June 2026 - Page 17 of 19

All Posts in "Month: June 2026"

Former Power Minister is special guest of Honour at SUPERNEWS Conference July 7

The Chairman, Geometric Power Limited and former Nigerian Minister of Power, Professor Barth Nnaji, will be a Special Guest of Honour at the forthcoming SUPERNEWS Conference and 10th Anniversary scheduled for July 7, 2026.

The conference, with the theme: ‘Local Content & Digitisation: Building Synergy Between Oil & Gas and Insurance Sectors for Inclusive Growth’ will be held at Oriental Hotel, 3, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos at 10.00 am prompt.

The Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin has confirmed his attendance at the conference which will bring together other regulators, key stakeholders in the oil & gas and insurance sectors, civil society organisations, media and students, among others.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Universal Insurance Plc, Dr. Jeff Duru will chair the conference while the Group Managing Director/CEO, Royal Exchange Plc, Mrs. Idu Okeahialam will deliver the keynote paper.

The Publisher, SUPERNEWS Nigeria, Ngozi Onyeakusi, said the choice of this year’s theme was borne out of the quest to provide insight on how the two sectors, insurance and oil & gas, can leverage on cutting-edge technologies to boost collaboration and synergy towards surmounting challenges associated in implementing the Provisions of Sections 49 and 50 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.

For instance, provisions of Sections 49 and 50 of the NOGICD Act requires all operators engaged in any form of activity or project in the oil and gas industry to insure all insurable risks related to its oil and gas business with an insurance company, through an insurance broker registered in Nigeria.

The NOGICD Act also provides that where an operator seeks to place an insurable risk offshore, a written approval of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) must first be sought and obtained and that NAICOM, prior to the issuance of the approval, must first determine that local capacity has been fully exhausted.

In a bid to smoothen the implementation and compliance to the Act, the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and NAICOM in 2022 launched the relevant guidelines which was expected to address the loopholes that were identified in implementing the provisions of the Act, particularly, Sections 49 and 50.

However, research has shown that insurance firms before now still faced lots of challenges ranging from capital inadequacy and others.

With the birth of the Nigeria Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, the insurance industry is now positioned for global competitiveness while the ongoing recapitalisation exercise is expected to pave way for big, strong and reliable insurance firms.

by admin — June 3, 2026 in News 0

Airtel Africa Records Strong Market Gains, Strengthening Investor Trust

Lagos, Nigeria -1st June, 2026 – Airtel Africa has emerged as the standout large-cap performer on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), recording a 10 per cent gain in a single trading week and reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most resilient and valuable telecommunications companies.

The telecoms giant closed the week at ₦3,655.70 per share, up from ₦3,323.40, making it one of the strongest contributors to market performance during a period characterised by selective investor activity and sector rotation.

The strong performance reflects growing investor confidence in Airtel Africa’s business fundamentals, diversified revenue streams, and long-term growth strategy. Analysts note that the company continues to attract attention from investors seeking stable, high-quality stocks capable of delivering sustainable value despite ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties.

Unlike many of the week’s gainers, whose performance was largely driven by speculative trading and short-term market positioning, Airtel Africa’s rise was underpinned by confidence in its operational strength and strategic importance within the telecommunications sector.

Market watchers have identified Airtel Africa as a preferred investment destination due to its strong earnings profile, extensive regional footprint, and exposure to foreign currency-linked revenue streams. These factors have helped position the company as a key stabiliser within the NGX, particularly at a time when investors are increasingly selective in deploying capital.

The company’s performance also highlights the growing importance of telecommunications firms in driving economic growth and digital transformation across Africa. Through continued investments in network expansion, digital services, enterprise solutions, and financial inclusion initiatives, Airtel Africa remains at the forefront of enabling connectivity and economic opportunity for millions of people across the continent.

Beyond its stock market performance, Airtel Africa continues to strengthen its position through investments in digital infrastructure, mobile financial services, and technology-driven solutions that support businesses, governments, and communities. These initiatives have become increasingly important as demand for connectivity and digital services continues to accelerate across Africa.

Airtel Africa’s latest performance underscores confidence in the company’s long-term prospects and its ability to create sustainable value for shareholders. The milestone also reflects the market’s recognition of Airtel Africa’s role in shaping Africa’s digital future through innovation, connectivity, and inclusive growth.

With telecommunications remaining a critical enabler of economic development, Airtel Africa’s strong showing on the NGX serves as another indicator of the company’s continued momentum and leadership within the sector.

by admin — June 3, 2026 in Business 0

Union Bank’s endless possibilities campaign wins Bronze at 2026 Pitcher Awards

Union Bank of Nigeria’s Endless Possibilities campaign has won Bronze in the Heritage category at the 2026 Pitcher Awards, one of Africa’s foremost platforms for creative excellence.

The campaign was also shortlisted in the Craft category for Film Craft, a recognition of the artistry and technical quality behind the work. These recognitions were awarded following adjudication alongside qualifying entries from across the African continent.

The Heritage win carries a particular resonance. It recognises the bank’s ability to honour its rich heritage while maintaining relevance with contemporary audiences.

For more than a century, Union Bank has been woven into the fabric of Nigeria’s economic and social progress, and Endless Possibilities continues that story rather than departing from it.

Built to celebrate the ambition and resourcefulness of Nigerians who dream and create against the odds, the campaign mirrors the very qualities that have sustained the Bank across generations. To be honoured in a category defined by history, identity and cultural continuity, is to have that legacy recognised on a continental stage.

Commenting on the award, Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Union Bank of Nigeria, said: “We are honoured to be recognised at the 2026 Pitcher Awards for Endless Possibilities. This achievement reflects our commitment to telling authentic stories that resonate with the Nigerian spirit and reinforce our promise to support the dreams and progress of the communities we serve. We are equally proud of the Film Craft shortlist, which speaks to the talent and collaboration behind the work.”

This recognition on the African stage, adds to Union Bank’s growing reputation for storytelling that is locally grounded and broadly resonant.

As the Bank deepens its connections with audiences across the country and continent, it remains committed to work that inspires confidence, possibility and progress.

Established in 1917, Union Bank is a leading provider of financial services in Nigeria, renowned for its “Simpler, Smarter Banking” philosophy. With a nationwide network and a strong focus on digital innovation, Union Bank continues to empower individuals, businesses, and the public sector to achieve lasting success.

The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers a range of banking services to individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance. The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.

by admin — June 3, 2026 in Business 0

Kano lawmaker Muhammad Tomas dumps NDC, returns to APC

A member of the Kano State House of Assembly representing Makoda Constituency, Hon. Muhammad Ahmad Tomas, has left the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) and returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tomas made his return known on Monday during a visit to the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, at his residence in Abuja.

He was accompanied by the chairmen of Makoda and Dambatta local government areas, Alhaji Isa Currency and Alhaji Jamilu Abubakar Dambatta.

Receiving the lawmaker, Senator Barau described his return to the APC as a welcome development, saying it aligns with efforts to strengthen governance and political stability.

“This is a timely and commendable decision. It shows commitment to development and good governance,” Barau said.

The Deputy Senate President also assured Tomas of fair treatment within the APC, adding that the party remains open to returning members and committed to equal opportunities for all.

He further expressed confidence that Tomas’ return would boost the party’s strength in Kano North and across Kano State.

In a post shared on his Facebook page, Barau said he was optimistic that the development would further consolidate the APC’s presence in the region.

Tomas’ defection comes after he recently lost the NDC ticket to contest for a second term in the Kano State House of Assembly, a decision that was reportedly reached through consensus within the party.

The lawmaker had earlier left the APC for the NDC, where he was received by party leaders, including Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, before returning to the ruling party.

by admin — June 2, 2026 in News 0

Benue: Idoma’s greatest challenge is lack of unity, not talent — Ochai

The President-General of the Idoma Association USA, Edwin Ochai, has said that the greatest challenge confronting the Idoma nation is not a lack of education, intelligence or human capacity, but the absence of unity and a collective vision.

Ochai stated this on Saturday during the 2026 Idoma Centenary Plus Lecture held in Otukpo, Benue State.

Reflecting on the presentations and discussions at the event, he said the lecture broadened his understanding of the current realities facing the Idoma people and the path they must take to secure a better future.

According to him, one of the most striking lessons from the centenary lecture was that despite producing numerous professors, military generals, technocrats, public servants and other distinguished professionals, the Idoma nation has not translated its vast human resources into the level of political, economic and social development it deserves.

“The greatest challenge facing us today is not a lack of education, intelligence or human capacity. Rather, it is the absence of unity and a collective vision,” he said.

Ochai noted that the achievements of individual Idoma sons and daughters across various sectors demonstrate that the nation is not lacking in talent, knowledge or leadership potential.

He, however, lamented that personal interests, political divisions and clan loyalties often take precedence over the collective good, thereby limiting the community’s ability to harness its full strength for development.

“The Idoma people continue to excel, but their collective strength remains underutilised. A people united by a shared purpose can achieve far more than even the most brilliant individuals working separately,” he stated.

The Idoma Association USA leader said the centenary celebration should serve not only as a reflection on the achievements of the past century but also as a call to action for greater unity and purposeful leadership.

As the country approaches another election cycle, Ochai urged the Idoma people to rise above sentiments, personal relationships and short-term gains when choosing their leaders.

According to him, voters should focus on candidates with proven competence, integrity, vision and a genuine commitment to advancing the interests of the Idoma nation.

He said the people must critically evaluate every aspirant seeking public office by examining their track record of service, ability to unite the people and commitment to development, education, youth empowerment, security and economic growth.

“The future of our people depends not on who speaks the loudest or spends the most money, but on who possesses the vision, competence, integrity and commitment to advance the interests of the Idoma nation,” he said.

Ochai further stressed the need for leaders who can mobilise professionals, entrepreneurs, traditional institutions, women and youths towards a common developmental agenda.

He described the election season as an opportunity for the Idoma people to make informed decisions that would benefit both the present and future generations.

According to him, the centenary celebration should inspire the Idoma nation to embrace unity, collective purpose and visionary leadership capable of transforming the area into a model of progress, influence and development.

“The time to act is now. The time to unite is now. Now is the time to make a wise choice,” he added.

by admin — June 2, 2026 in News 0

Court sentences seven to death for murder of Rivers clergyman

A High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has sentenced seven men to death by hanging after finding them guilty of the kidnapping and murder of Reverend Edwin Isaiah Dokubo-Harry more than a decade ago.

The judgment, delivered by Justice Boma Diepiri on Thursday, concluded a long-running case arising from the killing of the clergyman in Abalama, Asari-Toru Local Government Area, in December 2013.

Those convicted are Precious Jack Opara, Answer Dick, Osaki Fubara, Prince Mikado Philip, Tienabeso George, Seleipri Fubara, and Alaboeriya Fubara.

The court found them guilty of conspiracy, kidnapping, murder, unlawful possession of firearms, and related offences.

Justice Diepiri held that the prosecution successfully established the charges against the defendants and consequently imposed the death sentence on all seven convicts.

The court heard that the victim was allegedly lured into a forest in Abalama, where he was abducted by members of the group.

He was reportedly blindfolded and restrained before being killed, after which his body was abandoned in a creek in the area.

The judge further ordered that the firearm recovered during the investigation, along with other exhibits tendered in evidence, be released to the Nigeria Police Force.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Israel and Nephew Philemon, who were also standing trial in connection with the matter, were cleared of all allegations.

The court discharged and acquitted both men of the 25-count charge after determining that the evidence presented was insufficient to link them to the offences.

The verdict triggered emotional reactions in the courtroom, with some of the convicts and their relatives shedding tears as the sentences were pronounced.