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NCDC identifies two suspected Ebola cases in North-East Nigeria

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has identified two suspected cases of Ebola disease in Nigeria’s North-East region, with both individuals isolated as laboratory testing is conducted.

The agency disclosed this in an update posted on X on Saturday, adding that contact identification and listing were ongoing.

The NCDC clarified that the classification of the individuals as suspected cases does not mean they have been confirmed to have Ebola, stressing that confirmation is subject to laboratory results.

It advised Nigerians to maintain good hand hygiene, practise enhanced sanitation and follow guidance from public health authorities.

The agency said further updates would be provided as verified information becomes available.

Nigeria recorded an imported case of Ebola involving an Ugandan-born woman who travelled to Nigeria after visiting Uganda.

The patient, identified as the wife of a Swiss diplomat, tested positive for the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.

The patient and her husband were subsequently evacuated to Switzerland for further care and monitoring.

The federal government has targeted December to be declared Ebola free, meanwhile, the Health Organisation said Nigeria would need to complete a 42-day monitoring period without additional confirmed or probable cases before it could be declared free of the disease.

Mandaue to pilot Metro Cebu sewerage system

Mandaue City has been identified as the pilot area for the initial implementation of a centralized sewerage system in Metro Cebu to be undertaken by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Stakeholders gathered in Mandaue City on Thursday, October 29, 2026, for the presentation of the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) for the first phase of the proposed sewerage system in the Mandaue Service Area. The record of discussions for the project was signed in April 2024.

The proposed centralized sewerage treatment facility will be located at the Mandaue Green Learning Center Park in Barangay Umapad.

JICA, in partnership with Hydronet Consultants, conducted a feasibility study that identified Mandaue as the most viable area to begin developing a sewerage treatment system that could eventually cover Metro Cebu.

IEE consultant Dr. Danilo Jaque emphasized the need for a centralized sewerage system, citing the pollution of bodies of water across Metro Cebu caused by untreated wastewater.

He said the absence of adequate facilities for treating domestic wastewater allows waste to flow directly into drainage systems and eventually reach creeks and rivers.

‘That reflects that we do not have a proper treatment system. Ngayon para ma-cover na lahat, dapat i-collect na lang yan sa isang sewerage line that goes to a treatment facility,’ he said.

Jaque said the long-term plan is to establish a system that would collect and treat wastewater from eight local government units (LGUs) across Metro Cebu, extending from Compostela in northern Cebu to Talisay City in the south and including the Mactan islands.

For the initial phase, however, the project will focus on Mandaue City, with four barangays identified as priority areas—Maguikay, Alang-Alang, Ibabao-Estancia and Casuntingan.

The proposed main sewer pipelines will run along UN Avenue, Plaridel Street, M.C. Briones Street and M.L. Quezon Avenue.

Mandaue was selected as the pilot area based on several factors, including environmental impact, financial viability, land availability and the city’s receptiveness to the project.

Phikkoei International Inc. Water Department Manager Deguchi Yosuke, a Japanese consultant for JICA, said Cebu currently has no centralized sewerage system serving the entire city.

While some establishments operate modular wastewater treatment plants, these facilities do not constitute a centralized sewerage network serving the wider community, he said.

Another consultant Joan Jaque also said the proposed system is expected to improve water quality, particularly in Cebu.

‘If everybody connects to it and everything will be treated, that’s the goal,’ she said.

However, completing a centralized sewerage system for the entire Metro Cebu is projected to take around 80 years, while the initial phase covering Mandaue City is expected to take seven to eight years.

‘We are hoping to start,’ the consultant said.

The proposed system will collect wastewater from industrial, commercial and domestic sources for treatment.

At the end of the pre-feasibility study, project proponents will determine which agency will oversee construction, along with the financing arrangements and potential funding sources.

The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) is currently serving as the executing agency for the study.

The next stage will involve preparing a master plan, followed by a feasibility study to determine the implementing agency for the actual construction.

MCWD received a grant from JICA to conduct the study. Based on the initial assessment of Metro Cebu, Mandaue ranked first among the priority areas selected for the pre-feasibility study.

Under the proposed arrangement, Mandaue City will provide the land for the treatment facility.

During the open forum, business sector representatives, including members of the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), welcomed the initiative, noting that the city’s industrial base and concentration of large establishments underscore the need for a centralized system.

However, the chamber said guidelines should be established for businesses that already operate their own wastewater treatment facilities, particularly regarding how they could connect to the proposed network.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 7 Maintenance Division Chief Engr. Faustino Dela Cruz Jr. said the agency hopes to receive the complete engineering design and layout once the master plan is finalized.

This would allow the DPWH to coordinate with project proponents, particularly on pipeline sections that may pass through national roads and highways under its jurisdiction, he said.

For the city government, City Planning and Development Office head Architect Marlo Ocleasa welcomed the proposal, describing it as a positive step toward improving Mandaue’s environmental conditions.

‘We are hoping to implement this pilot project,’ Ocleasa said.

Jaque said feedback gathered from stakeholders during the consultations would be considered as the project progresses.

‘Everybody understands that there is really a need for this kind of project. It’s just a matter of educating people for a better appreciation of the project and for them to see the benefit of this,’ she said.

Pastors are neither magicians nor govt

Businessman Frank Gashumba has challenged Ugandan apostles, prophets and generally Pentecostal pastors to walk into the Intensive Care Units of hospitals and heal the sick. Mr Gashumba promises to part with more than Shs200 million for any pastor who can pull off this miracle.

Gashumba, who frames the men and women of God as certified crooks, is questioning their contribution to national development. Many Ugandans have joined Gashumba’s taunting of pastors, demanding specific signs and wonders as proof of their relevance to society.

We, the Anglicans, Catholics, Muslims and atheists, seem excited to not only contribute to the sarcasm against the pastors but also scandalise the debate. Whereas Gashumba and his ilk chest thump as doing the Lord’s work in calling out pastors, they are only calling on the pastors to become magicians. It is the magicians who pull off stunts for entertainment and profit. We have, nonetheless, seen some pastors who have turned the ministry of evangelism into entertainment and trade. It is, therefore, unsurprising that pastors are being dragged to pull off stunts as though they were magicians.

Pastors find themselves in a similar place Jesus Christ found himself when he entered Galilee. The Sadducees and Pharisees approached Jesus demanding a miracle to prove his authority (Matthew 12: 38). Jesus’ response was that only an evil and adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign.

To the extent that Biblical theology imagines one’s relationship with God as a marriage covenant, Jesus’ response indicated that only men and women whose relationship with God was questionable could ask him for a miracle. Jesus refused to perform the miracle.

Several pastors have, however, responded to Gashumba’s challenge with fury. The fury, much like Gashumba’s frustration, is misguided. If Gashumba truly feels for the unbearably sick in Ugandan hospitals, the right question to ask should be whether, as a country, we are doing enough to guarantee quality health care services to our citizens.

Gashumba’s critique is punctuated with a political disingenuity which scapegoats pastors for the failures of our health system. Pastors are not a government. It is government that is expected to safeguard society from different afflictions of life. Gashumba is thus behaving like the Jewish Zealots who only imagined Jesus as a political messiah who would overthrow the Roman Empire for them.

The pastors are, however, also failing to realise that Gashumba’s challenge emerges from a deep-rooted theological waywardness.

Gashumba, who began his critique of pastors with a reaffirmation of his Christianity, is winding it up with a celebratory revelation of how prominent traditional spiritualists are in defence of him. If the major calling of any Christian worth the identity is to make disciples of all nations, Gashumba is making disrupters of all disciples and bragging about it. Gashumba ought to be reminded that when pastors perform miracles, the act is supposed to only be part of bringing glory to God, not to prove anything about the pastors.

Of course, some pastors perform miracles and take all the glory away from God. These pastors turn churchgoers into their own followers instead of followers of Christ. The pastors’ conscription of Christians into their own followers has generated an unhealthy competition among them as though they were not working for the same cause of winning souls for Jesus Christ.

During the time Jesus walked the earth, the temptation for His Apostles to compete among themselves was also alive. On one occasion in the village of Capernaum, Jesus overheard His disciples debating who among themselves was the greatest. Jesus assured them that the greatest among them was he who was willing to take the last place and be a servant of everyone else (Mark 9: 33 – 35). The pastors thus ought not only to shun Gashumba’s invitation to a performance of their pride but also to manifest the fruits of the Spirit of God.

Subjects we find interesting in school

Students have a wide range of interests in the subjects they are taught at school. This interest, if sustained, helps them to develop a love for the subjects, even beyond secondary school. OLANIYAN LUKMAN spoke to some Ibadan secondary school students about the subjects they find interesting and why. Their views.

Samson Badmus, 15 years old

The English topic I find most interesting is essay writing. I enjoy learning about it because it teaches me how to express my thoughts and ideas clearly through writing. I learned that an essay consists of three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. The introduction presents the topic, the body explains the main points, and the conclusion summarises the essay. I also learned how to organise my ideas, use correct grammar, and arrange sentences into meaningful paragraphs. This topic has helped me improve my writing skills and build my confidence in English.

Olatunji Muheez, 13years old

The biology topic I find interesting is learning about living things and how they function. I enjoy biology because it helps me understand more about plants, animals, and the human body. Biology is the study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. It is also about the different parts of living things, how they grow, reproduce, and survive. Biology increases my knowledge of nature and how our bodies work. It also helps me understand the importance of taking care of our health, protecting the environment, and appreciating the world around me.

Peter Akiola, 14 years old

The new topic I was taught and found interesting is Agriculture. It is interesting because it teaches about farming, growing crops, and rearing animals. I learned that agriculture provides food, raw materials, and employment opportunities for people. I also learned about the importance of soil preparation, planting, irrigation, and harvesting. Agriculture is important because it helps to feed people and contributes to the development of the economy.

Olaniyan Hassan, 12 years old

The new topic I find interesting is Computer Science because it teaches about computers, technology, and how they work. I learned that computers help us solve problems, communicate with others, store information, and perform different tasks. I also learned that computer science involves programming, software development, and problem-solving. This topic increased my interest in technology and helped me understand the importance of computers in our daily lives.

Peter Success, 14 years old

The new topic I find interesting is Economics. I found this topic interesting because it taught me how people use their resources to satisfy their needs and wants. I learned about demand and supply, production, consumption, and the importance of money. I also learned how individuals, businesses, and governments make economic decisions. This topic helped me understand how the economy works and how economics affects our daily lives. I hope to learn more about this subject in the future.

Aishat Olaniyan, 15 years old

I find Mathematics interesting because it solves problems using numbers, formulas, and calculations. I learned about addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and algebra. I also learned that mathematics helps us develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Mathematics is important in our daily lives because we use it when counting money, measuring things, shopping, and calculating time.

Sharp Philippines welcomes Sharp Corporation CEO on First Stop of ASEAN Tour

The CEO and President of Sharp Corporation, Mr. Tetsuji Kawamura, visited the company’s local operations, meeting with employees and gaining firsthand insights into its operations. The visit brought together employees and colleagues joining remotely from Sharp Philippines branches in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The program began with a tour of the factory. During the visit, the CEO had the opportunity to see the local operations firsthand and meet employees at the site. The tour also set the stage for the day’s discussions, which focused on bringing the company’s leadership and employees together.

Following the factory tour, employees gathered for a town hall meeting. A total of 190 employees attended in person, while 131 branch employees from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao took part via Zoom. The hybrid setup enabled employees in different locations to participate in the same event and share in the opportunity to hear from the CEO.

The town hall brought together colleagues from the factory and regional branches, creating a shared space for engagement across Sharp Philippines. By combining an in-person gathering with online participation, the meeting connected employees beyond the local site and reflected the company’s nationwide presence.

At the town hall, Mr. Kawamura shared his priorities for renewed growth, stronger corporate communication, and closer relationships with employees and customers. He emphasized decisive action, strong execution, openness, and learning from mistakes, while encouraging employees to uphold Sharp’s values of sincerity and creativity. He also highlighted opportunities in physical AI, AI servers, and satellite communications, and described the Philippines as a promising market for future growth. Amid current business challenges, he urged employees to stay focused on their targets and seek improvement in every peso.

Mr. Ted Kawamura also outlined five key leadership principles to strengthen communication, accountability, and teamwork across the organization. He encouraged employees to (1)practice an open-door policy, (2)communicate bad news promptly, and (3)take immediate action to address challenges. He also emphasized the importance of (4)seeking support from headquarters when needed and (5)not being afraid of failure. Through these principles, Mr. Kawamura reinforced the value of transparency, proactive problem-solving, and continuous learning in driving the company forward.

During a roundtable discussion with 30 selected employees, Mr. Kawamura reflected on his international career and shared his leadership philosophy. He encouraged employees to build respectful relationships, pursue clear goals, make timely decisions, learn from setbacks, maintain personal well-being, and prepare for future responsibilities by thinking beyond their current roles.

The gathering featured a Filipino fiesta theme, with food inspired by local celebrations. Its informal setting gave participants the opportunity to connect with the CEO and share their perspectives in a smaller group.

From the factory tour to the nationwide town hall and employee roundtable, the visit included several ways for employees to engage with the CEO and with one another. The activities brought together employees from different roles and locations, while highlighting the importance of connection across Sharp Philippines’ operations and branches.

The visit reaffirmed Sharp Philippines’ commitment to open communication, employee engagement, and collective efforts toward sustainable growth.

Flower prices go up in Bohol ahead of Undas

Flower prices in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, have increased by around P10 to P30 ahead of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, or Undas, prompting vendors to offer bundled arrangements as more affordable options for customers.

A bundle that previously cost P75 now sells for P100, while a P100 bundle has increased to P200. Arrangements previously priced at P300 now cost P500 and include assorted flowers in different colors and a container.

Chrysanthemums, Malaysian mums, roses and anthuriums remain among the most popular choices among buyers. Evelyn Estomata, 46, said the flowers were sourced from Cebu, Manila and Baguio. Some vendors also said that certain varieties, including button mums, were imported from China.

Despite the price increases, customers continue to buy flowers to bring to cemeteries in remembrance of their departed loved ones.

Estomata said flowers and candles are traditional symbols of love, respect and remembrance, helping families honor those who have passed away.

‘Bringing flowers and candles is a core way to connect with family members who have passed away,’ she said.

Some customers have also started buying flowers early to avoid the expected crowds in the coming days.

Vendors said prices could increase further on Nov. 1 as demand for flowers is expected to rise.

Ondo APC youths demand review of disputed resolution against Dayo Israel

Youth wings of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State have demanded a review of the disputed resolution purportedly passed against the party’s National Youth Leader, Dr Dayo Israel, insisting that it lacks the mandate and endorsement of APC youths in the state.

The Coalition of APC Youth Wings, comprising the APC Mandate Group, APC Youth Vanguard, APC Youth Volunteers and APC Youths Advocates, made the demand in a statement issued on Tuesday after an emergency meeting held in Akure.

In the statement signed by its National Coordinator, Success Adeniken, the coalition said the purported vote of no confidence against Dr Israel was unauthorised and did not represent the collective will of APC youths in Ondo State.

‘We categorically dissociate the entire APC youth structure in Ondo State from any purported vote of no confidence allegedly passed against Dr Dayo Israel. Such an action neither represents the collective will of APC youths in Ondo State nor enjoys our endorsement or support.’

The coalition called on the party leadership to review and disregard the disputed resolution, warning that allowing it to stand would set a dangerous precedent for internal democracy and discipline within the youth wing.

It subsequently passed a resounding vote of confidence in Dr Israel, saying that under his leadership, the youth wing had experienced measurable growth, improved organisation and greater national visibility.

‘He has remained a consistent source of inspiration, guidance and strategic direction to young party members across the federation. We affirm our unwavering loyalty and support for his continued leadership,’ it added.

Conversely, the group passed a vote of no confidence in the Ondo State APC Youth Leader, Mr Opeyemi Adedeji, accusing him of acting without the mandate, consultation or backing of the overwhelming majority of APC youths in the state.

The coalition alleged that the disputed action was financially induced, claiming that an undisclosed sum in foreign currency had been received to orchestrate and fuel a crisis against the National Youth Leader.

‘These allegations, if true, constitute a grave betrayal of trust and a serious act of indiscipline within the party,’ it stated.

It therefore demanded the immediate suspension of Adedeji as State Youth Leader, the prompt appointment of an Acting State Youth Leader pending a transparent process, and a full investigation into the alleged financial inducement and unauthorised vote.

The coalition urged APC youth structures in other states to rise in defence of internal democracy, discipline and the integrity of the party’s youth leadership.

‘Those who seek to destabilise the party for personal or pecuniary gain must be held accountable.

‘The Coalition of APC Youth Wings in Ondo State remains committed to the progress, unity and electoral success of the All Progressives Congress. We will continue to defend the party against all forms of internal sabotage,’ it added.

Osun: Tompolo donates 30 vehicles for Tinubu’s re-election campaign

President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign received a major boost in Osun State on Saturday as Governor Ademola Adeleke, the National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, joined other political stakeholders to inaugurate 10,000 grassroots canvassers. Niger Delta businessman, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, also donated 30 vehicles to support the mobilisation.

The initiative, organised under the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, was inaugurated at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo, with political leaders and supporters from different political affiliations participating in the exercise.

The movement is targeting massive electoral support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with its promoters expressing confidence that Osun could deliver at least 90 per cent of the votes cast in the state for the President.

Governor Adeleke, who was represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, urged members of the Accord Party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his supporters to set aside political differences and work towards Tinubu’s re-election.

Adewusi’s appeal underscored the cross-party nature of the mobilisation exercise, which brought together political actors from different camps in support of the President’s second-term ambition.

Also speaking, the National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru, listed the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), infrastructure development, increased allocations to state and local governments, and efforts to improve the economy among the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

Basiru urged Osun residents to support the President’s second-term ambition, expressing optimism that the door-to-door mobilisation strategy would strengthen his electoral prospects in the state.

Meanwhile, Oyetola, who was represented by the 2026 APC governorship candidate in Osun, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, described the inauguration as evidence of growing political commitment and organisational strength behind Tinubu’s re-election project.

The former Osun governor commended Tompolo for supporting the nationwide mobilisation initiative, saying the increasing visibility of the President’s re-election campaign across the South-West required political leaders in the region to intensify efforts to secure overwhelming support for him.

Oyetola expressed confidence that Osun could deliver 1.5 million votes for Tinubu in 2027, provided party members and supporters remained united and committed to the mobilisation exercise.

He, however, cautioned the canvassers against hypocrisy, political pretence and complacency, urging them to demonstrate sincerity and dedication in carrying out their responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, Comrade Sunday Adekanbi, called on eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that increased voter registration and participation would be critical to achieving the movement’s target of two million votes from Osun.

Representing Tompolo, the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Dr Kestin Pondi, announced the donation of 30 vehicles fitted with public address systems, generators and amplifiers to facilitate grassroots mobilisation across the state.

Pondi explained that the vehicles were intended to strengthen the movement’s operations and enable its members to reach more communities in their campaign for Tinubu’s re-election.

He said the movement supported the President because of its confidence in his reform agenda, arguing that the administration’s economic policies were beginning to attract investments into the country.

The Tantita chief executive challenged political leaders and supporters in Osun to work towards delivering at least 90 per cent of the votes cast in the state for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

In his remarks, the Osun State Coordinator of the movement, Rtr. Amb. Adeolu Olanrewaju, assured the national leadership that the state chapter would take the campaign to households and communities across the state to persuade eligible voters to support the President.

Stephanie Divine: The Nigerian woman taking on the business intelligence challenge with Marketbrain OS

In an industry where women are still fighting for greater visibility, Nigerian entrepreneur Stephanie Divine is building her own place in technology. Her ambition is bold: to create a platform that helps businesses make smarter decisions, improve their marketing and compete with greater confidence.

Behind every successful business are hundreds of decisions that never make the headlines. Which customers should it target? Which marketing campaign deserves the budget? Why are potential customers leaving without buying? And how can a business owner know whether an idea is worth pursuing before investing precious resources in it?

For many entrepreneurs, answering these questions means hours of research, expensive consultations, trial and error, and, sometimes, costly mistakes. For Stephanie Divine, this was more than a business problem. It was a challenge she had experienced herself-and one she believed technology could help solve.

That conviction became the foundation of Marketbrain OS, a technology platform she founded to help businesses approach marketing and business decisions with greater clarity.

Divine, who hails from Lagos, Nigeria, and currently lives in Germany, is the founder and chief executive officer of Marketbrain OS. Having spent much of her time building away from the public spotlight, she is now bringing the platform to a wider audience, introducing her work to entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals who face similar challenges.

Her story is not one of overnight success. It is the story of a founder who identified a problem, decided to work on a solution and committed herself to building something she believes could make a meaningful difference to how businesses operate.

A Woman with a Bigger Vision

Technology has created extraordinary opportunities, but visibility, access to resources and recognition remain important challenges for many women building businesses in the sector. For women entering fields that have historically been male-dominated, establishing credibility can demand persistence as well as technical and commercial ability.

Divine is entering that landscape on her own terms.

Rather than building her public identity around recognition alone, she is putting a product at the centre of her entrepreneurial journey. Her approach is grounded in a simple belief: useful technology should solve real problems, and the people who build it should remain focused on the needs of those who will use it.

Those who know her describe a personality marked by kindness, warmth, a strong instinct for problem-solving and a particular attention to detail. She is not someone who is easily satisfied with work that could be better. That desire to improve things has become part of the thinking behind Marketbrain OS.

For Divine, the challenge is not merely to launch a technology product. It is to build a business that earns its place in the daily operations of the people it serves.

Turning a Personal Challenge into a Business

The idea behind Marketbrain OS began with Divine’s own experience of trying to make business decisions without always having the right information or analytical support readily available.

She recognised that the problem was not unique to her. Small-business owners, entrepreneurs and marketing professionals frequently have to make important decisions while juggling limited budgets, tight deadlines and competing priorities.

Some struggle to identify the right message for their customers. Others spend money promoting products before adequately evaluating their marketing approach. Many have good ideas but lack the time or resources to examine those ideas thoroughly.

Divine saw an opportunity to address part of this problem by developing tools that could help users examine their options before committing resources.

Marketbrain OS, available at www.marketbrainos.app, offers specialised tools for evaluating marketing ideas, comparing advertising messages and identifying weaknesses in landing pages and marketing materials.

Its AngleMiner X tool helps users explore marketing angles and audience motivations. TestLab Pro compares different versions of marketing messages and assesses their relative strengths, while Conversion Doctor Elite examines landing pages and marketing copy to identify potential obstacles to conversion.

The platform’s website lists 14 tools across five suites covering marketing, sales, strategy and operations. It is designed to serve individuals, small businesses, agencies and teams, with a free entry tier and a paid Pro plan.

These tools are intended to give users a more structured way to examine their marketing decisions. They do not guarantee campaign success, but they offer another layer of analysis before businesses commit time and money to execution.

For a founder concerned with efficiency, that distinction matters. The objective is to help people think through their decisions more carefully, not to suggest that technology can eliminate uncertainty from business.

Building Through the Difficult Parts

The public launch is only one part of Divine’s story. Behind the product is the less visible work of trying to turn an idea into a functioning business.

Funding is one of the realities she has had to contend with. Building also requires time-time that must be taken from other responsibilities, including family life and personal commitments. The sacrifices are not always dramatic or visible, but they accumulate through long hours, difficult choices and the pressure of keeping a project moving when resources are limited.

For Divine, perfection is an aspiration, but building a business also requires learning when to make progress, listen to feedback and continue improving. A product cannot grow if it remains hidden from the people it was created to serve.

That is why bringing Marketbrain OS into the public eye represents an important step. It opens the door to conversations with potential users, gives people an opportunity to explore the product and allows the company to learn from the businesses it hopes to help.

It also introduces Divine herself to a wider audience-not as a personality seeking attention, but as an entrepreneur asking people to examine what she has built.

The Ambition Goes Beyond Marketing

Divine’s long-term vision for Marketbrain OS is considerably larger than its current collection of tools.

She wants it to become a go-to operating system for businesses: a central destination where people can access the intelligence and resources they need to understand problems, assess opportunities and make decisions.

The ambition is to make Marketbrain OS for business what widely used digital platforms have become for other everyday needs: a familiar place people turn to when they need answers, tools and direction.

Achieving that goal will require sustained product development, dependable performance, a strong understanding of customer needs and the trust of businesses that choose to rely on the platform. It is an ambitious undertaking in a competitive market, but it gives the company a clear direction as it begins to grow.

Divine also wants access to useful business intelligence to be economically realistic. Her vision includes individuals and small teams, not only large enterprises with the budgets to engage expensive consultants or maintain extensive research departments.

That focus could become an important part of the company’s identity as it develops and learns which needs it can serve most effectively.

A Nigerian Founder Looking Beyond Borders

Divine’s journey from Lagos to Germany also reflects the increasingly international nature of entrepreneurship. Ideas can originate in one country, be developed in another and serve customers across several markets.

For Nigerian founders, this creates an opportunity to participate in the global technology economy by developing products around problems they understand and experiences they have lived.

It also brings responsibility. Ambition must be matched by delivery, and a compelling vision must eventually be supported by results. For Marketbrain OS, the next stage will be defined by how well its tools serve users, how effectively the company responds to feedback and whether it can establish a sustainable place in the market.

Divine is now inviting entrepreneurs, business owners and technology enthusiasts to discover the platform and follow its development.

Her public journey is just beginning, but the intention behind it is clear: build something useful, make it accessible to more people and keep improving it.

For a woman choosing to build in a competitive technology landscape, that is a statement of intent in itself.

Stephanie Divine is not asking the world to celebrate a finished success story. She is opening the doors to a business she believes can grow into something significant-and giving people the opportunity to be part of that journey.

’Saving a Tomorrow’: National responsibility beyond saving money

Saving for the future is one of the most valuable financial and social habits that individuals can cultivate. It is not merely a matter of managing money; rather, it is a fundamental principle that determines the financial security of individuals, the stability of families, the resilience of communities and the long-term economic prosperity of a nation. However, in the face of the economic, social and environmental challenges confronting the world today, the time has come to broaden our traditional understanding of thrift and redefine its relevance to the contemporary society.

Traditionally, thrift has been understood as the practice of setting aside a portion of one’s earnings to meet future needs. While this principle remains as important as ever, we now live in a world where financial security alone cannot guarantee a safe and prosperous future. A future without clean water, a healthy environment, adequate food, sustainable energy, natural resources and biodiversity cannot be considered secure, regardless of the financial wealth we may accumulate.

Therefore, the most important question we must ask ourselves today is not simply how much money we are saving for our children, but how much of the world we are preserving for them to inherit. It is with this broader understanding of our responsibility towards future generations that the National Savings Bank has selected ‘Saving a Tomorrow’ as the national theme for the Thrift Month 2026.

Our intention is to extend the meaning of thrift beyond financial savings to encompass environmental conservation, the responsible utilisation of natural resources, energy efficiency, sustainable consumption and the preservation of our national heritage. More importantly, we seek to establish thrift as a shared national responsibility that requires the active participation of every individual, institution and community.

Thrift and future of the national economy

Domestic savings play a fundamental role in strengthening the economic stability and long-term development of a nation. Savings accumulated by individuals and households become an important source of financial resources that can be channeled through the banking system towards national investment, entrepreneurship, housing development and other productive economic activities.

When an individual develops the habit of saving, it strengthens personal financial security. When that habit becomes deeply rooted throughout society, it contributes to the resilience and stability of the country’s financial system. For a developing economy such as Sri Lanka, strengthening domestic savings is particularly important in supporting sustainable economic development.

Having experienced significant economic challenges in recent years, our country must place renewed emphasis on financial discipline, responsible consumption, prudent financial management and long-term planning. However, thrift should never be misunderstood as the complete restriction of consumption or the denial of essential needs.

Rather, it is the ability to identify priorities, distinguish between needs and wants, and utilise available resources intelligently and productively. Living within one’s means, managing unnecessary expenditure, maintaining responsible borrowing practices and systematically saving for future requirements are essential elements of financial thrift. The same principles are equally applicable to the way we utilise our natural resources.

By consuming responsibly, minimising waste and encouraging the reuse of resources, we can generate benefits not only for individual households but also for the wider national economy.

Protecting the environment is also an investment for tomorrow

Climate change, rising global temperatures, water scarcity, deforestation, environmental pollution and the loss of biodiversity are among the most pressing challenges faced by humanity today. These challenges cannot be separated from economic development. Changes in environmental conditions directly affect agriculture, food security, public health, infrastructure, energy requirements and overall economic productivity.

The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognises that economic progress, social wellbeing and environmental protection are interconnected dimensions of sustainable development. In particular, the Sustainable Development Goals relating to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, and climate action are closely aligned with the message we seek to communicate through this year’s Thrift Month. One of the most important principles we must recognise is that environmental protection is not the responsibility of governments and environmental organisations alone.

Every citizen has a meaningful role to play

Switching off unnecessary lights, preventing the wastage of water, reducing food waste, limiting the use of single-use plastics, segregating household waste, encouraging recycling and planting and nurturing trees are simple but effective actions through which individuals can contribute towards environmental sustainability.

Energy conservation deserves particular attention. Reducing unnecessary energy consumption can help households manage expenditure while contributing towards the efficient utilisation of national energy resources. Similarly, promoting renewable energy and improving energy efficiency are important steps towards building a more sustainable and resilient economy.

Every drop of water we conserve today, every unit of electricity we save and every tree we plant and nurture represent valuable contributions towards the wellbeing of future generations. Just as we save money in a bank account for our children, we must also preserve a healthy environment and sustainable natural resources for them to inherit. This is the broader philosophy of thrift that the National Savings Bank seeks to promote.

A new banking vision built on environmental and social responsibility

The role of banks and financial institutions is undergoing a significant transformation across the world. Today, the success of a financial institution is increasingly assessed not only through profitability, asset growth and market value, but also through its contribution towards society, environmental sustainability and responsible economic development.

Against this background, the principles of Environmental, Social and Governance responsibility, commonly referred to as ESG, have become an important consideration in modern banking. Environmental responsibility focuses on conserving natural resources, improving energy efficiency and supporting environmentally responsible practices.

Social responsibility encompasses financial inclusion, education, community development, customer protection and the wellbeing of society. Governance responsibility emphasises transparency, accountability, ethical conduct, regulatory compliance and responsible decision-making. As a national financial institution, the responsibility of the National Savings Bank extends beyond accepting deposits and providing banking services.

Having earned the trust of generations of Sri Lankans, we recognise our obligation to contribute towards the long-term development of the country, the wellbeing of society and the preservation of the environment. Strengthening financial literacy, promoting secure savings, expanding access to banking services through technology and ensuring that financial services reach every segment of society remain central to our national mission. Our initiative, themed, ‘Saving a Tomorrow’ represents an effort to translate these broader responsibilities into practical actions that can become part of the everyday lives of our people.

We believe that responsible banking must create value not only for the present generation but also for those who will inherit the future.

NSB SavingsFest 2026: Transforming the philosophy of thrift into national action

The National Savings Bank has traditionally observed October as Thrift Month, culminating in the celebration of World Thrift Day on 31 October. This year, we have sought to give the occasion a broader national significance through NSB SavingsFest 2026, organised under the theme ‘Saving a Tomorrow.’

What makes this year’s initiative particularly meaningful is our decision to move beyond conventional awareness campaigns and translate the philosophy of thrift into a series of practical, community-oriented activities. The program focuses on environmentally friendly transportation, tree planting, the conservation of water and natural resources, responsible waste management, recycling, the improvement of public spaces and the protection of our national heritage.

Through the message ‘A Ride to Save Our Trees, A Ride to Preserve Our Waterways, A Ride to Save Tomorrow,’ we intend to encourage communities to recognise that the preservation of our environment is an essential part of building a sustainable future. The main celebrations in Colombo will commence at 7.30 a.m. on Saturday, 31 October 2026, with a special cycling parade ceremonially flagged off by the Chairman of the National Savings Bank, Dr. Harsha Cabral, President’s Counsel.

Cycling has been selected as a symbolic element of this year’s program because it brings together several important principles: environmentally responsible transportation, healthier lifestyles and the efficient utilisation of resources. Promoting cycling as an alternative mode of transport, where practical and appropriate, can contribute towards reducing fuel consumption and encouraging more sustainable mobility.

Following the cycling parade, a special tree-planting program is scheduled to take place at 9.30 a.m. in the vicinity of the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. The initiative is intended to highlight the importance of urban greenery and the preservation of green spaces for future generations. Tree planting in urban environments is not merely an exercise in beautification. When appropriate species are selected and properly maintained, trees can provide shade, support biodiversity and contribute towards healthier urban surroundings.

The main NSB SavingsFest 2026 Thrift Carnival will commence at 10.30 a.m. at Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo. The carnival is designed to bring together financial awareness, environmental responsibility, local entrepreneurship and community participation within a single public platform. Trade exhibitions, stalls, environmentally friendly activities and awareness programs will provide opportunities for visitors to experience the broader meaning of thrift in a practical and engaging manner.

Emphasis will be placed on reducing unnecessary plastic consumption, promoting recycling and encouraging environmentally responsible lifestyles. We also consider the participation of children and young people especially important. By introducing the principles of thrift, financial responsibility and environmental conservation at an early age, we can help nurture a generation that is better prepared to make responsible decisions about its future.

A national environmental mission extending beyond Colombo

One of the most distinctive features of NSB SavingsFest 2026 is its islandwide character. We have deliberately extended the program beyond Colombo because environmental and social responsibility cannot be confined to a single city or region. Different parts of Sri Lanka face different environmental challenges.

Coastal communities must address issues relating to marine pollution and coastal conservation, while communities in the central highlands face challenges associated with soil erosion, the protection of water catchment areas and landslide risks. Urban communities, meanwhile, must place greater emphasis on waste management, the maintenance of public spaces and the preservation of urban greenery. Recognising these diverse needs, the National Savings Bank has organised a series of regional activities through its extensive branch and regional office network.

In the Northern Province, a cycling parade will be organised in Chunnakam, together with a tree-planting initiative along the Thalsevana coastal area in Kankesanthurai. The program is intended to promote awareness of coastal conservation and the importance of protecting vulnerable coastal ecosystems.

In the Eastern Province, cycling parades, tree-planting programs and SavingsFest activities have been planned in Batticaloa and Uhana. These initiatives seek to encourage community participation, environmentally responsible transportation and the development of greener surroundings.

In the Central Province, a cycling parade and SavingsFest carnival will be organised in Kandy to communicate the message of responsible living and environmental sustainability.

In the Northwestern Province, activities in Kurunegala will include a cycling parade and a program to improve the appearance of the Kurunegala Railway Station. This initiative carries an important message: protecting and maintaining public property is also an essential element of thrift. Public infrastructure belongs to the nation, and its proper maintenance represents responsible stewardship of national resources.

In the Southern Province, programs in Dondra and Matara will focus on recycling, responsible plastic waste management and the protection of the marine environment. Special activities have also been planned in Galle, including the cleaning and preservation of the historic Galle Fort, tree planting and SavingsFest celebrations. These initiatives reinforce the understanding that thrift is not limited to financial resources or the natural environment.

Our historical and cultural heritage is equally valuable and must be preserved for future generations.

In the Sabaragamuwa Province, environmental cleaning, tree planting and urban beautification programs will be carried out in Kegalle and Ratnapura.

In the Uva Province, activities in Badulla will focus on environmental conservation, soil erosion and community awareness of landslide risks. The common objective of these regional programs is to translate the philosophy of thrift into meaningful action according to the specific needs of each community.

From the conservation of coastal environments in the North to the preservation of historical heritage in the South, and from the protection of highland ecosystems to the improvement of urban green spaces, we are working towards one common national objective: safeguarding the future of our country.

We regard this initiative not merely as a promotional campaign conducted by a bank, but as a national message of responsibility carried to the people through a trusted financial institution.

October: A month that connects generations

The Month of October holds particular significance for the National Savings Bank. The World Children’s Day and the International Day of Older Persons are observed on 1 October, followed by the World Teachers’ Day on 5 October, World Post Day on 9 October and World Thrift Day on 31 October. Each of these occasions is closely connected with the national mission of the bank.

Children represent the future of our nation

Developing financial discipline, responsible habits and an understanding of the importance of savings from an early age is an investment in the long-term wellbeing of society. To mark the World Children’s Day this year, the National Savings Bank organised the ‘Paata Paata Hapankam’ Children’s Art Competition under the theme ‘Big Dreams Through Little Savings.’ The program provided an opportunity to recognise the children’s creativity while introducing the importance of saving for their future.

Encouraging a child to dream, appreciating their creativity and building confidence in their abilities are valuable contributions towards their development. At the same time, the knowledge, experience and wisdom of older generations must be recognised and passed on to younger members of society. Meanwhile, the older generations have played a significant role in preserving the traditional values of thrift, financial discipline and responsible living.

World Teachers’ Day also holds a special place in our institutional calendar. This year, through our islandwide network, we had the privilege of visiting schools and personally recognising the teachers for their invaluable contribution towards shaping the future of our children. Teachers play a fundamental role in developing knowledge, discipline, responsibility and positive attitudes among young people. Their contribution towards establishing a culture of thrift and responsible citizenship deserves our highest appreciation.

World Post Day is equally meaningful to the National Savings Bank. The longstanding relationship between the Bank and the Sri Lanka Postal Department represents an important chapter in the history of savings mobilisation in our country. Through the postal network, banking and savings facilities have been brought closer to communities across Sri Lanka, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. This partnership continues to demonstrate the importance of financial inclusion and equitable access to financial services.

Together, these commemorations reflect a common national objective: strengthening the culture of thrift across generations, from children to senior citizens.

Fifty-four years of national service: From a proud heritage to the future of banking

The history of the National Savings Bank is closely intertwined with the development of Sri Lanka’s savings culture. Building upon a savings heritage dating back to 1832, the National Savings Bank was established in 1972 and marks its 54th anniversary in 2026. Throughout this journey, our fundamental responsibility has remained unchanged: encouraging the people of Sri Lanka to save and strengthening their long-term financial security. The National Savings Bank occupies a unique position in the country’s financial sector, with a 100% Government guarantee on deposits and the interest payable on them. This assurance has contributed significantly towards establishing the Bank as a trusted national financial institution.

We regard the confidence placed in us by generations of Sri Lankans not merely as an institutional achievement, but as a responsibility that must be protected and strengthened.

Today, the National Savings Bank serves the country through a network of 263 branches, supported by extensive postal banking facilities. At the same time, we continue to develop modern digital banking solutions, convenient payment facilities and technology-driven services to meet the evolving financial requirements of our customers. Having secured a position among Sri Lanka’s five most valuable brands, the National Savings Bank continues to strengthen its institutional reputation and brand value.

However, our vision for the future extends beyond maintaining our traditional position as a savings institution. While preserving the fundamental values of security, trust and financial discipline, we aspire to become an increasingly modern, digitally enabled, customer-centric and future-oriented bank.

Digital banking provides opportunities for customers to save time, reduce unnecessary travel and conduct financial transactions more conveniently. It also creates opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce paper consumption and encourage more responsible resource utilisation.

Therefore, technological advancement and environmental sustainability should not be viewed as competing priorities. Rather, they are complementary dimensions of the future of responsible banking. We believe that the strength of a national financial institution must be measured not only by its financial performance but also by its ability to respond meaningfully to the changing needs of society.

Transforming thrift from a habit into a national culture

The message we seek to communicate during Thrift Month 2026 should not end with the celebrations on 31 October.

It must become a continuing philosophy that begins within the home, extends to schools and workplaces, reaches communities and ultimately becomes deeply rooted throughout the nation. As families, we must save a portion of our income for future needs while also using water, electricity and other household resources responsibly. As schools, we must develop financial literacy among children while nurturing respect for nature, responsible waste management and environmental awareness.

As institutions, we must pursue financial performance while maintaining a strong commitment to resource efficiency, ethical conduct and social responsibility. As a nation, we must pursue economic development while ensuring that our natural resources and national heritage remain available for future generations. This transformation does not necessarily begin with large investments or complex national programs. It begins with small changes in individual attitudes and behaviour.

The decision to avoid an unnecessary expense, the habit of conserving water, the commitment to keeping a public place clean and the willingness of a community to plant and nurture trees are all contributions towards the same national objective. One of the most important truths we must recognise is that the future is not simply something we inherit; it is something we create through the decisions we make today. A sustainable future cannot be achieved through policies and programs alone.

It requires a collective commitment to responsible behaviour, thoughtful consumption and respect for the resources upon which our lives depend.

Our responsibility towards the generations yet to come

Every generation aspires to leave behind a better future for its children. However, fulfilling that aspiration requires more than accumulating financial wealth, property and material assets. Our children deserve to inherit clean air, safe water, fertile land, healthy ecosystems, rich biodiversity and a proud national heritage. They must also inherit the values of financial discipline, responsible consumption, social cooperation and respect for the environment.

As the National Savings Bank, our ambition is to strengthen this broader understanding of thrift throughout Sri Lankan society. Our institutional heritage, financial strength, nationwide service network and the confidence placed in us by the people provide a strong foundation for advancing this national mission.

Nevertheless, this is not a responsibility that the National Savings Bank can fulfil alone. It requires the active participation of public and private institutions, schools, universities, environmental organisations, local communities, entrepreneurs, young people and the wider public.

Therefore, I extend a warm and sincere invitation to all Sri Lankans to join us at NSB SavingsFest 2026, taking place at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo and at selected locations across the country on 31 October 2026. On this occasion, we will come together not merely to commemorate World Thrift Day, but to promote a renewed national understanding of thrift and its relevance to the future of our country.

Every Rupee we save today contributes towards financial security tomorrow. Every drop of water we conserve today is a valuable resource preserved for future generations. Every unit of energy we save contributes towards the responsible management of our national resources. Every tree we plant, and nurture today may provide shade and environmental benefits for generations to come. Similarly, every element of our national heritage that we protect today helps preserve the identity, history and dignity of our nation.

Saving for the future is not merely about setting aside a portion of what we possess today. It is about ensuring that the resources we enjoy in the present remain available for those who will come after us.

The success of our generation should not be measured solely by the wealth we accumulate or the resources we consume, but by the value of the resources, opportunities and heritage we preserve for future generations. As the National Savings Bank marks 54 years of national service, we are committed to giving renewed meaning to our longstanding mission by transforming thrift from a financial habit into a national philosophy of responsible living.

Let us save money for our children.

Let us conserve energy for our country.

Let us protect water, trees and natural resources for our future.

Let us preserve our historical and cultural heritage for the generations yet to come.

Because what we must save today is not merely money, but tomorrow itself.

Together with National Savings Bank – Let us ‘Save a Tomorrow!’