Obi remains Labour Party member – Baba-Ahmed

The 2023 Labour Party Vice-Presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, says former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has not left the party.

Baba-Ahmed made this declaration while addressing journalists after the party’s National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, which was observed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Baba-Ahmed dismissed reports suggesting that Obi had dumped the Labour Party.

“To the best of our knowledge, our brother, His Excellency Peter Obi, is still a member of the Labour Party. Nothing has changed. If he were here now, I would have shifted my seat to the left for him,” he said.

According to him, the party had survived its internal troubles, adding that the development signalled better days ahead.

He also described INEC’s attendance at the meeting as a major boost.

“The Labour Party has not reduced in any way. We have only increased in numbers. But with the submission of our leader, the National Secretary, we have gone through rough times, as is usual with political associations, and have emerged from it.

“The highlight and major turning point of this NEC meeting is the presence of INEC, which validates this sitting and justifies our presence here. As law-abiding citizens, we strictly go by what the law provides.

“This is a renewed drive for reconciliation, and I am here as a loyal party member to continue to open our arms to embrace new and existing members, to come back and reconcile with the party for the national assignment ahead of us,” he stated.

PDP crisis: Oruruo-led exco dismisses Enugu caretaker committee as illegality

The Barr Steve Oruruo-led Enugu State executive of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has rejected the caretaker committee appointed by the National Working Committee, NWC, to oversee its affairs.

DAILY POST recalls that the committee, headed by Hon Vitus Okechi, was appointed after the Elective National Convention of the PDP, which was held in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

However, addressing journalists on Friday, Oruruo insisted that he remained the chairman of the PDP in Enugu State.

He said the parallel leadership under whatever guise should be discountenanced.

According to him, the PDP Enugu State leadership remained intact undisputedly under the same leadership chaired by him and members of the executives who were duly and validly elected during a State Congress of the party held on the 31st of October 2024.

He maintained that the purported dissolution of the Enugu State Executive Members of the party during a National Congress of the party held at Ibadan was a nullity.

Oruruo said the dissolution contravened the provisions of the Constitution of the party, particularly section 45 (2-4) and Section 47 (6) which expressly provides that the tenure of a State Chairman should be completed by the Vice Chairman and the State Secretary of the Party upon the resignation of the of the chairman which is the situation of the party in Enugu State.

He said, “It has become compelling and pertinent to address you particularly against the backdrop of increasing volume of discordant tunes within the leadership of the PDD both at the national and sub-national levels.

“The motion moved at Ibadan Convention to dissolve a duly elected State Executive Committee of the Enugu State Chapter of the PDP on perceived premise of the Enugu governor’s defection without deference to the express provisions of the party’s Constitution which authorized the state deputy chairman to automatically assume the office of the chairman upon his resignation or removal , was not only misguided and prejudiced but a cruel travesty of justice.

“I hereby implore the party faithfuls, our teeming supporters and the general public to expressly be vigilant as this is only but a glimpse of their mutating theatricals to come”.

Oruruo also said that the motion for dissolution of the State leadership was in disobedience to an order of court which reaffirmed himself as the state chairman of the Party alongside, the Secretary of the Party, Hon. Martins Onyeanwa Ugwuamadi-Eze, in accordance with the provisions of the constitution of the party after the resignation of the erstwhile chairman of the Party in the state, Dr. Martins Chukwunweike and the former state secretary.

According to him (Barr. Oruruo), the court order also restrained the National Executive Committee of the party from appointing any other person or persons to take over the offices of the chairman and the secretary of the Enugu State Chapter of the PDP .

His words, “A subsisting court order reaffirming yours sincerely and Hon. Martins Onyeanwa Ugwuamadi-Eze as the State Chairman and Secretary of PDP Enugu State Chapter, in strict compliance with the express provisions of section 45 (2-4) and Section 47 (6) of the the Constitution of the party after the resignation of Dr. Martins Chukwunweike and Hon. Chukwudi Nnadozie was duly served on the National Secretariat of the party via the immediate past National Chairman of the party, H. E. Ambassador Umar Damagun.

“The same order compelling the National Executive Committee of the party to immediately recognize my constitutional right and that of the secretary to serve out the term of the former chairman and the former secretary in line with the constitution of the party was duty served.

“This order went ahead to restrain the National Executive Committee of the party from appointing any other person or persons to take over the offices of the chairman and secretary of the Enugu State Chapter of the PDP.

“Therefore, it is salient to mention that whoever purportedly dissolved the Executive Committee of the Enugu PDP without deference to the express and clear provisions of the party’s Constitution and without taking cognizance to a subsisting order of court is a clear contravention of the law and in contempt of an order of court.”

He enjoined all party faithful and teeming supporters to remain steadfast and ignore all manner of distractions geared towards destabilising the party.

Kwara agency warns against unauthorized adverts on tricycles, others

The Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KWASAA) has raised concerns over the proliferation of unregulated advertisements on mini-transport buses (Korope) and Tricycles (Keke Marwa) in the state.

Speaking at a meeting with different leadership groups of transport associations in the state on Friday, the Acting General of KWASAA, Toba Adeyeye, explained that the trend had opened doors for scammers and individuals selling unapproved drugs and beverages to circulate misleading and potentially dangerous messages to the public

Adeyeye, who emphasized that the safety and well-being of Kwarans remain paramount to the Governor Abdulraham Abdulrazaq, maintained that the agency would not tolerate any advertisement capable of posing risks to members of the public.

The general manager, therefore announced that any individual, business or organization seeking to advertise on mini buses or tricycles must formally write to KWASAA, attach the proposed advertisement design and secure official approval before such materials could be displayed by transport operators.

Responding on behalf of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the State Secretary, Alhaji Yemi Aliu, pledged to communicate the resolutions of the meeting to union members and ensure that all individuals intending to place adverts on vehicles are referred to the agency for proper authorization.

Similarly, the Public Relations Officer of the Transport Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), Abdulganiyu Isiaka Agba, called for broader public sensitization to further enlighten citizens about the new and laudable directives introduced by KWASAA.

Also speaking, Mr. Babatunde Abdulganiyu, the Administrative Secretary of Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), assured the agency of the association’s readiness to collaborate fully with the state government to safeguard the lives and property of Kwarans.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by all parties to work collectively in ensuring safe, responsible, regulated outdoor and transit advertising in Kwara state aligned with global best practices.

Freed 38 Kwara church worshippers still held in Ilorin

The Christ Apostolic Church, CAC Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State

The Kwara State Government has yet to release the 38 abducted members of the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State—who regained their freedom last Sunday—to their families, findings by Saturday PUNCH have revealed.

It was gathered that the worshippers were being kept in an undisclosed hotel days after completing medical examinations paid for by the state government.

The freed worshippers were abducted by bandits on November 18 during a special thanksgiving service in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of the state.

Three people were killed while another person sustained gunshot injuries during the attack.

The 38 abductees were released last Sunday and taken to Ilorin by government officials. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced their release in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye.

Although the statement did not disclose where or how the victims were freed, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, dismissed speculation that ransom was paid, insisting the government merely negotiated with the bandits.

However, days after the announcement, the worshippers had still not been reunited with their families. Several relatives told our correspondent that they were becoming increasingly anxious over the delay.

A relative of one of the victims, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said the community had expected the worshippers to return immediately after their release was announced.

He added that although the families were grateful the victims were out of danger, the prolonged wait had become emotionally draining.

“The government told us they are taking care of them. We celebrated when they called us on Sunday to say they had been released. Everyone was dancing and thanking God. But since that day, they have yet to arrive in Eruku.

“We miss them and hope to be reunited soon. At least we know they are out of the kidnappers’ den, but delayed expectations weigh heavily on the heart,” he said.

Another relative expressed similar concerns, noting that conflicting reports circulating within the community had compounded their worries.

“We are hearing different stories about their whereabouts. But at least we saw them in the news on Sunday with the government, and we have spoken with them on the phone. They told us they were safe. Seeing them again will gladden our hearts,” she said.

Asked whether the community contributed any money for the release of the worshippers, one relative insisted that no payment was made.

“We don’t know how they were freed or where. We only received calls from security officials on Sunday evening that our people had been released and were being taken to the Government House for medical attention,” he said.

A senior government source, who asked not to be named, confirmed to Saturday PUNCH that the victims were still undergoing medical and psychological evaluation in Ilorin.

The official said, “They went through trauma and a harrowing experience, especially the young ones and the elderly. The government is concerned about their welfare and wants to give them the best medical care before allowing them to return home.”

When asked whether ransom was paid to secure their release, the official replied in the negative.

“The government cannot pay money to bandits, as doing so will send the wrong signal that crime pays. It is unfortunate that we are in this situation.

“People should be commending the government for ensuring the abducted worshippers were freed unhurt. They will soon be reunited with their families.”

Other residents of Eruku told Saturday PUNCH that although they appreciated the government’s medical intervention, they were eager to welcome the worshippers back home for proper community healing.

The Kwara State Government has yet to offer any explanation as to why the victims have not been reunited with their families.

When contacted, the Commissioner for Communication, Bolanle Olukoju, said she would revert with official details on the matter.

But several hours later, a follow-up inquiry by our correspondent went unanswered.

Security sources close to the rescue operation hinted that the victims may still be undergoing post-trauma evaluation and debriefing in a secure facility.

Shettima, Atiku, govs bid Sheikh Bauchi farewell

G63uR1IXEAEyIiJVice President Kashim Shettima, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and several state governors led thousands of people in performing funeral prayers for the late Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, in Bauchi State on Friday.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and other federal and state officials were also among the mourners who paid their last respects to the Islamic cleric.

The late cleric was, until his death, the supreme leader of the Tijjaniyya movement in the country.

Saturday PUNCH gathered that the scholar died on Thursday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, around 1:30 a.m., after a brief illness. He had been admitted to the hospital on Wednesday.

Born in 1927 in Gombe, the late Bauchi devoted his life to Qur’anic education, Islamic scholarship, and spiritual mentorship, which brought him to prominence within and outside the country.

Kaduna sets new standard in protecting women, girls

Kaduna State has reinforced its position as one of Nigeria’s leading champions for women’s rights and protection, unveiling a far-reaching suite of reforms aimed at safeguarding the dignity, health and future of women and girls.

This renewed commitment was articulated by Governor Uba Sani represented by the Commissioner of Health at the event “Canada Investing in Women and Girls: Sights and Sounds Across Nigeria,” held during the Global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Governor Sani’s message centred on Kaduna’s determination to confront both the visible violence suffered by women and girls and the often-overlooked structural inequalities that quietly shape their lives.

He noted that the state’s approach is grounded in the belief that gender equality is not peripheral to development but central to progress.

“The well-being of women and girls is not an adjunct to development; it is the core of any state that aspires to equity, stability and prosperity,” he said.

The Governor highlighted the commissioning of the Kaduna State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Panbegua, describing it as a deliberate effort to expand the state’s capacity to produce skilled maternal and newborn health professionals.

“When a young woman enters that institution, she steps into a future in which her competence can save lives,” he said, adding that every trained nurse and midwife “shortens the distance between vulnerable households and the care they need.”

He explained that the administration has also pursued innovative solutions to everyday barriers faced by girls, particularly in schools.

The state’s menstrual hygiene programme, which provides sanitary pads to thousands of schoolgirls and supports the production of reusable alternatives, has significantly improved confidence and attendance among adolescent girls.

“Where a pad is available, a future remains open; where it is absent, the doors to opportunity quietly begin to close,” the Governor remarked.

He noted that such interventions, though simple, reinforce the state’s stance that a girl’s dignity and education are non-negotiable.

Kaduna’s determination to protect women extends into the justice system, where the state has intensified its response to gender-based violence.

The Governor emphasized that violence “thrives in silence and impunity,” which his administration is determined to dismantle. Strengthened criminal processes have led to increased convictions, sending a clear message that abuse “will not be excused, rationalised or minimised.”

He stressed, however, that accountability must be paired with survivor support, calling for reliable reporting channels and effective referral pathways that ensure survivors are met with compassion, not barriers.

The Governor explained that the state is building long-term structures not temporary relief efforts that expand opportunities for women to participate meaningfully in the economy.

These include skills development programmes, financial inclusion initiatives and improved market access.

“True empowerment is not delivered through temporary interventions,” he said.

“When women thrive economically”, he added, households become stable and communities more resilient.

“Additionally, Kaduna continues to deploy health workers, nurses, midwives and community health officers to underserved communities, ensuring that essential services reach rural women who often face the greatest risks,” he said.

Governor Sani noted that these investments “recalibrate the distribution of opportunity and protection across our state,” ensuring equitable access to life-saving care.

While celebrating progress, the Governor also acknowledged the challenges ahead, calling for deeper partnerships with Canada, global allies, civil society and community leaders.

“Laws protect, programmes support, but communities transform,” he said, stressing that real societal change happens in homes, schools and places of worship where norms are shaped.

Governor Sani closed his address by reaffirming Kaduna’s unwavering resolve: “Our commitments are not rhetorical; they are visible in the infrastructures we have built, the policies we have enacted, the offenders we have held accountable and the girls who remain in school because their state stood with them.”

Stakeholders urge digital reforms to strengthen air cargo

Aviation-Handling-Air-Cargo-2Aviation experts under the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria have proposed a series of strategic reforms to strengthen the country’s air cargo sector, urging the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to lead a full-scale transformation that aligns with global standards.

The experts called for the development of state-of-the-art cargo villages at major airports, equipped with cold-chain systems, automated handling equipment, and renewable energy installations.

The President of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Nigeria, Dr. Alexander Nwuba, made this call while delivering a paper titled “Building a World-Class Air Cargo Ecosystem” during a stakeholders’ engagement on cargo recently in Lagos.

Citing Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as a model, Nwuba explained that its advanced cold-chain facilities and traceability systems enable perishable exports to reach global markets swiftly and sustainably.

He also recommended a single-window digital clearance platform and harmonised operating procedures across all relevant agencies. Additionally, he proposed what he called a “Cargo Bill of Rights” to protect shippers, handlers, and consumers. Nwuba referenced Ghana’s digital customs system as an example of improved efficiency and reduced bottlenecks.

He further emphasised the need for electronic documentation, blockchain-enabled traceability, barcoding, and data analytics to enhance compliance and operational transparency.

Regular training for cargo handlers, regulators, and logistics professionals was described as essential. Nwuba proposed that such training should incorporate environmental stewardship and engage local communities and environmental groups.

He urged the expansion of credit and insurance access for exporters, including green financing options. Public-private partnerships—similar to those seen in Kenya’s logistics sector—were identified as crucial for unlocking investment in infrastructure and technology.

Outlining the key pillars of his proposed transformation, Nwuba said, “We must develop state-of-the-art cargo villages at major airports, equipped with cold-chain facilities, automated handling, and renewable energy systems such as solar panels.

“For example, Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has implemented advanced cold-chain infrastructure and farm-to-fork traceability, ensuring that perishable goods reach global markets efficiently and sustainably. Regional hubs must be upgraded with sustainable transport links, and all facilities should incorporate natural ventilation, daylighting, and rainwater harvesting.

“We need a single-window digital clearance platform, harmonized operating procedures, and a Cargo Bill of Rights that protects shippers, handlers, consumers, and the environment. Ghana has pioneered advanced digital customs and regional trade facilitation, streamlining processes and reducing paperwork, thereby improving efficiency and environmental outcomes.

“Electronic documentation, traceability tools such as barcodes and blockchain, and data analytics will help us monitor performance and environmental metrics. Ethiopia’s cargo terminals operate 24/7 and use integrated digital systems to ensure compliance with EU standards, including strict environmental requirements.”

In his remarks, the Director of Cargo Services at FAAN, Lekan Thomas, said the establishment of the Directorate was intended to serve as the engine room for dismantling barriers, resolving persistent challenges, and forging the partnerships required to advance the nation’s cargo ambitions.

Aligning with the call of the FAAN Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, for a genuine “partner–partner relationship,” the Directorate stated that it has developed a comprehensive roadmap whose success “will depend largely on the integration of stakeholders’ expertise and insights.”

Earlier, while declaring the event open, the FAAN Managing Director, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Obiageli Orah, sought stakeholders’ contributions toward addressing longstanding challenges in infrastructure, ground handling, and operational efficiency, while creating an enabling environment for trade and export growth.

Emphasising the collaborative nature of the initiative, she said, “This session marks a fundamental pivot; a shift from the old, transactional operator-stakeholder dynamic to a true, collaborative partner-partner relationship. Your expertise, your challenges, and your innovative ideas are not just welcomed; they are the critical ingredients for our collective success.”

She urged participants to co-create solutions that would position Nigeria as a strategic gateway connecting Africa to global markets.

Google pledges N3bn to boost Nigeria’s AI capacity

googleGoogle, via its charitable arm Google.org, on Friday pledged N3bn to Nigeria to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation, directing funds toward artificial-intelligence training and measures to make its booming online environment safer.

The initiative, announced at a press conference in Lagos, is built around a two-pronged strategy and will funnel resources through five local organisations with significant track records in human development. These organisations include the FATE Foundation, the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, the African Technology Forum, Junior Achievement Africa, and the CyberSafe Foundation.

One strand focuses on cultivating advanced AI talent; the other on strengthening digital security. Together, the search engine giant aims to equip Nigeria with both a skilled workforce and a more resilient digital ecosystem, addressing the twin challenges of talent shortages and cyber vulnerability that threaten the country’s ambitious digital agenda.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, commented, “Artificial Intelligence sits at the heart of Nigeria’s desire to raise the level of productivity in our economy as well as our ambition to compete globally in technology and innovation.

“I welcome this important and timely investment from Google and Google.org, which reflects the power of meaningful private-sector partnership in nurturing our talent, strengthening our digital infrastructure, and advancing our national AI priorities. This collaboration directly supports our drive to operationalise our National AI Strategy and to position Nigerian innovators at the forefront of the global AI revolution,” he stated.

To develop AI expertise, FATE Foundation, in collaboration with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, will integrate advanced AI curricula into universities, equipping students and lecturers with cutting-edge knowledge. Meanwhile, the African Technology Forum will launch an innovation challenge designed to guide developers from learning to creating practical, real-world AI solutions.

The Executive Director of FATE Foundation, Adenike Adeyemi, said, “We are incredibly proud to partner with the African Institute of Management Sciences on the Advanced AI Upskilling Project, with support from Google.org.

“This groundbreaking initiative is a direct response to the urgent need for deep AI competencies in Africa, empowering tertiary institutions, lecturers, and students in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.

“This strategic support aligns perfectly with FATE Foundation’s mission to foster innovation and sustainable economic growth across the continent, ensuring Africa is fully equipped to lead in the global technological future,” the executive told a press conference.

On the digital safety front, Junior Achievement Africa will expand its Be Internet Awesome curriculum to reach more youths, teaching them safe online practices. The CyberSafe Foundation will focus on improving the cybersecurity posture of public institutions, helping them protect sensitive data and digital infrastructure from cyber threats.

The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National AI Strategy and the government’s goal of creating one million digital jobs. According to research by Public First, the country is projected to unlock $15bn in economic value from AI by 2030, making the development of both skills and digital safety critical for sustainable growth.

The Director for West Africa at Google, Olumide Balogun, said, “Google has been a foundational partner in Nigeria’s digital journey, and this N3bn commitment is the next chapter in that story.

“This is an investment in people, aimed at empowering them with advanced AI skills and ensuring a safe digital space to operate. We are honoured to continue our collaboration in support of the ministry’s efforts to help build a future where the promise of AI creates opportunity for everyone.”

This announcement builds on Google’s long-standing commitment to Nigeria, including infrastructure investments such as the Equiano subsea cable and successful initiatives like the 2023 Skills Sprint programme, a N1.2bn commitment to Mind the Gap.

The programme trained 20,991 participants, including 5,217 women in AI and tech, and enabled 3,576 participants to move into jobs, internships, or businesses, demonstrating tangible progress in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy.

CBN approves Abiagam as Coronation Merchant Bank CEO

Paul AbiaghamCoronation Merchant Bank has announced the appointment of Mr Paul Abiagam as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 December 2025, following approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

It said in a statement on Friday that the confirmation aligns with the bank’s tenth anniversary, signalling the beginning of a new chapter marked by heightened ambition and deeper institutional maturity.

“Mr Abiagam steps into the position after serving as Acting Managing Director, a period during which the bank recorded one of its strongest performances in recent years. Growth accelerated across core metrics, profitability improved significantly, and client engagement deepened.

“The bank also expanded its balance sheet, reinforced its capital position, and strengthened its market presence—outcomes the institution said reflected the clarity and conviction of its leadership,” the bank state

It stated that the year 2024 proved transformative for Coronation Merchant Bank. During the period, the institution launched new business verticals—Public Sector and Financial Institutions—designed to sharpen execution and broaden client relationships across an expanded sector base.

It also strengthened its standing in the Equity Capital Markets, advising on several landmark capital-raising transactions for leading institutions navigating regulatory reforms. These achievements, the bank noted, underscore renewed agility and strategic momentum.

Abiagam brings more than 27 years of experience spanning commercial and corporate banking, pensions, wealth management, investment banking, and risk management. His career includes senior leadership roles at Diamond Bank and Guaranty Trust Bank, where he led Commercial and Corporate Banking divisions. He also served as Managing Director/CEO of Guaranty Trust Pension Managers and as a Non-Executive Director at GTBank Côte d’Ivoire.

Beyond executive leadership, he has participated in key industry dialogues at the Africa Financial Industry Summit and the Africa CEO Forum, contributing to discussions on competitiveness, innovation, governance, and the evolving structure of African finance.

He is a Fellow of the combined body of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, and an Honorary Fellow Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. He studied at Lagos Business School and Nanyang Business School in Singapore.

Commenting on the appointment, the Chairman of the Board, Babatunde Folawiyo, said, “Paul’s appointment reflects our confidence in his ability to sustain the Bank’s growth trajectory and guide it into a new era of performance and industry leadership. His strategic insight and steady execution have already strengthened the foundation for what lies ahead.”

Abiagam described his confirmation as a privilege. “It is an honour to lead Coronation Merchant Bank at this pivotal moment. As we celebrate a decade of impact, our focus remains on deepening value for clients, strengthening our market position, and driving innovation across every part of our business,” he stated.

The announcement follows a year marked by multiple recognitions for Coronation Merchant Bank across investment banking, brand leadership, and capital markets excellence.

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers highlights innovation at ART X Lagos

Stanbic IBTCStanbic IBTC Pension Managers, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has sponsored The Library, an installation dedicated to knowledge, continuity and cultural insight at the 10th ART X Lagos.

The 2025 fair embraced the theme: “Imagining Otherwise, No Matter the Tide”, inviting audiences to reflect on how imagination can foster healthier, more connected urban futures.

Over the years, ART X Lagos has grown into a vital platform for contemporary African expression.

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers said the partnership aligns with its belief that creativity, knowledge and cultural preservation are essential to building thriving societies

This year, the organisation expanded its contribution through The Library, an interactive installation designed as a space for quiet reflection and shared discovery. It was indicated that the installation was inspired by the resilience of Nigeria’s mangrove ecosystems.

At the event, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, Olumide Oyetan, highlighted how the theme reflects Nigeria’s resilience, mirrored in the ingenuity and determination of communities nationwide. He noted that imagination is central not only to artistic expression but also to long-term planning, resilience and financial confidence, enabling people to envision possibilities beyond the present and build sustainable futures rooted in shared purpose.

He described The Library as a space for reflection, learning, inspiration and a drive for tomorrow.

Oyetan emphasised the importance of nurturing young minds, encouraging them to appreciate art and inspiring them to imagine a promising future. He also expressed appreciation for the creativity and innovation of African artists, noting that showcasing this rich cultural heritage reflects a belief in every individual’s potential to foster positive change.

He concluded by encouraging everyone to celebrate their culture and the promise of what lies ahead.

The event also featured the signature Kids Tour, welcoming 60 students from Lisabi Grammar School, Abeokuta; Mile High International School, Ikotun; and Roy Dek Academy, Makoko, Yaba, Lagos.

Since ART X Lagos’ debut in 2016, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers’ involvement has grown from a simple contribution to a purposeful collaboration focused on nurturing artistic expression and amplifying African perspectives globally. In addition to The Library, the organisation hosted a private VIP experience for select high-net-worth clients, offering an intimate view of standout artworks and space for thoughtful conversation about legacy, creativity and the evolving landscape of African art.

Through these initiatives, ART X Lagos and Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers strengthened connections between art, education and community engagement.