The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has made swift changes to the leadership of Union, Keystone, and Polaris banks, just hours after dissolving their boards of directors. The move, announced in a statement by CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Sidi Hakama, takes immediate effect.

In these changes, Yetunde Oni, the first female CEO of Standard Chartered Bank in Sierra Leone, takes the helm as the Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank. Mannir Ubali Ringim assumes the role of Executive Director at the tier-2 bank. Keystone Bank sees Hassan Imam as its new CEO, with Chioma Mang appointed as the Executive Director.

Polaris Bank welcomes Lawal Mudathir Omokayode Akintola as its Chief Executive Officer, and Chris Ofikulu as the Executive Director.

The decision to dissolve the boards of these banks came on Wednesday night, as the CBN cited serious breaches of financial laws. These infractions ranged from regulatory non-compliance and corporate governance failure to engaging in activities threatening financial stability.

The regulatory action, driven by the Financial Institutions Act of 2020, was prompted by the findings of a special investigation led by Jim Obazee, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in July 2023. The investigation accused former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele of acquiring banks through proxies, specifically mentioning Union Bank of Nigeria for Titan Trust Bank Limited and Keystone Bank.

These changes mark a significant shake-up in the Nigerian banking sector, as the CBN takes decisive steps to address financial irregularities and ensure stability.

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The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, will receive the Supreme Court’s decision on his appeal against the nullification of his election by the Court of Appeal this Friday.

The acting Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state, P.E. Dakyen, confirmed the judgment date in a statement on Thursday.

According to the statement, “Judgment in the Plateau State Governorship Appeal at the Supreme Court is scheduled for Friday, January 12, 2024. Our counsel has been officially notified, hence this notice.”

The All Progressives Congress in the state also urged its members to remain calm as the apex court delivers the expected judgment. Sylvanus Namang, the state Publicity Secretary, stated, “As the Supreme Court rules on the Plateau State governorship case tomorrow, Friday, January 12, 2024, the APC calls on all its members to maintain decorum and peace.”

Regardless of the verdict, the APC expressed its commitment to respecting the rule of law and urged security agencies to ensure law and order in the state.

The background to the case involves the Election Petitions Tribunal upholding the governor’s election on the PDP platform. However, the Court of Appeal nullified the decision, stating that the PDP had no structure at the time of the governor’s nomination. In response, Mutfwang appealed to the Supreme Court.

During Tuesday’s hearing, a five-member panel, led by John Okoro, heard arguments from lawyers representing both parties. The Supreme Court assured that the judgment date would be communicated to the concerned parties after the arguments between Mutfwang’s lawyer, Kanu Agabi, and Yilwatda’s counsel, J.O Olatoke.

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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, rallied the Super Eagles on Tuesday, urging them to clinch victory at the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF African Cup of Nations tournament. The governor believes a triumph would provide much-needed relief to Nigerians grappling with economic challenges, including the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.

Speaking at a special dinner for the team at Lagos House, Marina, before their departure to Cote d’Ivoire, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the team’s role as a unifying force for the nation. He expressed confidence in the players, urging them to believe in themselves and showcase the indomitable spirit of Nigerians.

Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the obstacles the country faces, such as economic crises and fuel price concerns, but emphasized the importance of the team’s commitment. He stressed that the Super Eagles have the support of over 220 million Nigerians, both at home and in the Diaspora.

The governor urged the players not to give up during matches, emphasizing the need for determination and teamwork. He highlighted the significance of sports, particularly football, as a healing tool for the nation, fostering unity and peace.

Sanwo-Olu concluded with a prayer for the team’s success, stating, “We need that cup to be a succour that would energize us and bring together all of the yearnings of this country. And I pray God gives you the strength to achieve this.”

In attendance at the event were the Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, and Chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, among others.

In preparation for the AFCON tournament, the Super Eagles encountered a setback with a 2-0 loss against Guinea in a friendly match. Despite this, the governor’s encouragement remains steadfast, echoing the belief that the team can overcome challenges and make the nation proud.

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In a shocking turn of events along the Kaduna-Abuja expressway, terror struck as bandits unleashed chaos near Katari in Kaduna State, leaving 85 individuals, including both travelers and residents, abducted. Tragically, the assailants claimed the lives of at least four locals during their ruthless attack.

Between Thursday and Sunday, January 7, 2024, the region witnessed a spate of terror, with the Kaduna State Police Command confirming a bandit assault at Dogon Fili near Katari. However, the abduction of travelers remained unaddressed by the authorities.

Mansir Hassan, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, revealed that security forces engaged the terrorists in a fierce battle, forcing the criminals to scatter in different directions. Regrettably, some travelers ended up caught in the crossfire, sustaining gunshot injuries.

Among the injured were Jibrin Tasiu (27), Jummai Abubakar (20), Zafira Abubakar (11), AbdulKarim Nurudeen (two), Chinedu Jerry Moneke (37), and Ayo James (42), all swiftly rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention.

Despite the police describing the incident as an “unfortunate isolated event,” on-the-ground investigations painted a grimmer picture, with over 30 travelers confirmed abducted. Another 55 individuals fell victim in Badoko, Dudumishini, and Kwakware villages, prompting urgent calls from Yohana Sarki, the District Head of Bishini, for increased security measures.

Residents and village leaders revealed that the attackers, identified as foreigners speaking the Fulani language, first blocked the highway, abducting unsuspecting travelers heading to Abuja. Prior to this, the criminals had raided villages, taking numerous locals hostage and leaving a trail of casualties.

Expressing concern over the government’s efforts, Sarki urged authorities to deploy additional security personnel despite the current military presence, emphasizing the need for a more robust response to curb the escalating attacks.

As the region grapples with the aftermath, Chief Imam Suleiman Mohammed of Katari Central Mosque confirmed the severity of the situation, stating that approximately 30 travelers were forcibly taken by the bandits during the Sunday attack. While the terrorists typically contact individual homes for ransom, uncertainty looms over whether they will pursue the same course of action for the abducted travelers. The incident underscores the pressing need for enhanced security measures to safeguard the lives of those traveling along this vital highway.

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Aliko Dangote is back on top as Africa’s wealthiest individual, regaining his position on Forbes Africa’s billionaire list. Last week, Johann Rupert briefly held the title, but Dangote, the leader of Dangote Group, has now reclaimed his spot. On the global stage, Dangote holds the 191st position, with Rupert following closely at 197th. The dynamic shifts in rankings highlight the competitive landscape among Africa’s business moguls.

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ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, is in discussions with potential buyers, including Chinese tech giant Tencent, to offload its gaming subsidiary, Nuverse, a move aimed at streamlining its focus amid fierce competition in the gaming industry.

ByteDance had once positioned Nuverse as a key player in challenging Tencent’s dominance in the global gaming scene. However, ongoing talks suggest ByteDance’s willingness to divest from its gaming assets, marking a strategic shift.

The spokesperson, who shared this information on Tuesday, revealed that efforts to finalize a deal are still in progress, keeping details confidential.

This development follows ByteDance’s significant downsizing of its gaming division last November, involving substantial layoffs. The decision to scale back came after Nuverse fell short of the anticipated commercial success since its launch in 2019.

China, being the world’s largest gaming market, sees Tencent as a major industry player and one of the country’s leading media conglomerates, contributing significantly to the $42.2 billion gaming sector in 2023.

However, Tencent faces challenges as Chinese authorities tighten regulations on gaming, particularly for younger players. Recent restrictions limit online gaming for those under 18 to specific time slots on designated days, with additional limitations during the Spring Festival Holiday, enforced through a real-name verification system linked to national ID cards.

In a WeChat post on Tuesday, Tencent explained these rules, expressing a desire for both adults and children to engage in gaming with self-discipline.

Beijing recently hinted at potential revisions to newly drafted online gaming rules, responding to concerns about in-game purchases and obsessive gaming behavior, which had triggered a sell-off in major tech stocks.

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The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has ruled against the extended detention of former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele, deeming it a blatant violation of his rights.

The court has imposed a hefty N100 million fine on both the Federal Government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Additionally, it has prohibited them from re-arresting or detaining Emefiele without a valid court order.

Emefiele, who faced arrest on June 10 following his suspension by President Bola Tinubu, endured a lengthy period in custody. Despite being arraigned on illegal firearms charges and granted bail in July 2023, the Department of State Services (DSS) re-arrested him on the court premises in a clash with correctional center warders.

Released by the DSS on October 26 after nearly five months in custody, Emefiele was swiftly taken into custody by the EFCC until November 8. The court judgment, delivered by Justice Olukayode Adeniyi, emphasized the violation of Emefiele’s fundamental rights to personal liberty.

Justice Adeniyi declared, “It is hereby declared that the actions…constitutes a flagrant violation of the applicant’s fundamental rights to personal liberty.” He awarded N100 million in damages against the government and EFCC jointly.

The judgment also restrained the authorities from re-arresting or detaining Emefiele without a court order. Justice Adeniyi criticized the questionable remand warrants obtained by the EFCC and stressed the need to halt the practice of arresting suspects before a thorough investigation.

Reacting to the judgment, the EFCC expressed dissatisfaction, announcing their intention to appeal. The agency argued that the decision did not consider Emefiele’s detention with a valid court order and pledged to approach the Court of Appeal to set aside the ruling.

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Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, either due to a blockage or the rupture of a blood vessel. It is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Fortunately, many strokes can be prevented through lifestyle changes and proactive health management. In this article, we will explore various strategies and habits that can significantly reduce the risk of stroke.

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet:
– Emphasize Fruits and Vegetables: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall cardiovascular health. Aim for a variety of colors to ensure a diverse range of nutrients.
– Choose Whole Grains: opt for whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat, which are rich in fiber and can help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
– Limit Saturated and Trans Fats:Reduce the intake of saturated and trans fats found in fried foods, processed snacks, and fatty cuts of meat. Replace them with healthier fats like those found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight:
– Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. This can help control weight, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
-Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises at least twice a week to improve muscle mass, metabolism, and enhance overall physical fitness.

3. Manage Blood Pressure:
-Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your blood pressure regularly, and work with your healthcare provider to maintain it within the recommended range (usually below 120/80 mm Hg).

– Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Reduce salt intake, limit alcohol consumption, quit smoking, and manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga.

4. Manage Cholesterol Levels:
– Choose Healthy Fats: Focus on unsaturated fats found in fish, nuts, and olive oil. Limit saturated and trans fats that contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.
– High-Fiber Foods: Include soluble fiber in your diet, such as oats, beans, fruits, and vegetables, to help lower cholesterol levels.

5. Control Diabetes:
– Healthy Eating: Follow a balanced diet that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Monitor carbohydrate intake and choose complex carbohydrates over simple sugars.
– Regular Exercise: Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing diabetes. Consult with a healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective exercise plan.

6. Quit Smoking:
– Immediate Benefits: Quitting smoking has immediate health benefits, including a reduced risk of stroke. Seek support from friends, family, or smoking cessation programs to increase your chances of success.

7. Limit Alcohol Consumption:
– Moderation is Key: If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation. For most adults, this means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

8. Regular Health Check-ups:
– Monitor Overall Health: Regular check-ups with healthcare providers help monitor and manage risk factors for stroke. Discuss your family history, lifestyle choices, and any concerns you may have.

Preventing strokes involves adopting a holistic approach to health that includes a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and the management of key risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. By making positive lifestyle changes and prioritizing cardiovascular health, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing a stroke and enjoy a longer, healthier life. It is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance based on individual health needs and conditions.

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Glo subscribers are set to face disruptions in making calls to MTN lines as a consequence of unresolved interconnect charges. This revelation comes directly from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as stated in a public notice signed by Reuben Muoka, Director of the Public Affairs Department.

The NCC, in its notice on Monday, informed the public that it has given partial approval for disconnecting Glo from MTN Nigeria Communications Plc. The commission disclosed, “Globacom was notified of the application made by MTN and was given the opportunity to comment and state its case.”

After a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the non-payment of interconnect charges, the NCC concluded that Globacom lacks sufficient or justifiable reasons for the outstanding debt. Consequently, at the end of 10 days from the notice date, Glo subscribers will lose the ability to make calls to MTN numbers. However, they will still be able to receive calls, with the partial disconnection allowing in-bound calls to the Globacom network.

This isn’t the first instance of Glo subscribers facing disconnection due to interconnect charge issues with MTN. In 2019, MTN briefly disconnected Glo subscribers following a directive from the NCC over a N4bn debt. The NCC had previously approved the disconnection of mobile network operators for unpaid interconnect debts.

The total disconnect fee in the industry back then amounted to about N165bn. In the current situation, a source from MTN indicates that Glo owes approximately N6bn in interconnect fees. Despite efforts to obtain Glo’s reaction, the company has yet to comment on the issue.

As of the end of August 2023, Glo boasted 61.39 million mobile subscriptions. However, according to the latest NCC notice, starting from January 18, 2024, these lines will no longer be able to make calls to MTN lines. The move underscores the critical need for telecom operators to settle interconnect charges promptly to avoid disruptions in service.

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President Bola Tinubu has swiftly suspended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Betta Edu, following public outrage over an alleged N585 million scandal. The move aligns with Tinubu’s commitment to upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in managing Nigeria’s resources.

The suspension was announced by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Ajuri Ngelale, who emphasized Tinubu’s dedication to high standards in governance. Tinubu had ordered a thorough investigation into the scandal on Sunday and promised decisive punishment for any wrongdoing uncovered.

Various groups, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, Femi Falana, SAN, the Yoruba Youth Assembly, and other civil society groups, called for an impartial probe into a leaked memo allegedly instructing the Accountant-General of the Federation to transfer N585m to a private bank account. The memo, attributed to Minister Betta Edu, claimed the payment was for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states.

Minister Edu defended the payment, stating that it was legal within civil service norms to deposit funds into private accounts of staff members, particularly project accountants. Despite her denial, the suspension underscores the seriousness with which the government is treating the allegations.

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