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The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to exceeding customer expectations through continuous investment in technology, people, and operational efficiency, as it celebrates its 2025 Customer Service Week under the global theme ‘Mission: Possible.’

The Pan-African bank said the annual event underscores its Customer 1st philosophy, a guiding principle that places customer experience at the centre of its operations and innovations.

Speaking at the launch of the celebration, UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, said the bank’s approach to service is built on a clear understanding of the diverse challenges faced by its customers across African markets and beyond.

He said: ‘As Africa’s global bank, we understand the unique challenges our customers face across different markets. That is why we are constantly investing in technology, people, and processes that make banking easier, faster, and more rewarding.

‘This week is not just about celebrating our customers, but about renewing our pledge to make the impossible possible for them, because at UBA, we remain committed to not just meeting expectations; but we are also committed to exceeding them.’

Alawuba explained that the 2025 theme, ‘Mission: Possible,’ aligns with the bank’s vision of transforming challenges into opportunities through innovation and strategic digital transformation.

Also speaking, the Group Head, Customer Experience, Michelle Nwoga, noted that this year’s celebration reflects a renewed focus on deepening customer engagement and expanding access to value-driven services across all touchpoints.

‘At UBA, our mission is clear: to make the seemingly impossible possible for our customers. Whether it is enabling cross-border transactions in real time, ensuring seamless digital access to banking, or supporting small businesses to scale against the odds, we are committed to delivering service that transforms lives. This week is a celebration of that mission, and of the customers who inspire us to raise the bar every day,’ she said.

According to the bank’s leadership, UBA’s innovation record speaks for itself. The bank, it added, was the first Pan-African financial institution to introduce a 24/7 multilingual contact centre, pioneer Africa’s first AI-powered virtual banker, Leo, and drive cross-continental remittances that connect millions of Africans in the diaspora with their home markets.

Beyond banking, the 2025 Customer Service Week will feature a series of mission-driven initiatives that highlight UBA’s commitment to community and economic development. These include business empowerment sessions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), financial literacy workshops, and participation opportunities in the UBA National Essay Competition for Senior Secondary Schools – initiatives designed to build resilience and future readiness among customers and young Nigerians.

With a customer base of over 45 million across 20 African countries, and operations in New York, London, Paris, and Dubai, UBA, its leadership said, continues to position itself as a bridge between Africa and the global financial system, offering retail, commercial, and corporate banking, alongside innovative trade finance and cross-border payment solutions.

Alawuba emphasised that UBA’s success story is driven by its ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver value beyond conventional banking.

‘At UBA, we are building a future where every challenge becomes an opportunity. Through innovation, resilience, and a relentless focus on customer needs, we are proving that great service is not just possible – it’s our mission,’ he said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, on his 69th birthday yesterday.

The President described him as a dependable ally, consummate strategist, and a loyal patriot whose contributions to national development span decades.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu eulogised Dr. Alake for his long-standing record of excellence in journalism, public service, and strategic communication.

The President also described the minister as one of the most accomplished professionals of his generation.

He recalled their long years of friendship and partnership anchored on shared values of service, integrity, and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

‘Dr. Dele Alake has remained a committed, loyal, and outstanding ally for several decades. His steadfastness and unyielding commitment to national development and progress stand him out as a patriot,’ the President said.

President Tinubu also applauded the minister’s ongoing efforts to reposition the solid minerals sector as a major revenue earner for the country.

He said Alake’s reforms – including investment promotion, policy innovation, and the integration of artisanal miners into the formal economy – align with the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

‘On this special day, I pray that Almighty God will continue to bless Dele with good health, wisdom, and strength,’ President Tinubu added.

Alake, a veteran journalist and former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, has been a long-time associate of President Tinubu since the 1990s and currently leads the administration’s drive to harness Nigeria’s mineral wealth for sustainable development.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has hosted civil society organisations (CSOs) with a call for stronger partnerships in addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The programme, held at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, with the theme, ‘Enhancing the Role of Government and Civil Society Organisations in Survivor-Centred SGBV,’ was part of activities marking the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month.

Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said the theme was inspired by the need to entrench a survivor-centred approach in service delivery.

She said: ‘This year’s theme is born out of the need to ensure that as government and as civil society organisations, we continue to ensure a survival-centred approach is adopted when we are providing services to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.

‘Our strategic partnership with civil society organisations cannot be over-emphasised because no one ministry, department or agency can provide all the services that survivors require. The NGOs are in the communities; sometimes they even serve as first responders. It is important for us to strengthen our partnership, embark on learning exercises and always keep abreast of best practices.’

Vivour-Adeniyi said that beyond policies, government and lawmakers must create an enabling environment for survivors to break the culture of silence.

‘This is one of the reasons why survivors do not speak up, because of stigma and the culture of silence. As government and civil society organisations, we all have a role to play in ensuring that survivors have enough courage, faith in the system, and are informed about what to do post-trauma,’ she said.

Addressing survivors directly, she reassured them that they were not alone.

‘We want survivors to know that, number one, it’s not your fault, you are not to blame. If you have experienced any form of sexual and gender-based violence, the Lagos State government believes you, you are not alone. We encourage you to speak up so that you can access medical, legal, psychosocial, counselling, empowerment and, more importantly, access to justice,’ she said.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN), Atinuke Odukoya, emphasised the critical role of civil society in amplifying survivors’ voices and connecting them to support services.

‘CSOs are like catalysts that ensure everything goes on well for the survivor. They support government institutions and provide the information that is required, helping people know the referral pathways, where to go, who to speak with, and how to seek help. Many survivors don’t even know what to do when abuse occurs, so CSOs bridge that gap and sometimes even handhold the survivors through the process,’ she said.

According to her, CSOs not only provide guidance but also direct services to survivors, including counselling, advocacy, and referrals to justice and healthcare systems.

On community involvement, Odukoya stressed the need for zero tolerance for abuse.

‘Communities need to acknowledge that sexual and gender-based violence is not acceptable. They must have conversations to identify what constitutes abuse and make it clear that perpetrators will face consequences. Too often, communities plead on behalf of perpetrators or cajole survivors to stay silent. But once people know that there are consequences, it goes a long way in prevention,’ she said.

The State Project Coordinator for the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by International IDEA, Ajibola Ijimakinwa, said the event was aimed at raising awareness and reinforcing referral pathways for survivors.

‘Today’s event is one of the activities in the celebration of Domestic Violence Month. The DSVA is creating awareness about SGBV and ensuring that more people know they have a place to refer such cases to, and people that can support them through their trauma. The European Union is supporting DSVA to bring together civil society organisations that have been instrumental in the fight against SGBV in Lagos State,’ she said.

Ijimakinwa noted that donor agencies had set up sexual assault referral centres, including facilities in Alimosho, Mirabel Centre and Warif, to expand the network of services available to survivors.

‘When people know where to report and where to go, it’s a way of telling them that there is help. There is someone out there that believes in you and can support you through the process. One of the key things we’ve done is to ensure that people know where to go when they face such traumatic incidences,’ she explained.

On prevention, she stressed that no one plans to be violated.

‘It has nothing to do with what a survivor did wrong. Nobody prays to be violated. What matters the most is that if, for any reason, you get to a point where you are violated, you know where to go to get the needed help,’ she said.

Katsina United head coach, Abdulazeez Audu, has assured fans that the team will return stronger this weekend when they host Remo Stars, following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Rangers International FC in Enugu.

Speaking after the loss yesterday, Audu admitted that the decisive goal came as a surprise and credited Rangers’ winger for his impressive run that led to the breakthrough.

‘Rangers’ goal caught us unawares, and we had to respond to the impressive run of their winger,’ Audu said.

‘We just have to go back home and make the needed changes before our next game.’

The Katsina United tactician also lamented logistical issues that affected his team’s performance, revealing that they struggled to manage the closing stages of the game due to a shortage of match balls.

‘Our complaint was about the absence of enough balls to play. We played the last 20 minutes with just one ball,’ he disclosed.

Looking ahead, Audu expressed optimism that his side will make the right adjustments to reclaim their winning form when they face Remo Stars in front of their home supporters.

‘We will go back and prepare for our home game with Remo Stars. We will try to make a few changes,’ he concluded.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has appealed to Nigerians to raise awareness, support survivors, and encourage proactive health habits in the ongoing fight against breast cancer.

In her message to mark this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the First Lady emphasised the importance of solidarity, early detection, and regular medical screening among women.

She described health consciousness as an essential part of national well-being.

‘This month, let us raise awareness, support survivors, and encourage one another to take proactive steps for better health,’ Senator Tinubu said.

The First Lady noted that women, mothers, sisters, and daughters must prioritise their health and wellness.

‘Early detection saves lives; regular self-examination and timely medical screening are key in the fight against breast cancer,’ se added.

The First Lady also called for collective responsibility in promoting women’s health, stressing the need for continuous education and preventive care.

‘Let us work together to stay healthy,’ she said, extending her good wishes to all Nigerian women and families observing the month.

Marketing strategist, Oghogho Harriet Osemwegie, in this interview, shares her experience in entertainment media, tech marketing, and consumer engagement.

What led you to entertainment media marketing and brand positioning?

My name is Oghogho Harriet Osemwegie. My background is in entertainment media marketing and strategic communication, focusing on helping brands refine their visibility, perception, and audience engagement in highly competitive industries. I’ve always been drawn to how brands influence culture, especially in entertainment, where marketing isn’t just about selling a product, but shaping how people experience these products. That’s what led me to focus on building marketing strategies that don’t just generate short-term engagement but create long-term industry relevance. Much of my experience comes from working in both creative and technical marketing spaces, where I’ve learned how to merge data-driven strategy with execution that resonates with audiences.

You mentioned working in both creative and technical marketing. Where did you gain that experience, and how did it shape your approach to branding?

One of the most formative experiences was working at NVIDIA, where I was involved in campaign, product, and partner marketing. NVIDIA sits at the intersection of technology, media, and consumer engagement, and my role required me to translate highly technical concepts into messaging that resonated with mass audiences. This experience shaped how I approach entertainment branding, where the challenge is similar, you need to simplify complex ideas while keeping the strategy strong. I learned how to use market positioning, strategic partnerships, and audience insights to create marketing that feels both authentic and backed by data.

NVIDIA is known for being highly technical. How did you transition from working in that space to focusing on entertainment marketing?

The transition was actually seamless because so much of entertainment marketing today is deeply technical and brands rely on data, audience analytics, and digital-first strategies just as much as the tech industry does. That’s also something I’ve explored further in my Entertainment Marketing Analysis Research at Carnegie Mellon, where I’m working with Maximum Effort, founded by Ryan Reynolds, to analyze how celebrity and influencer-driven campaigns shape consumer engagement.

Celebrity marketing has always been a major part of entertainment, but do you think it still holds the same influence today? What patterns are you seeing in your research?

It’s definitely evolving. Celebrity influence isn’t just about star power anymore, it’s about authenticity and audience alignment. Our research shows that brands prioritizing authentic partnerships over traditional endorsements see higher engagement and consumer trust. If a celebrity or influencer doesn’t align with the brand’s audience, the impact is minimal and people can see when a partnership doesn’t feel real. Another major shift is the rise of real-time engagement and personality-driven branding. Companies like Maximum Effort, Duolingo, and Netflix are proving that humor, interactive content, and digital-first strategies are redefining entertainment marketing. Marketing today isn’t just about visibility, it’s about cultural influence.

You’ve talked about how brands need to create experiences rather than just traditional advertising, I know you’ve also explored this through your own work so, can you tell us about your content projects and how they tie into your approach to brand marketing?

My content is an extension of my work in brand positioning and marketing strategy. With Apple and Google, I wanted to explore how brands can visually communicate their identity in ways that feel engaging, fresh, and beyond traditional advertising. Branding today isn’t just about logos and campaigns, it’s about creating a brand experience. My projects demonstrate how fashion, visual marketing, and digital execution can be used as marketing tools to make a brand feel more tangible to consumers.

How do you stay ahead in an entertainment and marketing industry that’s constantly evolving?

I stay engaged in real-world industry conversations. Attending conferences like Harvard Business School’s Africa Business Conference, the American Marketing Association’s virtual conferences, conferences hosted by the National Black MBA Association, and GTC has given me a front-row seat to how brands navigate digital transformation, audience behavior shifts, and evolving marketing strategies. Beyond that, my work at Maximum Effort allows me to analyze how brands sustain relevance in a fast-changing media landscape, while my own content projects serve as real-world applications of strategic marketing execution. By merging analytical marketing with creative execution, I ensure my approach remains practical, adaptable, and aligned with the future of entertainment branding.

Marketing today is more competitive than ever. What advice would you give to brands or even professionals looking to stand out in the entertainment industry?

Entertainment marketing moves fast, so staying ahead means being curious, adaptable, and willing to experiment. The best advice? Know your audience and meet them where they are. People connect with brands that feel real, intentional, and engaging, not ones that are just trying to go viral. Trends change, but strong brand positioning lasts. Instead of chasing what’s popular now, focus on what makes a brand unique and how to amplify that in ways that feel fresh and relevant. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take risks. The brands that stand out are the ones that push creative boundaries and understand that marketing is more about making an impact, rather than just selling.

Ekiti State Government has intensified security measures across its boundary communities, to prevent infiltration by bandits and kidnappers.

The development followed the recent attacks in some communities in Kwara State.

The Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mr. Michael Ogungbemi, spoke in a phone chat with our reporter.

He said security operations and surveillance had been reinforced along communities linking Ekiti with Kwara and Kogi states.

Ogungbemi said the council had launched a local security initiative called ‘Operation Eborac’, to combat banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities around boundary communities in the LCDA.

He said ‘Operation Eborac’, comprising local hunters and vigilance groups, carried out 24-hour surveillance, intelligence gathering and patrol duties, to ensure safety of lives and property.

Ogungbemi added that Ajoni LCDA had also extended its security collaboration beyond Ekiti boundaries, partnering with conventional and non-state actors in neighbouring Kogi and Kwara states.

The interstate patrols, he said, covered strategic boundary communities such as Ilemosho, Obbo-Ayegunle, Eruku, Koro, Ogbe and Koyan.

‘With these measures in place, we have fortified our boundaries and territories against criminal incursion.

”Our joint patrols with the military, police, civil defence and local security networks have ensured a strong security presence across vulnerable points,’ he said.

Ogungbemi lauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his support in improving security architecture in the area, particularly through establishment of military bases at Oke Ako, Iyemero and Itapaji to forestall possible attacks.

He said troops and security personnel deployed in ”these bases have been equipped with patrol vehicles and motorbikes to enable regular surveillance and efficient monitoring of boundary routes, forests and rural settlement.”

He said: ”This intervention has contributed to the prevailing peace and stability in Ekiti’s boundary communities.”

Assuring residents of safety, the chairman urged farmers, travellers, teachers and other residents in boundary communities such as Iyemero, Odo Owa, Irele and Ipao to go about their activities without fear.

He said there was no cause for alarm, as boundary areas and forest routes had been fortified to prevent infiltration by bandits or kidnappers, adding that Governor Oyebanji remained committed to protecting lives and property.

The University of Ibadan (UI) has urged candidates undergoing screening or planinng to apply directly for the institution’s undergraduate programmes through its special admission window (Open, Distance, and e-Learning ODeL) to complete their application before October 10, 2025.

A statement by the Director of UI DLC, Prof. Babatunde Omobowale, said UI-ODeL model provides a flexible pathway to a reputable University of Ibadan degree.

According to him, ODeL provides the opportunity for qualified candidates whose placement is restricted by JAMB/UTME limits related to traditional classroom settings.

He noted that ODeL also served those who need flexible study arrangements due to work or personal reasons, or those looking for a reputable, alternative pathway.

He stated that matriculation for the new intake would hold on Saturday, 30th of October, 2025 at UI International Conference Centre (ICC), adding that the event is a compulsory, landmark ceremony that formally inducts new students into the prestigious University of Ibadan.

According to him: ‘The Matriculation will feature a special highlight: the Matriculation Lectures. This addresses will be delivered by the distinguished alumni who achieved First-Class degree in Computer Science, Psychology and Political Science via the UI-ODeL mode.

‘Three First-Class graduates from the inaugural ODeL program will share their expertise, Olalekan Akolade Abass (Computer Science) will offer firsthand insights into mastering the flexible learning environment; he will be joined by Mr. Akindubi Jelili Babatunde (Psychology) who will explore models for achieving academic excellence at UI; and finally Mr. Okoye Mark (Political Science) will discuss the unique opportunities for UI-ODeL students and graduates’.

‘The centre welcomes applicants with five relevant O’ Level credits in one sitting or six in two sittings to apply to programmes including: Sciences: Computer Science, Statistics; Social Sciences: Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Political Science; Humanities and Education: Philosophy and Public Affairs, Communication and Language Arts, English, Social Work, Educational Management, Guidance and Counselling, and Library and Information Studies.

The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), organisers of the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS), has called for renewed vigour in addressing Nigeria’s housing challenges, urging government and stakeholders to build on the foundations laid by pioneers of the sector.

HDAN’s Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, in a conversation with The Nation, paid tribute to eminent figures such as the late Prof. Akin Mabogunje, Chief Samuel Olatunde Fadahunsi, Fortune Ebie and others whose work established the backbone of the country’s housing industry. He noted that institutions such as the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) were products of their foresight.

While commending current initiatives, Adebayo urged President Bola Tinubu to remain committed to his housing and urban development reform agenda.

He warned that challenges such as inflation, the soaring cost of building materials, limited land access and outdated legislation remain major obstacles to the delivery of affordable homes.

His comments come at a time when the Tinubu administration has rolled out bold measures under the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, spearheaded by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa. The programme targets 50,000 new homes nationwide, with projects ranging from Renewed Hope Cities and Estates to Social Housing schemes designed to serve all income levels.

So far, over 10,000 units are under construction across 14 states and the FCT. Notable projects include 3,112 units in Karsana, Abuja, 2,000 units in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, and 1,500 units in Kano, alongside 250-unit estates in states such as Katsina, Gombe, Yobe and Osun. In northern states, these efforts have created over 152,000 jobs, while more than 150 informal communities have been upgraded with basic infrastructure such as roads, drainage, water supply and solar lighting.

The ministry has also digitised key operations, including the introduction of an electronic Certificate of Occupancy to fast-track land titling and reduce bureaucracy. Similarly, a National Artisan Skills Acquisition Programme (NASAP) has been launched through a partnership with Polaris Capital to train and certify 100,000 artisans in construction trades, improve workforce capacity and strengthen local supply chains.

Nigeria’s housing finance institutions have recorded notable progress. The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria has doubled its impact in mortgage lending, approving ?71.5 billion in 2024 compared to ?39.7 billion the previous year. For the first time in three decades, the bank also posted an operational surplus of ?11.58 billion, while recovering ?10.9 billion in non-performing loans. It further introduced a ?100 billion Off-taker Guarantee Scheme to support the Renewed Hope projects and mobilise over ?40 billion in private capital.

The FHA has embarked on a wide-ranging digitalisation drive to secure property records, eliminate fraud and accelerate services. It has also intensified land acquisition using drone technology, completed abandoned projects in Ibadan and Abuja, and grown its land bank to boost internally generated revenue.

Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL) is complementing these efforts with new affordable housing projects in states including Delta, Kano, Kaduna and Ogun. At the same time, the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) has expanded liquidity in the housing finance market, while pushing for the adoption of the Model Mortgage and Foreclosure Law across states to make home loans more accessible.

The Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) has also entered the fray with the launch of a ?250 billion Real Estate Investment Fund designed to streamline mortgage processes and expand affordable housing access through partnerships with FMBN, NMRC and FHFL.

Despite this progress, Adebayo cautioned that Nigeria’s housing sector still faces formidable challenges. He stressed that corruption, weak implementation of policies and the absence of strong political will remain the greatest threats. He urged the legislature to enact the right reforms and for government to introduce incentives and subsidies that would ease access to homes, especially for low-income earners.

‘With inflation soaring and rents rising daily, it is time to demonstrate political will. ‘If urgent measures are not taken, as has been successfully done in countries like Morocco, Nigeria may be sitting on a keg of gunpowder,’ Adebayo said.

He appealed to stakeholders to place national interest above personal or political considerations, insisting that only accountability and sustained reform will make the dream of affordable, dignified housing for all Nigerians a reality.

The Bureau of Public Defender (BPD) has celebrated its 25th anniversary with a call from stakeholders to the agency to embrace digital justice and innovation as the next phase of its service to the people of Lagos.

The advice was given at the BPD’s Silver Jubilee ceremony held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island.

The event brought together judges, senior advocates, government officials, and civil society partners under the theme ‘Honouring the Past, Defending the Future.’

In his keynote address, Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), described the OPD as a ‘legacy institution’ that has provided free legal aid to vulnerable citizens since its establishment in 2000.

He highlighted the agency’s achievements, noting that it had handled over 200,000 petitions, recovered N815 million and $52,000 in compensation, and transformed countless lives.

‘The future must be about reforms and digitalisation. We cannot remain static in a rapidly-changing justice world,’ Pedro said.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented at the event by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Dada, lauded the bureau’s evolution and upgrade earlier this year.

She revealed that within just six years, the OPD had handled 50,000 court cases with an 86 per cent success rate and resolved 14,000 petitions through mediation.

‘Our next chapter must leverage technology to expand access and efficiency in justice delivery,’ she said.

The Ex-Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, hailed the OPD as ‘a pillar of hope for the indigent and marginalised.’

‘With a single click, people should access justice. Digitalisation is no longer optional,’ he declared.

Professor Iyabode Oguniran, an expert in child and gender law, stressed the need for a stronger digital presence.

She urged improvements in the bureau’s website, data transparency, and online case reporting, warning that failure to modernise could hinder OPD’s ability to tackle emerging crimes such as cyber fraud.

Echoing the same concern, Mrs. Uchenna Akingbade, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch, highlighted the need for digital platforms to strengthen pro bono collaborations and ease the agency’s workload.

‘Our colleagues in OPD face overwhelming files daily. Technology can make private-public legal partnerships seamless,’ she said.

The OPD was established in July 2000 by the then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) as Attorney-General.

Conceived as a bold response to the urgent need to provide free legal services to indigent Lagosians, the agency had since grown from a modest unit under the Directorate for Citizens’ Rights to a full-fledged bureau with headquarters in Surulere and nine offices across the state, including Ikorodu, Ajah, Epe, and Badagry.

As stakeholders reflected on OPD’s legacy, they agreed that while the past 25 years had been marked by courage and success, the next quarter-century should be defined by technology-driven reforms, strategic partnerships, and continuous innovation to ensure that justice in Lagos remained accessible to all.