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Insurance industry professionals collaborate to generate innovative ideas

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The central focus of this year’s Dive In Festival will revolve around the exploration of creative ideas aimed at ensuring the insurance industry remains relevant.

The festival, dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the insurance sector, is set to take place on a global scale in September.

The theme for this year’s festival is “Unlocking innovation: The power of inclusion.”

In Nigeria, the event, themed “Driving innovation in insurance,” is designed to inspire individuals across various sectors of the insurance industry to drive change, fostering greater inclusivity and innovation.

Notably, the festival will introduce a reverse mentoring program for the first time, aimed at promoting cross-level diversity, equity, and inclusion engagement.

This program is expected to connect leaders from different segments of the Lloyd’s market with individuals at all organizational levels, facilitating the sharing of experiences and perspectives beyond the three-day festival.

Mary Alade, the Chief Strategy Officer at AON Reinsurance Solutions, emphasized the need for the insurance industry to adapt to the unprecedented changes in the global economy.

She views the festival as an opportunity for employers to leverage diverse perspectives, drive innovation, offer comprehensive coverage, ensure equitable access to insurance, and stimulate sector growth.

The Dive In Festival has made a significant impact on the Nigerian insurance sector, with local leaders not only advocating for change but also embodying it.

By engaging insurance leaders in crucial discussions on cultural diversity and inclusion, tangible improvements have been witnessed year after year.

This year’s festival will once again blend virtual and physical events, transcending geographical boundaries and facilitating a robust global dialogue on diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation.

Last year’s festival featured over 500 speakers who explored a wide range of topics, from mental well-being to disabilities. Mark Lomas, the Head of Culture at Lloyd’s, expressed pride in witnessing the continuous progress of inclusive cultures in the industry.

Travelers left in limbo as international airlines at MMIA experience flight delays and cancellations

International travelers departing from Nigeria found themselves stranded in various locations, including Lagos, Cairo, Doha, London, and others, on Wednesday and Thursday due to baggage belt malfunctions at the new terminal of Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

These technical issues forced airlines to delay or cancel flights, leading to travel disruptions.

The chaotic situation persisted as both the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and foreign airlines worked to address congestion and baggage problems at the new MMIA terminal. This chaos followed the abrupt relocation of foreign airlines from Lagos airport’s international terminal to the newly opened adjacent terminal in March.

The new terminal, constructed with loans from China by the Federal Government, had been underutilized until FAAN instructed numerous international airlines to move there on Wednesday. This move, initially scheduled by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, for October 1, 2023, was enforced by FAAN on Wednesday.

The same day, a fire incident occurred in part of the baggage hall at MMIA, leading to passenger and staff evacuations.

Despite a brief return to the terminal, FAAN officials ordered airlines to relocate to the new terminal at around 8 pm, which was met with resistance.

This resistance prompted FAAN to shut down the check-in system. Airlines eventually relocated to the new terminal around 9 pm, but issues such as congestion, frequent baggage belt failures, logistical challenges, and other problems caused pandemonium.

The chaos resulted in over four hours of delays for international airlines, causing many passengers to miss their connecting flights in cities like London, Cairo, Doha, Amsterdam, and Paris. Kenya Airways had to cancel flights due to crew rest period violations, with stranded passengers relocated to a Lagos hotel.

FAAN’s Director of Media, Mr. Abdullahi Yakubu-Funtua, attributed the sudden relocation to airport fire and power supply issues, assuring that FAAN was working to improve the situation.

However, European carrier officials emphasized the need for a holistic approach to address the situation.

They cited issues with the new terminal’s baggage handling capacity, space constraints, and the unclear timing of the relocation, which led to the chaos.

In response to the situation, FAAN announced the expedited relocation of passengers to the new International Terminal at MMIA, citing the recent fire incident as a contributing factor.

The move aligns with the Minister of Aviation’s directive to overhaul Terminal 1 by October 1, 2023, to enhance the passenger experience. Travelers were urged to arrive early to complete check-in formalities and avoid flight delays.

Segun ‘Sheggz’ Olusemo: From Target to Triumph – A Survivor’s Tale in BBNaija History

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In the world of reality television, especially in the Nigerian context, the Big Brother Naija show (BBNaija) is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. It’s not just about the fame; it’s also about the ability to control the narrative and navigate through the challenges that come with being in the spotlight. In the history of Big Brother Naija, one individual has shown remarkable resilience and emerged as one of the most influential personalities in the history of the show, despite facing an onslaught of discrediting, taunting, and the relentless push of narratives from all corners.

Meet Segun Olusemo known as Sheggz, a contestant in the BBNaija level up season, who faced a barrage of challenges within and outside the house. It wasn’t just the game; it was a battle to control the narrative of his own story. Sheggz found himself in the crosshairs of fellow housemates and online keyboard warriors who seemed determined to tear him down.

 

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A post shared by Sheggz Olusemo (@sheggzolusemo)

From the moment Sheggz entered the BBNaija house, it was clear that he had become a target. Housemates started taunting him, and during their media rounds, some chose to discuss Sheggz instead of focusing on their own personal brands. Even some housemates distanced themselves from him just to push narratives, making it evident that he was not in their good books.

The media played their part in peddling narratives about Sheggz, with stories emerging from all directions. It seemed like a storm of negativity was brewing, and Sheggz was caught in its midst. However, amidst all the noise, something remarkable happened “The Sheggz Fc Phenomenon”.

The Sheggz Fc Phenomenon: While Sheggz was in the house, his dedicated fanbase, known as “Sheggz Fc,” remained unwavering in their support. Even though he was evicted before the final week due to the relentless attacks, his fanbase continued to stand by him. This unwavering support became a beacon of hope for Sheggz.

Sheggz’s story took a remarkable turn after his eviction, despite the initial backlash and negativity, it all started to unravel as false narratives. Sheggz emerged as the most likeable contestant after the show, with many quality brands clamoring to work with him as an influencer and brand ambassador.

 

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A post shared by Sheggz Olusemo (@sheggzolusemo)

Sheggz’s journey in BBNaija teaches us several valuable lessons. First and foremost, the power of resilience in the face of adversity is undeniable. Sheggz didn’t let the negativity define him; instead, he used it as a catalyst for his rise, ensuring that his true narrative was heard above the noise.

Sheggz’s story is a testament to the fact that keyboard warriors can be overcome. The online world is often ruthless, but with the truthfulness and a dedicated fan base, one can emerge unscathed and even stronger. Sheggz not only survived but thrived in the aftermath of the show.

In conclusion, Sheggz’s journey in BBNaija is a remarkable tale of survival, resilience, and the power of controlling one’s narrative. Despite the odds stacked against him, he emerged as a shining example of how to turn adversity into success. His story serves as an inspiration for anyone facing challenges and criticism in the public eye, proving that with determination and a supportive community, you can rise above it all and become a true survivor.

Ingrid intends to allocate 3 billion Naira towards the advancement of technology skill development

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Ingryd Academy, a tech talent outsourcing firm, has announced a commitment of N3 billion to combat the growing shortage of tech talent in Nigeria through a scholarship program.

The academy will collaborate with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) to achieve this objective.

Their primary aim is to equip aspiring tech professionals with the essential skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to excel in the ever-evolving tech industry and subsequently secure employment after training.

In an official statement, the organization reaffirmed its dedication to training 4,000 individuals in crucial tech skill sets such as Java, Linux, Cybersecurity, and Data Science.

The Ingryd Scholarship Programme, with the support of LSETF, represents a significant financial commitment, estimated at N3 billion. This investment underscores their commitment to nurturing tech talent and driving progress in Africa.

The program spans six months, including a three-month paid internship, enabling participants to gain practical experience and apply their newfound expertise.

Khadijat Abdulkadir, the CEO of Ingryd Academy, emphasized their vision for African tech talent to reach its full potential, fostering innovation and positioning the continent at the forefront of the global tech landscape.

Omolara Adewumi, the Director of Programmes and Coordination at Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, highlighted the collaborative effort to bridge the skills gap in the technology sector, promote job creation, and empower Lagos residents with valuable skills for a rapidly evolving industry.

She clarified that the Lagos State government is not providing funding for the project but is actively involved in candidate selection and ensuring successful employment outcomes as part of their partnership with Ingryd.

The newly appointed SWIT coordinator vows to increase awareness about taxation

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The new SWIT Coordinator for the Lagos Chapter, Sandra Chinedu-Momah, has expressed her commitment to elevate tax awareness within both marketplaces and among women, with the aim of improving tax compliance in the country.

During her inauguration as the fifth SWIT Coordinator for the Lagos Chapter, she articulated this pledge in her acceptance speech.

The event drew a significant attendance of tax professionals and prominent figures from the financial sector in Lagos.

In her address, she outlined her initiatives, which encompass:

1. Promoting continuous learning and professional development through seminars, workshops, and networking events.
2. Launching a taxpayer outreach program to enhance tax awareness within market communities and educate taxpayers about their civic rights and responsibilities.
3. Collaborating with other professional organizations across Lagos to organize a symposium addressing critical issues affecting their members.
4. Publishing a comprehensive compendium titled “Nigerian Women in Tax and Their Achievements,” celebrating the remarkable contributions of women in the field of taxation.

Mr. Samuel Agbeluyi, representing the President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, emphasized that leadership entails responsibility and encouraged Sandra Chinedu-Momah to make her mark despite the accomplishments of her predecessors.

He emphasized the importance of adding value to their work, society, and the institute.

Dr. Ola Brown, the keynote speaker at the event, stressed the significance of increasing the participation of women in politics and their representation in leadership roles, including becoming CEOs of organizations.

Jennifer Gbalajobi, the Chairman of the Investiture Committee and Vice State Coordinator of the Lagos Chapter, commended Chinedu-Momah as an accomplished and distinguished woman. In her valedictory speech, the outgoing Coordinator, Mrs. Cecilia Odibo, expressed her gratitude to all stakeholders for their support.

 

Dangote and other industry leaders will convene to explore clean energy solutions during the upcoming conference

The President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, will participate alongside other prominent business leaders and government officials in a dialogue centered on clean energy and sustainability during this year’s African Brands Congress.

Set to take place on September 15 in Lagos, the event will revolve around the theme “Sustainability, CSR, and Green Goodness.”

Desmond Esorougwe, the Chief Executive Officer of African Brand Congress, has revealed that this year’s congress will feature renowned experts in green energy who will engage in discussions and share valuable insights related to the theme.

Esorougwe explained, “The 2023 ABC Brands Showcase/Exhibition aims to highlight innovative and creative ideas, products, and inventions, as well as those with substantial potential for business growth and return on investment.

This event serves as a platform to showcase your organization’s alignment with leading entities and to establish and strengthen strategic relationships with customers.”

Goddien Ofose, the Executive Director of African Brands Congress, emphasized, “African Brands is an initiative that enhances the visibility of African brands, products, and services through its magazine publication, where organizations advertise their offerings.

Additionally, its annual congress convenes brand experts to deliberate on strategies for achieving growth in Africa.

FUOYE students rally for justice in response to the tragic murder of their fellow student

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Students from the Federal University Oye Ekiti are demanding justice for the tragic death of one of their fellow students, Modupe Atanda, who was studying in the Nursing Department at the time of her passing.

Under the banner of the Students’ Union Government, they are urging law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.

The local police revealed that the missing student was discovered deceased and buried in a shallow grave near the university’s Nursing Lecture Theatre.

The President of FUOYE’s Students’ Union Government, Emmanuel Ajayi, and the Public Relations Officer, Elizabeth Akuraku, expressed their deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the pain felt by the entire student body.

In a statement on their social media platform, the student leaders described Modupe Atanda as a bright and precious student, emphasizing their demand for justice. They visited the morgue and clarified that there was no evidence of mutilation on her body, contrary to rumors.

They are determined to ensure that the culprits face justice.

The Police Commissioner in Ekiti State, Dare Ogundare, assured that the police would do everything possible to identify and prosecute the perpetrator(s). He urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the authorities.

Currently, ten suspects are in custody undergoing investigation.

The university management, represented by the University Registrar, Mufutau Ibrahim, confirmed the student’s death and expressed condolences to her family and the university community.

They reiterated their commitment to collaborating with national security agencies to uncover the truth and bring the culprits to justice, urging everyone to remain calm during this process.

Asake’s music feature of choice? Look no further than Kanye West

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Nigerian singer and songwriter Asake recently joined Tetris Kelly for an exclusive interview on Billboard News. During the conversation, Asake discussed his thoughts on achieving success on the Billboard charts with his debut album ‘Mr. Money With the Vibe,’ highlighted the distinctions of his second album ‘Work of Art,’ reflected on his evolution from his first album to the second, delved into his electrifying live performances, explored the global expansion of the Afrobeats genre, shared insights into his collaborative approach, revealed his dream collaboration, and much more!

You can catch the full interview by watching it below

Naomi Campbell Embarks on an Exciting Design Journey with Nigerian Talent Victor Adewale of VicNate

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The renowned black supermodel, Naomi Campbell, has revealed her exciting new venture in the world of fashion, showcasing the talents of emerging Nigerian luxury designer Victor Adewale, the creative mind behind VicNate, alongside Jamaican Edvin Thompson.

Naomi stated on Instagram:

After 37 incredible years on the catwalk, I’m thrilled for the opportunity to share my latest adventure on the other side – as a designer! Especially during the start of NYFashionWeek!

The process has been a dream come true, for me and the young designers that are featured: @vicnateng and @edvinthompson and I couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of my friend, @iamalexavant, my team @desiree @lejenke @akeemjr @omarsteelejr @womenmanagementny @anglomomakeup @rio_hair @omarsteelejr ca.rlton21 @carla_sims and the amazing team at PLT, led by the visionary @Umarkamani.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for making this collection a reality, changing the pace of fast fashion 💜🙏🏾

 

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Tems has been named the Songwriter of the Year at the 2023 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards

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During the star-studded BMI Awards, which took place on September 6 at Miami’s LIV nightclub, Tems achieved the prestigious title of R&B/Hip-Hop songwriter of the year, securing her fourth BMI Award. Her remarkable skill was honored for her contributions to hit songs such as “Free Mind” and Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” from the “Black Panther” soundtrack, in addition to her standout collaboration on Future’s “WAIT FOR U.