Union Bank Achieves PCIDSS 4.0 Certification

Union Bank, a prominent and reliable financial institution in Nigeria, has achieved a significant milestone by securing the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCIDSS) version 4.0 certification. This upgrade from the previous PCIDSS version 3.2 underscores the bank’s commitment to adhering to the highest standards of data security and fraud prevention.

About the Certification

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCIDSS) is the leading information security standard for payment cards, aimed at improving controls over cardholder data and reducing unauthorized use and fraud. The PCIDSS 4.0 certification reflects Union Bank’s adherence to rigorous data security practices and its ongoing efforts to enhance card payment security.

Bank’s Statement

Francis Mojoyinola, Chief Information Security Officer at Union Bank, expressed pride in the achievement, stating: “Union Bank is delighted that we have again been acknowledged for the considerable work we have put into attaining better controls and card payment standards. This certification demonstrates our ability to provide top-of-the-line cybersecurity standards and solutions that help us manage and reduce risk exposure. Our focus remains on our esteemed customers, as we strive to build a secure data security structure for safer and more straightforward innovative banking services.”

Certification Process

The certification was awarded by CyberCube Services Pvt. Ltd., a renowned technology firm specializing in advanced cybersecurity solutions. CyberCube Services is known for its expertise in cybersecurity compliance management and vulnerability management, making it a trusted partner in combating cybercrime.

Future Outlook

Union Bank’s attainment of the PCIDSS 4.0 certification reflects its ongoing dedication to maintaining high standards of cybersecurity and protecting customer data. This achievement reinforces the bank’s commitment to providing secure and innovative banking services.

DICON @ 60: Nigeria on Path to Self-Reliance in Military Hardware Production

Abuja — In a recent press briefing marking the 60th anniversary of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future in military hardware production. The event celebrated six decades of DICON’s contributions to the nation’s defense sector.

Established in 1964, DICON has been instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s defense capabilities, initially focusing on small arms and ammunition before expanding into military vehicles, artillery, and other defense equipment. Over the years, DICON has partnered with indigenous companies, significantly enhancing local manufacturing.

Minister’s Remarks

Matawalle praised DICON’s enduring role in Nigeria’s defense sector and highlighted the corporation’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in military production. He stated, “DICON’s 60-year journey is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to self-reliance and national security. Despite challenges, DICON has evolved, driven by innovation and a dedication to enhancing our defense capabilities.”

The minister emphasized that the new DICON Act 2023, signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is expected to bolster Nigeria’s national development and security. The Act aims to increase foreign exchange earnings through local production of defense equipment, create jobs for skilled Nigerians, and reduce capital flight to foreign countries.

Future Developments

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, revealed ongoing efforts to enhance DICON’s production capabilities. The ministry is preparing to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Steel to secure the raw materials needed for DICON’s operations. Additionally, Matawalle has instructed that all ministries, departments, and agencies prioritize procurement from DICON to support local manufacturing.

Looking Ahead

DICON’s anniversary not only marks a significant milestone but also sets the stage for future advancements in Nigeria’s defense sector. With continued support and collaboration, DICON is poised to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey towards self-reliance in military hardware production.

History Made as Afam Osigwe is Elected New NBA President

In a landmark event for the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has been elected as the 32nd president of the association. This change in leadership, effective from the conclusion of the NBA elections, marks a new chapter for the NBA as Osigwe succeeds Yakubu Maikyau, SAN.

The virtual election, held recently in Abuja, saw Osigwe achieve a decisive victory with 20,435 votes. He defeated notable competitors Tobenna Erojikwe, SAN, who garnered 10,998 votes, and Chukwuka Ikuazom with 9,018 votes. The election also saw Sabastine Anyia elected as the 1st Vice-President, Bolatumi Olasunbo Animashun as the 2nd Vice-President, and Zainab Aminu Garba as the 3rd Vice-President. Dr. Mobolaji Idris Ojibara emerged as the General Secretary.

Osigwe’s victory ends the tenure of Yakubu Maikyau, who has led the NBA for the past two years. The official swearing-in of the new executives is set to take place during the NBA annual conference scheduled for August 23 to 28 in Lagos.

Promises and Challenges

In his acceptance speech, Osigwe highlighted his commitment to an inclusive administration and the promotion of the rule of law. He expressed gratitude to his supporters and promised to focus on modernizing Nigeria’s court systems and integrating digital technologies to improve justice delivery.

However, the election was not without controversy. Allegations of a compromised electoral process surfaced, with some candidates, including Chukwuka Ikuazom, claiming that the election results did not reflect the actual vote counts. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), dismissed these claims, asserting that the presidency had no undue influence on the election.

Reactions and Expectations

Legal experts and stakeholders have high expectations for Osigwe’s presidency. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Chief Mike Ahamba urged the new NBA leadership to act as a watchdog for government and legal practices. Professor Mike Ozekhome (SAN) emphasized the need for rebranding and cautioned against internal wrangling that could tarnish the NBA’s image.

Osigwe, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria since 2020, has a legal career spanning 25 years. His previous role as the General Secretary of the NBA (2014-2016) and his reputation for hard work and integrity position him well to address the association’s challenges and drive positive change.

As Afam Osigwe prepares to take over, the legal community watches closely to see how he will navigate the complexities of his new role and impact the NBA’s future.

Yobe Deploys International Researchers to Tackle Kidney Disease

In a proactive move to address the rising incidence of kidney disease in the region, the Yobe State Government has enlisted a team of international science researchers to investigate the situation in the Bade Emirate.

The research team, comprising experts from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, South Africa, Algeria, Senegal, and Ghana, has been deployed to the area to conduct a comprehensive study on kidney disease. This initiative is part of a broader effort to understand and mitigate the health crisis affecting the region.

Dr. Mohammed Lawan Gana, Yobe State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, announced the deployment during a briefing at the palace of the Emir of Bade, Alh. Umar Abubakar Sulaiman. Dr. Gana highlighted that the state’s efforts follow a recent visit by Governor Mai Mala Buni to research institutions in the United Kingdom, including the Crick Research Institute, York University, London School of Hygiene, University College London, and the University of Sussex. These institutions were introduced to Yobe State for potential collaboration in research and training, particularly concerning kidney disease.

Dr. Gana explained, “We are currently in the second phase of our research, with preliminary and advanced stages planned. This visit aims to update His Royal Highness the Emir of Bade on the strategies being implemented to combat the widespread cases of kidney disease in the region.”

Dr. Mahmud Bukar Maina, Special Adviser to Governor Buni on Science, Research, and Innovation, added that the research will include investigations into environmental factors such as water, soil, and food sources, as well as other potential causes of the disease.

The Emir of Bade, His Royal Highness Alh. Umar Abubakar Suleiman, acknowledged the severity of the kidney disease issue in Gashua and surrounding areas. He expressed gratitude for the state’s and researchers’ commitment to addressing the crisis and assured them of the Emirate’s support throughout their investigation.

The Emir thanked Governor Buni and the research team for their dedication and concern, emphasizing the importance of their work for the health and well-being of the community.

Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate: August 12, 2024

The black market exchange rate for the U.S. dollar to the Nigerian naira today, August 12, 2024, is as follows:

  • Buying Rate: ₦1603
  • Selling Rate: ₦1610

These rates are for transactions at the Lagos Parallel Market (commonly known as the black market) and are provided by sources at Bureau De Change (BDC) operators.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) official rates are:

  • Buying Rate: ₦1583
  • Selling Rate: ₦1584

Please note that these rates can vary based on market conditions and individual transactions.

CBN FX Auction Results

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has recently sold foreign exchange (FX) worth $876.26 million to banks at a rate of ₦1,495 per dollar. This transaction was part of an effort to alleviate demand pressure in the FX market and aid in price discovery.

The auction, conducted through a retail Dutch auction system (rDAS), saw bids from 26 banks, with six banks being disqualified for various reasons, including missed deadlines and incomplete submissions.

Nigerian Woman Explains Why She Tore Her Husband’s Passport at Lagos Airport

A dramatic scene unfolded at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammad International Airport (MMIA) on Saturday when a Nigerian woman tore her husband’s passport, sparking public outrage and demands for legal action. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is currently investigating the incident and has invited the woman for questioning.

In an interview with @JejojaFamily TV, the woman opened up about the underlying issues that led to her drastic action. She revealed that her marriage had been plagued by significant problems, which had taken a toll on her mental health.

According to the woman, the marital troubles have persisted for years, and she had previously considered destroying the passport while they were still in Europe. However, she decided against it to avoid further distress for her husband.

She addressed the public’s criticism, emphasizing that her actions were the result of prolonged suffering and emotional strain. “These issues have been ongoing for a very long time. I acted out when we arrived in Nigeria because I wanted to avoid adding more stress to my husband’s life,” she explained.

The woman urged those commenting on her actions to understand her situation before passing judgment. She noted that many of the critics do not know the full extent of her struggles. “I am not a mad woman; I have my reasons. I’ve faced many challenges, and it’s disheartening to see people reacting without understanding the context,” she said.

She also shared that her husband had been managing their social media accounts and emails, which made it difficult for her to access important documents. Her decision to tear the passport was partly driven by frustration over these issues.

“This is not about being vindictive; it’s about expressing the pain I’ve endured,” she said. “Men who have sisters or loved ones who have faced similar struggles might understand, but many others will not.”

The woman’s actions have sparked a debate about personal grievances and public responses, with many calling for a deeper examination of the circumstances that led to the incident.

Rep Ugochinyere Accuses Abuja Politicians of Orchestrating Bombing of APP Office in Rivers

Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the House of Representatives member for Ideato North/South, has accused politicians in Abuja of orchestrating the recent bombing of the Action People’s Party (APP) Secretariat in Rivers State.

Ugochinyere has called for President Bola Tinubu’s intervention to halt what he describes as an ongoing assault on democracy in Rivers State. He reported that the National Chairman of APP, Uchenna Nnadi, and other party members narrowly escaped death during the attack.

According to Ugochinyere, the bombing was instigated by political operatives affiliated with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja, with the aim of destabilizing Rivers State.

In a statement released on Monday, Ugochinyere said, “The bombing of the APP headquarters, which had just been renovated in preparation for the upcoming Rivers LGA Election where the APP is expected to perform well, is an act of political extremism. This is the third such attack allegedly perpetrated by these Abuja operatives, who seek to render Rivers State ungovernable.”

He condemned the violence as a dangerous escalation and urged President Tinubu to act decisively. “The bombing of opposition parties’ offices represents a new low in political violence, driven by those claiming to work for the current government,” Ugochinyere stated. He warned that failure to address the issue could lead to further acts of terrorism that threaten the stability of Nigerian democracy.

Ugochinyere also called on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attack. He stressed that such acts could lead to increased criminality if not promptly addressed.

“Security agencies must act swiftly to apprehend those behind these attacks. These acts of terrorism are a threat to our democracy and must be met with a firm response,” he added.

The Representative also recalled a previous warning about a similar threat in Port Harcourt, which had not led to any prosecutions. He expressed concern that the recent bombing is a continuation of these efforts to undermine the APP and its growing influence in Rivers State.

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun Poised to Become Next Chief Justice of Nigeria

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun is set to become the next Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) based on her seniority and the current judicial hierarchy. She will take over from Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, whose term ends on August 22, 2024, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

A valedictory service in honor of Justice Ariwoola has been scheduled for August, marking his departure from the office he has held since June 27, 2022.

If Justice Kekere-Ekun succeeds Ariwoola as anticipated, she will be only the second female justice to assume the role, following Mariam Aloma Mukhtar, who served as CJN from July 2012 to November 2014.

At 66 years old, Justice Kekere-Ekun is the most senior Supreme Court justice after Ariwoola. With 11 years of service on the apex court, she is widely regarded as the frontrunner for the position. Her appointment would also place her at the helm of the National Judicial Council (NJC), responsible for overseeing the appointment, promotion, and discipline of judges across Nigeria.

Her Profile

Born on May 7, 1958, Justice Kekere-Ekun earned her LL.B from the University of Lagos in 1980 and her LL.M from the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1983. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in July 1981.

Her judicial career began in private practice from 1985 to 1989, after which she was appointed as a Senior Magistrate Grade II in Lagos State. In July 1996, she became a judge of the High Court of Lagos State and later served as chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal in Lagos.

Elevated to the Court of Appeal in September 2004, she served in various Divisions and as the presiding justice of the Makurdi and Aku Divisions. On July 8, 2013, she was sworn in as the fifth female justice of the Supreme Court.

Justice Kekere-Ekun has participated in numerous courses and seminars globally and has received several merit awards. She is also a life Bencher and a prominent member and past president of the International Association of Women Judges.

Iran’s Vice President Zarif Resigns After Just 11 Days

Iran’s Vice President Mohammad Javad Zarif has resigned from his post only 11 days after being appointed by President Massud Pezeshkian. Zarif announced his resignation via his X account, citing dissatisfaction with his performance and his inability to meet expectations.

In his statement, Zarif highlighted disagreements over the selection of Pezeshkian’s new cabinet, noting that seven of the 19 ministerial nominees were not his preferred choices. This divergence reportedly led to his decision to step down.

Zarif’s departure adds to the challenges facing President Pezeshkian, who has been in office since late July. This period has been turbulent, marked by the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

Zarif, a prominent figure in Pezeshkian’s presidential campaign, was integral in securing Pezeshkian’s victory due to his popularity. He was responsible for proposing candidates that aligned with the promised reforms. However, the final list of ministers announced by Pezeshkian appeared to stray from Zarif’s vision and the intended reform agenda.

There are speculations that Iran’s hardline conservative faction may have influenced the cabinet appointments, possibly overriding Zarif’s recommendations. Zarif, who served as Iran’s foreign minister from 2013 to 2021, was also instrumental in shaping Iran’s foreign policy and negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal.

Dispute Over Cause of Fire at Redeemed Christian Church in Niger State

Authorities in Niger State are currently divided over the cause of a fire that destroyed the Zonal Headquarters of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Kontagora.

State Government’s Allegation

The Niger State Government has attributed the fire to hoodlums. Aisha Wakaso, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Print Media, suggested that the fire was a deliberate act intended to create unrest and disrupt peace in the state.

Police Statement

In contrast, the Niger State Police Command has stated that the cause of the fire remains undetermined. SP Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesperson for the police, reported that while the fire caused significant damage to the church’s property, no lives were lost. The police have indicated that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the blaze.

Key Points

  • State Government’s View: The state government believes the fire was an act of arson by hoodlums aiming to incite instability.
  • Police Findings: The police have not confirmed arson as the cause and are still investigating the incident.

This disagreement highlights the ongoing investigation and the uncertainty surrounding the incident’s origins.