The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • AFC, NGX partner to unlock capital for infrastructure development

    AFC, NGX partner to unlock capital for infrastructure development

    Nigeria needs to mobilise long-term domestic capital to bridge its infrastructure deficit, estimated to reach $2.3 trillion by 2043.

    Experts at a two-day capacity-building programme organised by Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) were unanimous on the need to strengthen the technical capabilities required to structure and finance infrastructure projects through Nigeria’s capital markets.

    The two-day workshop held in Lagos convened professionals from regulatory agencies, institutional investors, project sponsors, and financial institutions to strengthen capacity in project and infrastructure finance, and to explore how Nigeria’s capital markets can serve as a critical platform for financing sustainable infrastructure.

    Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit, long recognised as a constraint on productivity and competitiveness, is estimated to reach US$2.3 trillion by 2043, with some projections rising toward US$3 trillion over the coming decades.

    The workshop was convened to address the urgent need for innovative financing mechanisms capable of mobilising long-term domestic capital into bankable infrastructure opportunities.

    Executive Board Member and Head of Financial Services, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC ), Banji Fehintola, said closing the continent’s funding gap requires building local expertise and robust market structures that can support complex, long-term projects.

    “At AFC, we are committed to advancing not just project financing, but the full framework required to deliver bankable, sustainable infrastructure solutions. Our partnership with NGX reflects our belief that Nigeria’s capital markets can and must play a pivotal role in mobilising the scale of domestic resources required to drive the country’s long-term development,” Fehintola said.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange (NGX), Jude Chiemeka, highlighted the importance of deepening expertise across the market.

    According to him, as capital markets assume a more central role in financing Africa’s development, building technical depth across the entire ecosystem becomes essential.

    “Through NGX X-Academy, our dedicated capacity-building platform, we are equipping market participants with the specialized knowledge required to originate, structure and manage infrastructure assets that meet both local needs and global investment standards. This collaboration with AFC is a critical step in ensuring that Nigeria and the wider region develop the institutional capabilities to attract and deploy patient capital at scale,” Chiemeka said.

    Over the two-day programme participants explored frameworks for project structuring, risk allocation and credit enhancement- tools essential for bringing infrastructure assets to market. The sessions also examined emerging capital market instruments including green bonds, infrastructure REITs, blended finance structures and partial risk guarantees, highlighting practical pathways to mobilize long-term domestic and international capital for infrastructure.

    The workshop marks a milestone in the growing collaboration between AFC and NGX, reinforcing their shared commitment to unlocking sustainable, market-led infrastructure financing. Both institutions plan to build on this momentum through follow up initiatives aimed at deepening engagement and translating insights from the programme into tangible financing solutions for critical infrastructure projects.

  • Accion MfB opens Kaduna branch

    Accion MfB opens Kaduna branch

    Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has strengthened its presence across Northern Nigeria with the commissioning of its 75th branch in Kaduna State.

    The new branch opening reflects Accion MfB’s dedication to bringing inclusive and affordable financial services closer to individuals, traders, and small businesses.  As one of Northern Nigeria’s key commercial cities, Kaduna is home to a growing community of entrepreneurs who stand to benefit from Accion MfB’s customised banking solution, ranging from loans and savings to secure digital transactions and other innovative financial products.

    Ahead of the official launch, Accion MfB carried out a two-day community engagement and market sensitisation exercise across key commercial areas such as Abubakar Gumi Market, Chanchangi, New Pantaker, Old Pantaker, Kawo, Mando, and Sabo – to introduce its services, strengthen relationships with traders, and promote awareness on financial literacy and empowerment.

    Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Taiwo Joda (Managing Director/CEO, Accion MfB) emphasized the Bank’s dedication to empowering individuals and businesses through convenient, affordable, and reliable financial solutions.

     “Kaduna is a vital commercial center with enormous potential. The new branch here is our commitment to supporting economic growth by bringing financial services directly to the people who need them most,” he stated.

    Also speaking at the event, Mr. R.O. Salami spoke highly of Accion MfB’s established credibility in Nigeria’s microfinance landscape.

    “Accion has built a strong reputation for integrity and innovation in the microfinance sector,” he noted.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    With modern facilities, secure digital channels, and dedicated customer service, the Kaduna branch delivers a comprehensive range of services – from micro and SME loans to savings, digital banking, and financial literacy support designed to help customers succeed.

    As it celebrates nearly two decades of impact since its inception in 2006, Accion MfB has remained committed to transforming lives and businesses through inclusive, and sustainable financial services.

    The event was attended by distinguished guests including Mr. Ayodeji Mebude (Group Head, Operations, Accion MfB), Mr. Stephen Olalere (Chief Commercial Officer, Accion MfB), Mr. R.O. Salami (Chief Executive Officer, NEAT Microfinance Bank, Kaduna), Mrs O.M. Salami (Chief Operating Officer, NEAT Microfinance Bank, Kaduna), Mr. Auwal Babangida (Special Adviser to Senator Alhaji Lawal Adamu, Kaduna Central), Mr. Samuel Amamchucku (Proprietor, Engravers College, Kaduna), Mrs. Olajumoke Olaitan Akinlosotu (CEO PTL-JIL Enterprises Nigeria Limited), Ibrahin Adamu (Chairman, Central Market, Kaduna), Mr. John Chukwuemeka Ugwor (John Modesty Boutique).

  • Alternative Bank support SMEs at Kano Trade Fair

    Alternative Bank support SMEs at Kano Trade Fair

    The Alternative Bank (AltBank), Nigeria’s non-interest bank, has announced a dedicated SME support package at the 46th Kano International Trade Fair (KITF), offering free payment solutions, zero cost digital onboarding and targeted advisory support to traders and entrepreneurs across Northern Nigeria.

    The intervention reinforces the Bank’s commitment to using sustainability centred non-interest finance to unlock growth for businesses and strengthen regional commerce.

    Kano, widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre of Northern Nigeria, continues to serve as a hub for resilience, trade and innovation. AltBank’s participation at this year’s fair is built around a clear goal to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) access the tools, capital and advisory they need to move from survival to sustainable expansion.

    Delivering his goodwill message at the fair, Garba Mohammed, Executive Director (North), at The Alternative Bank, described the Bank’s role as one that goes beyond conventional lending.

     “At The Alternative Bank we see ourselves as a catalyst for shared prosperity. Hence, we will continue to seek out partnerships that drive growth, uplift individuals, strengthen communities, and unlock the potential of businesses,” said Mohammed, who was represented by The Alternative Bank’s Regional Business Executive (North West 2), Aliyu Wada-Nas.

    The fair also featured a special business seminar, organised by the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (KACCIMA). Convened under theme, ‘Empowering SMEs for Sustainable Development: The Pathway to Inclusive Growth’ the discussions sought to explore key pathways to MSME growth through discussions on economic opportunities, tax reforms, financing options, digital technology, and climate resilience.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    During his keynote address at the seminar, Mohammed highlighted the central role of MSMEs in Nigeria’s economic future and called for closer collaboration among stakeholders.

     “The nations that lead tomorrow are those that empower their small businesses today. Government, financial institutions, development partners and SMEs can work together to unlock a new era of sustainable and inclusive growth for Kano, for Northern Nigeria and for our country.

     “At The Alternative Bank, small businesses are not an afterthought. They sit at the core of our mission to establish Nigeria as a stronghold for international trade and long-term economic resilience,” he said.

    SMEs are estimated to account for over 90 per cent of businesses in Nigeria, employ a significant share of the workforce and contribute a substantial portion to the national GDP. Yet many still struggle with limited access to finance, weak infrastructure, digital exclusion and restricted market reach.

    Looking to bridge this gap, AltBank has significantly enhanced its support for the segment through a series of impactful initiatives. The Bank recently secured a $15 million facility to boost its capacity for trade and commodity finance, further strengthening its commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and empowering SMEs across Nigeria.

  • Marble Capital counts milestones at fifth anniversary

    Marble Capital counts milestones at fifth anniversary

    Marble Capital Limited, a Shariah-compliant and ethical investment management firm, has said its five years of operations has been defined by innovation, integrity, and consistent value creation for its investors.

    Chief Executive Officer, Marble Capital Limited, Akeem Oyewale  said the company has over the period of five years has solidified its position as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s ethical finance sector, delivering Shariah-compliant, transparent, and performance-driven investment solutions.

    He said: “We are truly delighted to celebrate our 5th anniversary at Marble Capital Limited. The past five years have been an extraordinary journey of growth, innovation, and steadfast dedication to delivering lasting value to our investors.

    “From inception, our mission has been to redefine ethical investment management in Nigeria by providing Shariah-compliant solutions that combine strong financial performance with the principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity.

    “Every milestone, from pioneering new products to earning industry recognition, reflects the confidence of our clients and the commitment of our team. As we look ahead, we remain focused on broadening access to ethical investment opportunities, advancing financial inclusion, and driving continuous innovation that aligns profit with purpose”.

    He listed landmark achievements of the company to include launch of Nigeria’s first SEC-approved Shari’ah-compliant commodities fund, the Marble Halal Commodities Fund (MHCF) giving investors unprecedented access to halal-certified commodities markets delivered strong 2024 performance, with the Marble Halal Commodities Fund (MHCF) and the Marble Halal Fixed Income Fund (MHFIF).

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    He noted that Marble Capital was also honoured as Islamic Asset Management Firm of the Year at the BusinessDay BAFI Awards in 2022 and 2023, recognizing the firm’s leadership in ethical investing, nominated in 2025 for Islamic Fund Manager of the Year.

    He added that the company was recognized by the FMDQ Awards as the Largest Fund Manager on FMDQ Exchange, a remarkable testament to its scale, transparency, and investor confidence and named Winner of the Islamic Finance Deal of the Year (Islamic Finance Fund) at the 7th AICIF Awards (2025), reinforcing its reputation for innovation and excellence in Islamic finance.

    Head, Asset Management, Marble Capital, Busola Kuku explained that the company currently offers a robust range of ethical investment solutions, including Marble Halal Commodities Fund (MHCF)- exposure to halal-certified commodities, Marble Halal Fixed Income Fund (MHFIF) – a low-risk option with competitive annual growth, Marble Alpha Portfolio (MAP) – High-risk, high-return portfolio,  Marble Beta Portfolio (MBP) – Balanced, medium-risk strategy, Marble Gamma Portfolio (GMP) – Low-risk, capital-preservation portfolio  and Marble Bespoke Investment Portfolio – Tailored portfolio, offering a competitive return, designed for high-net-worth investors.

    “As Marble Capital celebrates this remarkable milestone, the firm reaffirms its mission to empower investors through ethical, transparent, and innovative financial solutions.

    “Our five-year journey is only the beginning of a much bigger vision. We are determined to continue shaping the landscape of ethical investing in Nigeria and beyond. The growing demand for responsible, Shariah-compliant financial products inspires us to keep innovating and expanding the boundaries of what’s possible in this space.

    “Going forward, our focus will remain on developing tailored solutions that align with investors’ values while ensuring consistent, sustainable returns. At Marble Capital, we believe that ethical finance is not just an alternative, it is the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient financial future

    “As it marks this significant milestone, the firm reiterates its commitment to shaping the future of ethical investing by delivering value-driven, responsible, and resilient investment opportunities that align with the evolving needs and values of its clients,” Kuku said.

  • NSITF reaffirms commitment to service delivery

    NSITF reaffirms commitment to service delivery

    Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has reassured of its mandate of processing claims and building confidence in the workforce, enabling business continuity, and its readiness to shoulder the burdens of employers when injuries, disabilities or workplace incidents occur.

    Managing Director, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Oluwaseun Faleye gave the assurance  at the NSITF Special Day at the 2025 Nigeria International Trade Fair, where he emphasised that no economy grows sustainably without a protected workforce.

    Faleye, who was represented by the Regional Manager, Mainland, Lagos Region of NSITF, Agboma Okoroafor, said over the past year, the Fund has undergone significant transformation.

    He said: “We have improved transparency in claims processing, strengthened compliance nationwide, expanded digital reporting channels, and deepened engagement with MSMEs, the backbone of Nigeria’s trade and industrial ecosystem.”

    On the theme of the fair, “Trade, Technology and Transformation: Leveraging Digital Trade for Economic and Industrial Growth,” Faleye said as global commerce evolves, nations that successfully integrate technology into productive sectors will lead the next wave of economic expansion.

     “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is already making deliberate strides in that direction, modernising institutions, digitising government services, and strengthening the business environment.”

    She noted that the Fund’s mandate is clear; to secure the Nigerian worker, safeguard employers, and underpin productivity through a robust Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS).

     “Our Lagos region remains one of the strongest pillars of this progress, with thousands of employers now fully onboarded and benefiting from simplified, technology-driven processes.”

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    The NSITF boss assured manufacturers, traders, innovators, and investors of the Fund’s partnership for business resilience, stressing that when workers are safe, businesses thrive. When businesses thrive, the economy grows. And when the economy grows, Nigeria wins.”

    She added that the fair provides an invaluable opportunity to listen, educate and to deepen partnerships, because the future of trade in Nigeria rests on a workforce that is protected, productive, and prepared for the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape.

    On her part, Vera Safiya Ndanusa, the ED/CEO, Lagos International Trade fair Complex Management Board, noted that the fair is not just for innovators, exhibitors or entrepreneurs, but also for the Nigerian workers.

    Ndanusa said most employers from the private and public sectors are not usually guided by the rules and regulations despite having been trained by the ILO on the necessity to have some measures in place for safer workplaces.

    She stressed the important role the ECS plays in protecting Nigerian workers and supporting a safer and more productive business, urging employers to key into the scheme.

     “We value NSITF’s unwavering commitment to social security, workplace safety, and the strengthening of our national workforce.

    “And this special day is an opportunity for stakeholders to better understand the services NSITF provides and how these services contribute to enterprise stability and economic growth. As we begin today’s activities, I encourage everyone to engage, learn, and explore new avenues of collaboration.” 

  • The User Experience Gap in Crypto: Why Many African Users Still Prefer Centralized Crypto Exchanges

    The User Experience Gap in Crypto: Why Many African Users Still Prefer Centralized Crypto Exchanges

    Ebube Ojimadu is the Head of Product at Quidax, a leading African digital asset exchange serving customers in more than 70 countries. She directs the end-to-end product strategy across Quidax’s core platforms, which have processed billions of dollars in digital asset and cross-border transactions.

    Known for her ability to scale fintech products in complex and fast-moving markets, Ebube leads a team of product managers innovating across digital assets, payments, liquidity, and financial infrastructure. Her leadership has helped redefine how people across the continent access, use, and move digital assets, turning emerging technologies into simple, dependable tools for everyday financial activity.

    Ebube’s work integrates product strategy, user behavior, and the dynamics of emerging markets. She has a track record of delivering products that shape market direction while maintaining a strong execution mindset. Her mission is to build technology that expands financial inclusion, deepens trust in digital asset platforms, and accelerates the growth of Africa’s fintech ecosystem.

    Adoption of cryptocurrencies in Africa is still growing very quickly. But there is one clear pattern that runs from Nigeria to Kenya to Ghana. Most people still like centralized exchanges better than self-custodial, on-chain tools.

    This isn’t because people don’t know enough. It’s not because they don’t want to own their keys. It shows a basic truth. The user experience on most decentralized tools is still too hard for the way things are on the continent.

    Self-custody gives you freedom and full control, but these benefits don’t always match up with real life. The internet connections are not always reliable. There aren’t many devices. Prices change. Mistakes can’t be fixed. Centralized exchanges have stepped in to fill these gaps by making interfaces easier to use, making execution more predictable, and adding features that match how people use crypto in real life.

    Here is a list of reasons why this preference stays the same.

    1. How Africans use crypto depends on where they live.

    Most people in Africa use mid-range Android phones to access crypto. There isn’t much storage space, the bandwidth isn’t always reliable, and power outages can stop transactions. Under these circumstances, on-chain wallets seem heavy and unyielding.

    Managing private keys, switching networks, setting gas fees, reconnecting after internet drops, and confirming several steps per transaction all make using on-chain slow and stressful.

    On-chain tools work best when there is a stable connection and no distractions. Local realities don’t give you either.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    Centralized exchanges fix this by hiding the complexity of the network, handling gas in the background, combining confirmations into a single action, and giving results that are easy to understand. For a lot of users, this isn’t just a better UX. It’s what makes crypto work in the first place.

    2. Most families can’t afford to make mistakes that can’t be fixed.

    For a lot of African users, one mistake on the blockchain can cost them a lot of money. If you send money to the wrong address or network, you will lose it forever. There is no way to get back what you lost and no one to help you.

    Centralized exchanges serve as a protective layer. They can fix problems with the system, restore accounts when devices are lost, and help people. These features are not just small things that make life easier. They are what make people feel safe enough to join in the first place.

    People won’t use tools that require perfection in markets where income is unstable.

    3. Centralized platforms still have better liquidity and execution.

    In Africa, on-chain liquidity is still not very good. Slippage happens a lot on DEXs, especially when there are a lot of people using them. Bridge transactions make things more complicated and uncertain. People who need to move money quickly to pay a supplier or protect themselves against a currency move can have real problems when confirmations take a long time.

    Centralized platforms bring together liquidity, narrow spreads, and execute trades right away. They take care of routing and matching trades behind the scenes. This consistency is the most important thing for someone who wants to quickly exchange USDT for local currency.

    4. Local payment rails are off-chain, and centralized exchanges are the best at connecting them.

    Two movements are important to most African users. The first thing is to turn fiat or mobile money into crypto. The second is putting crypto back into bank accounts or mobile wallets.

    These payment rails are not on the blockchain at all. They rely on banks, mobile money companies, foreign exchange (FX) providers, and payment processors. There is no direct way for self-custodial wallets to connect to these systems.

    This makes users leave the wallet, use different platforms, and go through a number of steps. The flow breaks up.

    Centralized exchanges put everything in one place. Users can deposit money through bank transfers, withdraw it to mobile money, use virtual accounts, and switch between stablecoins and local currency without leaving the app. This simple loop is much better for daily use on the continent.

    5. Daily use is unpredictable because on-chain fees change all the time.

    Gas prices change all the time on different networks. Ethereum can suddenly go up a lot. Even L2 networks and less expensive chains like Tron or BSC get congested.

    For people who only do small transactions, going from a ten-cent fee to a one-dollar fee is a big deal.

    Exchanges that are centralized provide stability. They either charge a flat fee that stays the same, batch transactions, or pay part of the network fees. For many first-time users, knowing how much something will cost is more important than the idea of decentralization.

    6. The future doesn’t have any ideas. It is both UX-driven and hybrid.

    More African users will start to use self-custody over time, but only when the experience gets better. To do this, we need better account abstraction, cheaper networks, social recovery options, and built-in fiat integrations.

    The future is most likely a mix of both. Centralized exchanges will keep being on-ramps. As users gain more confidence, they will slowly unlock non-custodial tools. This is like how people went from using only mobile money to using digital banking.

    The next wave of crypto adoption in Africa will be shaped by the companies that make this mixed experience.

    The fact that people in Africa prefer centralized exchanges does not mean they don’t want decentralization. It is a reasonable answer to the problems people have.

    Centralized platforms will still be the best option until decentralized tools are easier to use, less expensive, and more forgiving of mistakes.

    African users are not picking an ideology. They are picking dependability. The platforms that get this and build for real-world limitations will be the ones that do the best in the market.

  • Agbelebu foundation launches family adoption project to support 500 households

    Agbelebu foundation launches family adoption project to support 500 households

    The Agbelebu Foundation on Sunday unveiled its Family Adoption Project, describing it as a long-awaited commitment to uplift vulnerable households through deliberate, consistent and compassionate support.

    Speaking at the launch, Founder Hon. Oluwagbenga Abiola, the immediate past Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government in Lagos, said the initiative was the fulfilment of a burden he had carried for years.

    “When the idea of this foundation came eight years ago, it didn’t arrive as an organisation. It came as a burden — a burden for unseen struggles and quiet tears,” he said.

    Abiola, a former Sole Administrator and Secretary to the Local Government, said welfare should never be treated as a mere agenda item but as “a calling that demands responsibility, empathy and commitment.”

    He explained that the Family Adoption Project was created to walk side-by-side with struggling households through sustained empowerment and long-term care.

    “Today, we unveil a project that commits to families not for a moment, not for a season, but with intentional love,” he said.

    The foundation aims to adopt 1,000 families, beginning with 500 households in the first phase.

    “Every great journey begins with a first step. For us, the first step is embracing 500 families into our circle of care,” Abiola stated.

    He stressed that the initiative was neither charity nor a publicity drive but a genuine expression of shared humanity.

    “This is family meeting family. When we adopt a family, we are saying: we see you, we hear you, we are here for you,” he added.

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    The project will support families in health, education, empowerment and financial stability. Abiola said the foundation plans to partner with institutions, service providers and influential personalities to deliver youth training, health checks, insurance, food banking and scholarship assistance.

    “Our goal is not just to support families, but to equip them and position them to rise,” he noted.

    The initiative will run for at least one year, during which adopted households will receive continuous support.

    “Their challenges become our challenges, and their victories become our victories,” Abiola said. “Progress should never be accidental; it must be intentional.”

    He added that the foundation exists to serve the vulnerable, including children, widows, youths, the elderly, people living with disabilities and struggling parents, likening each adopted household to a seed that requires nurturing, attention and resources to flourish.

    “Impact is not in noise but in consistency Leadership is not in titles but in service,” he said.

    Abiola expressed appreciation to volunteers, partners and donors, describing them as “the heartbeat and wind behind the vision.”

    He assured the newly adopted families that they were not statistics but part of an ever-growing community bound by dignity and compassion, adding, “Once we call you family, we don’t let go.”

    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Agege Local Government, Hon. AbdulGaniyu Obasa, who applauded Abiola’s vision and passion toward the less privileged, said that the welfare of the people should be the priority of every government.

    Obasa commended the founder and former council boss for joining hands with the government, describing it as great initiatives.

    A traditional ruler, Ologba of Ogbaland, Oba Oladimeji Egbeyemi, who praised Abiola, said, ”Your continuous efforts in bringing succor to the people of his community, Agege and Lagos at large are commendable”.

    It was reported that no fewer than 500 families were given 500 food boxes, while health insurance was provided for 100 people living with disability in partnership with Ilera Eko.

    Also, health tests and on the spot treatment was carried out for over 200 elderly and people living with disability at the event.

    The beneficiaries, who include,

     Mrs Sekinat Abolaji, the Chairman of the Association of People Living With Disability, Agege, commended the former council boss for the project.

  • Family, Folarin, Alli, others celebrate HMF CEO, Adeoye, on NSE fellowship conferment

    Family, Folarin, Alli, others celebrate HMF CEO, Adeoye, on NSE fellowship conferment

    Former Senate Leader and governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in Oyo State during the 2023 general election, Teslim Folarin; the incumbent Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sharafadeen Alli; the wife of the honouree, Hajia Halimat-Sadia Adeoye, and a lawyer, Mr Lekan Alabi, among other numerous friends and associates, have hailed the conferment of fellowship by the Nigerian Society of Engineers on the President and Chief Executive Officer of HMF Construction Limited, Engr. Idris Adeoye.

    The conferment of fellowship on Nigerian engineers by the Society is a prestigious recognition accorded to engineers who have demonstrated exceptional professional achievements, made significant contributions to the engineering field, and provided substantial service to the NSE. It is the highest grade of membership in the Society.

    Engineer Idris, a 2002 graduate of engineering at the University of Ibadan, through his construction companies,  has executed and is still executing ground-breaking projects across Nigeria, ranging from roads, bridges, housing, office complexes, mining, agriculture, to land development.”

    The conferment ceremony, which is scheduled to hold on Monday, 1 December, at the University of Ibadan, is expected to be graced by prominent Nigerians, including leading engineers in various fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and aeronautic engineering, among others.

    In a message to her husband, the honouree’s wife, Mrs Adeoye, described the moment as the brightest chapter in their shared story.

    She said: “…Being honored as a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers is a testament to your brilliance, dedication, and the tender strength you pour into everything you do, and I am endlessly proud to stand beside you, celebrating this remarkable achievement that shines even brighter because we share it together.”

    In their message of celebration, the children wrote: “Daddy, we joyfully celebrate you on being conferred a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers—a shining acknowledgment of your exceptional expertise, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact you’ve made in the engineering field; your achievement fills our hearts with pride and inspiration, and we rejoice with you on this remarkable milestone.”

    In his goodwill message titled: “Celebrating Excellence and Integrity: A Goodwill Message to Engr. Idris Adeoye, FNSE,” Senator Folarin described the honour as well-deserved and “a testament to his unwavering commitment, professionalism, and numerous contributions to the advancement of engineering practice in Nigeria.”

    “Engr. Idris Adeoye is not only a distinguished professional with proven track record of excellence in his field, but also a brother, friend, and reliable pillar of support. He is a man who fears God, a philanthropist, and a devoted family man whose integrity and service-mindedness continue to inspire many.”

     Alli said the “elevation serves as an inspiration to younger professionals,” describing the honouree as a pride to Oyo State and Nigeria.

    “On behalf of the good people of Oyo South, I pray for Engineer Adeoye’s continued success, sound health and greater accomplishments in his career and service to humanity, while wishing him more impactful years ahead,” 

    On his part, Mr Alabi said; “I, Lekan Alabi Esq., director legal and corporate services of Hmf Construction Limited, felicitate with our President on this auspicious occasion of conferment of Fellow on him by the Nigerian Society of Engineers. This is a well-deserved honour bestowed on an accomplished engineer and industrialist. Congratulations.”

    The Chief Executive Officer of Al-Basith Investment Nigeria Limited, Alhaji Kehinde Arogundade, said the feat has simply crowned Engr Adeoye’s “unwavering commitment, professionalism, excellence, and impactful service.”

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    “The honour inspires colleagues and the engineering community, recognising his resilience, leadership, and exemplary character. May it propel him to greater accomplishment, deepen his contributions, and inspire a new generation of engineers.”

    Meanwhile, the Chairman of Global Legend Integrated Concepts Limited, Alhaji Tajudeen Ajibola Ibrahim, who described Engr. Adeoye, as his mentee, said the elevation is a validation of his “dedication, expertise, and outstanding contributions to the engineering profession.”

    “This distinction is a reflection of your hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. I am confident that your accomplishments will inspire future generations of engineers and continue to positively impact our society,” he said.

    Also sharing his goodwill message, the Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on South West Development Commission, Prince Akeem Adeyemi, said the honouree’s journey is marked by perseverance and resilience, describing it as “a shining example of what can be accomplished through determination and passion.”

    “This accolade is not just a reflection of your professional prowess but also a testament to your character and the values you’ve upheld throughout your career,” he said 

    The honouree, who is the President and Chief Executive Officer of HMF Construction Limited, has, since his graduation from the Engineering Faculty of the University of Ibadan, committed his time and expertise to promoting excellence in engineering services and philanthropy.

    As a COREN registered engineer, his construction activities give hope to the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s policy of the Federal Government of Nigeria on local content. 

    He is a employer of labour with over two hundred direct and indirect employees serving his various companies.

  • EPL: 10-Man Chelsea hold Arsenal to 1-1 draw in fierce London Derby

    EPL: 10-Man Chelsea hold Arsenal to 1-1 draw in fierce London Derby

    Ten-man Chelsea held Arsenal to an entertaining 1–1 draw in Sunday’s Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.

    Chelsea began brightly but were dealt a major setback in the 38th minute when midfielder Moisés Caicedo was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Mikel Merino.

    Despite the disadvantage, the hosts took the lead just two minutes into the second half as Trevoh Chalobah rose to power in a superb header, sparking celebrations around the Bridge.

    Arsenal responded quickly, restoring parity 11 minutes later through Merino, who guided a precise header beyond the Chelsea goalkeeper.

    Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino, speaking to Sky Sports, “On one hand, disappointed because we didn’t win. When you wear this shirt, you want to win every game. 

    Read Also: Tinubu, First Lady, Shetimma, hail PFN at 40

    “This is a really tough stadium to come and take a point. We could have done things better but the team showed good mentality.

    “Maybe managing the game better and understanding what they were trying to do. With 10 men, we could have had more patience with the ball. Trying to find the wings and cross with players in the box. Obviously, they are a good side.

    On the red card challenge from Moises Caicedo, he said, “I felt my ankle go all the way but luckily I have very mobile ankles and body. I knew it was a horrible challenge and it was going to be a red card.

    A win for the Gunners would have seen them head into the midweek fixtures with a seven-point lead at the top of the table.

  • Verstappen wins Qatar Grand Prix to force final-race title decider

    Verstappen wins Qatar Grand Prix to force final-race title decider

    Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri will take their championship fight to a final-race showdown in Abu Dhabi after Red Bull’s Verstappen claimed victory in a dramatic Qatar Grand Prix.

    Verstappen inherited control of the race following a McLaren strategy call made under an early safety car. 

    The team opted not to pit on lap seven—contrary to every other outfit on the grid—costing both track position and, ultimately, Piastri’s shot at the win.

    The Dutchman went on to secure his seventh victory of the season, drawing level with Norris and Piastri. 

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    Piastri finished second, while Norris recovered to fourth behind the Williams of Carlos Sainz, collecting two extra points after overtaking Kimi Antonelli on the penultimate lap.

    Norris now leads Verstappen by 12 points heading to Yas Marina, with Verstappen moving four points clear of Piastri. Norris must finish at least third if Verstappen wins next Sunday’s title decider.

    Key moments in Qatar included McLaren’s refusal to pit during the early safety car caused by a collision between Pierre Gasly and Nico Hulkenberg, and Piastri’s unsuccessful late push after bringing forward his final stop.