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Shanaia Gomez recalls male celeb making a move on her at 14

Shanaia Gomez piqued the curiosity of netizens after revealing messages from an unnamed male celebrity who seemingly tried to hit on her when she was still a minor.

Through her TikTok page on Monday, Sept. 14, the actress shared screenshots of some of the ‘most interesting direct messages’ she received on Instagram.

One of the messages she revealed was from a Filipino celebrity ‘much older’ than her, who first reached out to her in 2016 when she was just 14 years old.

The unnamed celebrity first asked where Gomez was staying, then asked her to message him. Gomez said she initially welcomed the conversation, thinking the celebrity simply wanted to be friends.

However, the celebrity soon began asking Gomez to meet up, which made her suspicious of his intentions. He also asked about her age and whether she had a boyfriend at the time. Gomez said the unnamed celebrity continued to persistently message her until 2019.

‘I’m not going to name drop kung sino ito but let’s just say happy siya at birthday niya pa,’ Gomez hinted.

Exposing some of my dms ??

? original sound – Shanaia Gomez

Some netizens then surmised that Gomez was referring to actor Carlos Agassi, whose song ‘Happy Birthday’ features a line ‘Happy na, birthday mo pa.’

While Gomez did not confirm nor deny the speculations, she responded to one TikTok user who made a mention of Agassi in the comments section.

‘It was indeed Carlos Agassi. Check his IG story,’ the netizen wrote, to which the actress replied, ‘I’m blocked.’

Coincidentally, Agassi and his wife Sarina addressed on Tuesday, Sept. 15 the apparent allegations of certain women against the actor.

‘Madami kaming videos na napanood na mga babae na sinisiraan ‘yung asawa ko,’ Sarina said. ‘Imagine, eight, nine, 10 years ago pa ‘yun, talagang tinago nila ‘yung mag screenshots. Like what? Hindi ba kayo maka-move on? Wala na bang bago?’

Without naming who he was addressing, Agassi said, ‘Wala ka bang talent? Hindi ka maka-move on. Wala ka bang jowa?’

Agassi further stressed that the timeline of the accusations against him was from when he was still single. ‘Tsaka ang nakakatawa, message pa lang ‘yun. Hindi pa kami nagkikita or nagde-date. Na-in love na?’

While the couple did not name names, they urged fellow content creators to think twice about what they publish and ensure their content does not harm others. The pair also underscored that they are happily married and that their marriage remains strong.

Meanwhile, back in 2018, Agassi came under fire after several women claimed that the actor hit on them at the same time.

Court begins trial of suspected Oriire kidnappers

A witness of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Thursday narrated to the Federal High Court in Abuja how the 49 kidnapped students and teachers of schools in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State were subjected to dehumanising conditions for 56 days by their kidnappers.

The witness, identified as ‘AAA’ for the protection of her identity, told Justice Salim Ibrahim that they were moved to six different locations barefooted, sleeping on grass under heavy rain and sunshine, before security agents finally rescued them from captivity.

The defendants, accused of being members of the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU) terrorist group, are Mahmud Muhammad (aka Abu Bara’a, Abbas Mukhtar); Abubakar Abbas (aka Isah Adam, Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri); Abdulrazak Umar (aka Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid); Yunusa Musa (aka Abu Yunusa Bin Musa); and Shamsu Adamu Sani (aka Abu Itisar).

Led in evidence by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mr Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, the DSS witness told the court that their ordeal was particularly pathetic because children as young as one and a half years old from pre-nursery schools were among those held in captivity throughout the period.

The witness claimed that on the day they were kidnapped, a group of bandits armed to the teeth invaded their schools on 12 motorcycles, shooting sporadically and preventing the students and teachers from escaping.

She said the bandits, who came on 12 motorcycles, ‘carted’ them away into the bush, with one motorcycle carrying about four persons. She added that a Toyota car belonging to one of the teachers was also used to move other victims into the bush.

While in the bush, the witness said they were addressed by the bandits’ leader, who told them that the kidnapped people were being held to negotiate for the release of their Ansaru group members and not for the purpose of ransom.

On two different occasions, the witness said, two teachers among them, Deacon John Olaleye and Michael Oyedokun, were brought out and openly beheaded on the excuse that the government was not serious about yielding to their demands for the release of their detained members.

She also told the court that their phones were seized and used to contact their relatives and government officials to relay their grievances to the government.

The witness further said that while inside the bush, they faced hunger and acute shortages of water, adding that about four victims were served with a cup of water during rationing.

She further said that at the initial stage, they were fed with rice, salt and palm oil, but when the salt ran out, the kidnappers resorted to feeding them with rice and palm oil, and later only white rice when the palm oil also ran out.

Narrating their ordeal further, the witness claimed that during feeding, the little children among them were usually flogged by the kidnappers to prevent them from struggling for white rice, adding that they were given food inside a dirty rubber bucket like chickens.

Throughout the 56 days in captivity, the witness told the court that they had no opportunity to wash their clothes or take their baths, thereby making them so dirty and exposed to dangers before the rescue came.

She further said the victims had to close their eyes before they could drink the dirty water being served to them by the kidnappers, adding that they had to drink the dirty water just to survive.

The witness also said that it was at camp six of the captivity that the security forces exchanged gunshots with the bandits before finally rescuing them.

Meanwhile, defence lawyer Bala Dakum is to cross-examine the DSS witness on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Justice Ibrahim ordered that the defendants remain in the custody of the DSS throughout the duration of their trial.

The five defendants, docked by the DSS on behalf of the Federal Government on a seven-count amended charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/438/2026, pleaded not guilty before the trial began.

The Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mr Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, who is leading the DSS legal team for the prosecution, applied for the immediate trial of the defendants in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

He also prayed the court that the names of witnesses lined up to testify in the trial be shielded and that they be permitted to wear masks to ensure their protection.

Count one of the charge reads, ‘That you MAHMUD MUHAMMAD (aka Abu Bara’a, Abbas Mukhtar) and ABUBAKAR ABBAS (aka Isah Adam, Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri), Adults, Males, of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State and Daura Local Government Area of Katsina state respectively, sometime between 2025 and 2026 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, committed an act of terrorism when you ordered ABDULRAZAK UMAR (aka Abu Khalifa/ Abu Khalid), YUNUSA MUSA (aka Abu Yunusa Bin Musa) and SHAMSU ADAMU SANI (aka Abu Itisar), your foot soldiers of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), a proscribed terrorist organization in Nigeria, to kidnap and kill innocent Nigerians (Victims) in different parts of Nigeria in the event of your arrest by the Nigerian government, to compel the government to accede to your demands, which instigated the kidnap of about 46 pupils and teachers of Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School, and L.A. Primary School, Orire LGA, Oyo State. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 24 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 24(2)(b) of the same Act.’

Count two reads, ‘That you Mahmud Muhammad (aka Abu Bara’a, Abbas Mukhtar), Abubakar Abbas (aka Isah Adam, Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri), Abdulrazak Umar (aka Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid), Yunusa Musa (aka Abu Yunusa Bin Musa) and Shamsu Adamu Santi (aka Abu Itisar), Adults, Males, of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, Daura Local Government Area of Katsina state and Suleja LGA, Niger State respectively sometime between 2025 and 2026 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, committed an act of terrorism when you caused the death of Deacon John Olaleye, by decapitating him. You thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 2 (3) (g) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 24(2) of the same Act.’

Count seven reads, ‘That you, Mahmud Muhammad (aka Abu Bara’a, Abbas Mukhtar) and Abubakar Abbas (aka Isah Adam, Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri), Adults, Males, of Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State and Daura Local Government Area of Katsina state respectively, sometime between January and May, 2026, at Suleja LGA, Niger State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, committed an offence when you knowingly concealed information about an imminent act of terrorism by Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU) terrorist group which led to the 15th May, 2026 kidnap of about forty-six persons and killing of two persons, Michael Oyedokun and Deacon John Olaleye, knowing the information to be of material assistance in apprehending and preventing the commission of acts of terrorism, but failed to disclose the information to any Law Enforcement or Security Officer, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 16 (1) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under the same section of the Act.’

NikeSKIMS brings elite female Olympians to showcase in new campaign

As debate continues over the sexualisation of women in sports advertising, NikeSKIMS is taking a different approach for Fall 2026, placing four elite female athletes at the centre of its latest campaign.

The NikeSKIMS Fall ’26 Edit 01 campaign features Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim, speed skater Jutta Leerdam, hurdler Anna Cockrell and five-time Olympic swimmer Stephanie Au. Rather than presenting activewear solely as fashion, the campaign frames the collection around the physicality of women who train and compete at the highest level.

The launch comes days after an advertisement starring actor Sydney Sweeney for sports prediction platform Novig drew criticism from female athletes, including Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus and British sprinter Amy Hunt. Both argued that the campaign reduced women in sport to their appearance.

Against this backdrop, NikeSKIMS’ latest campaign places athletic achievement and technical performance more firmly at the centre of its visual identity.

(Photo: NikeSKIMS)

Jutta Leerdam, Dutch speed skater, for the NikeSKIMS Fall ’26 Edit 01. (Photo: NikeSKIMS)

For Fall ’26, the brand introduces Performance Cotton Blend, a polyester-cotton fabric incorporating Nike’s Dri-FIT moisture-wicking technology. The material is garment-washed for a softer, lived-in finish, giving performance clothing a more casual feel.

Existing NikeSKIMS categories have also been expanded with new silhouettes and seasonal colourways. Satin Shine and Studio Stretch feature updated styles designed for layering, while the wider range includes Matte compression pieces, Weightless semi-sheer layers, Ribbed Seamless garments, Stretch Knit and Stretch Nylon.

(Photo: NikeSKIMS)

Stephanie Au, Hong Kong Swimmer, for the NikeSKIMS Fall ’26 Edit 01. (Photo: NikeSKIMS)

The collection continues NikeSKIMS’ effort to combine Nike’s performance technology with SKIMS’ body-conscious approach to fit. The brand’s first collection, launched in September 2025, introduced 58 silhouettes across seven collections and was promoted through a campaign featuring more than 50 athletes, including Kim, Serena Williams, Sha’Carri Richardson and Jordan Chiles.

Chloe Kim, American snowboarder, for the NikeSKIMS Fall ’26 Edit 01. (Photo: NikeSKIMS)

Chloe Kim, American snowboarder, for the NikeSKIMS Fall ’26 Edit 01. (Photo: NikeSKIMS)

The NikeSKIMS Fall ’26 Edit 01 launches on Sept 17, 2026, across the brands’ online platforms and at a selection of retail partners.

2027: Minister cautions diplomats against unguarded comments

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has cautioned foreign diplomats in Nigeria against making unguarded comments on the country’s 2027 general elections, urging them to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and democratic processes.

Ojukwu gave the warning on Thursday while interacting with members of the Diplomatic Corps in Abuja, where she said the Federal Government was committed to conducting a peaceful, free, fair and credible election.

She said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recognised that Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest democracy meant that developments in the country could have regional and international implications.

‘Also, as the 2027 general elections draw near, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would request that missions remain guided.’

‘Recognising the fact that Nigeria is the largest democracy in Africa, and that developments in Nigeria have regional and international complications and implications, we would not look kindly upon unguarded comments, disparaging remarks, or unsolicited lectures on democracy.’

According to her, the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to democracy and to delivering an election that would be ‘peaceful, free, fair, and credible in all ramifications.’

The minister said the engagement with the Diplomatic Corps was intended to promote candid conversation, renewed understanding and stronger partnership between the Ministry and foreign missions accredited to Nigeria.

‘This is because diplomacy functions best where communication is open, trust is mutual, and engagement is continuous,’ she said.

Ojukwu assured the diplomats that the Ministry remained available to address concerns affecting their missions, describing the Foreign Affairs Ministry as their ‘diplomatic home in Nigeria.’

‘Whenever you require clarification, whenever you encounter difficulties or have concerns requiring the attention of Government, I encourage you to come to us. Engage us, and allow us to assist you,’ she said.

The minister also urged foreign missions to route official communications and requests to the Nigerian government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, saying this would ensure proper coordination, consistency and effective follow-up.

She said the Ministry served as the official channel between diplomatic missions and the Presidency, ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government.

‘This is not intended to impede access or to create unnecessary bureaucracy. Rather, it ensures proper coordination, consistency, and effective follow-up,’ Ojukwu said.

‘Let me emphasize that the Ministry is not an obstacle between you and the Nigerian Government; we are your bridge to the Nigerian Government.’

On Nigeria’s foreign policy, the minister said the administration’s approach remained anchored on the four Ds of Demography, Development, Democracy and Diaspora.

She said the policy framework placed Nigerians at the centre of the country’s foreign relations while maintaining Nigeria’s commitment to its neighbours, ECOWAS, Africa and the wider international community.

Ojukwu said Nigeria would continue to exercise strategic autonomy in its international relations, stressing that the country would pursue friendship and cooperation with all nations based on national interest, mutual respect, reciprocity and international obligations.

‘Strategic autonomy does not mean isolation; it means preserving Nigeria’s sovereign right to determine the relationships and positions that best serve our people,’ she said.

The minister also called for the revitalisation of outstanding Joint Commissions and Bi-National Commissions between Nigeria and other countries, saying the platforms should be used more effectively to promote trade, investment, security, education, technology, health and agriculture.

She further appealed to foreign missions to review their visa processes for Nigerian applicants, particularly lengthy waiting periods that she said could create difficulties for legitimate travellers, students, businesspeople and families.

While acknowledging the sovereign right of every country to determine its visa policy, she called for greater efficiency, transparency and responsiveness.

On the welfare and security of diplomats, Ojukwu assured members of the Diplomatic Corps that the Nigerian government remained committed to their safety and that of their families, premises and property in line with its obligations under the Vienna Conventions.

She also said Nigeria would continue to champion dialogue, multilateralism and peaceful resolution of disputes through its engagement with ECOWAS, the African Union, United Nations, Commonwealth and other international organisations.

Ojukwu said the Ministry would continue to work with foreign missions to deepen trade and investment, strengthen peace and security cooperation, advance education, health and technological innovation, and create opportunities for Nigerians and their international partners.

She said the true measure of Nigeria’s diplomatic relationships should be the tangible benefits they produced for the people, rather than the number of meetings held or communiqués issued.

‘The true measure of our relationships will not be the number of meetings we hold, neither will it be the number of communiqués we issue. It will be the progress we achieve for our peoples, the investments we facilitate, the opportunities we create, the challenges we resolve, and the friendships we strengthen,’ she said.

JAMAICA-SECURITY – Jamaica to build multi-billion dollar prison for 4,000 inmates

– National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang says Jamaica plans to build a new multi-billion-dollar prison in the central parish of St Catherine that will accommodate about 4,000 inmates. The facility is expected to cost approximately J$30 billion (One Jamaica dollar=US$0.008 cents) and will include rehabilitation programmes, as well as separate areas for lower- and higher-risk inmates.

Speaking on Radio Jamaica earlier this week, Chang said several older correctional facilities are expected to be closed once the new prison becomes operational, as it will have sufficient capacity to accommodate inmates transferred from those facilities.

Among the facilities slated for closure are the Tower Street and Spanish Town adult correctional centres.

However, Chang said the Tamarind Farm Adult Correctional Centre, also in St Catherine, is likely to remain open because of its rehabilitation programmes.

‘They are doing so very interesting rehab work there,’ he said, noting that the facility currently produces ‘enough poultry meat and eggs for the entire population,’ along with other agricultural products.

Chang said the agricultural activities are part of a modern rehabilitation programme designed to train inmates in various skills.

The Richmond Farm Adult Correctional Centre in St Mary, which houses inmates classified as ‘very low-risk,’ could also remain operational.

On the possibility of private-sector involvement in the construction or operation of the new facility, Chang said the option had not been completely ruled out, but was not currently a priority for the government.

‘I wouldn’t say (the idea) is completely discarded, because things change on an ongoing basis, but it is not something that is on the front burner for us at this point in time.’

Cabinet approves new oil, gas onshore concessions

The cabinet has granted oil and gas exploration concessions to two companies that won the Round 25 onshore petroleum auction, aiming to secure domestic energy supply as Thailand’s natural reserves continue to dwindle.

Round 25 was previously stalled, with the results delayed due to last year’s parliamentary dissolution and the slow pace of the new government.

The concession approval came as energy companies gathered for the four-day Gastech exhibition in Bangkok, slated to end on Thursday.

The concessions for areas in the northeastern and central regions were awarded to PTTEP International Ltd and Pan Orient Energy (Siam), in partnership with CanAsia Energy Corp, said Warakorn Brahmopala, director-general of the Department of Mineral Fuels (DMF).

PTTEP International Ltd plans to explore blocks L1/66 and L3/66, while Pan Orient Energy (Siam), in partnership with CanAsia Energy Corp, will explore block L8/66.

Round 25 attracted eight proposals from five companies for four exploration blocks.

Mr Warakorn said the DMF assessed all bids in accordance with legal requirements, using a transparent, merit-based selection process, with national interests serving as the overriding consideration.

“The selection of these concessionaires will unlock petroleum exploration and production activities that could lead to new discoveries, enhancing Thailand’s energy self-reliance, reducing dependence on imported energy and sustaining national energy security,” he said.

Blocks L1/66 and L3/66 hold strategic significance as commercially viable discoveries would supply fuel to the Nam Phong power plant, a critical facility in the Northeast, reinforcing energy stability in the area, said Mr Warakorn.

Exploration activities will immediately stimulate local economies and employment, he noted.

If commercial petroleum production materialises, the government would benefit from royalties and petroleum taxes, while the activity would create stable jobs for Thai workers and drive growth in downstream sectors such as hospitality, restaurants and transport, said Mr Warakorn.

Onshore exploration block L6/66 remains at the proposal stage and will be submitted to the cabinet for a separate decision on its winning bidder at a later date, the DMF noted.

In a parallel development, authorities confirmed that the Round 26 offshore auction in the Andaman Sea is being prepared for cabinet consideration.

The bull at 23: What Adenuga’s Glo journey says about Nigerian enterprise

At 23, Globacom’s most remarkable achievement is not simply that it has survived in one of Nigeria’s most competitive industries. It is that a late entrant managed to challenge an established market, alter some of its assumptions and invest in infrastructure with a long-term view. More than the mythology surrounding the company or the wealth of its founder, this offers a more useful way to understand Michael Adeniyi Agbolade Ishola Adenuga Jr and the business philosophy behind the nickname that has followed him for decades: the Bull.

The metaphor fits, but perhaps not for the reason usually assumed. The Bull is not simply about aggression, risk-taking or the instinct to charge. In Adenuga’s case, it is more revealing as a metaphor for persistence: the willingness to return after a setback, enter difficult territory after others have established themselves and remain committed long enough to see whether a difficult bet can work.

The telecommunications story provides perhaps the clearest evidence. In 1999, a company associated with Adenuga was among those awarded a GSM licence during Nigeria’s first telecommunications licensing process. The licence was subsequently revoked. The setback could have ended his telecommunications ambitions. Instead, he returned to the sector, bidding through Globacom for the Second National Operator licence in 2002. This time, he won.

At 23, Globacom’s most remarkable achievement is not simply that it has survived in one of Nigeria’s most competitive industries. It is that a late entrant managed to challenge an established market, alter some of its assumptions and invest in infrastructure with a long-term view. More than the mythology surrounding the company or the wealth of its founder, this offers a more useful way to understand Michael Adeniyi Agbolade Ishola Adenuga Jr and the business philosophy behind the nickname that has followed him for decades: the Bull.

The metaphor fits, but perhaps not for the reason usually assumed. The Bull is not simply about aggression, risk-taking or the instinct to charge. In Adenuga’s case, it is more revealing as a metaphor for persistence: the willingness to return after a setback, enter difficult territory after others have established themselves and remain committed long enough to see whether a difficult bet can work.

The telecommunications story provides perhaps the clearest evidence. In 1999, a company associated with Adenuga was among those awarded a GSM licence during Nigeria’s first telecommunications licensing process. The licence was subsequently revoked. The setback could have ended his telecommunications ambitions. Instead, he returned to the sector, bidding through Globacom for the Second National Operator licence in 2002. This time, he won.

The significance of that episode extends beyond telecommunications tariffs. A newcomer without the advantage of being first needed another way to compete. Glo found one by questioning something the market had largely accepted.

That may be the first real charge of the Bull. It was also not an isolated feature of Adenuga’s business career. His interests have extended across sectors, including oil and gas and banking, before telecommunications became one of the most visible expressions of his entrepreneurial ambitions. The common thread is not that every venture followed an identical formula, but that Adenuga repeatedly showed a willingness to commit to opportunities whose rewards were unlikely to be immediate.

That helps explain why the Glo story should not be reduced to per-second billing. The larger bet came with Glo-1, the company’s investment in an approximately 9,800-kilometre submarine fibre-optic cable connecting Lagos with international landing points including Accra and Bude in the United Kingdom. The cable entered service in 2010 and represented an investment in the infrastructure beneath telecommunications rather than simply another attempt to attract mobile subscribers.

There is a significant difference between competing through prices and promotions and committing capital to infrastructure whose value depends on the future growth of an industry. Glo-1 suggested that the company was prepared to think beyond the immediate contest for subscribers and invest in the foundations of connectivity itself.

The Bull, in that sense, was not merely charging at the market. He was also digging beneath it. There is an interesting contrast between the scale of Adenuga’s business ambitions and the relative restraint of his personal public profile. His companies have often been more visible than the man himself. Glo’s sustained association with football and entertainment illustrates this distinction and also reflects an important reality about telecommunications: people do not connect merely because they want a network. They connect to family, business, information, sport, entertainment and opportunity.

Financial market volatility behind bank assets mild dip

THE volatility in the global financial market may have led to a marginal decline in the assets held by the Philippine banking system as of end-July compared to the previous month, but its annual increase highlights the ‘underlying strength’ of the banking sector, according to analysts.

Experts pointed this out after data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that the total assets held by the Philippine banking system reached P30.716 trillion as of end-July2026, down 1.33 percent compared to the P31.129 trillion as of end-June 2026.

However, the total assets recorded as of end-July 2026 were 10.73 percent higher than the P27.74 trillion as of end-July 2025, central bank data showed.

Jonathan L. Ravelas, senior adviser at Reyes Tacandong and Co., said ‘the monthly decline looks temporary, while the 10.7-percent annual increase highlights the underlying strength of the banking sector.’

Michael L. Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), said the dip in the bank assets on a month-on-month basis could be partly attributed to ‘the effects of the war in the Middle East that led to volatility in the global financial market particularly the sell-off in the global/local bond markets that reduced investment income.’

Ricafort said another culprit behind the slight decline may be the higher non-performing loans (NPL) ratio.

Nevertheless, Ricafort said the latest annual growth in banks’ total assets has been ‘consistent and reflective of bank loans growth around over 10 percent levels.’

Moreover, Ricafort said this is consistent with the ‘high single-digit growth in bank deposits in recent months especially since PDIC insurance doubled to P1 million per depositor per bank that increased the confidence of the depositing public.’

The RCBC chief economist said the annual growth in bank assets also reflects the ‘continued profitability’ of banks which also contributed to total capital.

Moving forward, Ravelas said he expects bank assets to ‘continue growing at a healthy pace, supported by credit expansion, deposit growth, and a still-resilient domestic economy.’

Breakdown

The BSP data showed that the net total loan portfolio of banks grew 10.81 percent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to P16.907 trillion as of end-July 2026 from P15.258 trillion.

The net total investments of banks also increased by 8.04 percent Y-o-Y to P8.905 trillion as of end-July 2026 from P8.242 trillion.

Their net real and other properties acquired, likewise, climbed by 27.72 percent to P165.702 billion as of end-July 2026 from P129.734 billion in the same period last year.

Banks’ other assets also jumped by 18.98 percent Y-o-Y to P2.602 trillion from P2.187 trillion in end-July 2025.

Their total liabilities, on the other hand, grew at a faster pace compared to bank assets.

Liabilities jumped by 11.73 percent Y-o-Y to P27.061 trillion as of end-July 2026 from P24.220 trillion in the same period a year ago. On a month-on-month basis, liabilities posted a 1.39-percent decline from the P27.442 trillion recorded in June.

Deposit liabilities amounted to P22.062 trillion, of which P18.14 trillion consisted of peso liabilities and P3.92 trillion of foreign-currency liabilities.

Liabilities due to banks climbed by 45.62 percent Y-o-Y to P225.681 billion as of end-July 2026 from P154.978.78 billion in the same period a year ago.

The unsecured subordinated debt also increased by 190.44 percent to P3.95 billion from P1.36 billion as of end-July last year.

Meanwhile, banks’ derivatives with negative fair value held for hedging increased by 150.81 percent Y-o-Y, from P2.763 billion to P6.93 billion.

Further, banks’ total capital accounts increased by 3.69 percent to P3.65 trillion as of end-July 2026, from P3.52 trillion in the same period a year ago.

DIMO KNIGHTS 2026 Reinforces a Culture of Recognition and Growth

DIMO celebrated DIMO KNIGHTS 2026, recognizing employees whose exceptional dedication, leadership, innovation, and commitment continue to shape the organization’s success. More than an employee recognition event, DIMO KNIGHTS reflects DIMO’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a workplace where people are empowered to thrive, reinforcing the Employee Value Proposition of ‘Making Work Enjoyable and Rewarding’ while bringing its Corporate Purpose of Fuelling Dreams and Aspirations to life.

Held under the theme “Illuminating Leadership, Inspiring Achievement,” the event celebrated individuals who exemplify DIMO’s values and inspire excellence across the organization. By recognizing those who consistently go above and beyond, DIMO continues to foster a high-performance culture where people are empowered to innovate, lead, and create meaningful impact.

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Mr. Ravi Kant, former Managing Director and Vice Chairman of Tata Motors India, who shared valuable insights on leadership, organizational transformation, and building resilient organizations capable of sustaining long-term success.

Commenting on the event, Ms. Dilrukshi Kurukulasuriya, Executive Director / Chief Human Resources Officer of DIMO, said: ‘Our Tribe is the driving force behind DIMO’s continued success. DIMO KNIGHTS is more than a celebration of outstanding performance; it is a reflection of the culture we strive to build every day. By recognizing and empowering our people, we reinforce our Employee Value Proposition of ‘Making Work Enjoyable and Rewarding’ while bringing our Corporate Purpose to life. When our people grow, innovate, and thrive, they create lasting value for our customers, partners, and the communities we serve.’

DIMO KNIGHTS reinforces the organization’s people-first philosophy by fostering a culture of appreciation, continuous learning, and purposeful leadership. The programme reflects DIMO’s conviction that when employees are empowered, recognized, and inspired to excel, they shape the future of the organization through innovation, collaboration, and sustained excellence, strengthening a high-performing culture that delivers lasting value, drives sustainable business success, and reinforces DIMO’s position as an employer of choice.

The evening recognized employees across a wide range of categories, celebrating outstanding performance, innovation, collaboration, customer focus, and leadership. The ceremony culminated with the presentation of the prestigious Innovator of the Year and Employee of the Year awards, with the Employee of the Year accolade presented to Mr. Chathura Gunasekera.

As DIMO continues to invest in developing exceptional talent, initiatives such as DIMO KNIGHTS reaffirm the organization’s belief that sustainable business success begins with its people. By creating an environment where individuals are recognized, empowered, and inspired to achieve their full potential, DIMO continues to cultivate a purpose-driven, high-performing workforce that is equipped to shape the future of the organization while delivering lasting value to all stakeholders.

What next as Babiito sets date to crown Omukama?

The succession to Tooro’s throne has entered a decisive phase after the Babiito royal clan on Tuesday announced September 29 as the coronation date for Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma Nyabongo I.

The installation ceremony comes weeks after the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who was buried last Saturday.

Mr Charles Kamurasi, the head of the Babiito royal clan, said, ‘From today until September 29, we shall be preparing for the coronation of the new Omukama of Tooro Kingdom, Nyabongo I.’

Mr Kamurasi said the Kingdom’s supreme council sitting on Tuesday welcomed the decision from the Babiito royal clan, which announced Kiijanangoma as the successor of Omukama Oyo.

The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions over the succession to the Tooro throne following the death and burial of King Oyo.

Mr Kamurasi said he would announce the formation of committees in charge of organising the coronation.

‘From today, I am going to make announcements to all sections of the people concerned with the coronation preparations. We are going to start with the committees.’

He said work would also commence with cleaning and preparing the palace grounds ahead of the ceremonies.

Mr Kamurasi said the designated king would pass through the Mugabate or the royal parlour, where several rituals, including a mock battle, would be performed.

He also said the king would undergo further rituals before being declared the winner of the battle, as the Empango royal drum would then be sounded.

Despite President Museveni seeking a legal opinion from the Attorney General on the Tooro succession, Mr Kamurasi said the Babiito royal clan had not received any communication preventing it from proceeding with traditional arrangements to install the new king.

‘I know His Excellency the President sought an opinion from the Attorney General, but as far as we are concerned, we have not had any communication from there barring us from going ahead with our Tooro norms and traditions to install the king.’

Mr David Baguma, one of the key ritualists known as Omujaguzi from Basiita clan, said: ‘We shall perform rituals of the installation on whoever the Musuuga will present to us will be our king.’

He said they will perform their duty of turning the four major royal drums upward and other royal regalia inside the palace as one way to show that the kingdom now has a reigning monarch.

As the preparations get underway, Prince Kijanangoma, the king-designate, has already begun an initiation process by elders to prepare him for his new responsibilities.

‘The elders are helping the king-designate to understand and appreciate his selection as the next Omukama of Tooro, while also equipping him with additional knowledge required for the role,’ Fr Charles Oyo, a member of the Babiito succession committee, said.

He added that the process is also intended to help the prince learn more about the responsibilities of kingship beyond what he already knows.

Fr Oyo said the initiation is part of the wider preparations for the coronation, which the Babiito have said is being organised following the completion of the funeral rites for the late King Oyo.

At the Karuziika Palace, armed UPDF security personnel have maintained a presence at all three gates, with visitors required to register and have their details checked before entering.

Contention

Despite the Kingdom announcing the coronation date, the Kaboyo family, including Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, and Princess Ruth Komutale, have rejected the proclamation, saying Oyo left behind a Will which they said should be followed to guide the succession.

The Babiito are also being accused of breaching the Oyo burial MoU, which the two parties signed on September 12, a few hours before his burial.

Ms Mary Kutesa, the State minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development, who signed as a neutral government minister and custodian of the tomb keys, urged the people of Tooro to remain calm and allow the Babiito royal clan manage the succession of King Oyo in accordance with the kingdom’s customs and the law.

She said the institution of a cultural leader is a corporation sole with perpetual succession, meaning that while an individual monarch may die, the legal personality attached to the institution continues through successive holders of the throne.

‘Tooro Kingdom will sadly not get another Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV in this seat, but Tooro Kingdom will certainly have another able monarch in the seat to continue that legal personality in perpetuity,’ Ms Kuteesa said.

She added: ‘Tooro Kingdom has had several successful successions and there is no reason to doubt the kingdom’s experience in ensuring this continuity.’

She also pointed to the Institution of Traditional or Cultural Leaders Act, 2011, saying the law provides a framework for the recognition of traditional and cultural leaders.

She cited Section 5 of the Act, which provides that a person may be installed as a traditional or cultural leader if the person derives allegiance from birth or descent in accordance with the customs, traditions, usage or consent of the people being led.

She said the government’s role comes after the kingdom has completed its own cultural process.

The minister appealed to people outside the succession process to avoid interfering with the kingdom’s affairs through unsolicited opinions or information that could deepen divisions within the royal family.

She cautioned against deception and unverified information that could create unnecessary divisions among members of the royal family and the wider Tooro community.

‘Let us not tear the Royal family apart with unsolicited opinions and, many times, outright deception. I am confident that Babiito will consider all their royal sons and in accordance with their customs, agree with Tooro clans on who should succeed our beloved King Oyo,’ she warned.

With the date now set, the Babiito clan says the focus turns to what lies ahead, including the formal cultural and legal steps required to install a new king.

Utility

Procedure.

Once Tooro Kingdom has declared a cultural leader in accordance with the culture, customs and traditions or wishes and aspirations of the people of Tooro, only then does the government, represented by the minister responsible for culture, cause a declaration to be published in the Gazette in accordance with Section 6.

– Mary Kutesa, the State Minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development