Michael Eugene Archer "D’Angelo" Dies At 51

American Neo-Soul Pioneer, Grammy Winner Dies After Battle With Cancer

Legendary American Funk Hip-hop R&B music producer songwriter and the pioneer of Neo-Soul Michael Eugene Archer known by the stage name D' Angelo has died in New York City aged 51.

The Richmond Virginia, United States born singer was said to have battled cancer before his death on Tuesday October 14, 2025.

His family while confirming his death in a statement said he died following a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer.

"We are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025. We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”

D'Angelo in his lifetime was an elusive figure who burned bright in the spotlight, releasing three albums throughout his career including his 1995 debut “Brown Sugar,” 2000’s “Voodoo” and his last album, 2014’s “Black Messiah” with his group, the Vanguard. 

In 2001 D' Angelo won two grammy awards in the R and B Album category for "Voodoo" and in the Male R and B Vocal Performance category for "Untitled(How does It Feel)".

In 2016 he also picked up two gramophone trophies in the R and B Album category for "Black Messiah" and the R and B Song category for "Really Love".

Customer Service Week

Polaris Bank Wraps Up 2025 Customer Service Week with Renewed Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

In commemoration of the 2025 annual Customer Service Week Polaris Bank has restated its dedication to delivering exceptional service experiences to its customers 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 loaded with interactive 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 continuous improvement service delivery. 

Employees of the bank were also not left out as they were lauded 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 attaining excellence.

Lawal noted that the Customer Service Week gives opportunities for reflection and renewal of the Bank’s promises 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 as well 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. 

And for Polaris Bank, this year’s celebration reinforced its belief that with dedication, innovation, and teamwork, great service is always a “Mission Possible.”

BAFI Awards 2025

Fidelity Bank Wins Best Export and Trade Support and Innovation Awards

The giant stride market leadership of tier-one lender financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc has again been lauded at the 12th BusinessDay Bank and Other Financial Institutions’(BAFI) Awards.

The ceremony, which held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island on Saturday, October 11 2025 saw Fidelity Bank win the awards for the “Best Bank for Export and Trade Finance” and “Most Innovative Bank of the Year”.

While dedicating the Export and Trade Finance Award to the bank's customers, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, who was represented by the Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer, Stanley Amuchie, said, the recognition underscores fidelity Bank's unwavering commitment to promoting non-oil exports and supporting Nigerian businesses to compete globally through initiatives such as the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) and the Export Management Programme (EMP).

Amuchie dedicated the award to exporters who have continue to showcase the best of Nigeria to the world, loyal customers, and partners for their steadfast support.

The BAFI Awards is the benchmark of distinction for institutions in the Nigerian financial services sector. 

The awards in its 12th year recognises and celebrates organisations that are excelling in the delivery of financial services in Nigeria; acknowledging organisations that demonstrate leadership, vision and impact in driving Nigeria’s growth trajectory.

L – R: Seye Otite, Media Relations Officer; Tolulope Rojaiye, Team Member, Brand & Communications Division; Meksley Nwagboh, Divisional Head, Brand & Communications; Stanley Amuchie, Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer (all of Fidelity Bank Plc); Christopher Bajowa, President, Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria; and Omonsegho Ibironke, Team Lead, Events and Business Promotions, Fidelity Bank Plc; at the BusinessDay Bank and Other Financial Institutions’(BAFI) Awards 2025 where Fidelity Bank recently bagged the awards for the Best Bank for Export & Trade Finance and the Most Innovative Bank of the Year.

Fidelity Bank’s recent recognition is attributed to significant accomplishments over the past twelve months.

Notable milestones included the inauguration of the first privately constructed onshore oil export terminal in Nigeria in fifty years at the Otakikpo Marginal Field, which was funded by Fidelity Bank and recently commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

  Additionally, the bank launched the Fidelity SME Hub, a multipurpose facility designed to support small businesses through innovation, collaboration and capacity-building initiatives.

Furthermore, Fidelity Bank organised the third edition of the Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, in September 2025; the event provided local businesses with opportunities to engage in deal rooms with U.S. buyers, including prominent retailers such as Walmart and Target, fostering potential partnerships.

The Executive Director/Chief Operations and Information Officer Stanley Amuchie, did not fail to acknowledge “The innovation award " which he described as a special one for the bank as it validates Fidelity's continued drive to enhance operational efficiency, elevate customer experience as well strengthen business performance. 

New INEC Head

National Council of State Approves Professor Joash Amupitan as New INEC Chairman

The appointment of 58-year-old Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been given a unanimous nod by the National Council of State following the expiration of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure as the head of the electoral body.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday October 9, 2025 presented Amupitan’s nomination to the Council during its meeting held at the State House Abuja. 

The National Council of State, which is the highest advisory body established under Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution gave its approval of the President’s choice.

President Tinubu described the nominee as an apolitical individual of integrity and competence, noting that Amupitan is the first person from Kogi State in the North-Central zone to be nominated for the position.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, who attended the meeting lauded the choice describing Amupitan as a man of integrity and deep intellect who would bring credibility and discipline to the nation’s electoral system.

In line with constitutional provisions President Tinubu would transmit Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

Born on April 25, 1967, in Ayetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Amupitan is a distinguished Professor of Law at the University of Jos (UNIJOS), where he currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration). 

Amupitan is also the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Osun State.

A seasoned scholar and legal practitioner, Amupitan was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988 after earning his LL.B from UNIJOS. He later obtained his LL.M (1993) and PhD (2007) from the same institution. He became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2014.

Over his distinguished academic career, he has served as Dean of the Faculty of Law (2008–2014), Chairman of the Committee of Deans and Directors (2012–2014), and Head of Public Law (2006–2008) at UNIJOS.

Outside academia, Professor Amupitan has served on several boards and professional bodies, including the Council of Legal Education, the Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, and Integrated Dairies Limited, Vom.

He has authored several influential law texts, including Corporate Governance: Models and Principles (2008) and Evidence Law: Theory and Practice in Nigeria (2013).

Dr Christopher Kolade(1932- 2025)

Nigerian Elder Statesman, Doyen of Boardroom, Broadcaster, Teacher Dies At 92

Nigeria has lost a great icon, scholar, diplomat, broadcaster and boardroom doyen Dr Christopher Kolade.

The elder statesman in a statement by his family was said to have died peacefully on Wednesday October 8, 2025 aged 92.

Born December 28 1932 in Erin-Oke, Osun State, Dr Christopher Olusola Kolade was the son of an Anglican missionary who completed his secondary school education at the Government College, Ibadan; after which he proceeded to study at the Fourah Bay College, Freetown, Sierra Leone.

He worked as a broadcaster and was the Director General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation.

The late diplomat was the Chief Executive and Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc and a former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. 

He was a colonial-era education officer in Nigeria who taught Corporate Governance and Human Resources Management at the Lagos Business School (LBS) as well as Leadership and Conflict Management at the School of Media and Communication(SMC). 

The late Kolade also served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Pan-Atlantic University. 

He was also the Chancellor of McPherson University, Ogun, Nigeria.

Dr Christopher Kolade in his lifetime promoted business integrity in Nigeria through his chairmanship of organisations such as Integrity Organisation Ltd GTE and The Convention on Business Integrity Ltd GTE.

Hence outpour of condolences have continued to go out to the family of the late boardroom doyen.

President Bola Tinubu described the late diplomat, broadcaster, and corporate leader as “one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures” and “a symbol of integrity and service.”

In a heartfelt tribute issued by the State House on Thursday, the President said he received the news of Dr. Kolade’s death with “profound sadness,” noting that the 92-year-old lived an extraordinary life defined by excellence, patriotism and moral strength.

 “Dr. Kolade was among the finest of men, exceptionally brilliant, state manly, diligent, and with unimpeachable integrity,” 

Tinubu lauded the late elder statesman for his immense contributions to corporate Nigeria, especially his pioneering role in corporate governance and human resource management, describing him as “a custodian of Nigeria's enterprise history.”

President Tinubu also eulogised Dr. Kolade’s sterling career, which spanned public service, diplomacy and the private sector.

Fitness Walk

Union Bank Champions Employee Wellness With Stay Recharged Health Walk

One of Nigeria's age-long financial institution Union Bank of Nigeria has held its first-ever Stay Recharged Health Walk, a dynamic event that affirms the bank’s steadfast commitment to employee well-being and sustainable workplace development.

The walk which kicked off at the Stallion Plaza, Union Bank’s Head Office in Marina and climaxed at the Bank’s Sports Complex, The Stable, on Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, tracing an energising 7.5km route through Lagos’ vibrant streets.

The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from employees from diverse departments and locations made it a celebration of physical fitness, mental health, and the power of community spirit.

Stay Recharged is a featured event drawn from a cornerstone of Union Bank’s employee value proposition: employee wellness, thoughtfully crafted to foster a culture where health, happiness, and productivity flourish. 

The initiative responds directly to the urgent need for purposeful wellness programmes that nurture both physical and mental health at work. It reflects the Bank’s recognition that employee wellbeing is fundamental to sustained productivity, engagement, and organisational excellence.

Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, Chief Talent Officer, emphasised the significance of the milestone event: “At Union Bank, well-being is not an afterthought; it is part of how we work. Our inaugural Stay Recharged Health Walk reflects our commitment to building a culture where our people are energised, supported, and thriving. When we take care of ourselves, we build stronger teams and stronger institutions.”

The Stay Recharged Health Walk aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. This initiative reflects Union Bank’s commitment to fostering a workplace culture that prioritises employee wellness, supports decent and productive work, and contributes to long-term organisational sustainability.

By investing in wellness experiences, Union Bank not only strengthens its internal community but also reinforces its reputation as an employer of choice. 

Union Bank remains dedicated to developing innovative, health-focused programmes that inspire employees to adopt healthier lifestyles, supporting long-term growth for both individuals and the organisation.

Customer Service Week

Polaris Bank Reaffirms Commitment to Service Excellence To Celebrate Customer Service Week

It's good news to customers of Polaris Bank as the bank has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to deepening the delivery of exceptional customer experiences as it joins institutions across the world to celebrate the 2025 Customer Service Week, themed “Mission: Possible.”

The annual global event, which runs from Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 10, is dedicated to recognising the vital role of customer service professionals and the value they bring to customers and businesses alike.

Speaking to customers and staff, the Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, emphasised that excellent service remains central to the Bank’s culture and success.

 Lawal noted that while great service can sometimes seem like a challenge, it is always worth the effort.

The CEO says Polaris Bank’s approach to service is anchored on consistency, thoughtfulness, and excellence, ensuring that customers experience genuine care and responsiveness in every interaction.

 Lawal expressed appreciation to customers for their trust and feedback, describing them as the reason Polaris Bank has continued to push boundaries and as well innovate.

He reaffirmed Polaris Bank’s commitment to stand by its customers to deliver the kind of service they truly deserve every step of the way.

Throughout the week, Polaris Bank would host a variety of engaging activities across its branches and digital platforms to appreciate customers and recognise service champions within the Bank. 

These will include staff recognition events, customer appreciation sessions, and internal learning engagements aimed at deepening service excellence.

Customer Service Week is celebrated globally in the first full week of October to honour the importance of service excellence and the professionals who make it possible. For Polaris Bank, it represents yet another opportunity to celebrate its people and customers, while reinforcing that with dedication and teamwork, great service is always a Mission Possible.