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Ansar-Ud-Deen Gets New President

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By Mariyah Adamu, Abuja

Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, has elected Alhaji Musediq Adeniji Kazeem, as its New National President.

This is contained in a statement issued yesterday by the National Publicity Secretary of the society, Dr. Muhammad Hassan.

Hassan, said that Kazeem was elected during the 11th Triennial Conference of the Society, recently held in Abeokuta.

He also disclosed that other major appointments into Ansar-Ud-Deen Society executive council at the event.

According to him, Dr. Ibrahim Yusuf was named as Deputy President, while Alh. Najeem Yasin, becomes Vice President ,North.

Importantly, the Regional Vice Presidents include Alh. Nurudeen Okunleye (Lagos), Alh. Jimoh Popoola (Ogun), and Retired Justice Moshood Ajeigbe (Osun).

Others are: Alh. Tesleem Adediran (Oyo), Alh. Sulaiman Ogunlayi (Ekiti), and Alh. Yusuf Adesina Soliu (Ondo).

Alh. Abdul-Rahman Olabode Salaudeen has been appointed as the new National Secretary, among other executive members.

In his acceptance speech, Kazeem pledged to lead with transparency, unity, and dedication to Islamic principles.

He highlighted his focus on education, outreach, leadership development, and organisational transparency.

Key initiatives include reforming Summit University’s management and investing in research and staff training.

He also aims to expand access to education through Ansar-Ud-Deen schools nationwide.

“Ansar-Ud-Deen Heritage Centres will be established to showcase Islamic history, art, and scholarship.

“The new AnsarCare Initiative will offer medical aid and vocational training for widows and orphans.

“A digital portal will be launched to track projects, finances, and receive members feedback”, he said.

Kazeem pledged to promote unity, empower youth, and build strategic partnerships to strengthen the society.

Foundation Plans Fundraising For Africa’s Out-of-school Children

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United Kingdom-registered Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO, IA-Foundation, will  hold a charity fundraising gala in London on Saturday.

This is aimed at tackling the growing crisis of out-of-school children in Africa.

This was contained in a statement issued by the leadership of the organisation and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, yesterday.

It said  the event, tagged the 2025 Charity Gala, would take place at the elegant DoubleTree by Hilton, London Docklands Riverside.

The foundation’s leadership said it plans to build on the success of its March 2023 major fundraising event in London to make this one more successful.

It added that it raised 24,000 pounds two years ago and explained that the goal is to drive lasting change through education for underprivileged children across Africa.

“This is not just a night out; it is a movement. Every ticket bought is an investment in a child’s future, a step toward a better Africa,” IA-Foundation’s leadership said.

Dignitaries expected at the event include Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to the UK, who will deliver a keynote address and the Chairperson of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

Also expected to attend the fundraising gala is the Foundation’s patron, Chief Femi Falana and high profile UK diaspora individuals, including mayors and councillors from several London boroughs.

“The gala will also feature exciting highlights such as a thrilling American auction, raffle draws with fantastic prizes, live entertainment, fine dining and inspirational storytelling.

“This gala is one of the foundation’s major drives to scale up its impact. It has also distributed more than 5,000 educational materials to students in slums and underserved communities.

“With tickets already in high demand, attendees are encouraged to buy their tickets now before they sell out.

”All proceeds go directly toward the foundation’s mission of drastically reducing the number of out-of-school children in Africa,” the leadership said.

Founded in 2019, IA-Foundation has already supported over 100 children back to the classrooms, it added. NAN

Tinubu Celebrates  Kalu At 65

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President Bola Tinubu, has congratulated a former governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor Kalu,  on his 65th birthday.

Tinubu reflected on their enduring friendship and shared commitment to national progress, rooted in their membership of the “Class of ’99” Governors, the president’s spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga,  said in a statement.

The president extolled the former majority whip’s unwavering patriotism, recalling decades of collaboration marked by mutual respect, even with political differences.

He lauded Kalu’s entrepreneurial spirit, as epitomised in his establishment of Slok Holding and investments in banking and the media, ventures that have created hundreds of jobs.

“Senator Kalu, my friend, is a patriot whose life embodies resilience, generosity and the transformative power of visionary leadership.

“On this milestone, I celebrate his contributions to our nation’s economic and political tapestry,” President Tinubu stated.

He prayed to God Almighty to grant Kalu renewed strength, wisdom and many more years of impactful service to Nigeria and humanity. NAN

Fidelity Bank Empowers Customers With Cash, Financial Tools

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Fidelity Bank  said it is fostering a savings culture and driving financial inclusion among Nigerians through its Get Alert in Millions Season 6, GAIM 6, promo.

The bank rewarded 30 lucky customers with cash prizes in the second and third monthly and International Women’s Day Draws, demonstrating a tangible commitment to improve their financial wellbeing.

At a prize presentation ceremony in Lagos, winners of the second and third monthly draws received  N1 million, providing them with substantial capital.

Also, winners of the International Women’s Day Draw were awarded N100,000 each, directly supporting their economic empowerment.

Similar prize presentation events also occurred across the bank’s locations nationwide.

Speaking at the Lagos event, Dr

 Ken Opara, who was represented by the Regional Bank Head, Victoria Island and Lekki, Mr Nnamdi Edekobi, the Promo Chairperson, said GAIM 6 promo was meant to encourage savings culture and promote financial inclusion among young Nigerians.

He said, “The promo has been structured to ensure fairness and accessibility and recognise customers from diverse backgrounds.

“The GAIM promo is in its sixth edition and we are excited to keep this momentum going because it has brought joy to households nationwide.

“The goal is to encourage a savings culture and promote financial inclusion among young Nigerians. The bank has a long-standing commitment to support young Nigerians.

“Through this special draw, we are reinforcing our commitment to financial empowerment for young Nigerians and also ensuring that women have the financial tools and support they need to succeed.”

Similarly, the Divisional Head, Product Development, Mr Osita Ede, noted that over N30 million had been given out to lucky customers since GAIM 6 started in November 2024.

Ede said  over N129 million would be given out as prize money when the campaign ends in August.

“One of the unique aspects of GAIM 6 is that previous winners can participate and win again, as long as they meet the criteria.

“It is all about encouraging long-term savings and rewarding this commitment. The grand finale of the campaign promises prizes of N10 million, N5 million and N2 million.

“Beyond cash rewards, winners will benefit from free financial literacy and business advisory services delivered through Fidelity Bank’s SME Hub.

“We don’t just want our customers to win money, we want them to build wealth. That is why we support them with training and resources to grow their businesses,” he said.

In response to the kind gesture, one of the winners of the promo, Mr Samuel Sunday, said, “I am more than happy to receive this cash prize from Fidelity Bank, I have been a long-time customer and this cash reward will transform my business.”

Another beneficiary who could not hide her excitement, Ms Faith Gift said “At first, I thought it was fake until I got a call from my account officer.

“I am grateful to Fidelity Bank because this money will go straight into my business.”

GAIM 6 promo is designed to reward Fidelity Bank’s loyal customers with cash prizes totalling N159 million.

The promo, which runs from November 2024 to August 2025, will see multiple winners emerge across different categories, including existing and prospective customers of the bank.

Fidelity Bank  is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. 

NSCDC Apprehends  Railway Vandal In Bauchi

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Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has detained a suspect (name withheld) for allegedly vandalising railway facilities in Bauchi State.

The corps also recovered vandalised railway sleepers, bolts and nuts, worth millions of naira in the last five days.

The Commandant, Mr Oloyede Oyerinde stated this at a news conference yesterday in Bauchi.

He said the corps recorded significant progress in the campaign against vandalism, pursuant to its commitment to protect critical national assets and infrastructure.

“On Tuesday, April 15 at approximately 1000hrs, following credible intelligence from the Department of State Services, DSS, Alkaleri Division, operatives of the corps responded swiftly to a report of railway track vandalism at New Gwaram, along Gombe Road.

“Although the suspects had fled the scene before our arrival, we were able to recover some exhibits,” he said.

Oyerinde said  operatives also recovered more vandalised materials in a follow-up operation at Cross Tasha, Faruqu and Taliyaje areas of Tubule Ward in Kirfi Local Government Area.

He said the operatives recovered a white Peugeot J5 vehicle loaded with vandalised railway materials, including 53 railway sleepers with bolts and nuts, 14 railway fish plates and 20 bags of charcoal.

“Our team successfully arrested a 45-year-old male suspect (name withheld) for the unlawful dismantling and sale of railway track components,” he said.

While commending the personnel for their diligence and timely response, Oyerinde warned vandals to stay clear of the state.

“We will not tolerate vandalism of public property in Bauchi State. Those who engage in such criminal acts will face the full wrath of the law.”

According to Oyerinde, the suspect will be charged to court on completion of investigation and urged residents   to report suspicious persons and activities to security agencies.

“Timely and accurate information remains a critical tool in defeating crime and safeguarding our communities,” he said. (NAN)

Death Toll In Lagos Building Collapse Rises To 7

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Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, yesterday said the death toll from the rubble of a three-storey building that collapsed at Ojodu-Berger area  has risen to seven.

Permanent Secretary of the agency, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu confirmed this in a statement in Lagos.

Oke-Osanyintolu added that the total number of people rescued had increased to 13.

“As at the time of this report, the total number of victims is now 20.13 people have been rescued alive, comprising  four adult females and nine adult males.

“The number of bodies recovered so far are now seven, comprising five adult females and two adult males,” he said.

He said the operation is still ongoing, adding that safety precautions had been activated.

“Crowd control, outer and inner cordons are being  maintained to ensure safe operation,” he said.

It would be recalled that the three-storey building collapsed around 09:45am on Saturday.

“Following distress alerts at 09.45hrs, LASEMA activated the Emergency Response Plans from Command and Control Centre, Alausa and Onipanu.

“Upon arrival at the incident scene by 09.52hrs, it was discovered that a three-storey building housing a restaurant and bar had collapsed, with several victims trapped under the debris at the aforementioned location,” he said.

Tolu Bankole Mourns Pope Francis, Celebrates His Life Of Impact

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By CALEB ISHAYA 

All Progressives Congress ,APC, National Working Committee ,NWC, member and National Leader for Persons with Disabilities ,PWDs, Tolu Bankole, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

Bankole in a statement signed yesterday described the late Pontiff as a beacon of peace, humility, and unwavering faith who dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity. His teachings, compassion, and global advocacy for the marginalized especially persons with disabilities resonated across nations and religions.

“I join the global Christian community and indeed the entire Roman Catholic Church in mourning the passing of a spiritual giant whose legacy will endure for generations. Pope Francis exemplified Christ-like leadership, unity, and inclusiveness”, Aare Bankole stated.

He further extended heartfelt condolences to all Christians worldwide, particularly the Roman Catholic faithful, urging them to draw strength from the impactful life and legacy of the Pope.

“As we grieve, let us also celebrate a life lived in selfless service to God and humanity. May his soul rest in perfect peace”, he concluded.

Ekiti ‘ll Upgrade State’s Tourism Destinations To World-Class Standards

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Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to transforming the state’s tourism destinations into world-class attractions 

Governor Oyebanji stated this yesterday during the 7th edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari which took place at Sagbonke Mountain , Aka. Mountain of Cloud, in Efon Alaaye Ekiti.

Describing tourism as a vital sector of the economy, the Governor said if properly harnessed they  could significantly enhance the state’s revenue base,  adding that his administration remains committed to prioritizing the renovation and modernization of the sites to attract both local and international visitors.

Expressing his amazement at the breath-taking natural beauty of the Sagbonke mountain, Governor Oyebanji described the location as a hidden treasure with immense potential to attract global attention. 

He directed the Commissioner for Industry, Trade, Investment and Cooperatives; Commissioner Arts and Culture as well as the Director-General , Bureau of Tourism Development to develop a comprehensive investment plan for the mountain.

While expressing optimism that Ekiti would soon take its pride of place among Nigeria’s leading tourist destinations, the Governor urged Stakeholders, including investors and cultural custodians to collaborate with his government to achieve the vision of making Ekiti a global tourism hotspot.

“I thank God for all the endowment he has blessed us with. The last speaker said this place was discovered four years ago and I keep asking myself what have we been doing with our endowment. God has given us what can fetch us money. I was talking to the Commissioner for Investment that how do we turn these assets around, this is a massive asset for Ekiti State, and Efon people are noted for self-development, and I am throwing this challenge back to you, this asset should not be wasted, Let us sit down and collaborate with government and find a way of developing this place.

Earlier in his remarks, the Director General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre commended the Governor for his passion, commitment, and visionary efforts in transforming the state’s tourism landscape into world-class tourist destinations and his strategic approach to harnessing the state’s unique attraction for economic growth.

Describing the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and serene environment as unparalleled assets, the DG expressed optimism that with the Governor’s ongoing initiatives, Ekiti State would soon become a must-visit destination for travelers around the world

Also at the event were, the lawmaker, representing Efon Alaaye, Hon Olowookere Bosede, Commissioner for Trade,   Mrs Tayo Adeola, Commissioner for Arts and Culture, Prof Ojo Bakare, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, among others.

Easter: Benue APC Mourns Victims Of Good Friday Attacks, Others 

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 All Progressives Congress ,APC, in Benue State, has condemned the Good Friday attacks and killings, describing it as senseless, while urging christians to use the Easter season to pray for the state.

This is contained in the party’s Easter Message issued by the State Chairman, Chief Benjamin Omale and made available to newsmen in Makurdi yesterday.

The statement reads in part: “In these difficult times marked by growing security concerns and attacks on communities, we beseech the Almighty God to arise in His power and bring lasting peace to our land.

“May He grant you the strength and divine wisdom to lead Benue State with courage, compassion, and justice.

“Our thoughts and prayers also go to all families mourning the loss of their loved ones as a result of the recent killings across various parts of our dear state.

“We mourn with you, and we pray that God in His infinite mercy will comfort you, heal your wounds, and grant eternal rest to the departed souls”.

Omale also felicitate Benue Christians on the occasion of 2025 Easter celebration.

 “As we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ this Easter, we are reminded of the victory of life over death, hope over despair, and light over darkness.

“It is a sacred season that calls us to renew our faith, deepen our unity, and commit ourselves to the greater good of our people.

“On behalf of the All Progressives Congress ,APC, Benue State Chapter, I extend warm Easter greetings to all our party faithful across the state and beyond.

“Your unwavering commitment, loyalty, and dedication to the ideals of our great party continue to be the foundation of our strength and progress.

“To our dear Governor and Leader, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Benue State, we offer our continued prayers and support.

“This Easter, let us hold firmly to the promise of resurrection  that after every storm comes calm, after every night comes dawn, and after every cross, there is a crown”, he said. 

Rivers Crisis: Don’t Mislead Your Clients, Wike’s Aide Cautions  Falana

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Mr Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory ,FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, has cautioned   the human rights lawyer, Femi Falana ,SAN, against misleading his clients.

Falana, during an interview on national television, argued that the Supreme Court judgment on the Rivers crisis had nothing to do with who was the authentic Speaker of the Rivers Assembly.

Falana made the comments while analysing the issues surrounding the defection of the 27 members of the House of Assembly as determined by the Supreme Court.

Responding, Olayinka, in a statement in Abuja yesterday, said:” it was based on the Supreme Court judgment that Justice Emmanuel Obile of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt dismissed the suit filed by the Labour Party against the alleged detection.

He pointed out that Justice Obile dismissed the suit on the ground that the Supreme Court’s ruling had finalised the issue of defection.

“But Falana went on television to misrepresent what happened to his client that the Supreme Court didn’t rule on the defection.

“The same Falana said three members of the Rivers House of Assembly can carry out legislative functions despite the provision of Section 96 (1) of the 1999 Constitution which provides that the quorum of a House of Assembly shall be one-third of all the members of the House.’

The spokesman also faulted Falana’s argument that “only those who have handled cases in trial court or appellate court are lawyers”.

Olayinka also described Falana’s position that a lawyer must have handled cases in trial or appellate court to be qualified for appointment as a Life Bencher as “funny and ridiculous”.

He explained that Wike got his membership of the Body of Benchers on merit, having contributed immensely to the advancement of legal education.

“As Governor of Rivers, Wike was instrumental to the establishment and infrastructural development of the campus of the Nigerian Law School in Port Harcourt, adjudge the best centre for legal education in Nigeria.

“Wike also played major roles in the development of facilities at the Yenagoa campus of the Nigerian Law School by constructing a state-of-the-art 1,500 capacity hall and 200-bed male and female hostels, among other interventions.

“Now as FCT minister, Wike is constructing a 10-unit housing quarters for the Nigerian Law school, Bwari, Abuja.

“He has also provided operational vehicles to the school”, he said.