The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • NOVA Bank expands operations

    NOVA Bank expands operations

    Nova Bank Limited is redefining banking landscape and economic growth across the Southeast, South-South with the opening of its office in the region.

    Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, announced the State Government’s commitment to provide land for the development of NOVA Bank’s regional head office for South-East/South-South region in Owerri, marking a significant milestone in the Bank’s long-term dominance in the region.

    The announcement was made during the commissioning of NOVA Bank’s flagship regional office in Owerri, an event that drew top government officials, prominent business leaders from across the South-East and South-South regions, as well as Nigerians in the diaspora who returned home to witness the landmark occasion.

    Governor Uzodinma noted that NOVA Bank’s entry into Imo State aligns with the State’s deliberate efforts to lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth through strategic infrastructure development, improved road networks, and targeted market-driven initiatives.

    He described NOVA Bank as one of the “smart first movers” identifying emerging economic opportunities in the region and positioning itself early to lead the next phase of growth.

    He further commended the Bank’s phygital strategy, which seamlessly integrates physical banking infrastructure with advanced digital platforms to deliver efficient, transparent, and customer-centric financial services. According to the Governor, this approach mirrors Imo State’s zero-tolerance stance for outdated, analogue systems and its commitment to technology-driven governance and commerce.

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    “In recognition of NOVA Bank’s vision and long-term commitment to the region, the Imo State Government will allocate a befitting piece of land in a choice location for the development of its permanent South-East/South-South Regional Headquarters,” the Governor stated.

    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of NOVA Bank, Phillips Oduoza, expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Imo State for the warm reception and strong show of partnership.

    “The opening of our Regional Office in Owerri marks a strategic milestone in NOVA Bank’s national expansion and reinforces our long-term commitment to the South-East and the broader South,” he said. “Owerri is not just another location for us; it is a flagship hub and a launchpad for deeper market penetration across the region, reflecting our strong confidence in its economic potential.”

    He added that for investors and the wider business community, NOVA Bank’s expansion is driven by disciplined growth anchored on strong fundamentals, innovation, and sustainable value creation.

    “NOVA Bank is not merely expanding its physical footprint. We are deploying scalable digital infrastructure and innovative financial solutions designed to support SMEs, retail businesses, corporates, public-sector institutions, HNI’s and mass market, he said.

    According to the Chairman, the establishment of the regional headquarters at Owerri will catalyse job creation, stimulate enterprise growth, create easy access to credit and deepen financial inclusion across the South-East and South-South, while delivering exceptional service and superior value to customers and stakeholders.

    “NOVA Bank remains focused on building a resilient, future-ready institution that delivers sustainable value to customers, partners, and shareholders alike,” he concluded.

    With this milestone, NOVA Bank reinforces its commitment to redefining banking in the South-East and South-South, positioning itself as a long-term partner in driving innovation, enterprise growth, and sustainable economic development across the region.

  • Firm targets new markets

    Firm targets new markets

    A growing hospitality and short-stay platform, Bulvds, stepped into a new kind of spotlight at this year’s African Startup Festival (ASF), using the event to bridge the gap between digital innovation and personal connection.

    Known for its “home away from home” approach and curated apartments across Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, the company used the festival not merely to showcase its offerings but to meet users face-to-face in a deliberate push for physical engagement.

     Chief Executive Officer, Bulvds, Simeon Mba, said the company is expanding its interactions with users seeking better short-stay opportunities through online booking platforms.

    According to him, ASF exposed the brand to an entirely new demographic—individuals less concerned with technical specifications and more interested in practical, everyday solutions. He noted that the most common question from attendees was simple and direct.

    “The most common question from attendees was simply, ‘How does this work to make my life easier?’ Answering those questions and watching curiosity turn into understanding was incredibly rewarding. It reminded us that the heart of Bulvds is helping people find comfort, clarity and a sense of home away from home,” Mba said.

    “The embrace from this new audience validated the work we’ve been doing and gave us clearer insight into how first-time users perceive our value,” he added.

    Read Also: ‘Bank auditors partnership boosts financial sector resilience’

    In a market where accommodation options can often feel unreliable, Mba noted that events such as ASF allow brands to humanise digital solutions. He explained that many attendees discovered for the first time that platforms like Bulvds exist as viable alternatives to traditional, often stressful booking processes.

    For the company, he said, the event was not a one-off appearance but the beginning of a broader strategy to deepen physical engagement with users.

    “This is the first of many moments where we step out from behind the product and stand right in front of the people we’re building for,” Mba explained.

    As Nigerians prepare for the holiday season, Bulvds is positioning itself not just as an alternative but as a new standard for reliability and comfort. Speaking directly to prospective users, Mba shared a welcoming message that reflects the company’s ethos.

    “You’re stepping into a platform created to make your living experiences easier, smoother and more intentional,” he said.

  • Multi-Trex Integrated Food mulls N5b diversification

    Multi-Trex Integrated Food mulls N5b diversification

    Multi- T-Rex Integrated Food Plc has concluded plans to diversify its operations into the  production of bottled water, liquid chocolate drinks and other Agro – commodities.

    Managing Director, Multi- Trex Integrated Food Plc, Mr Yusuf Isiaka said this at the weekend during the annual general meeting (AGM) at its factory in Warewa, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State.

    Isiaka said the company after paying up its debts and getting a clean bill of health from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), is set to resume production in the first quarter of next year.

    He said within the first three months the company will begin the production of cocoa powder and c with plans to add more consumer products , including chocolate drinks, bars and other by 2027.

    He said the company is working on its strategic product expansion plan for water production in 2027.

    Isiaka disclosed that in the next five years the company intends to inject over N5 billion into its operations for expansion.

    He said the management will depend to a large extent on its internally generate revenue for operations with considerations  equity placement.

    Isiaka said the company will only approach any commercial bank as the last resort to secure working capital.

    While unveiling its new strategic investors, Isiaka said the capacity and pedigree of the new partners will assist to secure raw materials for its operations.

    The Multi – Trex Integrated Food Plc boss said the expertise and strength of its new investors which controls 40 percent of the cocoa market in Nigeria will position the company for quick recovery and market dominance.

    He spoke about of  plans to offset the liabilities of its former workers , which was occasioned by its taken over by AMCON as one of the priorities.

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    He said besides the the raw materials to be secured from its partners/ new investors, the company will leverage supply from its investment in a 16 hectare cocoa farm it has been running since 1999.

    Isiaka said the company intends to take advantage of the Federal Government policy which emphasizes that only value added produce are exported.

    Isiaka commended the shareholders for their patience and understanding while the company was under receivership highlighting the roles played by many parties to ensure the company returned to its original owners.

    He said the new investors weighed many options , including taking the company’s assets and liabilities.

    Isiaka said with the strategic plan been considered by the new investors and new management team to be put on place, Multi – Trex Integrated Food Plc will regain its place as a market leader in the local and international space.

    He spoke of plans for retooling of the company’s industrial line.

  • Regent Microfinance Bank disburses N10b loans to MSMEs

    Regent Microfinance Bank disburses N10b loans to MSMEs

    Regent Microfinance Bank (MfB) has disbursed over N10 billion in cumulative loans disbursements to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

    This achievement underscores the bank’s pivotal role in closing Nigeria’s persistent credit gap, empowering entrepreneurs, and accelerating sustainable economic growth.

    The milestone reinforces Regent MfB’s position as a committed champion of financial inclusion, enterprise development, and accessible financing for small businesses.

    Through its diverse loan portfolio, including FMCG business loans, SME loans, asset financing, and micro-business support, the bank continues to provide the capital entrepreneurs need to strengthen operations, boost productivity, and scale sustainably in an increasingly competitive market landscape.

    Speaking on the achievement, Dr. Idris Olugbesan, Managing Director of RegentMFB, said the milestone reflects the bank’s commitment to long term economic impact, in his words: “Surpassing N10 billion in loan disbursements reflects our conviction in SMEs as drivers of structural economic growth. Looking toward 2026, we aim to broaden financial inclusion, ease liquidity constraints for entrepreneurs, and allocate capital prudently to sustain community level development and long term, economy wide impact.”

    Speaking on the milestone, Chibuzor Uba, Chief Marketing Officer of Regent MfB, stated:  “At Regent MfB, we don’t just bank, we partner. We’ve been privileged to fuel the growth of countless businesses, empowering them to achieve their dreams and contribute to Nigeria’s economic prosperity. As we continue to innovate and expand our services, we’re committed to being the catalyst for success, driving progress and prosperity for all our stakeholders.”

    Chief Marketing Officer, Elijah Oladosu, added: “Financing should not be a hurdle for promising businesses. With access to the right loan, growth becomes possible, and success becomes scalable.”

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    According to Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), MSMEs contribute roughly 46–50% of Nigeria’s GDP and account for a large majority of business activity and employment in the country. However, limited access to credit continues to constrain their growth potential.

    Regent MFB’s lending strategy is a direct response to this challenge, simplifying access, removing bottlenecks, and creating tailored financing solutions that address real-world business needs.

    By reaching the N10 billion mark in disbursements, the bank reinforces its role as a catalyst for productivity, resilience, and inclusive wealth creation.

    Reaching the N10 billion disbursement mark reaffirms the bank’s role as a driver of productivity, resilience, and inclusive economic advancement. Regent MFB’s approach goes beyond traditional lending by integrating financial advisory support, flexible repayment options, and long-term partnership models that enable entrepreneurs not just to survive, but to thrive.

    At a time when Nigeria faces ongoing economic pressures, the need for reliable and impactful financial partners has never been more critical. Regent MFB continues to demonstrate the transformative power of responsible lending and strategic business support in shaping a more vibrant, empowered SME landscape.

    This milestone stands as a testament to the bank’s mission to remain more than a financial institution, it is a trusted partner committed to driving growth, fostering resilience, and helping small businesses across Nigeria reach their fullest potential.

  • SEC plans electronic registration for market operators

    SEC plans electronic registration for market operators

    Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has directed all capital market operators to renew their registration between January 1 and January 31, 2026, as part of broader efforts to modernise regulatory processes and deepen confidence in Nigeria’s capital market.

    The commission also disclosed that it will begin the electronic receipt and processing of applications for registration and updates to registration information in the first quarter of 2026, a move aimed at reducing delays, improving transparency and easing engagement between regulators and market participants.

    A statement from the commission yesterday said the Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, made this known when he spoke extensively on the Commission’s digital transformation agenda and its implications for operators and investors.

    According to Agama, the initiatives are designed to reposition the commission as a technology-driven regulator capable of responding to the evolving needs of a fast-changing financial ecosystem. “These initiatives reflect our commitment to leveraging technology for faster, more transparent, and efficient regulatory processes. The Commission is taking deliberate steps to make regulatory processes faster, more transparent, and technology-driven. We are investing in automation, databased supervision, and secure infrastructure to improve how we interact with the market,” he said.

    He explained that the SEC’s Digital Transformation Portal has already changed the way registration and licensing are handled, with processes now fully automated from start to finish. Through the platform, operators are able to submit applications, upload required documents and track approvals online, significantly cutting down manual processing time and limiting the need for physical visits to the Commission.

    Agama also disclosed that the Commission has introduced a Commercial Paper issuance module that enables operators to file documents, monitor the status of applications and receive approvals electronically. He noted that feedback from early users of the platform has shown a clear improvement in turnaround time, signalling early gains from the digital shift.

    Beyond registration and issuance processes, the SEC is working to automate the submission of quarterly and annual returns by operators. Agama said structured templates and system checks are being developed to ensure accuracy and consistency, while a returns analytics dashboard is also in progress to support risk-based supervision and exception reporting.

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    “To back these changes, we have started upgrading our IT infrastructure, servers, storage, networks, and security layers, to boost speed and reliability. Selective cloud migration is underway for platforms that need scalability and external access, while core internal systems remain on premise for now as we assess security and cost implications,” he said.

    He added that data protection and cybersecurity remain central to the Commission’s strategy, noting that vulnerability assessments are ongoing, with penetration testing planned once the automation and migration phases stabilise. According to him, the objective is to build a modern and resilient regulatory environment that supports operational efficiency, strengthens investor confidence and promotes overall market stability.

    Agama said the Nigerian capital market is firmly on a path towards full digital transformation but warned that the journey requires deliberate policy choices and capacity building. He stressed the need for regulatory clarity around advanced technologies, targeted support for smaller firms and sustained initiatives to build skills across the market.

    “A phased and proportionate approach to regulating emerging technologies such as AI is essential, complemented by internal readiness through supervisory technology tools. Furthermore, investor education, particularly among younger demographics, will be critical to future-proof participation and drive fintech adoption,” he said.

    While encouraging innovation, the SEC boss cautioned that technology adoption must go hand in hand with responsibility. “Innovation is vital, but it must be accompanied by responsibility. As operators embrace automation, artificial intelligence, and data-driven tools, they bear a duty to ensure ethical, secure, and compliant deployment. Safeguarding investor data, preventing market abuse, and maintaining operational resilience are non-negotiable,” Agama stated.

    He noted that responsible use of technology ultimately serves a higher purpose in the market. “Responsible technology adoption is about building trust, the cornerstone of our markets. Trust thrives on fairness, transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance,” he said.

    Agama therefore urged capital market operators to uphold these principles as the market becomes increasingly digital, noting that doing so would protect investors and systemic stability while strengthening the long-term credibility and competitiveness of the Nigerian capital market.

  • Wema Bank doles out N120m to Hackaholics winners

    Wema Bank doles out N120m to Hackaholics winners

    Wema Bank, and  Nigeria  Africa’s first fully digital bank- ALAT, has announced Chao and VOC AI as the first-place winners for Hackaholics 6.0. This announcement was made at the Grand Finale of Hackaholics 6.0 which took place in Lagos, over the weekend.

    Chao, an engine helping food vendors work smarter and grow effortlessly, emerged first place winner in the Ideathon, securing a N25 million prize while VOC AI, a Voice of Customer SDK that turns everyday notifications into real-time feedback touchpoints, emerged first place winner in the Hackathon.

    Other winners include Ideathon winners VARSITY SCAPE that  came second with a N20 million prize, FARMSLATE in third place with a N15m prize and SANE AI which came fourth with a N5.0m prize and FERTITUDE, which secured the win for the Women-Led category, taking home a N5.0m prize. For the Hackathon, ILLUMITRUST came second, following VOC AI with a N15m prize, FIX FRAUD AI came third with a N10m prize and RAPID DEV came fourth with a N5.0m prize.

    Congratulating the winners, Moruf Oseni, the Managing Director/CEO of Wema Bank, encouraged more youths to explore innovation and channel their creativity positively and productively. Reiterating the Bank’s commitment to empowering lives through innovation, Oseni said, “for eight decades, we have stood as Nigeria’s longest surviving indigenous bank, waded market storms, adapted to countless disruptions, transformed alongside our nation over the decades, and spearheaded innovation in banking.

    “ With Hackaholics, we decided to go beyond being innovators to becoming the bank that empowers innovators even from as early as their undergraduate years. We recognise that the future of this continent will be built on the bedrock of Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), which is why our dedication to youth and STEM education is more than just CSR, it is a strategic imperative that we do not compromise on. We are not just providing platforms, we are investing in the youth, financially, intellectually and in every other way that matters”.

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    “For Hackaholics 6.0, we toured 8 campuses, received over 11,000 high-quality applications compared to 2024’s 2,300, applications, and directly engaged over 2,000 participants in regional pitch sessions.

    The year-on-year increase in applications shows that Hackaholcis has grown beyond being a competition; it is a thriving national ecosystem for problem solvers. The sheer volume and quality of the ideas and solutions we have discovered solidifies our belief that the African challenge is the African opportunity and as a Bank, we will continue to fuel the innovators that will transform opportunity into impact. We are proud of every participant who started this journey, and of course the finalists who made it this far. To the winners, I say Congratulations; Wema Bank is with you, all the way”, Oseni concluded.

    Since its launch in 2019, Hackaholics has disbursed $300,000 in funding to youth and startup innovators across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria, disbursing N75 million to women-led teams in 2023 and 2024 alone—a testament to the Bank’s intentional drive for women inclusion in tech and innovation. Through Hackaholics and several other initiatives pioneered by the Bank, Wema Bank continues to invest in Nigerian youth, support innovators and promote inclusion in the spaces that matter, perpetually fulfilling its mission of Empowering Lives Through Innovation.

  • CSCS eyes stronger growth with new CEO

    CSCS eyes stronger growth with new CEO

    The board of Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc has appointed Mr. Shehu Shantali as the company’s new chief executive officer with a target to drive the company’s next ambitious growth plan.

    The appointment, which has received regulatory approval, takes effect on January 1, 2026.

    Shantali succeeds Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, who will be stepping down after eight-year tenure marked by strong leadership, strategic growth, and significant contributions to the development of Nigeria’s capital market infrastructure.

    Chairman, Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, Mr. Temi Popoola, said the board was delighted to welcome Shantali as the new helmsman of the company citing Shantali’s wealth of experience, deep industry knowledge, and a strong strategic vision.

    “The board is confident that he will build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor and lead the company into its next phase of growth,” Popoola said.

    Shantali said he would work with the board, management, staff, regulators, and market participants to further strengthen the company’s leadership position, deliver value to stakeholders, and support the continued growth and stability of the capital market.

    He noted that CSCS plays a critical role in Nigeria’s capital market ecosystem, assuring that the company would continue to uphold highest standards of corporate governance, operational excellence, and stakeholder engagement as it continues to support the Nigerian capital market.

    The company said Jalo-Waziri provided visionary and results-driven leadership that delivered sustained growth and far-reaching transformation across the organization.

    According to the company, Jalo-Wazziri led the successful execution of critical strategic initiatives, strengthened governance and operational effectiveness, and modernized the company’s systems and processes, positioning the organization for long-term resilience and competitiveness.

    “His leadership significantly enhanced stakeholder confidence deepened the organization’s market relevance both domestically and internationally, and established a strong, future-ready foundation for continued success,” the company stated.

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    “On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our profound appreciation to Haruna Jalo-Waziri for his outstanding service to CSCS. Under his leadership, the Company recorded notable milestones and built an impressive legacy of operational excellence, innovation, and stakeholder confidence. We thank him sincerely for his dedication and impact,” Popoola said.

    Jalo-Waziri commended the board, management team and all other stakeholders for their supports during his tenure.

    He said: “It has been an honour to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of CSCS. I am proud of what we have achieved together as a team and grateful for the support of the board, management, regulators, and all our stakeholders. I am confident that CSCS is well positioned for the future, and I wish my successor every success as he takes the Company forward”.

    Shantali holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and an Executive MBA from Kingster Business School.

    He has over two decades of experience in accounting, finance, and financial services across Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with expertise spanning investment and asset management, financial advisory, and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

    His career cuts across capital markets, investment banking, real estate, and financial services, and is underpinned by a decade at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria, where he championed the migration of publicly listed and significant public interest entities from Nigerian GAAP to IFRS and led the Commission’s transition to the contributory pension scheme in 2012.

    Shantali has built deep experience in financial inclusion, digital financial infrastructure, and the development of scalable, market-wide platforms that expand access to regulated financial services.

    As Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Apricot Investments Limited, he led the development of the MicroWorld platform, enabling the distribution of structured financial products including micro-health, micro-pension, micro-housing, micro-insurance, and micro-investment solutions.

    Earlier in his career, his team developed Nigeria’s first contactless payment solution, and he played a pioneering role in POS-based agency banking and early mobile-money interoperability on the NIBSS NIP platform, supporting efficient payments, settlement, and system-wide connectivity.

  • Stockbrokers highlight digital assets at Yabatech

    Stockbrokers highlight digital assets at Yabatech

    President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Oluropo Dada, has urged Nigerian students to position themselves for the future of finance by embracing professional certification and emerging opportunities in the capital market, particularly in digital assets and cryptocurrency.

    Dada made this call in his opening remarks at the CIS–Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) Career Talk, held yesterday at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.

    “The Nigerian capital market is at a defining moment, going by the recent amendments to the Investments and Securities Act (ISA). The formal recognition of digital assets and cryptocurrency as Exchange-Traded Products have come as a landmark reform that integrates digital finance into Nigeria’s mainstream capital market and aligns the country with global best practices,” Dada said.

    Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Engr Ibraheem Abdul, represented by the Deputy Rector (Academic), Dr. Engineer Ismail Badmus, commended the Institute for its initiative in encouraging students to acquire practical knowledge of finance and investment at an early stage, and assured the Institute of a stronger collaboration in advancing this objective.

    Dada expressed appreciation to the Management of Yabatech for its sustained partnership and institutional support, describing the college as “a pride of Nigeria’s educational system” with a long-standing reputation for excellence, innovation, and the production of industry-ready graduates. He noted that the collaboration with CIS is strategically focused on preparing young Nigerians for the future of work and wealth creation.

    Speaking on the mandate of the Institute, he stated that the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers is the statutory professional body responsible for the training and certification of securities and investment professionals in Nigeria. According to him, the Institute’s role extends beyond examinations to building competence, ethical standards, and global relevance within the Nigerian capital market.

    He explained that, under the amended law, CIS members are now professionally empowered to trade, manage, and advise on digital assets and cryptocurrency products, positioning CIS-certified professionals at the centre of one of the fastest-growing segments of global finance. These opportunities, he noted, span digital asset trading, blockchain-enabled investment products, tokenized securities, and fintech innovation.

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    Dada encouraged them to take advantage of the Certified Securities and Investment Support Specialist (CSISS) programme, which allows undergraduates to begin their professional journey in the securities and investment industry while still in school. He described the programme as flexible, fully digitized, and designed to provide a strong foundation in capital market operations, investment support services, and emerging areas such as digital assets.

    Group Executive Director, Assets Management, CardinalStone Partners Limited, Elile Olutimayin, spoke on “Diverse Investment Opportunities in the Nigerian Capital Market with Smart Assets’ Tool”, the Registrar and Chief Executive, CIS, Ayorinde Adeonipekun, addressed the students on “ Prospects for young undergraduate students in the securities and investment Profession through Certified Securities and Investment Support Specialist(CSISS) Certification” while Yabatech’s Head of Banking and Finance Department, Dr Adebola Adebisi made remarks  on the benefits of Investment Club .

    The high point of the event was the launch of an Investment Club by Ayorinde  Adeonipekun.

  • Haldane McCall gets ISO certification

    Haldane McCall gets ISO certification

    Haldane McCall Plc  has received Quality Management System Certification- ISO 9001-2015, of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), which implies that its products and services consistently meet customer expectations.

    In a letter addressed to Haldane McCall’s Group Managing Director, Edward Akinlade, by SON, the company is authorised to use SON certification logo in all its official communications on real estate and hospitality businesses.

    The certification validates the company’s adherence to globally recognized standards for quality, safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability, a development that analysts say could enhance investor confidence.

    Akinlade explained that the ISO certification affirms Haldane McCall’s quality policy, which emphasises risk management, regulatory compliance, environmental and safety standards, and continuous improvement across its operations.

    Industry observers note that the certification positions Haldane McCall ahead of non-certified peers, signalling operational discipline in project delivery, facilities management, and compliance. By aligning with international standards, the company is expected to reduce operational risks, strengthen governance, and enhance trust among investors and clients.

    Read Also: Haldane McCall to invest N250b in new real estate projects

    The certification coincides with strong financial performance for the fiscal year 2024. Haldane McCall reported a 109 percent year-on-year increase in revenue, a 168 percent surge in profit before tax, and a 23 percent rise in total assets, which now stand near N22 billion. Analysts say the combination of robust fundamentals and ISO accreditation enhances the company’s credibility and competitiveness, particularly among institutional and foreign investors seeking transparency and risk-mitigated opportunities in Nigeria’s property sector.

    With the new certification, Haldane McCall is better positioned to execute its expansion plans, including large-scale affordable housing and hospitality projects, while supporting high standards of quality and governance, factors that could attract further investment in a market often unsettled by regulatory, construction-quality, and governance challenges.

  • BREAKING: Police confirm release of remaining 130 Papiri students

    BREAKING: Police confirm release of remaining 130 Papiri students

    The Niger Police Command has confirmed the release of the remaining 130 abducted students and staff of St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, in the Agwara Local Government Area of Niger.

    NAN reports that the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Wasiu Abiodun, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Minna.

    Abiodun said that the remaining batch of the victims was released on Sunday, bringing an end to the ordeal of the abducted students and staff of the school.

    He explained that a total of 130 victims, including staff members of the school, were released in the latest development.

    The police spokesman assured the public that further developments on the matter would be communicated as necessary.

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    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the students were abducted on Nov. 21, while the first batch of about 100 students was rescued on Dec. 8, following sustained security operations.

    NAN also recalls that Gov. Umar Bago had received the first batch of about 100 freed students through the office of the National Security Adviser, Mr Nuhu Ribadu.

    The governor commended the NSA and other security agencies for their gallant efforts, which led to the successful rescue mission.