Business

IGR Firm Applauds Akpe’s Appointment As New D’Gov

Published

1 month ago

April 10, 2026

The management of Super AllGreen Ltd, ‘the Bayelsa State Government’s revenue driving firm’, has lauded the Governor, Senator Douye Diri on the recent appointment of his Chief of Staff and former Assembly member, Dr Peter Akpe as the new Deputy Governor of the State.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the firm, Hon. Beleuibimo Ikio Sunday made this known while speaking with newsmen after a tour of projects recently executed by the firm at his office in the Swali-ultramodern market recently in Yenagoa, the State capital.

The CEO described the appointment of Dr Akpe as one of the best decisions of the governor lately.

The manager who collects revenue on tollgate, parking space, barrow pushers and hawkers at the Swali ultramodern market for the State Government, said he was so excited on the appointment of the new number two man of the state.

He emphasised the new deputy governor is a plus for the ASSURED Prosperity mantra of the governor Diri led administration.

The revenue collector posited that having been a member of the state House of Assembly, Commissioner, Retired Civil Servant, Deputy Chief of Staff and later Chief of Staff to the Governor, Akpe has the capacity and requisite experience to execute the onerous functions of his new office.

”Akpe isn’t just the best to fill the vacant position of Deputy Governor of the state, but one of most cool headed leaders of the state I’ve seen. Infact, he is what could be described as square peg in a square hole.

“He has both the administrative and political capabilities needed for the office of the deputy governor.

“He is God fearing, he has indebth experience and knowledge to carry out the tasks of the office of the deputy governor. He is not just a politician, but one with a difference. He is a regional Pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

“We will continue to pray for him and the Governor to succeed even in the future. Dr Peter Akpe is a good hearted individual, and I know he is a big plus to the ASSURED Prosperity administration of the Governor”, the firm management said.

Ariwera Ibibo-Howells, Yenagoa

Business

Withdrawal, Deposit Fees Changes From May 1, 2026 Still Stands – CBN … Declares 5 Banking Services Free

Published

5 days ago

May 6, 2026

The Tide

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said that the announced changes in fees attached to several everyday banking services, scheduled to take effect on May 1, 2026 has commenced.

The changes are contained in the apex bank’s revised Guide to Charges by Banks and Other Financial Institutions, which outlines consumer-focused reforms designed to improve transparency and reduce the burden of banking fees nationwide.

According to the document, which was signed by Dr. Rita Sike, the CBN’s Director of the Financial Policy and Regulation Department, the new changes affect account reactivation, ATM withdrawals on own bank networks, and virtual card issuance.

Following the changes made by CBN, the five key banking services affected by the CBN’s update are in account reactivation and closure, under which banks are no longer allowed to charge customers for reactivating dormant accounts, while account closure also remains free.

The second change is that banks will now be required to provide monthly statement of account to their customers at no cost, and also ensure better access to financial information.

However, requests for printed statements outside the agreed standard format attract a maximum fee of N20 per page.

Thirdly, the CBN has introduced small inter-bank electronic transfers to promote digital payments and micro-transactions.

The implication is that, henceforth, transfers from N0 to N5,000 are free, transfers between N5,000 and N50,000 will attract a maximum fee of N10, while transfers above N50,000 are capped at N50.

The fourth change in the CBN update is in the use of own bank’s ATM (On-Us Transactions).

Here, withdrawals made from your bank’s ATM (on-us transactions) are free. Non-cash transactions, such as intra-bank transfers carried out at these ATMs, also attract no charges.

The fifth change is in virtual cards and PIN management in which banks are now required to issue virtual cards at no cost. In addition, PIN-related services, including PIN re-issuance and resets, are free for all customers.

The document further said the new charges guide, which aims to boost financial inclusion and reduce banking costs, updates the 2020 version to better align with current market realities, particularly the growing reliance on digital payments and mobile banking.

Business

Binani Air Commences Flight Operations May 10 in Nigeria

Published

5 days ago

May 6, 2026

The Tide

Binani Air has announced the commencement of sales tickets on Monday, describing the development as a milestone that will improve the aviation sector and create jobs for the people in Nigeria, as head of its scheduled inaugural flight operations starts May 10, 2026,

In a statement issued by the head of corporate communications of the new airline, the move marks a significant milestone in the aviation sector.

She said this announces the transition from vision to operation as the airline moves closer to welcoming its first passengers on board.

Quoting the Chief Executive Officer of Binani Air, Aminatu Dahiru Chiroma, the Corporate communications officer said,”the commencement of ticket sales represents more than just access to flights. It reflects the airline’s readiness to deliver a new standard of air travel in Nigeria.

“Opening our ticket sales is a defining moment for us. It is the point at which our commitment becomes real for the travelling public. From this moment, we are not just preparing to fly—we are preparing to serve.

“Built on the principles of reliability, safety, and respect for passengers’ time, Binani Air enters the market with a clear focus on consistency and operational discipline.

“The airline is committed to delivering a travel experience that is both seamless and reassuring, particularly in a sector where trust remains critical.

“Passengers can expect a streamlined booking process, responsive customer engagement, and a service culture designed to prioritize comfort and professionalism from the very first interaction”.

Chiroma said as anticipation builds towards the inaugural flight, Binani Air invites travellers, corporate partners, and stakeholders to be part of this defining journey, one that seeks to reshape expectations and restore confidence in Nigerian aviation.

She said “bookings are available via the airline’s official website (www.binaniair.com) and authorised travel partners from 12 noon of 4th of May 2026.”

Business

DANGOTE Debunks Claims Of Rift With Tony

Published

5 days ago

May 6, 2026

The Tide

The Dangote Group has dismissed as false and malicious publication alleging that its President, Aliko Dangote, distanced himself from fellow businessman Tony Elumelu.

In a statement issued by the company, the Group said it never made such claims and described the report as baseless and a deliberate misrepresentation of facts.

The statement was signed by the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer of Dangote Industries Limited Anthony Chiejina.

The company also refuted assertions that the development of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals was financed through personal borrowing from friends.

It maintained that such claims are entirely inaccurate, stressing that Dangote does not fund projects through informal personal lending arrangements.

Addressing speculation about a fallout between Dangote and Elumelu, the Group clarified that both men maintain a longstanding and cordial relationship.

The statement further expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of fabricated statements and the unauthorised use of Dangote’s name, image, and likeness in AI-generated advertisements and misleading content, warning that such actions could amount to fraud and reputational damage.

The company warned individuals and platforms involved in spreading false information to desist immediately, noting that it would take appropriate legal action where necessary.

The Dangote Group reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity while continuing to promote industrialisation, economic self-sufficiency, and sustainable development across Africa.

Nkpemenyie Mcdominic, Lagos