A coalition of civil society organizations gathered at the Police Force Headquarters in Abuja today to demand urgent investigations into alleged infractions at Guaranty Trust Bank Limited (GTB) under the leadership of Segun Agbaje. The protest aimed to address a series of serious allegations, including corruption, unsolicited account openings, fictitious profit declarations, money laundering, and terrorism financing.

The Chief Convener of the Coalition of Civil Society for Good Governance in Nigeria, Comrade Tijani Usman emphasized the urgent need to tackle corruption, which he stated has been a significant barrier to Nigeria’s socio-economic development since independence in 1960. In his address, Usman condemned the failure of relevant regulatory and law enforcement agencies to act on the numerous complaints against GTB.

“The weighty allegations against GTB demand thorough investigation and accountability,” Usman stated. He called on the Nigeria Police Force, as the leading crime-fighting agency, to prioritize these serious claims and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The Protesters expressed frustration over GTB’s operational failures, citing recent issues where the bank’s payment systems were down for days, causing significant losses to customers. The coalition urged the bank’s management to refocus its efforts on addressing these operational challenges rather than engaging in questionable practices.

The protest also called for support from various regulatory bodies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, to take decisive action in light of the allegations against GTB.
As the coalition continued its peaceful demonstrations, they said they remain resolute in their commitment to ensuring justice for affected customers and investors. The protest underscores a broader demand for transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s banking sector, emphasizing the need for systemic reform to combat corruption and restore public trust.

The outcome of this protest and the subsequent response from authorities may shape the future of banking governance in Nigeria, as civil society calls for more stringent oversight and accountability.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Americas, (NIDOA) has applauded the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, (NIDCOM), under the Chairperson, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa for successfully celebration the National Diaspora Day 2024 and the second edition of the Diaspora merit Award with the theme “JAPA Phenomena and Its Implications for National Development”

The “JAPA” phenomenon, a colloquial term referring to the significant number of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, has been a subject of considerable debate among Nigerians in both formal and informal settings.

The event which held between July 25th and 26th, 2024 at the Banquet Hall of Nigeria’s Presidential Villa in Abuja, witnessed a large convergence of Nigerians from all over the world. Other Diaspora Nigerians who could not travel down for the event gathered at their respective branches as the event was streamed live on multimedia screens and they were also afforded the opportunity to link up with Abuja from New York, Australia, Ghana and many other countries for live discussions. Resource persons also made their presentations from the U.S, UK, South Africa, India and other locations without having to be physically present in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by Mr Bukola Olaoye and Uche Uzoigwe, Chairman and Secretary, Board of Trustees of NIDOA respectively, they commended the meticulous planning and seamless execution of the event which underscores NIDCOM’s commitment to fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and her Diaspora Community. “The discussions, presentations and insights shared during the event were thought-provoking and highlight the complexities and opportunities presented by the JAPA Phenomena. It is commendable how the event brought together diverse voices from various sectors to deliberate on the ways in which the Diaspora community can contribute to national development despite the challenges of migration. The innovative ideas and strategies discussed will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for future policies and initiatives aimed at leveraging the talents and resources of our diaspora community”, the statement reads.

NIDOA who were represented at the event by a strong delegation led by the BOT Chairman, Mr. Olaoye, said different speakers in their keynote addresses and discussions, shed more light on the push and pull factors driving emigration, emphasized the importance of creating a conducive environment for talent retention and reversing brain-drain thereby turning it to brain-gain. They said they look forward to the implementation of some of the recommendations at the event which include enhancing diaspora engagements, improving local opportunities, and fostering international collaborations. The statement said every diaspora Nigerian is looking forward to the day when diaspora voting will become a reality and is delighted to see leaders of the Nigerian parliament taking turn to make commitment towards making that dream come through.

NIDOA thanked Hon Dabiri-Erewa and her team for organizing an occasion that afforded participants the opportunity to network among themselves, encouraging unity and friendship which is expected to lead to collaborative initiatives between the diaspora community and local entities in the days ahead. The statement added that “NIDOA delegates were able to engage other continental delegates and also connected with representatives of the Nigerian Immigration Service and had fruitful discussions concerning passport intervention for members, and plans for future ICT partnership among others”. They promised to establish a mentorship program that connects young professionals in Nigeria with experienced diaspora members, create partnership with investment forums to attract diaspora investment in key sectors of the Nigerian economy, and develop skill-transfer programs that will facilitate the transfer of skills and knowledge from the diaspora to home based professionals.
The statement reaffirmed NIDOA’s commitment to working collaboratively with NIDCOM to address the implications of the JAPA Phenomena as they believe that with concerted efforts, the current challenges can be turned into opportunities for sustainable national development.

It was another moment of great celebration last Saturday, July 6, 2024 for former Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly, Senator Tolu Odebiyi as he gave out the hand of his daughter, Ayotola Oluwatoyin Odebiyi in marriage to her heartthrob Muktar Shagaya.

The Lagos ceremony of the wedding festivities was hosted by the bride’s father, Senator Odebiyi, and the event took place at Harbour Points Events Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The groom, Hon. Muktar Shagaya is a member of the Federal House of Representatives, and son of business woman, Hajia Bola Shagaya. The bride Ayotola Oluwatoyin, a graduate of Colgate University, New York with a Masters degree from Leeds University, UK is a Corporate Communications Specialist.

The brides father, the illustrious son of Senator (Chief) Jonathan Odebiyi a native of Iboro, in Yewa North Ogun State alongside his wife, Mrs Folashade Odebiyi, daughter of Late Chief Ayo Shasanya, hosted family members and friends from far and near.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo together with Chief Kessington Adebutu , who was The Father of the day, headlined the traditional engagement ceremony. They were joined by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu who was represented by the White cap chiefs, The Emir of Ilorin, the Aboro of Iboro and Erelu Dosunmu.

This was followed by the reception ceremony chaired by Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi and had the Vice President, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima in attendance.

The upscale and highly entertaining event had several dignitaries in attendance including the Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, who is also the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and his wife, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Governor of Ogun State Prince Dapo Abiodun and his wife, Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke and his wife, The Ooni of Ife, former Governor of Ogun State Senator Ibikunle Amosun and his wife, former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi and his wife, Senator Gbenga Daniel and his wife, Dr Jim Ovia, Mr Tunde Folawiyo, Mrs Toyin Saraki and many past and current members of the Senate and House of Representatives.

The evening was rounded off by King Sunny Ade after Veentage Band and BJ Sax had earlier entertained the guests.

This was certainly an event to remember.
The families were also in FCT for the Abuja segment of the festivities hosted by Hajia Bola Shagaya and family.
We wish the newly married couple a happy married life.