Category: The Nation – Nigeria

All Progressives Congress ( APC) stakholders in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State yesterday okayed Governor Ahmed Ododo for a second term in office.

The stakeholders, including former Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Umar Immam, told reporters that, as much as they were not against power rotation, they are backing Ododo because of his performance in office.

Immam, who read the copy of an address by the stakeholders, explained that the governor performed well in all sectors in his first term in office, insisting that he (the governor) should be allowed a second term to complete his job.

He said: ”Following the political trends in Kogi State and Nigeria at large and in line with constitutional provisions, power rotation should not become a tool to deprive the incumbent Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, of the right to fulfil his constitutional rights for another term in office.

‘That we observed that Councillors, Local Government Chairmen, State Assembly members, National Assembly members and indeed Mr President are all seeking re-election for another term. It will therefore be curious to now subject the well-deserved return of Governor Ododo to an unwarranted debate.

‘That we the critical stakeholders in Lokoja, do extend our support, solidarity and commitment to the re-election of Governor Ahmed Ododo come November 2027.

‘That we call on all people of means and goodwill throughout Kogi State to join hands with us to achieve this.

‘That his re-election will not only enhance the peace that we are all enjoying at present, but it will enable him to continue and even improve on the developmental strides he has currently embarked upon in Kogi State.’

First HoldCo Plc’s nine months 2026 performance marks an important transition: the Group is moving from balance sheet repair toward a more resilient, capital-supported growth phase. The headline is compelling – profit before tax rose 60.8% year on year to N911.2 billion, while profit after tax advanced 65.1% to N744.5 billion; importantly, the quality of this growth is also improving.

First, earnings have broadened year on year and beyond the traditional interest income. Second, operating discipline has improved efficiency. Third, stronger capital and better asset-quality indicators are increasing the Group’s capacity to absorb risk and pursue selective growth. These factors support a more durable earnings profile and a stronger long-term shareholder proposition.

Profitability continues to strengthen

Gross earnings increased 8.8% to N2.87 trillion, but profitability expanded faster: profit before tax reached N911.2 billion and profit after tax reached N744.5 billion. Post-tax return on average equity improved to 27.7% from 24.7% in the previous year, while return on average assets rose to 3.3% from 2.6% in 9M 2025 showing that balance sheet growth is generating stronger returns.

This growth was supported by a more diversified revenue mix. Non-interest income surged 143.5% to N722.9 billion, supported by a 48.1% increase in net fee and commission income to N316.4 billion. Transaction-led revenues, including electronic banking, funds transfers and credit-related services and other non-interest income contributions are giving the Group more diversified avenues for earnings growth.

Operating leverage is becoming visible

Operating income rose 10.3% even as operating expenses declined 8.1% to N866.6 billion. The resulting cost-to-income ratio of 43.7%, down from 52.4%, is a strong indicator of improving operating leverage and cost discipline particularly in a 15.39% inflationary environment. The result suggests that management is not relying on balance-sheet expansion alone; it is extracting more value from the franchise while containing the cost base.

Core margins present a compelling earnings-upside opportunity. Although net interest income moderated by 16.0% to N1.26 trillion and net interest margin adjusted to 8.7% from 11.3% amid softer asset yields, the improvement in cost of funds to 4.5% from 4.9% demonstrates effective funding discipline and provides a strong foundation for margin recovery. Enhanced risk-adjusted pricing and a more efficient funding mix offer credible levers for margin expansion and sustainable returns, while maintaining rigorous credit standards and asset quality.

A balance sheet with greater strategic capacity

The balance sheet provides greater capacity for disciplined growth. Total assets increased 18.1% from year-end 2025 to N32.20 trillion, while customer deposits grew 21.3% to N22.91 trillion. Group equity rose 17.0% to N3.86 trillion. In contrast, net customer loans expanded by a deliberate and measured 4.8% to N9.39 trillion. This combination of strong funding growth, firmer equity and selective lending reflects disciplined capital deployment rather than indiscriminate risk-taking.

FirstBank’s capital adequacy ratio improved to 18.6% at September 2026 from 16.7% at half-year. The stronger capital buffer increases resilience supports regulatory confidence and provides greater flexibility to finance attractive opportunities. Importantly, capital is strengthening while profitability is accelerating, improving the Group’s capacity to compound value internally.

Asset-quality repair is gaining traction

Asset-quality repair is also advancing. The Group’s non-performing loan ratio declined to 10.4% from 13.9% at H1 2026 while NPL coverage, including regulatory reserves, increased to 98.8%. Impairment charges declined 28.3% to N207.1 billion and recoveries reached N94.3 billion.

These figures show broad-based progress: stronger coverage, reduced impairment charges and meaningful recoveries to date. Although the NPL ratio remains above management’s desired level, the downward trajectory improves protection and loss-absorption capacity.

To further strengthen asset quality by year-end, management could combine targeted restructuring of viable exposures, negotiated settlements and intensified recoveries with ongoing legal actions. These asset-quality measures are supported by more than N850 billion already held in regulatory risk reserves, providing a substantial prudential buffer against identified credit risks. Accordingly, subject to applicable accounting and regulatory treatment, additional impairment charges recognised in the books would be broadly capital-neutral, enabling management to accelerate the resolution or write-off of fully provided loans with limited recovery prospects without materially weakening regulatory capital, while recovery efforts continue. These measures should further reduce the NPL ratio, reinforce coverage and underscore the strength of the balance sheet.

Diversification strengthens the earnings growth outlook

Commercial Banking remains the Group’s principal earnings subsidiary, generating gross earnings of N2.70 trillion and profit before tax of N784.7 billion. Its scale, deposit franchise and broad customer relationships underpin recurring revenue.

Alongside this core franchise, Investment Banking and Asset Management is becoming more significant. The segment generated gross earnings of N120.1 billion, up 85.5%, and profit before tax of N85.7 billion, up 133.6%. This high-growth, capital-light platform broadens the Group’s exposure to advisory, asset management, trusteeship, brokerage and securities activities, reducing reliance on traditional banking spreads.

Why the investment case is strengthening

FirstHoldCo’s investment case is increasingly persuasive because improvement is visible across several reinforcing dimensions: faster earnings growth, better operating efficiency, expanding transaction-led revenues, stronger capital, disciplined loan growth and an improving asset quality position. These are not isolated gains; they describe a franchise becoming more resilient and better positioned to convert scale into sustainable returns.

The Group is well positioned to unlock the next phase of value creation by building on its current momentum. Continued progress toward a single-digit NPL ratio, sustained coverage, recovery in net interest margin, disciplined deployment of deposits, and greater fee income contribution provide clear pathways to stronger, more resilient earnings. Consistent execution should improve earnings quality and deepen market confidence.

Enhanced dividend policy reinforces the shareholder-value proposition

The market is already recognising this stronger proposition: as of 23 October 2026, FirstHoldCo’s 200.84% year-to-date share-price gain had delivered the highest total shareholder return in 2026 among its banking peers, signaling strong investor confidence in the Group’s earnings momentum and outlook.

Reinforcing these market gains, FirstHoldCo earlier this year reaffirmed its commitment to shareholder returns through an enhanced dividend policy. Under the policy, the Board approved a minimum annual distribution of 60% of profit after tax, commencing with the 2027 accounts. The policy gives shareholders a clearer route to participate in earnings growth and signals confidence in the Group’s profitability, capital and cash-generation.

The timing is strategically important. Beginning with the 2027 accounts allows FirstHoldCo to consolidate capital strength, further improve asset-quality and fund disciplined growth before the higher payout takes effect. Subject to distributable reserves, regulatory approvals and prevailing financial conditions, the policy offers a credible path to stronger shareholder returns.

Outlook: disciplined growth with meaningful optionality

FirstHoldCo enters the final quarter of 2026 with a stronger balance sheet, improving credit metrics and enhanced operating leverage. Its N22.91 trillion deposit base provides substantial funding capacity, while the improved capital position creates room for selective expansion. Targeted investment in technology, innovation and customer experience can deepen transaction volumes and strengthen the durability of non-interest revenue.

The investment story therefore extends beyond stronger earnings. Capital strength, franchise depth, cost discipline and diversified capabilities make performance more sustainable. Margin pressure and the remaining NPL stock still require attention, but each also presents a defined opportunity for improvement.

Overall, the 9Months 2026 results show a Group regaining strategic flexibility and converting reform into measurable progress. Continued improvement in asset quality, margin recovery and disciplined capital allocation provide a credible path to resilient earnings and durable long-term value.

The Lagos State Government has intensified disease surveillance and preparedness measures after confirming an imported case of the Ebola Bundibugyo virus in Abuja and has assured residents that it has not detected any suspected cases in the state.

The Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi said the state was strengthening surveillance public awareness and collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure early detection and a prompt response to any suspected case.

In a statement Abayomi said the Ministry of Health conducted an assessment and held strategic engagements with airport management Port Health Services and other aviation and public health stakeholders at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos.

He said the engagement focused on passenger screening information sharing infection prevention and control and coordination of emergency response measures.

The ministry is also intensifying public enlightenment on the symptoms transmission and prevention of Ebola Virus Disease.

Abayomi urged residents to remain calm but vigilant warning that Ebola is a severe disease that can be fatal.

He said the virus spreads mainly through direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of infected people showing symptoms contaminated materials and the bodies of people who have died from the disease. Transmission may also occur through contact with infected animals.

Symptoms according to the commissioner may appear between two and 21 days after exposure and include fever severe weakness headache muscle pain sore throat vomiting diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Unexplained bleeding or bruising may also occur.

He advised people who develop symptoms particularly after possible exposure or travel from an area with active transmission to seek prompt medical assessment.

The commissioner noted that early Ebola symptoms could resemble malaria and other common illnesses urging residents to avoid self-medication.

He added that under Lagos State’s fever-management policy people with fever should undergo a malaria rapid diagnostic test before taking antimalarial drugs. Healthcare professionals should assess those who test negative for other possible causes.

Residents were also advised to wash their hands regularly avoid contact with sick people’s body fluids and potentially contaminated materials and stay away from sick or dead wild animals.

Abayomi urged travellers arriving in Nigeria particularly those from areas reporting Ebola transmission to cooperate with Port Health Services provide accurate travel and health information when requested and comply with public health guidance.

He advised anyone suspecting exposure to the virus to contact public health authorities for guidance before visiting a healthcare facility.

Residents can report suspected cases or exposure concerns via the state’s emergency numbers 112 or 767 or contact the Directorate of Epidemiology Biosecurity and Global Health on 0802 316 9485.

The commissioner said the government would continue to monitor developments strengthen its response capacity and provide updates as necessary.

The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) invites researchers maritime professionals engineers and industry experts to submit original research papers for its forthcoming NIMENA Conference 2026 scheduled for December 11 2026 in Lagos.

The conference tagged MARVEL Nigeria 2026 will be held under the theme ‘Advancing Maritime Sovereignty: Maritime Advancement through Resilience Vessel Development Energy Transition and Local Capacity.’

According to the institution the event will take place at the Event Hall Naval Dockyard 28 Ahmadu Bello Way Victoria Island Lagos bringing together maritime stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime industry promote indigenous capacity and advance sustainable development across West African waters.

NIMENA has identified four major research tracks to address critical challenges and emerging opportunities in the maritime sector.

The first track Classification and Standards will focus on local inspection capacity vessel safety and structural requirements suited to West African waters.

The second track Green Shipping will examine vessel retrofits alternative fuels emissions reduction and the technical and commercial viability of cleaner maritime operations.

The third track Cabotage and Shipbuilding will explore domestic fleet development shipyard capacity materials modular construction and the implementation of cabotage policies to strengthen indigenous participation in maritime activities.

The fourth Hydrodynamics of Domestic Craft will address hull design resistance propulsion and stability for coastal inland and shallow-draught vessels.

NIMENA explains that submissions must present clear research questions sound methodologies and findings with practical relevance to maritime development in West Africa.

The institution also notes that authors of selected papers may be invited to submit expanded manuscripts for possible publication in the Journal of the Blue Economy and Sustainable Energy Development (JBESED) or the African Journal of Offshore Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture (AJOMENA).

Interested researchers and maritime professionals should submit 150-200-word abstracts by November 14 2026 and full manuscripts by December 4 2026.

President of the Global Legislators Organisation for Better Environment (GLOBE) Legislators International Rt Hon. Sam Onuigbo said Nigeria has achieved major milestones in energy transition and climate sustainability under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He also noted the commendable focused attention of the governors of Nasarawa Lagos Kaduna Katsina and Borno states on energy transition and carbon market initiatives saying that if subnational governments emulate the Federal Government’s concerted actions Nigeria would emerge as a leading voice in environmental sustainability.

Onuigbo who is also the sponsor of Nigeria’s signature climate change law made the remarks while being honoured with Fellowship of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria (FSESN) in recognition of his contributions to Climate Change action and advocacy.

Onuigbo was honoured alongside other eminent Nigerians at the 43rd National Solar Energy Forum/Conference also known as NASEF 2026 held amid the country’s efforts to tackle energy accessibility challenges by turning to renewable energy sources including solar power Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles.

In his thank-you speech at the African University of Science and Technology Abuja Onuigbo said the fellowship was not merely recognition of past contributions but also a call to greater responsibility in advancing climate action and clean energy development.

He said ‘I consider this Fellowship not only a recognition of past contributions but also a call to greater responsibility. I also affirm my commitment to deepening my engagement with society and supporting initiatives that would expand solar energy adoption strengthen climate governance and unlock the environmental economic and social benefits of the clean energy transition.’

Onuigbo also a former two-term member of the National Assembly said he would translate climate legislation into practical action accelerating Nigeria’s energy transition and advancing the pathway to net-zero emissions.

Describing solar power as central to the transition the GLOBE President cited its potential to extend electricity access to underserved and unserved communities stimulate green industrialisation create jobs and reduce carbon emissions.

‘The shift to clean energy he stated should not be viewed only as an environmental necessity but also as an economic opportunity and a responsibility to future generations.

‘Solar energy is central to this transition. Its potential to expand energy access to underserved and unserved drive green industrialisation create jobs and reduce carbon emissions makes it indispensable to a sustainable future.’

He praised President Tinubu for the courage to assent to the Electricity Act 2023 explaining that the Act’s extensive provisions for renewable energy and its liberalisation of access to electricity generation and distribution by subnational governments have led to 16 states having their own electricity regulatory authorities.

He maintained that President Tinubu should be credited with the World Bank-funded DARES (Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up) initiative which is the country’s most ambitious distributed energy initiative.

‘Indeed President Tinubu deserves kudos because through this initiative 17.5million Nigerians will gain access to electricity by deploying thousands of mini-grids across the country’ the honoree stated noting that the Rural Electrification Agency is implementing the World Bank-funded project.

On the giant steps by the Nasarawa State Government the former lawmaker commended Engineer Abdullahi Sule for displaying great insight and ingenuity in mainstreaming the state’s potential into a global destination for energy transition by creating the enabling environment for the establishment of lithium processing plants in his state.

He noted that such forward-looking initiatives and support advance the need to turn Nigeria’s climate commitments and immense critical minerals potential into tangible benefits through wider access to clean energy and sustainable development.

President of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria (SESN) Dr Sunny Akpoyibo in a note of appreciation commended Onuigbo for his strong voice and initiatives in advancing climate action not only in Nigeria but also across the African continent and the world.

Hammering on Onuigbo’s determined struggle to birth Nigeria’s Climate Change Act of 2021 Akpoyibo stated: ‘The Climate Change Act 2021 established a legal and institutional framework for climate governance in Nigeria.

‘That legislation provides critical safeguards for climate action across various sectors of the economy while advancing the country’s commitment to climate resilience low-carbon development and the transition to net-zero emissions.

‘Further the Act recognises the importance of clean and renewable energy in achieving these objectives reinforcing the need for increased investment in and adoption of solar power to address Nigeria’s energy challenges.’

Three staff of Ufitfly Limited a travel agency in Osun State have been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Osogbo the state capital over their alleged involvement in a ?5687000 travel visa fraud.

The Police Prosecutor Shaeed Anifowose told the court that the accused persons Adeyemo Segun (36) Osuolale Olabisi (30) and Ajao Ayodele Samuel (39) along with others currently at large conspired to obtain money by false pretence from one Busari Miftaudeen Adekola.

According to the charge sheet No. MOS/6169 the alleged offence committed between September 6 and September 16 2024 was contrary to and punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Cap. 34 Vol. II Laws of Osun State 2002.

The prosecutor said the money ?5687000.00 was allegedly paid into two bank accounts (Access Bank: 0061590965 and Polaris Bank: 4091139761) under the account name Absolute Success Global Travel and Tour Limited under the pretext of procuring a study visa for him to attend International European University Malta Campus.

The accused persons pleaded not guilty and their Counsel Tunbosun Oladipupo sought bail for his clients in liberal terms.

Magistrate Olusegun Ayilara granted bail to the accused persons and adjourned the case till 14th of December 2026 for hearing.

EDO State Governor Monday Okpebholo has bowed to pressure to recognise and work with the Caretaker Committee of the Edo chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress headed by Comrade Monday Igbafen.

The Caretaker Committee was inaugurated in August last year but the Edo State Government continued to work with Comrade Bernard Egwakide as Acting Chairman of Edo NLC.

Several attempts by the Caretaker Committee to gain entrance to the Secretariat of the Edo NLC failed.

But Governor Okpebholo agreed to work with Prof. Igbafen’s Caretaker Committee after a meeting was convened by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume. Also present were NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero; Minister of Labour and Employment Dr Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi; and former Edo State Governor and ex-NLC President Senator Adams Oshiomhole.

The meeting was held after the Edo chapter of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) refused to stop its picketing of the BEDC Electricity Plc.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo Patrick Ebojele in a press statement said electricity supply would be restored to Edo State.

The statement said the state government would recognise the caretaker committee and work with labour leaders on arrangements for the conduct of election in Edo NLC.

It quoted the governor as saying ‘There is no issue actually and we have resolved the issues that border the NLC caretaker committee in Edo’ he said.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Okezie Kalu met with High Chief Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as Tompolo to discuss strategies for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in the 2027 general elections.

The meeting which followed the commissioning of PBAT’s national secretariat in Abuja focused on grassroots mobilisation and consolidating support for President Tinubu across the South-South and South-East geopolitical zones.

The strategic meeting also discussed strengthening a joint operational framework for voter sensitisation youth engagement and ward-level coordination in the States under the South II Directorate.

Kalu described the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement as a critical vehicle for the 2027 project noting that the election would be won at the polling unit and household level.

The Deputy Speaker said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken bold reform-driven decisions that are stabilising the economy and securing our nation.

He added that the campaign trail will ensure the Renewed Hope message reaches every doorstep emphasising that an alliance with Tompolo as Convener of the Movement is strategic.

Earlier at the commissioning of the national secretariat the Deputy Speaker said that President Tinubu’s commitment to a stronger more productive and inclusive Nigeria was evident in initiatives such as the student loan programme through NELFUND which provides financial support for eligible young Nigerians to pursue higher education and the establishment of regional development commissions.

He also expressed profound gratitude to the President for assenting to the South-East Development Commission Act which he said was an important step towards addressing reconstruction infrastructure and development priorities in the South-East.

‘As a representative of Bende Federal Constituency I particularly appreciate President Tinubu’s assent to the South-East Development Commission Act an important step towards addressing reconstruction infrastructure and development priorities in our region’ Kalu said.

Commending Tompolo for the initiative commitment and resources in establishing the national secretariat Kalu charged members of the Movement to strengthen its grassroots structure to mobilise support across the 774 Local Government Areas and 8809 wards for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 by taking the initiative to the nooks and crannies of the country.

He also urged the Movement to embody the highest standards of democratic participation by listening to citizens’ concerns.

‘Nigeria benefits when citizens can exchange ideas peacefully and participate in public life with confidence and dignity’ Kalu said.

As the nation prepares to navigate the political transition to the 2027 general elections the Founder and Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) Worldwide Bishop Mike Okonkwo has urged Nigerians to rise above primordial sentiments and exercise their civic duty by voting for competence and true leadership.

Speaking in a sideline interview with journalists when he visited Dominion University Ibadan-Lagos Expressway where he delivered the 4th Convocation Lecture the renowned cleric expressed deep concern over how the nation’s political landscape has historically been clouded by divisions declaring that the electorate must look beyond religious affiliations tribal loyalties party lines and personal interests if the country is to move forward.

Drawing from his wealth of experience Bishop Okonkwo maintained that true nation-building requires a deliberate departure from narrow parochialism.

Addressing the criteria for choosing leaders the cleric said ‘When people divorce themselves from religious tribal party and personal interest… let me explain myself

‘Religion to say that until a Christian is voted in the country cannot be good. I don’t share that concept because there are Christians you’ll vote in who will not do what you expected.

‘If it is tribal there are people from my tribe who may not do good. So I will not say because it’s wrong my tribe I must vote for him.’

Emphasising that governance is about collective well-being rather than appeasing sections the cleric pointed out that leadership should be measured by the ability to deliver the dividends of democracy to all citizens regardless of background.

He cited international examples to support his stance on pragmatic effective leadership noting that progress is agnostic to religious or tribal lines when the right systems are in place.

‘Nigeria we should look for who will deliver the dividends of democracy to every person. When you sit in any position your assignment is to ensure every interest is represented and covered whether you are from any tribe or any religion.

‘I don’t have any issue with a Muslim ruling this country as long as he can deliver the dividends of democracy. Take for instance Dubai the United Arab Emirates. They are not Christians but in Dubai the educational system is top-notch their electricity is top-notch their hospitals are top-notch.

‘These are people who are not of the same religion. So if that can be done so why are we always looking for who should have-is it from my own tribe or is it from my church? No. Who will give Nigeria the dividends of democracy?’

Turning to the youth’s critical role in shaping the country’s destiny the TREM general overseer urged young Nigerians not to succumb to despair noting that the current generation has unprecedented access to knowledge and global opportunities.

However he stressed that their most potent weapon in the coming dispensation remains their ballot.

‘All they need to do is to go and vote’ Okonkwo asserted downplaying violence as a means of political expression.

‘The youths will not go to war; they will not carry arms. The best they can do at the moment is to vote and vote for those who will give us roads give us good hospitals.’

The fiery cleric did not mince words about public office holders calling for strict moral and physical accountability for leaders entrusted with state resources.

He argued that those who seek public office must be genuinely invested in the ordinary citizen’s domestic realities rather than treating governance as a self-enriching venture.

‘Anyone who is running in any public office in this country must never-once you subscribe you are coming to public office-you must subscribe that your child will not go to foreign school; you must school here in this country. You are sick you will go to hospital in this country. You are travelling to any part of the country you go by road so that you see the roads other people are passing’ he warned.

Reflecting on the sanctity of human life and the reduction of politics to a do-or-die affair Bishop Okonkwo cautioned political actors against violent power struggles reminding them that posterity remains the ultimate judge of human actions.

‘Politics is not about do-or-die. We have reduced politics to taking human life and probably the blood that is being shed is part of the things that are holding us down in this country.

‘At the end of the day a good name is better than silver and gold. The memory of the just is blessed. When they remember you at the end of the day after you are gone what will be the legacy?’ the cleric added.

Chairman of Channels Television Mr John Momoh; philanthropist Sir Olu Okeowo; and the Bishop of Lagos Central and Archbishop-elect of the Archdiocese of Edo and Delta Methodist Church Nigeria the Rt. Revd. Ransford Nortey have called on Nigerians government and corporate organisations to increase support for persons with visual impairments.

They made the call at the 71st anniversary celebration and Independence Ball of the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB) an evening of fashion music awards and fundraising aimed at advancing the rehabilitation and empowerment of visually impaired Nigerians.

The event brought together business leaders corporate executives religious leaders and other well-wishers. It also featured a fashion parade in which visually impaired participants showcased traditional Nigerian attire highlighting their talents confidence and capacity to contribute meaningfully to society.

Speaking at the event Momoh commended FNSB for its work stressing that inclusion should not be treated as charity but as a shared responsibility requiring the support of individuals businesses and government.

‘FNSB is really doing a great job. Inclusion is not charity. Everybody should be on board and support them’ he said.

Momoh noted that while government intervention was important society also had a responsibility to support initiatives that improved the lives of persons with disabilities.

Also speaking Okeowo urged Nigerians to demonstrate greater compassion towards visually impaired people emphasising the importance of love sacrifice and practical assistance in helping them overcome barriers.

Nortey also urged the government corporate bodies and faith-based organisations to partner with FNSB describing its work as a service to humanity and the nation.

‘We thank God for what the society for the blind is doing and it is quite impressive. We want to encourage them to continue their good work’ he said.

He called for collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria and the Christian Council of Nigeria noting that both organisations could support FNSB through their existing programmes and partnerships.

In her remarks the Chairman of the Executive Council of FNSB Mrs Arit Tunde-Imoyo said the organisation had spent 71 years rehabilitating retraining and empowering people who lost their sight.

She explained that the society established a vocational training centre a year after its founding to help people who became blind acquire new skills regain their independence and rebuild their lives.

According to her FNSB has rehabilitated more than 3500 people many of whom have gone on to build careers in law engineering business and other professions. Some former trainees have also earned postgraduate degrees and assumed leadership positions.

‘What stands out for us is knowing that our trainees are doing well somewhere. When we hear their names in the news and learn that they are managing directors or entrepreneurs doing very well that makes us happy’ she said.

Tunde-Imoyo disclosed that the society hoped to expand its reach beyond Lagos and accommodate more trainees from across Nigeria. Although the centre has the capacity to train 100 people annually she said achieving this goal would require additional funding partnerships and modern training facilities.

She identified assistive and digital technologies as essential to improving rehabilitation and vocational training urging individuals corporate organisations and development partners to support the society’s plans.

The FNSB chairman also called for the implementation of policies promoting the employment of persons with disabilities including a policy recommending that five per cent of an organisation’s workforce comprise people with disabilities.

She further advocated an accessible environment where visually impaired people could move safely without encountering obstacles such as potholes while urging Nigerians to recognise and respect people who use white canes.

Tunde-Imoyo stressed that sustained advocacy and public enlightenment were necessary to achieve meaningful inclusion.

Also speaking at the event the Executive Secretary of FNSB Mr Oluwamayowa Oke said the anniversary provided an opportunity to consolidate the society’s achievements and strengthen its capacity to reach more persons who are blind.

He emphasised the need for sustained investment in vocational rehabilitation assistive technology accessible learning resources and aftercare support to ensure that training translates into lasting independence for beneficiaries.

Oke called on corporate organisations development partners and individuals to support the society’s next phase of growth and its vision of breaking down barriers for persons with visual impairment.