWIS Jos faction over actions considered to be against acceptable preaching norms.

The outspoken Muslim Cleric had, in a recent Ramadan sermon, launched scathing criticisms against President Tinubu and some Northern Governors over their alleged non-challant disposition to the problems of insecurity and excruciating economic hardships ravaging the Northern region of the country.

Particularly, he had taken great exception to state Governors tendency to fear  the President more than they fear God.

“Look at how State Governors fear President Tinubu much more than they fear Allah. If you are in APC, you are treated like a saint.

” If you are a member of the opposition, you will be be treated like a devil.

” One will be confronted with trump-up charges . Who is Tinubu? You deceived us . You are a deceiver and cheat.” Suspended Sheikh Alkali Zaria had asserted .

Senator Kingibe’s Suspension: ADC  Sanctions Three, Nullifies It As Illegal

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Senator Ireti Kingibe
Senator Ireti Kingibe

By Akinwale Kasali

The suspension of Senator Ireti Kingibe as a member of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, for alleged anti party activities has been nullified by the Party Leadership.

The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Chapter of the ADC had on Sunday declared her suspension illegal, further deepening the internal rift within the party’s Abuja structure.

The ADC Leadership further sanctioned three executive members from Wuse Ward in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, accusing them of spear-heading the controversial move in violation of the party’s constitution and laid-down procedures.

The Ward Chairman, Kanayo Chukwu, alongside Amanda Pam and Omale Suleiman were sanctioned.

Emmanuel Destiny, the Party’s National Working Committee said the purported suspension lacked legitimacy because due process was not followed.

“The party is supreme to every individual. Until now, the national wing of the party has not been served any letter of complaint or petition against Senator Kingibe.

“You cannot wake up and suspend a serving Senator without putting your complaints or petition in writing,” he said.

He also added that the national leadership would not condone what he described as misconduct by the ward officials.

“We are fully present to say ‘No’ to such shenanigans and the misbehaviour of a self-acclaimed Wuse Ward chairman not recognised by the party.

“Whatever gangsterism they have been parading in the last 72 hours, the national wing of the party will take full disciplinary action against them,” he stated.

Princess Nneka Nnebohhe, Party’s Deputy National Auditor, said the leadership could no longer remain silent after giving those involved ample opportunity to follow due process.

“It is of no use keeping quiet because we asked them to do the right thing and follow the proper channel.

“Whatever decision we take here today stands, and as a national officer, I want to say it is time to call a spade a spade. Enough is enough,” she said.

The Party leadership also stated that the ward and Area Council Chairmen have passed a vote of no confidence on the three initiators of Senator Kingibe’s suspension.

It would be recalled that the Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, had earlier urged the public and the media to treat the report of Kingibe’s with sensitivity, as he described it as false and misleading.

The motion seeking the suspension of the three ward executives was moved by an ADC Chieftain from Wuse Ward, Danlami Zuru, and seconded by an exco member from the ward, Samuel Dimgba, and it was unanimously agreed on.

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