NEWS
Committee of Banks in Nigeria Donates Multimillion Naira Relief Materials to Jigawa Flood Victims
The Committee of Banks in Nigeria on Thursday lifted the victims of the recent flooding in some parts of Jigawa State with a solidarity visit to Dutse, the state capital, during which they made donation of assorted items of relief materials to the State Government as part of their own contribution to alleviate the plight of those impacted by the September 2024 natural disaster. The donation of the relief materials comprising food items, including bags of rice, cartons of vegetable cooking oil, mattresses, and beverages were presented to the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar A. Namadi, by a high-powered delegation of the Committee of Banks in Nigeria led by their Chairman and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), Dr. Oliver Alawuba. Other banks’ CEOs that were on the delegation included the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji; and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO); Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. (Mrs.) Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe. In his remarks while presenting the relief materials, Dr. Alawuba stated that the gesture by the bankers was one of the ways to empathise with the government and people of Jigawa State, and importantly the residents who were severely impacted by the floods. He added that the relief materials were targeted at boosting the current multi-stakeholder efforts to support the flood victims in getting back on their feet, as well as supporting critical institutions that provide care for the victims, especially public hospitals. “I stand before you today as the Chairman of the Committee of Banks in Nigerian, to demonstrate our solidarity with the Government and good people of Jigawa State. Principally, we are in Jigawa State to empathize with the State Government, families, and relations of those who were severely impacted by the recent flooding that occurred across some local government areas of the state, in specifically in September this year. We pray for the repose of souls that were lost in the devastating floods, as well as comfort for their families. We also pray for the recovery and restoration of those who lost properties and valuables during the floods,’’ he said. Speaking further, Dr. Alawuba asserted: “We are here today to lend our hand of help to the State Government by donating relief materials worth several millions of Naira in support of the affected residents, and also critical institutions that provide care such as public hospitals. We believe the relief materials consisting of food items such as; bags of rice, cartons of vegetable cooking oil, mattresses, and beverages would go a long way in providing comfort and lessen the burden of the victims impacted by the floods.’’ The Chairman, Committee of Banks in Nigeria added that the humanitarian gesture was a testament to the Nigeria banking sector’s commitment to supporting the well-being of Nigerians in times of need. “As bankers, we are not just concerned about the economic implications of natural disasters; we are also deeply troubled by the human suffering that accompanies them. We believe that it is our collective responsibility to support those affected and help them rebuild their lives,’’ he noted. Dr. Alawuba stated that the gesture further affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian financial institutions to leading from the front as agents of positive change in society, while assuring that they would continue to work together to support those in need, promote economic growth and development, and to contribute to the well-being of our great nation. He expressed gratitude to his colleague CEOs of Nigeria banks for their generosity and contribution to the relief effort. “Your support underscores our unrelenting passion for national development and care for the environment where we do our business,’’ he applauded. Dr. Alawuba affirmed the long history of commitment of the Nigerian banking and financial institutions to the well-being of the Nigerian people and the environment, stating that the banking sector provided similar interventions to the victims of the 2011 flooding which affected 28 states and that of 2013 flooding which affected 32 states of the federation. Other interventions by the financial institutions include corporate support for the management and containment of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, including funding support for public healthcare infrastructure, and access to credit for micro and small businesses to stay afloat in the post-pandemic era. He said, “Notably, we were proud to be part of the Central Bank of Nigeria-led Private Sector Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) Relief Fund, where we contributed significantly to the Fund’s efforts to provide palliatives to vulnerable Nigerians and strengthen the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. The intervention of the banking sector resulted in over Thirty-two Billion Naira (N32 billion) being pooled to fill a significant funding gap for the governments during the unexpected global pandemic. “Furthermore, as we navigated the post-pandemic era, Nigerian banks played important roles in helping businesses recover. Banks in Nigeria supported firms of all sizes, to mitigate the impact of the extended lockdown and disruption to business activities in many ways. Through the stabilization funds, Nigerian banks provided loans and credits to small and medium businesses to stay afloat, thereby ensuring business sustainability, preventing job losses, and fostering national economic growth.’’ Additionally, Dr. Alawuba said Nigerian banks also support many other laudable initiatives across both economic and non-economic sectors, one of which is in the area of security. For example, he said banks have continued to support the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, which has become a model copied by other states for sustainable funding of the training, equipment, and welfare needs of personnel of the Nigeria Police deployed to the state. He said the support has led to improved security of lives and property in the state. He disclosed further that the banking sector supported the government in rebuilding and remodeling of Police stations destroyed in the wake of the #EndSARS protesters, in 2020. With the support, he added that officers and men of the Nigeria Police now have more befitting workplaces to function. The bankers commended Governor Namadi, the federal and state governments, donor agencies and other stakeholders for the efforts in responding to the need of the victims of the flooding, while noting that, through collective efforts and actions, we could all make a big difference in the society, as well as build a prosperous nation that works for all. Responding, Governor Namadi thanked the Committee of Banks in Nigeria for their humanitarian gesture, describing it as a rare demonstration of love, care and empathy for humanity. He said he was particularly touched receiving such a high number of bank chiefs leaving their offices to come and show solidarity to the families and individuals affected by the flood. “On behalf of the government and people of Jigawa State, I want to most sincerely thank you for this visit. Certainly, what you have done today has demonstrated a good sign of love, care and maturity because, I don’t think it has ever happened like this, for four managing directors of the big Nigerian banks leaving their offices and come and sympathise with us on the incident that happened to us; that has shown the serious sign of love, care and maturity,’’ he enthused. Governor Namadi assured that the state government would continue to seek opportunities to work together with the financial institutions as critical enablers of socio-economic growth, adding that with the significant support of the banks, the task of supporting the flood victims to get back to normal life had received a boost. He stated, “So whilst I really thank you very much, I assure you that as we go on we will continue to work together for the betterment of this country. Certainty, some time two of you at one time or the other has done something to help out Jigawa State and today again we are putting ourselves together as the body of banks’ CEOs also coming to our aide, to help our people and bring them back to life in order to move forward.’’ The governor gave the assurance that the donated relief materials would be judiciously used and get to the people they were meant for. “I also want to assure you that the Jigawa State government will continue to work together with you, to ensure that we improve the lives of those affected by the devastating floods. “Like we said, these people have really suffered a lot; they lost their means of livelihood which is not easy at this time, but with the people and body like yourself, these people have a lot of hope and then at least they are being shown they have brothers and sisters that are there for them in their time of need. So, we really appreciate this gesture and we are not taking it for granted. We pray that God almighty will replenish your purse for what you have done for our people,’’ Governor Namadi stated. Other personalities on the delegation for the donation of the relief materials were President, Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB), Mr. Rasheed Bolarinwa; the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr. Akin Morakinyo, and others. =End=
NEWS
EID EL-ADHA 2026: Governor Dauda Lawal Urges Increased Prayers for Peace, Hails Return of Displaced Communities
As Muslims across the world celebrate Eid al-Adha 2026 yesterday, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has called on the faithful to intensify prayers for lasting peace in the state and Nigeria at large. The governor made the appeal in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, ahead of the Eid prayers.
Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is observed annually by Muslims on the 10th day of Dhulhijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival commemorates the unwavering obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), who was willing to sacrifice his son Isma’il in submission to Allah’s (SWT) command an act replaced by divine intervention with a ram.
In his address, Governor Lawal reflected on the spiritual significance of the season, noting that the sacrificial rite not only honours Prophet Ibrahim’s submission but also forms an essential part of the Hajj rituals for pilgrims currently in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
“I felicitate with the Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha 2026,” the governor said. “The sacrifice performed during Eid is symbolic of Prophet Ibrahim’s submission and is also part of the Hajj rites for pilgrims.”
The governor specifically called on residents of Zamfara, particularly those undertaking the pilgrimage, to remain steadfast in prayers for the state and the nation.
“We have made significant progress in the fight against banditry, which is why dispersed communities are now returning to their homes,” Lawal stated. He cited a recent milestone: “Last week, we successfully returned thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral community of Fegin Kanawa Village in Gusau Local Government Area after over a year of displacement.”
According to officials, the village had been abandoned due to repeated bandit attacks, forcing residents to seek refuge in overcrowded camps or host communities. The successful return of the IDPs marks one of the administration’s key achievements in its ongoing security and reconstruction efforts.
Governor Lawal expressed gratitude to Allah for enabling the state to witness what he described as a “historic” achievement the airlift of pilgrims from Gusau International Airport, which has now resumed full operations after previous disruptions.
“We are committed to ensuring the safe return of all displaced persons to their homes. Such successes are only possible due to our collective prayers. I urge us to pray more, especially during sacred religious festivals,” he added.
The governor concluded his message with warm wishes: “I wish everyone a peaceful Eid celebration.”
Following the broadcast, Governor Lawal joined thousands of worshippers at the Gusau Central Eid prayer ground, where he observed the two-unit Eid prayer and listened to the customary sermon (khutbah). Security was notably heightened across the state, with checkpoints and patrols deployed to prevent any attacks during the celebrations.
Zamfara, like much of Nigeria’s North-West region, has faced years of insecurity fueled by banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. The governor’s emphasis on prayer reflects a broader strategy that combines military offensives, community dialogue, and spiritual advocacy to restore normalcy.
At Wema Bank, we have spent the last few years reimagining what Children’s Day can look like for Nigerian children.What started as a celebration has evolved into an intentional platform designed to build confidence, encourage leadership, promote financial literacy and create meaningful opportunities for children across different age groups.This year, we have raised the bar even higher. At Wema Bank’s Children’s Day Special Event held on Monday, May 25, 2026, our One-Day MD/CEO, Chinmamanda Diamond Ozoakpata, used her first official act in office to unveil a series of new initiatives designed to reward, educate and empower children through our Royal Kiddies account and ALAT Xplore platform.From year-long cash rewards and celebrations of academic excellence to financial literacy materials and STEM challenges, here are the new incentives that were announced and how to qualify:1. Birthday Cash Gift (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)Wema bank is putting real money behind milestone birthdays. Active Royal Kiddies account holders turning 5 will receive ₦5,000, while those turning 10 will receive ₦10,000 automatically, as a birthday cash gift. The initiative runs from May 2026 to May 2027. Importantly, active account holders who already turned 5 or 10 before May 2026 this year will also receive their reward this month.To qualify: Your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account and be turning (or have turned) age 5 or 10 within the qualifying window.2. ₦100,000 Reward for Top Common Entrance Students (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)In a move that directly ties financial reward to academic achievement, Wema Bank will reward the top 100 students in the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) with ₦100,000 each. This initiative commences in June 2026.To qualify: Your child must be among the top 100 performers in the NCEE and hold a Royal Kiddies account.3. Financial Literacy Book Launch – Money Adventures (Royal Kiddies Account Holders)Wema Bank officially launched Money Adventures, a financial literacy book created for children aged 6 and above, at the Children’s Day event. Designed to make money conversations simpler and more engaging for young readers, the book introduces children to foundational concepts around saving, money management and responsible financial habits in a fun, age-appropriate way. To qualify: To receive a copy of this book, your child must hold an active Royal Kiddies account or have their Royal Kiddies account newly activated.4. Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge (ALAT Xplore Account Holders)The Bank also unveiled the Evolve School Tour STEM Challenge. Designed for secondary school students aged 13–17, the programme will run across six schools nationwide with existing STEM programmes. Through hands-on STEM competitions and school engagements, the initiative aims to promote innovation, technology awareness, financial literacy and responsible savings culture. There will also be monetary prizes to be won at the end of the challenge.To qualify: Your child must be an ALAT Xplore customer, aged 13–17, and attend one of the participating schools with an active STEM programme.Over the last four years, Wema Bank has consistently treated Children’s Day as more than a calendar moment. From the One-Day MD/CEO initiative to school tours, leadership experiences and child-focused financial literacy campaigns, the Bank has continued to expand how it supports children meaningfully.Yet, this is the first time the bank has included a Children’s Day initiative that runs for an entire year. Combine that with a six-figure academic reward, a published financial literacy resource, and a nationwide school tour, and it becomes clear: this is the most comprehensive, most impactful package of benefits Wema Bank has ever delivered to its youngest customers. It signals a growing commitment by Wema Bank to create experiences for children that extend far beyond celebration and leave a lasting impact long after Children’s Day is over.
In a decisive move aimed at alleviating the economic burdens of retired public servants, Zamfara State Governor, Dr Dauda Lawal, has officially approved increased monthly pension payments for all former workers from both state and local government offices. The approval follows an extensive financial review of retirees’ living conditions, with particular attention to those in lower-income brackets who have been disproportionately affected by the prevailing cost-of-living crisis.The decision was precipitated by the findings and recommendations of a special committee empaneled to evaluate the welfare situation of pensioners across the state. The committee’s report highlighted acute financial distress among aging retirees and called for immediate remedial action. In response, the state government has authorized a substantive upward adjustment in monthly pension stipends.This increment aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s Minimum Wage Act of 2024, which explicitly recommended an additional monthly sum of at least N32,000 for pensioners. Governor Lawal has opted for full implementation of this advisory for all retired state and local government employees a policy intervention expected to benefit thousands of households across Zamfara. The state government has subsequently issued binding directives to all relevant agencies to ensure the expeditious and seamless disbursement of the enhanced payments without procedural delays.Speaking on the development, the Honorable Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Muhammad Dantawasa, characterized the policy as a tangible demonstration of Governor Lawal’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for both active and former government workers. According to the Commissioner, the administration operates on the principle that dignified retirement includes access to basic necessities and financial comfort. Beneficiaries across all local government areas have been assured of prompt payment once implementation commences.
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