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Obasa: The Yoruba man who predicted Amotekun 4 years before its establishment

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6 years ago

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It happened on two occasion in 2015 and early 2016.

The first was when he sat with some youthful friends, most of whom he often relates with to gauge the pulse of the majority.

The venue was Agege, his base. In that meeting, Mudashiru Obasa, the speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, muttered the need for a collective security outfit with a will and goal to support the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), especially in the South Western part of the country.

Obasa understood what he meant. This was at a time there were hush discussions about threats from bandits, alleged herdsmen and kidnappers. Ikorodu was gradually emerging a notorious zone for criminals trying to test their whits. Was Obasa right? Was he wrong? The two questions rested in the hearts of those he was speaking with.

Few weeks later, Obasa again, with few lawmakers, some aides, and friends, during a non-formal discussion, herped on the need for a zonal security outfit.

According to him, since the call for state and community policing had constantly hit the brickwall, it would make sense to have an organisation that is considered closest to the grassroots.

There was the argument that the police, as much as they try, may not find it easy enough routing crime from every nook and crany of a state.
This is predicated on the fact that there is a central authority in Abuja, many kilometres away from states and this tends to challenge timely interventions in the case of emergencies. For example, a police unit would sometimes have to reach out to the commissioner, who, in turn, follows the chain of command in the case of any emergency till it gets to the Inspector-General. The response then follows same chain till it gets to the unit. The effect of this can only be left to imagination.

Again, his idea remained fallow, maybe to others. Later developments showed that the speaker never discarded the thought. The State Neighbourhood Safety Agency, which also controls the activities of the Vigilante Corps in the state, is the result of that thought.

Single-handedly sponsored by the speaker, the bill, which later became a law establishing the agency, sought for a more refined way of tackling crime, through effective surveillance and proactive actions. Has the Neighbourhood Watch helped the state, which wants to pride itself as a mega city in the near future? The answer is a ‘yes’.

One of its first test happened shortly after it was created. Badoo, the dreaded cult-like body that had a particularly strange way of killing their victims, evolved. It was mainly in Ikorodu. The criminals had suddenly mastered the act of nocturnal practices that left sorrows, anguish, tears and blood behind their trail. They hit at night while their unsuspecting victims slept. In some cases, they killed men, at other times, the women could not escape their attack. On a particular occasion, they reportedly killed a man, his wife and child. It was a pathetic situation that needed to be urgently curbed.

The police, under the supervision of Edgal Imohimi as commissioner, was having sleepless nights. Communities affected were in disarray, those not yet hit could not live in peace. Local vigilance groups were set up. Then, Neighbourhood Watch drafted its men to support the police. It only took a little more time, the cult group was run over, its leaders were arrested and peace returned to Ikorodu.
Since the Establishment of the Neighbourhood Watch, the organisation has assisted in quelling tensions, supported the state’s traffic management agency in resolving traffic issues, liaised with law enforcement agencies and carried out emergency activities. Above all, it has pulled out some residents from unemployment. It has also continued to enjoy accolades.

One cannot say, for sure, whether Obasa later sold the idea to any of the governors in the South West. However, one can confidently say the establishment of the Neighbourhood Watch was the ‘forunner’ for the creation of Amotekun almost four years after.

Amotekun is currently enjoying the support of a majority of the South West people and residents. Taking the shape of the Neighbourhood Watch, it will help to unite the region beyond political considerations. It would not only boost the zone’s economy, since businesses thrive in a peaceful environment, but ensure that the people of the area live happily and sleep with their eyes closed.
-Lucky Oserah, an analyst and social affairs commentator, writes from Lagos.

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Union Bank’s Union Cares Initiative Celebrates Academic Excellence at Pacelli School for the Visually Impaired Graduation

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6 months ago

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July 29, 2025

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Union Bank of Nigeria proudly participated in the graduation ceremony of the Pacelli School for the Visually and Partially Sighted on 23 July 2025, honouring the resilience and academic achievements of visually impaired students.

The event, held on the school premises, highlighted the importance of inclusivity and determination in education.

As a 108-year-old institution committed to social responsibility, Union Bank’s involvement reflects its enduring support for Persons With Disabilities (PWD) and its dedication to fostering equitable access to education.

The Bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, expressed her admiration for the graduating students:

“Union Bank proudly stands as a champion of inclusiveness and equitable representation. Through our UnionCares corporate social responsibility initiative, we are committed to supporting vulnerable and underrepresented communities.

We celebrate the incredible achievements of these students and reaffirm our dedication to empowering them to reach their full potential.”

UnionCares is Union Bank’s CSR Arm focused on creating sustainable social impact in key areas, including:

• Support for Vulnerable Groups: Empowering persons with disabilities and other marginalised communities through inclusive initiatives.
• Education and Skill Development: Facilitating access to education and practical skills that promote self-reliance and opportunity.
• Community Well-Being: Enhancing the overall quality of life of communities through health, education, and social welfare projects.

Union Bank remains honoured to collaborate with institutions dedicated to uplifting less-recognised members of society. The Bank remains dedicated to championing initiatives that inspire positive change, and foster a more inclusive, enlightened community across Nigeria.

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Fidelity Bank ED, Kevin Ugwuoke Takes Over As President Of Risk Managers Association

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7 months ago

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June 15, 2025

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Kevin Ugwuoke, Executive Director and Chief Risk Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, has formally assumed office as President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI).

His leadership promises a reform-focused era anchored on policy advocacy, ethical standards, and digital innovation to deepen risk governance across sectors in the country.

Speaking during the presidential handover ceremony in Lagos over the weekend, Ugwuoke — who also doubles as acting President of the Federation of African Risk Management Associations (FARMA) — described his election as “a call to action.”

He pledged to reposition CRMI as a thought leader and institutional partner in shaping the future of risk management in Nigeria’s national development.

“Our mission is more than just certification; it’s about strengthening the culture of risk governance across sectors. We will collaborate with regulators, raise awareness, and provide practical tools to help organizations embed risk discipline at all levels.”

Ugwuoke outlined a five-pronged strategy to guide his administration: strengthening professional education and certification; deepening policy and regulatory engagement; accelerating digital transformation; integrating ESG and climate risk into corporate strategies; and mentoring the next generation of risk practitioners.

He explained that CRMI will align its initiatives with key policy institutions — including the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, the National Assembly, and sub-national governments — to help embed robust risk frameworks into economic development plans.

“We must integrate risk thinking into how we plan, govern, and invest. We will advocate for more inclusive regulations to empower small and medium enterprises, improve macroeconomic stability, and foster institutional resilience.”

Ugwuoke also announced plans to revise the Institute’s curriculum, introduce specialized certifications to reflect emerging risks, and implement a new National Risk Observatory to provide real-time risk data to both the public and private sectors.

“Digital innovation will be central to how CRMI operates going forward. We are automating our backend, delivering more virtual training, and employing technology to scale our impact across the country and beyond.”

In his remarks, the outgoing President of CRMI, Ezekiel Oseni, challenged the new leadership to consolidate on the achievements made under his tenure — from securing chartered status and strengthening partnerships to gaining greater international recognition — and take the Institute to the next level.

Also speaking on the occasion, Chukwuma Nweke, deputy managing director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Group Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba, described Ugwuoke as a worthy successor. “As Professor Oseni hands over the baton to Kevin Ugwuoke — a well-respected leader in the risk management ecosystem — we are assured CRMI is poised for greater achievements under his watch.”

Nweke stressed that growing economic uncertainties — from inflation and exchange rate volatility to growing debt — underscore the need for a more strategic view of risk. “Risk must be recognized not as a compliance obligation or a cost center but as a key enabler of resiliency and growth. Institutions that embed risk into their strategies will absorb shocks more effectively, unlock value, and inspire investor confidence.”

As part of the day’s ceremonies, 11 distinguished practitioners were conferred with the Fellow of Chartered Risk Manager (FCRMI) award, while 21 new members were formally inducted as Chartered Risk Managers (CRM).

Furthermore, a new Governing Council was inaugurated to oversee the affairs of the Institute for the 2025–2027 term, marking a decisive step forward in institutional renewal and policy direction.

L-R: Registrar/Chief Executive, Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria (CRMI), Victor Olannye; Divisional Head, Risk Management Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Grace Abioye; Immediate Past President, CRMI, Ezekiel Oseni; President, CRMI and Executive Director/Chief Risk Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Kevin Ugwuoke; Director, Enterprise Risk Management, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Amal Haruna; and Rep. Keynote speaker, Deputy Group Management Director, United Bank of Africa (UBA), Chukwuma Nweke; at the CRMI Conferment Handover/Sent-Forth ceremony, held in Lagos recently.

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ZENITH BANK ENHANCES STAFF PAY BY OVER 20% AND PROMOTES ABOVE 4,000

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12 months ago

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January 25, 2025

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One of Africa’s leading financial institutions, Zenith Bank has reaffirmed its dedication to employee welfare by announcing the promotion of over 4,000 staff members and implementing salary increases ranging from 20% to 30% across various employee grades.

This bold initiative, under the leadership of Managing Director/CEO Dame Adaora Umeoji, its aimed at boosting staff morale and productivity.

With over 8,000 employees, this significant investment in human capital reflects Zenith Bank’s belief that its workforce is its most valuable asset. The salary adjustments, effective January 1, 2025, aim to reward performance, alleviate financial pressures, and ensure enhanced customer service delivery. Promotions for top management are also expected as part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to excellence and growth.

Dr. Umeoji emphasized the importance of maintaining a motivated workforce, stating that the bank’s dedication to its employees will translate into superior service experiences for customers. She highlighted the organization’s commitment to setting industry benchmarks through innovative solutions and exceptional service delivery.

Zenith Bank’s continued leadership in the Nigerian financial sector is underscored by numerous awards, including Best Bank in Nigeria 2024 by Global Finance and recognition as the Biggest Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital in 2024 by The Banker. These accolades complement its reputation for innovation, sustainability, and corporate governance.

By prioritizing employee welfare during challenging times, Zenith Bank not only strengthens its internal operations but also sets a standard for other financial institutions in the region, reinforcing its position as a leader in Africa’s banking landscape.

As a major player in Nigeria’s financial landscape, under its managing director/chief executive officer, Adaora Umeoji, the bank has embraced a holistic approach to growth that integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles with its core business objectives.

At the heart of Zenith Bank’s strategy is a focus on buoying economic inclusion, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and driving technological innovation to enhance customer experiences. The bank’s proactive investments in renewable energy, sports, digital transformation and impactful community initiatives exemplify its dedication to creating long-term value for its stakeholders while addressing global sustainability challenges.

Zenith Bank’s continued success is driven by a combination of strong financial performance and an unwavering commitment to its stakeholders.

Zenith Bank’s growth trajectory is underpinned by a robust expansion strategy. With operations in several countries, including the UK, UAE, China, and most recently, France, the bank continues to expand its geographical footprint.

As usual, the bank’s efforts in 2024 did not unnoticed as the lender clinched several local and international awards in recognition of its outstanding performance.

In 2024, the bank won the Best Bank in Nigeria at the annual Global Finance award in Washington, DC, NY.

The bank also emerged the Biggest Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital, 2024 by The Banker; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria 2024 – World Finance; Best Corporate Governance, Nigeria 2024 – World Finance; Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria 2024 – International Banker; Bank of the Year, 2024 – Business Day; Retail Bank of the Year, 2024 – Business Day; Bank of the Year 2024- The Banker.

It also clinched the Most Responsible Organization in Africa 2024 – SERAS; Best in Gender Equality & Women Empowerment 2024 – SERAS and Best in Transparency & Reporting 2024 – SERAS

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