All Posts in "Dan Poster"

ZENITH BANK SIGNALS STRONG FULL-YEAR OUTLOOK WITH N51.3 BILLION INTERIM DIVIDEND PAYOUT

Zenith Bank signals strong full year outlook with N51.3bn interim dividend payout
Zenith Bank Plc, on Friday, October 10, 2025, made good on its promise as it paid a total interim
dividend of N51.3 billion to its shareholders for the Half Year (H1) 2025, at N1.25 per share. This
significant payout represents over 60% increase from the N31.4 billion paid in H1 2024,
demonstrating the bank's commitment and enhanced capacity to continually generate value for its
shareholders amidst a challenging macroeconomic environment.
The dividend payment comes on the heels of the bank's audited financial results for the half-year
ended June 30, 2025, released to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) in September 2025, which
showcased a robust financial position and growth trajectory.
Commenting on the dividend payout, the Group Managing Director/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora
Umeoji, OON, said, "We are pleased to have paid this significant interim dividend to our valued
shareholders. Our half-year results underscore our resilience and commitment to our stakeholders.
Based on the momentum achieved in H1, we are confident in our full-year outlook and expect to
exceed shareholders' expectations by year end."
The substantial dividend payout reflects exceptional underlying performance as the Bank recorded
a robust 20% year-on-year increase in gross earnings, rising from N2.1 trillion to N2.5 trillion in H1
2025. Interest income drove this performance with an impressive 60% growth, climbing from N1.1
trillion to N1.8 trillion. The Bank achieved this impressive increase in interest income through
strategic repricing of risk assets and effective treasury management.
The Bank's total assets also expanded to N31 trillion in June 2025, representing steady growth
from N30 trillion in December 2024, underpinned by a robust and well-structured balance sheet.
Customer confidence remained strong, with deposits growing by 7% from N22 trillion to N23 trillion
in June 2025.
Zenith Bank's shareholders can be assured of the bank's continued focus on delivering exceptional
value and growth, driven by its strong financial fundamentals and strategic initiatives.
The Bank's track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous
awards, including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the
sixteenth consecutive year in the 2025 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker
and "Nigeria's Best Bank" at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025. The Bank was also
awarded Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker's Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and
2024; Best Bank in Nigeria from 2020 to 2022, 2024 and 2025, in the Global Finance World's Best

Banks Awards; Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; and was
listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023.
Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for five consecutive years from 2021
to 2025 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the
International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been
acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate
Governance Awards for four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025 and 'Best in Corporate
Governance' Financial Services' Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical
Boardroom.
The Bank's commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in
Nigeria in The Banker's Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 to
2025 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of
the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and 2024 to 2025 at the BAFI Awards. The
Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail
Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.
Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in
Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at
the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the
Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by
Nairametrics. The Bank's Hybrid Offer was also adjudged 'Rights Issue/ Public Offer of the Year' at
the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025.

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Business 0
2027: No pact between Jonathan, Peter Obi to remove Tinubu – Obidient Movement

The Obidient Movement has disclosed that there is no alliance talk between former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.

National Coordinator of the movement, Yunusa Tanko, said there is no pact between Obi and Jonathan to remove President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

This comes amid speculations that Jonathan would run in the 2027 presidential election.

While Jonathan may return to the Peoples Democratic Party, there are also speculations that he might consider pitching his tent with the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Recently, Jonathan met with the National Chairman of ADC, David Mark, spokesman of the party, Bolaji Abdullahi, and other leaders of the party in Abuja.

Similarly, Obi is yet to decide which political party he will run under in 2027. He is currently a member of the opposition coalition that adopted the ADC and a full member of the LP.

Recently, Jonathan and Obi had a closed-door meeting, sparking rumours of an alignment in 2027.

However, Tanko said: “My principal and the former president have a very good working relationship, and they know each other very well. So seeing them talk to each other does not mean anything.

“And it should not be translated to mean anything other than a platonic discussion on how to move this country forward.

“But I don’t think there’s anything more than that. No discussion or pact around 2027. Even when they met in Ghana, I was there. So there was nothing like that.”

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Politics 0
PDP, LP, APGA, SDP, NNPP senators working with APC – Shehu Sani

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has disclosed who the senators of the Labour Party, Peoples Democratic Party, All Progressives Grand Alliance, Social Democratic Party, and New Nigeria Peoples Party are working “harmoniously” with the APC senators.

He disclosed that the side of the opposition in the Senate chambers is coming empty.

Sani was reacting to remarks by the Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed that defectors are cowards.

Posting on X: “The opposition sits on the left hand side of the Senate President in the Chamber. It appears that the side is becoming empty.

“The Bauchi Governor reportedly called the defectors ‘cowards’.

“The truth is that even without defections,the LP, PDP, APGA, SDP, and NNPP senators are working ‘harmoniously’ with the ruling party senators.”

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Politics 0
Army confirms death of soldier who killed wife, self in Niger

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of one of its personnel, Lance Corporal Akenleye Femi, who allegedly killed his wife and later took his own life at the Wawa Cantonment in Niger State.

According to a statement issued by Capt. Stephen Nwankwo, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, the tragic incident occurred on October 11 at the 221 Battalion quarters within the cantonment.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the soldier, who was on duty within the cantonment, sought permission from his superior to attend to some personal issues but failed to return to his post,” Nwankwo said.

He explained that when colleagues went to check on him, they discovered the lifeless bodies of the soldier and his wife inside their apartment at Block 15, Room 24, Corporals and Below Quarters.

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Dangote Refinery sacks all Nigerian workers 24 hours they joined PENGASSAN

 

“Their remains have been preserved, while an in-depth investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event,” he added.

The Army described the incident as sad and regrettable, extending condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased couple.

The Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and that the findings would be made public.

“The Army expresses deep regret over this unfortunate incident. We appeal for public understanding and cooperation as we conduct a full investigation to prevent future occurrences,” he said.

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in General News 0
NiMet DG Honoured By Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards 2025

The Director-General/CEO of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, has been honoured at the Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards 2025, organized by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) under The Presidency.

NiMet was conferred with the “Best Federal MDA in Open Data Excellence” award in recognition of its outstanding performance in data transparency, innovation, and digital transformation in public service delivery. In addition, Prof. Charles Anosike received the Distinguished GovTech Trailblazer’s Award, acknowledging his visionary leadership in advancing GovTech initiatives and promoting digital governance in alignment with the Federal Government’s digital transformation agenda.

This prestigious recognition not only underscores NiMet’s unwavering commitment to providing timely, accurate, and actionable data for climate mitigation and early warning systems, but also affirms Prof. Anosike’s dedication to positioning NiMet among the leading meteorological agencies globally, setting new benchmarks for excellence, innovation, and impact.

The Nigeria GovTech Conference & Awards is a flagship initiative spearheaded by BPSR to catalyze digital transformation across Nigeria’s public sector. It brings together government agencies, private sector innovators, technologists, policy makers, and civil society to celebrate outstanding achievements in GovTech, encourage technology-driven reforms, and foster capacity building in digital governance. By spotlighting exemplary institutions and leaders, the Awards aim to accelerate Nigeria’s progress toward efficient, transparent, and citizen-centred public service delivery.

Among the distinguished recipients of awards was His Excellency Malam Umar A. Namadi, Executive Governor of Jigawa State, and His Excellency Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Executive Governor of Adamawa State, among others.

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in General News 0
LPG Retailers Dissociate Self From Rising Price Of Product

The Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers Association of Nigeria (LPGAR) has dissociated itself for the current hike and scarcity of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), also known as cooking gas.

 

Chairman of LPGAR under the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Mr Ayobami Olarinoye, in a statement at the weekend in Lagos.said the rising cost and limited availability of LPG stem from supply challenges, not price manipulation by retailers.

 

“The recent scarcity and spike in LPG prices have brought untold hardship to millions of Nigerian households and businesses. We understand this pain and feel compelled to clarify the role of retailers in this crisis,” Olarinoye said.

 

The chairman was reacting to comments by the President of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM), who reportedly blamed retailers for the price surge.

 

Describing the allegation as “unfair and misleading,” Olarinoye explained that retailers neither operate at the depot level nor act as importers or primary off-takers.

 

“Our operations are limited to buying gas from plant owners and selling to end-users. Many of us travel to neighbouring states to purchase LPG at high costs due to supply shortages, which naturally affects retail prices,” he said.

 

According to him, although Dangote Refinery has not increased its gas price, supply irregularities have created a demand-supply imbalance that continues to drive up prices.

 

“Some retailers have had to shut their outlets for days or weeks because they couldn’t access supply, resulting in huge business losses and operational strain,” he said.

 

Olarinoye stressed that the price hike is driven purely by market forces.

 

“If plant owners increase prices, we have no choice but to adjust ours. We cannot be expected to sell at a loss,” he said.

 

He noted that while Dangote Refinery is a major market player, it currently lacks the capacity to meet Nigeria’s total LPG demand, which has risen from less than one million metric tonnes to over 2.3 million metric tonnes annually.

 

He said off-takers, who should complement Dangote’s supply by importing or sourcing from the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), have slowed operations due to uncompetitive pricing.

 

“Dangote sells a 20-metric-tonne truckload of LPG at about N15.8 to N16 million, while off-takers offer the same quantity at N18.5 to N18.6 million.

Naturally, buyers opt for the cheaper option, reducing importation and worsening scarcity,” he said.

 

He added that the recent PENGASSAN strike only aggravated an already fragile supply chain.

 

“Even after the strike was called off, supply has not stabilised. Some plant owners have paid for gas from Dangote but are yet to load due to long queues and limited availability,” he explained.

 

Olarinoye urged the government to bridge the price gap between Dangote and off-takers to ensure consistent supply and market stability.

 

“We don’t know the exact landing costs from NLNG, but if off-takers were making enough profit, they would price competitively. As it stands, they’re reluctant to restock,” he said.

 

He stressed that the ongoing crisis is rooted in systemic supply issues, not retailer manipulation, and called for collaboration among stakeholders.

 

“Blaming retailers will not solve anything. We urge the government and industry players to work together to boost domestic production, encourage competitive pricing, and stabilise supply nationwide,” he said.

 

Olarinoye assured customers that the union remains committed to restoring normalcy.

 

“We share the public’s frustration and are working toward solutions. Until then, supply and demand will continue to drive market prices,” he noted

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in General News 0
Federal Government Begs ASUU Not To Disrupt Academic Activities

The Federal Government, has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to rescind its decision to embark on an industrial strike, emphasising that constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable path toward resolving all outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector.

 

In a joint statement, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, disclosed that the Federal Government has made a comprehensive offer to the union and is still awaiting ASUU’s official response.

 

They emphasised that the offer addresses the union’s primary concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.

 

The Ministers noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved a robust Teaching Allowance designed to reflect the value of academic work and motivate lecturers across public universities.

 

“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are actively being handled. The Federal Government remains open and committed to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received,” the statement read.

 

They emphasised that the federal government has approached the matter with demonstrable commitment and sincerity, evident in its prompt policy responses and financial interventions in the education sector. However, ASUU has not reciprocated this gesture and appears determined to proceed with the planned strike despite the pending offer and ongoing engagement.

 

The Ministers reaffirmed that the administration of President Tinubu remains unwavering in its commitment to the welfare of Nigerian lecturers and the stability of the university system. They noted that the ongoing reforms in the education sector are anchored on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to ensure sustainable academic excellence.

 

While reaffirming the administration’s respect for university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that certain aspects of ASUU’s demands—particularly those relating to internal governance, appointments, and promotions—are statutory responsibilities of university governing councils. They urged the union to allow these matters to be handled appropriately at the institutional level in line with existing regulations.

 

They also reminded the union that the principle of “No Work, No Pay” remains an extant provision of Nigerian labour law, and the Federal Government will invoke it should ASUU proceed with the strike.

 

“While government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” the statement warned.

 

The Ministers further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains open to constructive engagement with ASUU and other stakeholders in the education sector. They noted that the administration’s consistent interventions demonstrate a clear commitment to revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars.

 

“The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be addressed and resolved without shutting down our campuses. Our students must remain in school,” the statement added.

 

“The future of our children and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes. The Federal Government remains open to discussion and is ready to work with ASUU to consolidate the gains already achieved in staff welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms,” the Ministers concluded.

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in General News 0
Polaris Bank Wraps Up 2025 Customer Service Week with Renewed Commitment

Polaris Bank has restated its dedication to delivering exceptional customer *experience* as it successfully concluded activities marking the 2025 edition of Customer Service Week themed “Mission: Possible.”

The week-long celebration, which ran from Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 10, was filled with engaging customer appreciation activities and staff recognition initiatives across the Bank’s branches and digital channels.

Throughout the week, Polaris Bank celebrated its customers with giveaways, appreciation messages, and interactive engagements across its touchpoints, reaffirming its commitment to continuously improving service delivery. Employees were also recognised for their outstanding contributions to service excellence, underscoring the Bank’s belief that exceptional service begins with an empowered and motivated team.

Speaking at the close of the celebration, the Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, thanked customers for their loyalty and trust, describing them as the driving force behind the Bank’s commitment to excellence.

“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Their feedback, trust, and partnership inspire us to keep improving and delivering value every day. This week reaffirms that great service is not just a goal, it’s our way of life at Polaris Bank,” he said.

Mr. Lawal noted that the Customer Service Week provides an opportunity for reflection and renewal of the Bank’s promise to serve with consistency, empathy, and excellence.

Polaris Bank staff across the country also participated in internal learning and engagement sessions designed to enhance their customer interaction skills and promote a culture of service leadership.

The global Customer Service Week, celebrated annually in the first week of October, recognises the vital role of customer service professionals and the impact of service excellence on business growth. For Polaris Bank, this year’s celebration reinforced its belief that with dedication, innovation, and teamwork, great service is always a “Mission Possible.”

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Business 0
Stanbic IBTC Boosts UAC’s Landmark Acquisition Of CHI Limited

Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, said it supported UAC of Nigeria Plc, in its landmark acquisition of CHI Limited, delivering end-to-end financial support towards its successful completion.

Stanbic IBTC, in its capacity as Mandated Lead Arranger and Global Coordinator, partnered closely with UAC to structure a multi-product investment banking solution and financing package tailored to UAC’s objectives in executing a complex transaction.

Beyond arranging the facility, Stanbic IBTC provided a truly comprehensive solution, mobilising our full product suite, with our Global Markets team designing hedging solutions to manage FX risk, while our Escrow services structured settlement flows aligned to the transaction’s requirements.

Crucially, by leveraging the broader Standard Bank platforms, Stanbic IBTC was able to combine its pan-African expertise, cross-border counsel with deep local knowledge to successfully close one of the most significant FMCG acquisitions in Nigeria.

This support enabled UAC to complete its acquisition of a 100% equity stake in CHI Limited on 03 October 2025.

CHI Limited is one of Nigeria’s biggest food and beverage companies, with a leading position in the dairy, juices, nectars, and snacks segment of the Nigerian consumer goods segment. Its flagship brands, Hollandia (milk and yoghurt) and Chivita (fruit juice) have become household staples, supported by a nationwide distribution network and proprietary technologies.

UAC of Nigeria PLC is one of Nigeria’s oldest institutions with history dating as far back as 1879. Today, UAC is a holding company with interests organised around four key verticals – Edibles and Feed, Packaged Food and Beverages, Paints, and Quick Service Restaurants. They also own interests in a leading logistics services provider and a real estate development company. Creator of iconic brands such as Gala, Mr Bigg’s, Dulux, Grand, Supreme, UAC has shaped industries and consumer culture for over a century and remains a symbol of resilience, innovation, and leadership in Nigerian enterprise.

This acquisition enables UAC to expand its reach in the FMCG sector, accelerating entry into new product categories while consolidating its leadership position. Through the acquisition, UAC gains immediate access to CHI’s established distribution network, proprietary technologies, and a portfolio of dominant household brands in juice, dairy, and snacks. CHI’s strong brand equity, particularly in the dairy and fruit juice segments, compliments UAC’s ambition of building a powerful platform for growth and enhanced market penetration.

Speaking on the acquisition, Funke Ijaiya-Oladipo, Group Finance Director of UAC, stated: “This acquisition represents a transformative step for UAC as we expand our presence in the FMCG sector. Stanbic IBTC’s ability to provide an integrated, end-to-end financing solution, backed by the wider Standard Bank Group, was instrumental in helping us achieve this milestone through a flawless execution that gave us confidence throughout the process.”

“This transaction underscores our ability to deliver integrated solutions across advisory, structuring and execution. We are proud to have partnered with UAC on a transformative acquisition that not only advances their growth ambitions but also contributes to Nigeria’s economic development.” Oladele Sotubo, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, remarked.

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Business 0
CBN Governors Leads Nigeria’s Delegation To World Bank Meeting

Mr Olayemi Cardoso, the Governor of the Central Bank, will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meeting in Washington DC, which opens on Monday, October 13.

 

Cardoso, as the alternate Governor, replaces the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, who is indisposed.

 

The Nigerian team will also comprise the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anete.

 

According to the World Bank, key elements of the Annual Meetings include the Development Committee Plenary session on October 16 and the International Monetary and Financial Committee meetings on October 17.

 

Other featured events include regional briefings, press conferences, and fora focused on international development, the global economy, and financial markets.

Dan Poster by — October 13, 2025 in Business 0