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Ilaje ex-militants call for immediate decentralization of pipeline surveillance contracts to avert crisis

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Ilaje ex-militants call for immediate decentralization of pipeline surveillance contracts to avert crisis

By: Michael Mike

Ilaje ex- militant group, the Niger Delta Coastline Vanguard (NDCV) on Thursday demanded immediate decentralization of the pipeline surveillance contracts by President Bola Tinubu to ensure total peace and security in the Niger Delta region.

The group while expressing that it would be unfair for other ex-militant group from another state and ethnic nationals to be given the contact of surveillance of pipelines in their area, said the review of the contracts had become imperative for ex-militants to perform their surveillance and monitoring duties in areas they are familiar with the culture, traditions and topology of the people and their terrains.

The NDCV said they would resist attempts to foist ex-militants from South East or South South on the South West axis of the coastline which comprises mainly of Ilaje and Ese-Odo local government areas of Ondo state.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the President of the Niger Delta Coastline Vanguard, Job Omotunwa (alias General Job) urged President Tinubu to immediately review the contracts for the surveillance of pipelines and decentralised the works for inclusion, capacity, justice and fairness for all stakeholders.

Omotunwa who spoke through the legal adviser of the group, Joseph Olamide, explained that the Ilaje areas cover 120 kilometres coastline and 80 percent of waterways with oil production capacity of 80,000 barrels per day and 15 major oil companies operating in the areas.

He was flanked at the briefing by other Executive members of the group such as the secretary General, Joseph Olamide Elias, Chief Ajiroba Lucky, Assistant Secretary and Public Relations Officer, Ariyo Adeolu.

He said that it would be unfair to keep ex-militants in Ilaje idle, while those in Bayelsa and Rivers were imposed on them, emphasising that it would not be in the interest of the Amnesty Programme which was launched to accommodate all stakeholders.

Omotunwa equally urged President Tinubu to allow Ilaje ex-militants to handle the contracts surveillance and monitoring to cover Ondo, Ogun and Lagos states littoral corridors.

He claimed that the NDCV has the capability, capacity, the required intelligence and human resources to work with Federal government security agencies in the surveillance systems, stressing that illegal oil bunkering, vandalism and sabotage would be a thing of the past.

Omotunwa, who is the Akogun I of the Etikan Kingdom, decried that imposing ex-militants from other parts of the country on their Kingdom would expose their people to external aggressors, insisting that it would be far better for government to give the opportunity to people familiar with the terrain.

He said his group had been actively involved in rescue of kidnapped victims, while it had also carried out arrest of oil bunkering suspects in conjunction with operatives of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Ilaje ex-militants call for immediate decentralization of pipeline surveillance contracts to avert crisis

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National News

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

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Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

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Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July, 2025, as a Public Holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

This is in futherance to the seven days of National mourning declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on Monday on behalf of the Federal Government, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.

The Minister, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stated that the holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development.

He said: “President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”

He urged citizens to use the day to honour the late President’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.

He noted that as earlier announced, the National flags are to fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning period from Sunday 13th July, 2025.

The Federal Government extends deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
End

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National News

Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

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Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

By: Michael Mike

The Chinese Embassy has mourned the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Embassy in a message on X commiserate with the government and the people of Nigeria.

The message read: “The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria extends our deepest condolences to the people of Nigeria on the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), Former President of Nigeria.

“We mourn a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy.

“His pivotal contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations will forever remain etched in our shared history. Our thoughts are with his family and Nigerian people.”

Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

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