National News
VP Shettima Extols UBA’s Dedication To Innovation, Emerging Markets At 75

VP Shettima Extols UBA’s Dedication To Innovation, Emerging Markets At 75
** Says bank has shaped narrative of what African institutions can become
By: Our Reporter
The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has extolled what he termed the staying power of the United Bank of Africa (UBA Group) in the past 75 years, describing the financial institution as a pacesetter in innovation, emerging markets and generational ambition.
“Seventy-five years is not something you pick up at a supermarket. It is earned. It’s through risks and calculations, through storms and sunshine, through mergers and acquisitions, and through the brainpower and courage of those who believe in its promise of a new world. That is what leadership means,” he declared.

Senator Shettima, who spoke on Friday evening during the UBA 75th Anniversary Dinner at Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, noted that the celebration of an institution like UBA “that has outlived generations and still pulses with the vibrancy of youth” is not something that happens everyday.
He said, “The United Bank for Africa, or simply UBA, is not what it is because of the age of its ideas. It is what it is because of the attention it pays—attention to innovation, attention to emerging markets, attention to shifting dreams, and attention to the changing contours of generational ambition.
“UBA has remained a pacesetter because it is led by people who do not just manage capital, but manage curiosity”.

Applauding UBA for outliving all its contemporaries, VP Shettima attributed its staying power to its passion for relevance, even as he described the bank as a quintessential specimen of what an African institution could become by institutionalizing excellence.
His words: “UBA’s staying power is owed to its pursuit of relevance. It has stood as a reward for new thinking, expanding not just across geography, but across ideas.
“It serves millions, it shapes economies, and it influences the narrative of what an African institution can become when excellence is institutionalised and when well-intentioned dream-makers are in charge.”
The Vice President did not celebrate UBA without acknowledging the leadership ability of the bank’s Chairman, Mr Tony Elumelu, whom he described as one of the finest sons of the African continent, just as he observed that no institution writes its history without the signature of those who believe in it.
According to him, Elumelu has “become a bridge between the old and the new, between the outdated and the emerging,” adding that he “has won the trust of even the Gen Zs, or whatever this brilliant, digital generation calls itself.”
The Gen Zs, VP Shettima noted, have absolute trust in Elumelu “not because of the era he was born in, but because of the attention he pays to theirs,” observing further that he is being heard across generations because he listens across generations.
He continued: “Tony Elumelu is not a dreamer. Dreamers are those who are stuck in the bubble. Mr Elumelu is a dream-maker. He has made true the imagination of those who wish for an empire from the comfort of their homes. He has taught us that it is possible to build without breaking, to lead without losing touch, and to dream without borders.
“One thing that has amused me about Mr Elumelu over the years is that he has cracked a code many still struggle to decipher—the delicate art of balancing the boardroom with the living room, of being a captain of industry and still a commander at home.
“Not many men have managed a balance between building empires and building families, between saving the world and being present at Christmas in their village. But this man, this maverick, this dream-maker, has shown us that you can help move the continent forward without losing touch with home and family.”
The VP also lauded Elumelu’s wife, Dr Awele Elumelu, saying she is not just a spouse, “but an Amazon—a matriarch who gathers the kith and kin under her warm canopy,” as well as the quiet strength behind the force that is her husband.
Earlier, Group Chairman of UBA, Tony Elumelu expressed profound gratitude to the Vice President while acknowledging the bank’s foundational history.
“This is a night of celebration, gratitude to God and to customers and shareholders who have made it possible,” Elumelu stated.
The Chairman emphasised the importance of honouring those who established UBA’s foundation, saying, “We all today are under the shields because someone planted the tree. The foundation of UBA was laid by people before us, we are only taking it further.”
Looking toward the future, Elumelu expressed confidence in the bank’s continued success, tying it directly to Nigeria’s economic environment.
“On the vision of the next 75 years, just keep transforming our domestic economy as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing, and UBA will keep roaring,” he affirmed.
In his welcome address, UBA’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Oliver Alawuba, expressed gratitude to attendees while highlighting the bank’s remarkable journey since its inception.
“75 years ago, UBA commenced operations at Kakawa Street in Lagos as British & French Bank (BFB),” he said.
The GMD emphasised UBA’s impressive expansion over the decades, noting the bank now operates in 24 countries with 1,000 business offices, over 25,000 staff members, and a customer base exceeding 45 million people.
Dr. Alawuba shared financial metrics demonstrating the bank’s robust performance, including a profit after tax of N766.6 billion and total assets reaching N30.4 trillion.
He said shareholders have been rewarded with a dividend of ₦5 per share, representing a dividend yield of 14.5% – the highest among industry peers.
He also pointed out that the group’s shareholders’ funds rose significantly to N3.419 trillion in 2024 from N2.030 trillion in December 2023.
“The 2024 financial performance demonstrated the bank’s continued focus on driving earnings growth, preserving asset quality, expanding business operations and deepening market share,” Alawuba said.
Looking to the future, the GMD outlined an ambitious vision for UBA to establish a presence in every African country and expand to over 100 countries worldwide within the next 75 years.
VP Shettima Extols UBA’s Dedication To Innovation, Emerging Markets At 75
National News
NHRC: Over 320,000 Human Rights Violations Complaints Received in June

NHRC: Over 320,000 Human Rights Violations Complaints Received in June
By: Michael Mike
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has decried the rising incident of human rights violation in the country, stating that last alone over 320,000 cases were reported across the country.
Speaking during the presentation of June 2025 Human Rights Situation Dashboard in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu said: “In the month of June, we received 327,154 complaints reflecting another sharp increase in human rights violations, each one a desperate plea for justice and a stark reminder of how much work remains to be done.”
He lamented that: “Every month, when we gather to present this human rights dashboard, we are confronted with a sobering reality of the lived realities of those affected by violence, injustice, discrimination, and systemic neglect. These numbers compel us to reflect deeply on our collective responsibility and ask ourselves the difficult question: Are we doing enough? The events of June 2025 demand not just reflection, but an honest and urgent response.”
He said: “Last month, Nigeria witnessed a harrowing surge in violent attacks, with devastating consequences for affected communities and our national conscience. Among the most tragic incidents were the brutal assaults on the Yelewata and Dauda communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where over 200 innocent lives were lost. These were not mere figures on a report; they were fathers, mothers, children, and breadwinners; families torn apart, livelihoods destroyed, and futures extinguished in moments of senseless brutality.
“Equally alarming is the rising trend of attacks against law enforcement and local security forces. In Kaduna and Niger States, more than 17 soldiers were killed in coordinated attacks, further destabilizing already fragile regions. Equally distressing was the massacre of over 40 members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Ruggar Chida, brave individuals who stood on the frontlines to protect their communities, only to pay the ultimate price.
“Their deaths leave a void in local security structures, rendering civilians even more exposed to further violence.”
Ojukwu noted that: “The wave of insecurity plaguing our highways has also intensified. In June alone, more than 50 travellers were abducted along major transit routes in Kogi and Benue States. These are not isolated criminal acts; they represent a direct assault on the fundamental rights to freedom of movement, economic participation, and personal dignity. These abductions inflicts lasting trauma on victims and their families while further eroding public trust in the safety of our roads. This pattern of violence marked by impunity, fear, and systemic failure highlights a grave deficit in protection and accountability.”
He added that: “In the month of June, we received 327,154 complaints reflecting another sharp increase in human rights violations, each one a desperate plea for justice and a stark reminder of how much work remains to be done.
“To the government, we reiterate the need for decisive and coordinated security interventions. To civil society and the media, we urge sustained advocacy and amplification of these issues. To our development partners, we call for strengthened collaboration in addressing the root causes of these issues. This dashboard must not merely serve as a record of tragedies; it must be a catalyst for meaningful and sustainable change.
“Let us never forget; every complaint documented, every statistic recorded in these dashboards represents a Nigerian citizen, a fellow human being seeking justice, safety, and the fulfilment of their basic rights.
“The National Human Rights Commission remains unwavering in its mandate to promote, protect, and enforce human rights across Nigeria. We will forge ahead with purposeful and sustained action.”
NHRC: Over 320,000 Human Rights Violations Complaints Received in June
National News
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas

Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
By:Michael Mike
The federal government has granted five months amnesty for regularisation of expired visas to allow travellers comply with the new visa regime.
A statement at the weekend by the public relations officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Akinsola Akinlabi said the amnesty would also reinforce a secure and transparent migration system.
The statement read: “The federal government through the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service, announces an Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty).
“This initiative provides a unique window for foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired immigration status to regularize their stay without facing penalties.”
He disclosed in the statement that the initiative, which commenced on 1st May 2025, would run through to 30th September 2025.
He further announced that the amnesty specifically apply to individuals who have either overstayed their visas or violated their visa conditions.
He gave the categories of those affected as: Foreign nationals with Expired Visa on Arrival (VoA); Holders of Expired Single and Multiple-Entry Visas and; Individuals with an Expired Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), where renewal has exceeded 30 days post-expiration.
Akinlabi urged all affected foreign nationals to promptly regularize their stay through
(https://amnesty.immigration.gov.ng) within the grace period to avoid overstay penalties.
He said, “To ensure the Amnesty application process is seamless, the Nigeria Immigration Service has assembled a support team to assist with Amnesty applications. Contact the support team via email at:amnesty@immigration.gov.ng
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to facilitating lawful migration, safeguarding National Security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes.
“For further information kindly visit the Nigeria Immigration website www.immigration.gov.ng.”
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
National News
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration

Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
By: Zagazola Makama
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Army for its unflinching commitment to national unity, security, and sovereignty over the past 162 years, describing it as the “spine of Nigeria’s sovereignty” and a “symbol of unity and duty.”
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Sunday at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held in Kaduna.

The President said the anniversary was not merely a ceremonial occasion, but a moment of solemn reflection, history, and collective gratitude to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation.
“This is not another entry in our calendar of commemorations. It is a time of reflection, a time of remembrance, and a time of profound appreciation,” he said.
“A nation is only as strong as the courage of those who defend it. And for 162 years, the Nigerian Army has remained the unbreakable spine of our sovereignty.”

The President recalled the Army’s historic role in bringing the Nigerian Civil War to an end, upholding the principle of national unity, quoting former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s immortal words: “No victor, no vanquished.”
He emphasized that the Nigerian Army has continued to carry the national flag high, not for conquest but for peace, and not for power but for principle — both at home and in global peacekeeping missions.
“We honour the enduring sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service, and those who continue to bear the uniform with pride and resolve. You are the sentinels of our democracy,” Tinubu said.
He expressed full support for this year’s theme, “Developing the Soldier-Based Concept: A Priority for Nigerian Army’s Transformational Drive,” describing it as visionary and timely.
“You cannot build a great army without building strong soldiers. Their welfare, morale, equipment and sense of purpose are not afterthoughts; they are the bedrock of national security,” he said.

The President praised the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for prioritising the welfare of troops and placing the soldier at the heart of institutional reform.
Tinubu acknowledged the numerous security challenges confronting the country, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations, which he described as existential threats that demand a united and resolute response.
“These evils do not discriminate by tribe or religion. They destroy churches and mosques alike. They abduct children without asking how they worship,” he said.
“Our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising. And to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this clearly: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.”
The President paid tribute to fallen soldiers, some of whom now lie in the soil of a grateful nation, and others who carry the wounds of battle.
“To the families they left behind, I extend the deepest sympathies of a nation that will never forget. Their memory will endure for generations,” he said.
He urged serving personnel to continue in honour, guided by the Constitution and the principles of international law, saying their courage must remain anchored in justice.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, training, and operational capability of the Armed Forces.
“We will continue to invest in modern equipment, in intelligence, and in the human capital that drives your effectiveness. This is not a favour; it is a duty owed to those who defend us,” he said.
He further commended the Armed Forces’ synergy, especially with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, in tackling complex national threats.
Tinubu reminded all Nigerians that securing the country is not the burden of the military alone, but the responsibility of every citizen.
“We have no other country but Nigeria, and we must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Nation-building is the work of every leader, every institution, and every citizen,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu saluted all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, past and present, describing them as “the guardians of our nationhood and the shield of our democracy.”
“Long live the Nigerian Army. Long live the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he declared.
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
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