Shettima, Dangote, Sanwo-Olu present as FirstBank flags off 40-storey head office
The premier bank in West Africa and a leading financial inclusion service provider, FirstBank has held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new green-certified iconic Head Office building in Eko Atlantic City, Lagos. The flag-off of the 40-storey building project, set to be the tallest building in Nigeria, was held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. The event had in attendance VIPs led by President Bola Tinubu, represented by his Vice, Kashim Shettima; Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun; Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote; Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki; Olufemi Otedola, Chairman – FirstHoldCo (host), among others. During the ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu presented a certificate of approval to FirstBank Group to commence construction of its eco-friendly headquarters in Eko Atlantic City. He said, “FirstBank, as always, has taken the lead. I want to thank the visionaries who have created a new city that will serve as Africa’s model city — one we will all be proud of. Mr Femi Otedola, well done. Well done to your board and well done to your management. CBN Governor, thank you for the approval. We hope you extend similar approvals to other financial institutions, as there is space for them too. “I am now handing over a certificate of approval for them to commence work immediately.” Speaking earlier on the project, Olusegun Alebiosu, CEO, FirstBank Group said, “We are proud to mark this significant milestone in our journey towards excellence. Our new Head Office is envisioned as a world-class structure that represents our dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability. We believe that this development will play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and development across Africa, creating long-term value for all our stakeholders.” With a legacy spanning over 130 years, FirstBank has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and sustainable business practices. The Bank has a robust international presence, operating subsidiaries in nine countries across three continents. Femi Otedola, Chairman, FirstHoldCo, added, “Today’s gathering highlights the importance of collaboration and support from various sectors in bringing our ambitious plans for the new headquarters to life. We appreciate the unrelenting support from our customers and stakeholders as we work together to turn this vision into reality.”
Ibrahim Chatta is the reason I’m still in Nollywood – Apa
Nigerian actor Sanusi Izihaq, known as Apa, opens up about his struggles in Nollywood and why he stayed despite multiple attempts to quit. Apa, who began his career as a Continuity Manager before transitioning into acting, shared his experiences during an interview on the Talk to B podcast with actress Biola Bayo. He credited fellow actor Ibrahim Chatta for playing a crucial role in keeping him from leaving the industry. A Director’s unexpected hostility Recalling a particularly tough period, Apa revealed that an influential director, whom he had never worked with, vowed to make his career difficult. The unexpected hostility left him confused and frustrated. “I had never met this director before, but he had already made up his mind about me,” Apa said. “I was eager to work with him, but instead, he wanted to make things hard for me. It was shocking and painful.” Struggling in a toxic work environment The pressure in the industry became overwhelming at times, Apa admitted. He found himself in situations where the negativity around him became too much to handle. “I despised the toxic atmosphere,” he shared. “It affected me so much that I became emotional and started crying.” During these low moments, Ibrahim Chatta stepped in. Apa revealed that Chatta found him in tears on more than one occasion and took the time to listen and offer support. Ibrahim Chatta’s role in Apa’s journey “There were at least two or three times when Ibrahim saw me crying,” Apa recalled. “Each time, he asked what was wrong. I told him I wanted to quit the industry, but he never allowed me to give up.” Apa admitted that he had tried to leave Nollywood multiple times. However, Chatta would always step in, offering him roles in his projects to keep him engaged and motivated. “I walked away from filmmaking about three different times,” he confessed. “Each time, Ibrahim called me back and gave me work just to make sure I didn’t leave.” Grateful for a strong support system Apa expressed deep gratitude for Chatta’s support. Without him, he believes he might not have remained in Nollywood. “Ibrahim Chatta believed in me when I was ready to walk away,” Apa said. “He kept pushing me forward, and for that, I will always be thankful.” His story sheds light on the challenges many actors face in Nollywood, especially those still finding their footing. From difficult directors to toxic work environments, the industry can be tough. However, Apa’s experience proves that mentorship and encouragement from established figures can make a big difference. Moving forward with determination Despite the struggles, Apa remains committed to his craft. He continues to feature in Nollywood productions, proving that resilience and the right guidance can help actors succeed even in the face of adversity. Read Also: Friends, colleagues celebrate Ibrahim Chatta as he adds a yearI’m one of highest-paid Yoruba-speaking actors – Ibrahim Chatta
Fayemi denies sexual harassment allegation from Kogi Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan
The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has strongly refuted a media report claiming that he was accused of sexual harassment by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central. A news report, not originating from The PUNCH, claimed that during a recent plenary session on Wednesday, Senator Cyril Fasuyi (APC, Ekiti North) alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously levelled sexual harassment accusations against Fayemi. However, in a swift response, the Head of Fayemi’s Media Office, Ahmad Sajoh, dismissed the report as inaccurate and a misrepresentation of the statements made by Senator Fasuyi. According to Sajoh, after reviewing the plenary proceedings, it was clear that no such allegation was made by the Ekiti lawmaker. “The attention of our office has been drawn to a news report published by The Cable regarding an alleged statement made by Senator Cyril Fasuyi during today’s Senate plenary. According to the report, Senator Fasuyi allegedly claimed that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously accused Dr. Kayode Fayemi of sexual harassment,” Sajoh said in a statement. “We categorically state that this report is inaccurate and a misrepresentation of Senator Fasuyi’s actual comments. Upon careful review, it is evident that Senator Fasuyi never made such an allegation. What he actually said was that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had, in the past, made false and defamatory claims about Dr. Fayemi during his tenure as Minister of Mines and Steel Development, particularly relating to the Ajaokuta Steel Company.” Sajoh further stressed that neither Akpoti-Uduaghan nor anyone else had ever accused Fayemi of sexual misconduct. He reiterated that the former governor has consistently upheld the highest standards of integrity throughout his public service career. READ ALSO: ‘I’ve never sexually harassed any woman’ — Akpabio speaks on Natasha Akpoti’s allegation “For the avoidance of doubt, we wish to reiterate that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, or anyone else, has never accused Dr. Fayemi of any form of sexual misconduct. Dr. Fayemi has always adhered to the highest standards of integrity in public service, and we reject any attempt by the media to associate his name with unfounded and damaging allegations,” the statement continued. The statement also clarified that Fayemi had no intention of becoming embroiled in the ongoing controversy surrounding the Senate. According to Sajoh, any past interactions between Fayemi and Akpoti-Uduaghan were purely professional, with any differences stemming from divergent policy perspectives rather than personal disputes. Sajoh called on the media to adhere to ethical journalism practices, urging journalists to thoroughly verify facts before publication and avoid sensationalising stories that could damage reputations and erode public trust. “We urge the media to observe the highest standards of responsible journalism by ensuring accuracy before publishing stories. Sensationalism and the spread of misleading narratives harm reputations and undermine public trust in the media,” Sajoh concluded.
Senate dismisses Natasha’s sexual harassment petition against Akpabio
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions has dismissed a sexual harassment petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. During a probe hearing on Wednesday, March 5, Committee Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen ruled that the petition was “dead on arrival,” citing a procedural flaw under Order 40 of the Senate Standing Orders. According to Imasuen, Akpoti-Uduaghan had signed the petition herself, which made it invalid as it should have been endorsed by another senator. Imasuen also pointed out that the issues raised in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition were already the subject of court proceedings, making the petition subjudice. “The petition that she (Natasha) presented today is actually dead on arrival; it runs contrary to Order 40, Subsection 4, which states that no senator may present to the Senate a petition signed by him or herself. Since that petition was signed by her, it will not be entertained by this committee,” said Imasuen. Although the committee’s sitting was scheduled for 2:00 pm, it was delayed until 2:58 pm, as both Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu failed to appear on time. While Adaramodu arrived at 2:50 pm, Akpoti-Uduaghan was absent from the hearing. Earlier on Wednesday, March 5, Akpoti-Uduaghan had submitted the sexual harassment petition accusing Akpabio of inappropriate conduct, which she presented during the plenary. Akpabio swiftly denied the allegations, dismissing them as baseless. “At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women. I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria,” Akpabio stated. READ ALSO: Legal expert seeks fair probe in Natasha, Akpabio sexual harassment allegation
Ondo govt, FG commission eye care centre in Idanre
The Ondo State Government, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health and OneSight Essilor Luxottica Foundation, has commissioned an eye care centre at General Hospital, Idanre. The newly commissioned eye care centre aims to complement the Millennium Eye Care Centre in Akure. A post shared on their Facebook page on Wednesday revealed that the development will enhance quality affordable and accessible eye care services to the people of the state. The initiative aligns with the commitment to tackling preventable sight loss for over 1.1 billion people globally by 2030. The National Coordinator for the National Eye Health Programme, Dr. Oteri Okolo, during the launch of the health centre, explained that the presidential initiative was approved in December 2023, marking the second beneficiary state in Nigeria. Read Also: Kogi updates Okene health facility to teaching hospital Okolo emphasized the importance of vision, not only as a health concern but also as a socio-economic development issue. She noted that good vision enables individuals to work efficiently, helps children learn better, and ensures that the elderly can live independently without the risk of falls or dependency. She further stated that the vision centre would provide services at an affordable cost, in line with the President’s vision of ensuring clear sight for all. Okolo urged the host community to collaborate with the eye care centre to maximize its efficiency and impact. The Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Adeniran Ikuomola, expressed the state’s gratitude to the President and the National Eye Health Programme for their support in establishing and equipping the facility. Represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr. Stephen Fagbemi, Ikuomola described the initiative as one of the core health programs of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration, aimed at prioritizing the well-being of the state’s residents. Highlighting Ondo State’s dedication to eye health, Ikuomola stated that the state was among the few to have launched a specialized eye care hospital in previous years. “The initiative has been having tremendous successes and challenges, and today, this is the testament to the fact that we are expanding through this new facility in Idanre,” he said. “We are also delighted with the staff of this hospital. We are certain that traffic will be at this center soon. We urge you to provide subsidized and quality service to the good people of the state.” While assuring that her team would visit the hospital every Thursday for consultations, Dr. Stella Adegbehinge, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Chairman of the Eye Health Committee for Ondo State, applauded the initiative. High Chief Neren Akinnawolu, who represented the Owa of Idanre, expressed appreciation to both the federal and state governments for establishing the eye care centre in their community. He pledged the community’s unwavering support to ensure the success of the facility.
US holds direct talks with Hamas breaking from decades-old precedent
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt confirms talks but declines to provide details The White House is holding direct talks with Hamas over the return of the Israeli hostages held since 7 October, breaking decades of precedent by engaging with the militant group without intermediaries. Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said on Wednesday that officials had held “ongoing talks and discussions” with Hamas officials, as the Trump administration has vowed to return all of the Israeli hostages held in Gaza amid a shaky ceasefire deal. Leavitt told reporters that Israel had been consulted on the talks and that the US special envoy Adam Boehler “does have the authority to talk to anyone” when “American lives are at stake.” Hamas members confirmed the reports, saying there had been two direct meetings between US officials and Hamas in Doha, the Qatari capital, in recent days. “Several communications took place between Hamas and various American communication channels, the latest being with a US envoy and discussed the issue of Israeli prisoners who hold American citizenship, both the living and the deceased,” a Hamas official told AFP. Israel said it had conveyed its position on direct talks with Hamas, Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said late on Wednesday, offering no further details. “Israel has expressed to the United States its position regarding direct talks with Hamas,” the statement from the prime minister’s office said. “Dialogue and talking to people around the world to do the best interests of the American people is something that the president has proven, is what he believes is good-faith effort to do what’s right for the American people,” Leavitt said. Axios first reported the “secret talks” with Hamas, citing two sources with direct knowledge of meetings held in Doha, Qatar, in recent weeks. The outlet called the talks “unprecedented”, noting that the US had never before engaged with Hamas and that it had declared the group a terrorist organisation in 1997. Fifty-nine hostages are still held by Hamas, though Israeli intelligence believes that only 22 are still alive. Five Americans are believed to still be held by Hamas, one of whom, 21-year-old Edan Alexander, is believed to still be alive. Under the terms of the hostages-for-ceasefire deal, which went into effect on 19 January, Hamas was expected to release hostages weekly in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. After six weeks, Israel and Hamas were expected to enter a second stage of the negotiations, which would make the ceasefire permanent and secure the release of the remaining hostages. But those talks have not progressed and the White House’s decision to engage directly with Hamas appears to be targeted to meet Trump’s goals of securing the release of all hostages held in Gaza. Trump has warned that unless they are released, there will be “hell to pay” in the region, in what appeared to be a threat directed specifically at Hamas. But Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff has also pressured Netanyahu to push forward with the negotiations, and was crucial in convincing the Israeli prime minister to sign the original ceasefire deal that went into effect in January. Boehler is tasked with securing the release of Americans who have been “wrongfully detained” by governments or other groups around the world. But it remains unclear whether he is discussing the release of these hostages as part of a longer-term truce, which would mark a significant increase in his authority and indicate that the US could be going around Israel to negotiate an end to the war. Witkoff, the Trump envoy who negotiated the earlier ceasefire and has now been tasked with negotiations with Russia as well, was set to travel to Doha earlier this week to meet the Qatari prime minister about the ceasefire negotiations but “canceled the trip on Tuesday night after he saw there was no progress from Hamas’ side”, a US official told Axios. Trump has broken with Biden administration strategies for resolving the war in Gaza, giving increasing military backing to Israel and suggesting that millions of Palestinians should be forcibly deported to other countries because the Israeli onslaught has made it unsafe to live there.
FCCPC drags Multichoice to court over subscription fees hike
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a lawsuit against MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd. and its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John Ugbe, for defying regulatory directives and obstructing an ongoing inquiry. In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, said the company had ignored the commission’s instructions and proceeded with a price hike despite clear directives to maintain its existing subscription rates for DStv and GOtv. The commission had directed MultiChoice Nigeria on February 27 to halt any price adjustments pending the conclusion of an inquiry into its proposed increase. However, the company went ahead with the hike on March 1, openly violating the order. John Ugbe, Multichoice boss The FCCPC stated that the disregard for regulatory oversight prompted it to file charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and its CEO at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division. The charges include willfully obstructing the commission’s inquiry by implementing the price hike against directives, impeding an ongoing investigation by ignoring instructions to suspend the increase, and attempting to mislead the commission by proceeding with the hike without addressing objections. According to the FCCPC, MultiChoice’s actions amount to a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority, distort market fairness, and deny consumers the protections granted under the law. The commission described the company’s conduct as a direct affront to regulatory processes, emphasizing that it demonstrated a pattern of behavior that disregards consumer rights and fair competition. Beyond the lawsuit, the FCCPC said it is reviewing additional enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant industry players adhere to fair market principles and legal requirements.
Nigerian arrested in S’Africa for illegal possession of precious metals
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, has arrested a Nigerian, Benjamin Stanley Okwudili for possession of precious metals. Gauteng spokesperson for the Hawks, Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Ramovha, who confirmed this in a statement on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, said Okwudili was arrested at Linbro Park, Sandton, after being found in possession of suspected precious metals estimated at R50 million. Ramovha said the Hawks’ Johannesburg Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) conducted a “diligent” intelligence-driven operation regarding contravention of the Precious Metals Act on February 27, resulting in the arrest. “The operation was executed following critical information about palladium unlawfully stored at a residence on 1st Road, Linbro Park. Acting promptly, the team proceeded to the identified location. Upon arrival, they encountered a Nigerian male, Mr. Benjamin Stanley Okwudili,” said Ramovha. The officers introduced themselves and requested permission to search the premises, which the Hawks say was granted. “Despite finding no illegal items within the house, a thorough search of the garage revealed a gold suitcase wrapped in clear cling wrap. Upon inspection, the suitcase was discovered to contain approximately 90 kg of silver stones, suspected to be palladium, with an estimated value of R50 million,” said Ramovha. Palladium is a silver-white metal that resembles platinum. It is used in many types of manufacturing processes, particularly for electronics and industrial products. When questioned about the suitcase, the Hawks said Okwudili stated he had received it from the Congo and was expecting a buyer to collect it. “However, he failed to produce any documentation authorising his possession of such minerals,” said Ramovha. Consequently, the SA Police Service’s Local Criminal Record Centre was summoned to the scene for further processing. Okwudili, 55, was then arrested. He was detained at Sandringham police station after being charged. The Nigerian national appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where the case was postponed to March 10 for confirmation of Okwudili’s status in South Africa. Meanwhile, Gauteng provincial head of the Hawks, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa has welcomed Okwudili’s arrest. “This operation serves as a stern warning to all dealers in precious metals: adherence to the law is non-negotiable. Authorities will take decisive action against any individuals or entities found in violation of the Precious Metals Act,” he said.
Wike in Italy, to parley with Lombardy President, investors
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, arrived Milan, Italy on Wednesday ahead of series of official engagements, particularly meeting with the President of Lombardy Region, Attilio Fontana. The Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, said in a statement in Milan, on Wednesday that Wike departed Abuja on Tuesday night, and arrived in Milan at about 4:30am on Wednesday, and was received by the Charge d’Affairs of the Embassy of Nigeria in Italy, Ambassador Mustapha Mohammed. He said “while in Milan, the FCT Minister will hold a meeting with the President of Lombardy Region on Thursday, and also meet agribusiness investors.” Lombardy is adjudged as the first region of Italy in terms of economic importance, with population of about 10 million people. It is the second most populous region of the European Union (EU) and the second region of the European Union by nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP). “The FCT Minister’s meeting with the Attilio Fontana will center on seeking collaboration and evaluating possible prospects in the areas of Agriculture and Vocational Education, as well as strategic development partners with the Lombardy Region. “Subsequently, Wike will meet investors in agribusiness and experts in vocational training, with a view to unlock new opportunities. “The FCT Mandate Secretaries for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo and Mandate Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development, Lawan Geidam, as well as Senior Special Assistant on Administration, Dr. Udo Samuel Atang and Senior Special Assistant on Legal and Multi-Lateral Cooperation, Barrister Benedict Daudu, accompanied the Minister on the trip.”
NAFDAC seizes 50 truckloads of fake drugs in Onitsha market
In continuation of its nationwide crackdown on substandard and counterfeit medicines, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has said it has evacuated about 50 truckloads of illicit drugs from Onitsha. The agency also said it recovered dangerous weapons from the Bridge Head Drug Market in Onitsha, Anambra State. NAFDAC noted that during the ongoing operation, which began on February 10, its security team discovered two rifles, live cartridges, machetes, and other weapons hidden within the market. Describing the discovery of the weapons as alarming, the Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye said that it may have been an assassination attempt on the agency’s South-East Zonal Director, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, who routinely holds debriefing sessions at the location. Adeyeye, who spoke through Iluyomade, revealed that security personnel thwarted two separate attempts by hoodlums to break into storage facilities where the agency had kept seized drugs. The NAFDAC boss said that two suspects were arrested and are currently assisting with investigations. Despite resistance from criminal elements, Adeyeye reassured the public that the operation would continue as a national mission to protect public health. “With the swift intervention of our security team, we recovered daggers, machetes, two rifles, and other weapons. We have also arrested individuals attempting to breach our storage facilities. They are in custody and providing useful information,” she stated. The NAFDAC boss commended market leaders for their cooperation throughout the exercise and confirmed that some sections of the market would reopen this week. She also emphasised that the seized counterfeit drugs had been relocated to a secure facility for further action. The crackdown is part of a nationwide effort to eliminate substandard and falsified medicines from circulation, ensuring that only genuine pharmaceutical products reach consumers.
