APC Will Regret Losing Kwankwaso To ADC – Party Chieftain Accuses Governors Of Insincerity To Tinubu

March 31, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

As political realignment towards 2027 intensifies, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is already counting possible loses of the party in Kano state, following defection of former Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Kwankwaso on Monday led several of his followers to the ADC in Kano where he was received by chieftains of the party.

APC chieftain, Alwan Hassan, maintained that it was a big loses for the party to have lost the former Governor to the opposition.

He warned that the ruling party risks losing Kano State in the 2027 elections without engaging the support base of Kwankwaso, declaring that the party has “already lost Kano” by allowing the former governor to join the opposition.

Speaking on Channels Television, Hassan alleged that “political termites” around President Bola Tinubu blocked Kwankwaso from seeing the president despite waiting in Abuja for two nights, and warned that many ministers and governors in the APC do not have the president at heart.

Hassan was emphatic that the APC has already lost Kano State. “We’ve lost Kano. We’ve already lost Kano. For us allowing Kwankwaso to join the opposition, we’ve lost Kano.

“I don’t think the governor has the strength to defeat Kwankwaso. I don’t think anyone in Kano has the strength to defeat Kwankwaso in Kano.”

He explained that Kwankwaso has a “cult followership” in Kano and that the state’s 3.5 million votes are enough to win elections in Nigeria.

“If we consolidate and if we had spoken to Kwankwaso, it was a 3.5 million vote Kano — that’s enough to win elections in Nigeria,” he said.

Hassan alleged that Kwankwaso was prevented from meeting President Tinubu by people around the president with vested interests.

“I’m aware and informed that he stood in this town on standby waiting to see the president and some people blocked him.

“I’ve said this so many times — we can’t win Kano without Kwankwaso either in the APC or we partner with him in another party.”

When asked about reports that Kwankwaso was offered the vice presidential slot as a condition for joining the APC, Hassan dismissed the claims.

“Nothing. There was nothing discussed like that between Kwankwaso and the president.

“I’m telling you that they blocked him from seeing him. Those months of talks never happened. The talks didn’t happen with Kwankwaso and that is where we made it wrong. That is why we got it wrong.”

He clarified that while talks happened between the APC and the NNPP at the party level — which resulted in Governor Abba Yusuf joining the APC — direct talks between Kwankwaso and the president never occurred.

Hassan warned that many APC governors do not genuinely support President Tinubu.

“A lot of those governors are not real. A lot of them are murmuring inside their stomach. They don’t like the president.

“He has given them a lot of money because of subsidy removal. I’m telling you, they can work against the president. That’s what he doesn’t know. They’re not sincere people.”

He accused the president of investing heavily in governors who cannot be trusted.

“He’s investing so much on the governors. I don’t know whatever it is that is making the president imprisoned and not knowing what he needs to know.

“In Lagos, he was better than this politically. He’s investing so much in people that are not supposed to be trusted. A lot of these governors do not have him 100% at heart.

“I’m telling you, once they see the opposition getting set, they join the opposition either directly or indirectly.”

When asked why governors still join the APC despite not being loyal, Hassan gave a stark answer.

“It’s for a better betrayal. If they’re in the opposition, they feel the government will go for them. Nobody wants to fight the government.”

He explained that the governors have received substantial funds from the federal government following subsidy removal.

“He’s already invested so much. He’s given them so much money by constitution. They must get that money because subsidy is removed. They have so much money to work against us,” Hassan warned.

Hassan compared the current situation to what befell former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.

“This was the same thing that happened to Jonathan. We used a lot of Jonathan’s people to win elections against him. That is exactly what is happening today. I’m telling you, it’s the pattern.

“A lot of ministers, a lot of governors in this government, in our party do not have the president at heart. They don’t like him for who he is. They like him for what he is.”

Hassan noted that despite having significant northern representation in the federal cabinet, none of the ministers is actively campaigning for the president.

“Nobody is out there among the ministers in northern Nigeria. 27 ministers out of 47 are from the 19 northern states. None of them — none of them has the faith to go out and campaign for the president. It’s time already and nobody’s saying anything.”

When asked about the threat posed by the African Democratic Congress, Hassan dismissed the opposition party as irrelevant.

“You have said the ADC is not a factor. What then is making you afraid?” the interviewer asked.

“It is our own selves and the way we treat our own people that is making me scared of the election. The sabotage will come from within. Yes.”

Hassan also alleged that the president is being poorly advised on Borno State.

“The foreign affairs minister just resigned yesterday and he’s going for the contest. The president is being ill-advised on somebody else.

“That person he’s being ill-advised on is someone that the president sacked from NNPC last year. That is what the party is bringing in. Someone that goes to EFCC every day for corruption trials, corruption allegations. We want to put him in front because he’s looking for shield.”

He compared the situation to how Governor Bala Mohammed allegedly sought the governorship position to gain immunity while facing EFCC allegations.

“We’ve become safe haven for corrupt individuals,” Hassan lamented.

Hassan contrasted the handling of Rivers State with Kano State, noting that Minister Nyesom Wike’s position in the cabinet gave him leverage that Kwankwaso lacks.

“In the case of Rivers, it was a different scenario. That is the same approach I had wanted him to take in Kano. Wike is a minister in his cabinet.

“Kwankwaso is not a minister in his cabinet. That’s the difference. He can easily call on Wike and say come to me, but Kwankwaso doesn’t have that leverage of being in the same cabinet with the president.”

Despite his warnings, Hassan said it was not too late for the APC to correct course.

“It’s not like it’s late for us. It’s 10 months to elections and in politics, five minutes matter.

“I’m just saying this for the president to wake up. The people around him and the people he’s talking with are the wrong people. They give him wrong advice.”

When asked what will happen if Kwankwaso is fielded as the NNPP gubernatorial candidate in Kano, Hassan was blunt.

“We lost. We lost. We lost. We will lose.

“The federal government has done everything for Kano. The president has given 28 federal appointments in Kano. That speaks volumes.

“But it does not speak volume on the electorate. It doesn’t speak volume on the electorate,” he added.

Hassan’s stark warnings paint a troubling picture for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

His allegations that ministers and governors are disloyal and that “political termites” are sabotaging the president’s efforts to build alliances suggest deep internal divisions within the ruling party.

The comparison to the Jonathan administration — which lost power in 2015 partly due to internal defections — is particularly significant, as it suggests the APC may be following a similar trajectory.

With 10 months to the elections, Hassan’s call for the president to “wake up” and reassess the people around him reflects growing anxiety within some quarters of the party about the path to 2027.

The failure to engage Kwankwaso directly, if Hassan’s account is accurate, represents a significant strategic error that may cost the APC dearly in Kano — a state with substantial electoral weight in any presidential contest.

Kwankwaso’s Defection To ADC , A Transaction Driven By Ego Massaging, Self-aggrandizement – APC

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 31, 2026

Rabiu Kwankwaso Formally Joins ADC In Kano

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The All Progressive Congress, APC, has dismissed the defection of the Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and former Kano State Governor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the African Democratic Congress, ADC, as a transaction meant only to massage the ego.

The Lagos State Chapter of the APC insisted that contrary to widespread perception of the move as a seismic political realignment, the defection is not predicated on any high principles.

The Source reports that Kwankwaso had, on Monday, March 30, 2026, formally joined forces with the ADC after resigning his membership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, on Sunday.

Not a few have come to perceive the move by the NNPP Presidential candidate in the 2023 elections as representing a huge boost for the opposition Coalition platform, which already has in its fold two other former presidential candidates – Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

However, in a statement on Tuesday, from its spokesperson Seye Oladejo , the Lagos state Chapter of the APC said it views Kwankwaso’s defection with utmost caution and scepticism.

According to the party, the transaction is not anchored on credible desire to serve, but to achieve a personal ambition.

“The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressive Congress, APC, views the recent defection of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with both caution and scepticism.

“While some are eager to portray this move as a seismic political realignment, a closer examination reveals a narrative driven more by ego than by principle.

The APC further described the defection as more of “a calculated exercise in self-aggrandizement” designed to satisfy personal ambition rather than serve the interest of Nigerians

“Senator Kwankwaso has long publicly declared that any defection on his part must guarantee him a Presidential or Vice Presidential ticket.

“This defection, therefore, is not driven by a genuine commitment to national interest or ideological alignment, but more of a calculated exercise in self-aggrandizement.

“It is a political transaction designed to satisfy personal ambition not to advance meaningful governance or serve the Nigerian people”, the APC noted.

This was as the APC described Kwankwaso as an over-hyped political actor whose political movement, the Kwankwasiyya is presently in disarray.

“Nigerians Are Fed Up With Statements, They Are Tired Of Mourning”, CAN To Tinubu

Akinwale Kasali

March 31, 2026

Archbishop Daniel Okoh on Sunday - CAN President

By Akinwale Kasali

The Palm Sunday killings in Jos, Plateau State has prompted the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, to challenge President Bola Tinubu to take drastic action in bringing an end to incessant killings in the country.

The Christian Body said Nigerians are tired of statements and promises always made by the Federal Government over the spate of insecurity in the country.

It further challenged authorities to address and prosecute those behind the killings.

Daniel Okoh, CAN President, described the attack as “not just tragic” but “unacceptable”.

In a statement, the CAN President said: “Nigerians are tired of mourning. Nigerians, are tired of statements. Nigerians want to see action”.

He added that those responsible for this atrocity must be found, arrested, and made to face justice swiftly and decisively.

Okoh added that anything less will only deepen the sense “that life in our country is no longer protected.”

Sunday’s attack on Angwan Rukuba, in Jos North Local Government Area, left 28 people dead and several others wounded.

Expectedly, the incident has sparked outrage among Nigerians and protests by angry residents of the area.

“Our security institutions must not only respond, they must stay ahead of these threats,” the Christian body said while acknowledging efforts by the Plateau State Government.

“But let it be said clearly: temporary measures are not enough. The people of Plateau, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve lasting security, not periodic reassurance,” Okoh said.

The Christian body urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and calm but maintained that the nation owes the dead justice.

“We owe the living protection. And we owe our future a country where no community wakes up to gunfire on a sacred day.”

Wike: “I Have Not Endorsed Anybody For The 2027 Polls Except Tinubu”

Suleiman Anyalewechi

March 31, 2026

Nyesom Wike - FCT Minister — Nyesom Wike

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has said he has not endorsed anybody for any political positions ahead of the 2027 polls, except President Bola Tinubu.

Wike’s reaction is coming against the backdrop of growing speculations suggesting that he has greenlighted some individuals for the 2027 race in Rivers state, including the Executive Director Finance and Administration of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NNDC, Boma Iyaye.

Iyaye himself last weekend denied being endorsed by the FCT Minister or any other political leaders, insisting that he is yet to unveil his political ambition as regards the 2027 polls.

While debunking reports of alleged endorsement of aspirants, Wike said such a decision will be taken by relevant party leaders in Rivers State.

The FCT Minister who spoke at the occasion of the joint meeting of All Progressive Congress, APC, and Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, stakeholders from Rivers State held at his Abuja residence on Monday night, March 30, 2026, however warned against aspirants jumping the gun, or being in a hurry.

He emphasized the need for members and supporters to maintain unity, and avoid any divisive rhetorics and actions, noting that the strength of the rainbow coalition is anchored on cohesion and commitment , rather than financial prowess.

“If we were not working together; if we were not united, it would be difficult. People are not happy that we are working together. So they must find anything to make sure we are divided.

“So It is important we remain united and work as a group, instead of pursuing different agendas”, Wike admonished.

This was as he lampooned some people whom he accused of castigating the coalition after being given appointments.

He described such tendency as a classical case of “failure of character, warning that they will never succeed in the evil machinations of blackmailing and undermining the system.”

“Woe be unto the person that we have given an appointment who goes back to castigate us after using us to get appointment”, Wike stated .

Further speaking, the FCT Minister affirmed that besides President Tinubu, he has neither privately and or officially endorsed anybody for any position ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the Coalition at the state level will take the decision of endorsing aspirants when the time is auspicious.

Why I Will Upgrade Ondo Polytechnic To University – Gov. Aiyedatiwa

Ayodele Oni

March 31, 2026

Upgrade Of Ondo Polytechnic To University

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Government has gone a step further in its resolve to upgrade the State-owned Polytechnic in Owo to a University..

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described the proposed elevation of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo to a university as a strategic measure to place Ondo State at the forefront of national development in agriculture, science and technology.

The Governor made the remark while receiving the report on the proposed polytechnic upgrade to the University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo (UNASTO), from the committee in Akure.

The governor commended the thoroughness and depth of the submissions, which included a campus master plan, academic brief, five-year income and sustainability framework, take-off grant summary, and pictorial master plan.

“This work reflects a clear vision and meticulous planning. The calibre of experts involved and the research conducted leave no doubt that this university can become one of the best in Nigeria.”

He stressed the national relevance of the project, noting its alignment with federal priorities in agriculture, rural development, electrification, and water provision.

“Artificial intelligence and technology will drive higher agricultural yields and sustainable rural livelihoods. Science and technology must underpin everything we do, including food production and wealth creation.”

The governor further urged careful planning for the transitional phase to safeguard current polytechnic students’ academic progress.

“We must manage the shift carefully while preparing for a university capable of competing nationally,” he added, urging swift implementation to set a benchmark in higher education.

Presenting the report, the chairman of the committee and Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, explained that the administration recognises the strategic importance of the upgrade in meeting the aspirations of a growing youth population seeking university degrees beyond polytechnic diplomas.

He described the proposed university as a distinctive institution aimed at equipping students with technical expertise and a strong academic grounding for a competitive global environment.

“The objective is aptly reflected in the proposed name, University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Owo, underscoring our commitment to innovation, applied knowledge, and technological advancement,” Prof. Ajibefun said.

The commissioner noted that the committee, comprising distinguished academics and serving and retired public servants, had reviewed existing Rufus Giwa Polytechnic documents and examined data from universities within Nigeria and abroad to ensure strategic alignment with priority sectors for national and global development.

“The proposed university will have faculties in Agriculture and Natural Resources, Allied Health Sciences, Basic and Applied Sciences, Communication and Media Sciences, Computing and Digital Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Sciences, and Social and Management Sciences.

“A consultant town planner was engaged to develop the master plan, including perimeter surveys, land-use maps, location plans, pictorial views, Google imagery overlays, and detailed plans covering educational, residential, recreational, public/semi-public, and commercial uses, consistent with National Universities Commission requirements.”

Prof. Ajibefun also outlined a five-year strategic development plan designed to ensure financial stability, uninterrupted academic activities, and operational sustainability, recommending credible revenue streams alongside government subventions and a tuition structure balancing affordability with operational realities.

He further disclosed that a draft enabling law had been prepared, requiring minor amendments for formal NUC recognition.

Jos Killings: One Suspect Arrested, Governor Bans Motorcycle Operators In Area

Ayodele Oni

March 31, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

A suspect has been arrested in connection with Sunday shootings in Anguwan Rukuba, in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

This was disclosed on Tuesday by the state Governor, Caleb Mutfwang in a state wide broadcast to the people.

Recall that unidentified gunmen, riding on a motorcycle, shot and killed an unspecified number of youths in the area.

A resident, narrated: “The attackers just rode past and started shooting sporadically. People were running in different directions.

“The attackers just rode past and started shooting sporadically. People were running in different directions.”

Police put casualties at 17 while community leaders claimed they were over 30.

The State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has assured that decisive steps are being taken to restore calm and ensure lasting peace, following the recent attack on Angwan Rukuba.

Addressing the public during a statewide broadcast on Tuesday, Governor Mutfwang described the incident as a “senseless attack” on law-abiding citizens.

He emphasized that Plateau State will not succumb to fear or intimidation, and vowed that the government would remain steadfast in its commitment to peace.

The Governor extended condolences to the families affected and disclosed that security agencies have been mobilized, while a 48-hour curfew has been imposed in Jos North to facilitate thorough security operations.

He visited the scene of the attack alongside security chiefs to assess the situation, stating that the visit offered critical insights to strengthen preventive measures.

Governor Mutfwang also visited victims at the Jos University Teaching Hospital, expressing optimism about their recovery and assuring that the government would cover all medical expenses.

He revealed that a suspect has already been arrested in connection with the attack and pledged that justice would be swiftly served.

In addition, the Governor directed the strict enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycle operations within the Jos Greater Master Plan as part of broader security measures.

He called for the cooperation of residents while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties.

“This tragic incident is a solemn reminder of the need for unity, vigilance, and collective responsibility,” Governor Mutfwang said, promising continued collaboration with security agencies to prevent any reoccurrence.

CDHR Condemns Jos Killings, Says Chief of Defence Staff Is Failing in His Duties

Akinwale Kasali

March 31, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, has strongly condemned the Palm Sunday killings in Jos, Plateau State, carried out, allegedly, by suspected herdsmen.

CDHR said the tragic incident has once again plunged communities in Jos and its environs into grief, fear, and uncertainty.

It expressed outrage over the loss of innocent lives, the destruction of homes, and the displacement of residents who continue to bear the brunt of recurring violence.

In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Debo Adeniran, President, and Secretary, Board of Trustees and Comrade Jeremiah Onyibe, National Publicity Secretary, CDHR said the situation in Jos is particularly alarming given its history of communal unrest, making the failure to prevent such attacks even more troubling.

CDHR stated that despite repeated warnings and previous incidents in Plateau State, there appears to be a disturbing lack of effective and proactive intervention by security forces.

The statement further stated that CDHR is especially concerned about the apparent inaction and insufficient response from the Chief of Defence Staff, whose responsibility includes ensuring the protection of civilians and maintaining national security.

“The continued attacks in Jos highlight serious gaps in intelligence gathering, rapid response mechanisms, and overall security coordination.

“The inability to decisively confront and neutralize these threats has emboldened perpetrators and left communities vulnerable.”

CDHR reiterated that the protection of lives and property is the foremost duty of the government, adding that the ongoing failure to secure communities in Jos is unacceptable and represents a grave dereliction of duty by relevant authorities.

“We further call for:

Immediate and reinforced deployment of security personnel to vulnerable communities in Jos and surrounding areas.
A thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the recent killings, with swift prosecution of those responsible.
The establishment of a robust early warning and rapid response system to prevent further attacks.
Greater collaboration between security agencies and local community leaders to enhance intelligence and trust.
Clear accountability from the Chief of Defence Staff on concrete steps being taken to halt the violence in Plateau State.

The Group said it stands in solidarity with the people of Jos and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, as it remains committed to advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

It urged the Federal Government to act with urgency and resolve to end the cycle of violence in Jos and across the country.

“Nigerians deserve to live without fear, and anything less is unacceptable”, the statement reads.

Former FCT Minister, Akinjide, Dumps PDP After 24 Years

Adesina Soyooye

March 31, 2026

By Adesina Soyooye

Jumoke Akinjide, a former Minister for State, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has resigned her membership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. Her resignation came after 24 years of membership.

Her father, the late Richard Akinjide, SAN, was Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice under the late President Shagari Administration.

Akinjide made her resignation public in a letter dated Monday, March 30, 2026. It takes immediate effect, she stated.

Akinjide who joined the PDP in 2001, disclosed that her decision to resign followed a long period of personal reflection.

She wrote: “I hereby formally give you notice of my resignation as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.

“This decision was not taken lightly, given the fact that I have been a member of the party since 2001.

“I came to this difficult decision after a long period of personal reflection.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a member of the party and the experiences and relationships built during my time as a member of the party.

“I appreciate the platform provided for political office and engagement, and I wish the party success in the future. Thank you.”

Jumoke was the FCT Minister of State under the Government of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

She is yet to say if she is quitting politics, or defecting to another political party.

Plateau Killings: Kwankwaso Condemns ‘Senseless Bloodshed’, Says Govt Has Failed

James Orji

March 31, 2026

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has condemned the recent attacks by suspected gunmen on communities in Plateau State, describing the killings as “senseless bloodshed” and a clear failure of government.
The attacks occurred on Sunday in Gari Ya Waye community in Angwan Rukuba district of Jos and Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area, leaving dozens dead and several others seriously injured.
The incidents have drawn widespread condemnation, with security agencies reportedly launching a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Reacting in a statement shared on his verified X handle, Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and ex-Minister of Defence, said the attacks highlight the government’s inability to curb persistent insecurity across the country.
He argued that the continued violence suggests a lack of political will to end the culture of impunity, stressing that there is little evidence to show any meaningful improvement in the nation’s security situation.
According to him, the recurring violence in Plateau State and other troubled regions should no longer be tolerated, urging the government to handle the problem of insecurity as a national emergency.
“The recurring violence in Plateau State, and indeed across several parts of Nigeria, can no longer be treated as business as usual. It demands to be treated as the national emergency that it has been declared to be by the Federal and State Governments,” he said.
Kwankwaso further stressed that all Nigerians deserve to live in peace, irrespective of ethnic, religious, or social differences.
“Our people deserve the right to live in peace, security, and dignity, regardless of their ethnicity or faith,” he said.

Zenith Bank, Ford Foundation Honour Unsung ‘Sheroes’ With Inaugural Woman Of Power Award

James Orji

March 31, 2026

Zenith Bank has held the climax of its month-long activities to commemorate March as women’s month. The event which held at The Civic Centre, was the second of such activity at the Centre, having held the International Women Day Seminar on the 9^th of March, 2026. The event was to honour and give awards to exceptional women who have shown resilience in their communities with heir vocation impacting lives sustainably.

Speakers after speakers eulogized Zenith Bank for its people-centred activities and appreciated the Ford Foundation for identifying the Bank as a worthy partner in its push to support women in their peculiar cultural and economic conditions across the world.

Themed “Celebrating Resilience, Leadership, and Generosity” the award recognised 19 women who were selected from the six geo-political zones in trade, petty manufacturing, education, and agriculture. These women demonstrated extraordinary strength, leadership, and impact despite the significant challenges posed by the difficult economic situation in the country.

According to the organisers, the initiative provided a platform to showcase unsung “Sheroes” — everyday women who are making meaningful contributions in their communities and fields. These include market women, small-scale business owners, community leaders, educators, healthcare workers, and many others whose vital roles often go unnoticed.

The sponsors of the event noted that each awardee exhibited excellence in several key areas, including leadership and initiative, community impact, innovativeness and resourcefulness, perseverance, integrity, community trust, and philanthropy.

Among those honoured were:

Mrs Regina Amankulor, a retired nurse empowering young people in Umuode-Nsulu community, Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Abia State;
Mary Matanmi, Coordinator of the Nigeria Association of Hairdressers, Barbers and Cosmetologists, Lagos State chapter;
Ifeanyi P. Ugwueze, a Guidance Counsellor and Life Coach who continues to thrive despite blindness and is currently pursuing a doctorate degree.

Others include:

Amina Musa, a trade educator based in Karonmajiji, AMAC, Abuja;
Adenike A. Lambo, the Iyaloja of Ilorin;
Sadiya Abubakar, an educator in Jibi (Deidei), Bwari Area Council, FCT;
Erikan Idem Andrew, a market woman with significant community impact in Port Harcourt;
Ngozi B. Nwankpa, an Aba-based fashion designer;
Hadiza Umar, a Development Specialist based in Kaduna, Kaduna State;
Joy C. Ezenwa(aka Mama Amala), a trader at Sabon Gari Market, Kano;
Shola Esther Babalola(Mama Sho), promoter of natural honey and founder of the Mama Sho Honey brand in Lagos;
Josephine Ugwu, a staff member of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), honoured for her honesty in recovering and returning millions of naira mistakenly dropped by passengers at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.
And many others.

In her keynote address, the Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, who was represented by Executive Director, Adobi Nwapa, praised the awardees and reaffirmed the bank’s strong commitment to women’s empowerment. She noted that “Zenith Bank’s commitment to gender inclusion is not a rhetoric but one of the ethos that the bank holds very dearly”. In her words, she also said, “Zenith Bank has a 50-50 gender ratio with women occupying strategic positions in the bank’s management and Board up to the current Group Managing Director being the very first female to hold that position.

The Regional Director of the Ford Foundation, Dr Chichi Aniagolu, described the Woman of Power Award as an eye-opener, noting that her team’s journey across the country revealed the vast and often overlooked facets of human potential among Nigerian women.

Both the Ford Foundation and Zenith Bank Plc have pledged to sustain and grow the initiative in the coming years.

Zenith Bank used the forum to notify the women of their various women-targeted products and initiatives, including the Z-Woman initiative, and the Bank’s 19-year sole sponsorship of the NBBF Women’s Basketball League; thus, further highlighting its position at the forefront of women empowerment and economic inclusion across the country.

1...616263...2,882 Page 62 of 2,882