Wednesday, February 25, 2026

IGP Disu Profile:

Ag. IGP Olatunji Disu Assumes Duty 


The newly appointed Acting Inspector General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu PSC has assumed duty as the 23rd indigenous Inspector-General of Police. 

He takes over from IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun (Rtd) who served meritoriously as the 22nd Indigenous Inspector-General of Police from 19th June 2023 to 24th February 2026.



The Acting Inspector-General of Police, born on 13th April, 1966, hails from Lagos Island Local Government Area of Lagos State. His educational qualifications include: MSC Entrepreneurship, NOUN (2023); MSC Criminology, Security and Legal Psychology, LASU (2022); Advanced Diploma in Forensic Investigation and Criminal Intelligence, UNILAG (2019), MSC, Public Administration, Adekunle Ajasin University (2010), PGD International Relations and Strategic Studies, LASU (2000) and B.A English (Education), LASU (1990).


He joined the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police on 18th May, 1992, and brings to the office a wealth of operational, investigative, intelligence, and administrative experience garnered over decades of distinguished service in various strategic capacities across the country. Until his appointment, he was Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.



Some of his other notable past postings include:

• Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG)

Special Protection Unit (SPU), Force Headquarters, Abuja 

• Commissioner of Police, FCT Police Command, October 

• Commissioner of Police (CP), Rivers State Police Command, November.

• Commissioner of Police, Admin and Intelligence, Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB) 

• Deputy Commissioner of Police Head, Intelligence Response Team (IRT)

• Commander, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Lagos, 2015 – 2021.

• Assistant Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, Rivers State.

• Officer in Charge, Anti-Kidnapping, Rivers State.

• Officer in Charge, Special Anti-Robbery Squad, Ondo State/Oyo State, 2011 – 2014

• Divisional Police Officer, Ondo State, 2007 – 2013.

• Officer in Charge, Training, Nigeria Police Peace-Keeping Department.

• Directing Staff, Nigerian Police Academy, Kano.

• Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to former Governor Lagos State.

• Officer in Charge, Anti-Fraud, State Criminal Investigation Department, Katsina, 1993 – 1998.



Ag. IGP Olatunji Disu is a member of the following associations and bodies: International Academy of Forensics; National Association of Investigative Specialists, United States of America (NAIS), Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM); and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

He successfully led the first-ever Nigerian Police contingent to the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) to quell the crisis in Darfur, Sudan, in 2005.

He was once National Chairman of the Nigeria Police Judo Association and has won his third black belt in Judo, with many other medals, including a silver medal at the 2022 US Open Judo Championships.

His track record of leadership, professionalism, and dedication to duty underscores his readiness to steer the affairs of the Nigeria Police Force at this critical time.

The Nigeria Police Force expresses profound appreciation to the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM (rtd), for his invaluable contributions to the growth, modernisation, and strengthening of the Force.

The new Acting Inspector-General of Police reassures officers and men of the Force, stakeholders, and the general public of his commitment to consolidating on existing reforms, enhancing internal security, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing the Force’s mandate of protecting lives and property in line with global best practices.

The Nigeria Police Force solicits the continued support and cooperation of the public as the new leadership works to deepen professionalism, discipline, and service delivery.


Ag. ACP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra

Force Public Relations Officer

Force Headquarters, Abuja

25th February, 2026

President Tinubu Decorates Tunji Disu As 23rd IGP

Acting IGP Olatunji Disu Tasked To Restore Peace and Security.



President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday February 25th 2026 decorated Nigeria's newly appointed 23rd Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu at the State House Abuja; charging the Acting IGP to restore peace and strengthen security nationwide.

President Tinubu gave the directive following the retirement of Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun; pending the Nigeria Police Council's ratification and the Senate's confirmation of the appointment of Disu.

“I made this decision for you to assume this responsibility. I know your record. I saw the dedication you exhibited while you were in Lagos when I was governor,” the President said.

 


President Tinubu described Disu’s appointment as coming at a critical moment, urging him to rebuild public confidence in the police's capacity to do their job in collaboration with other security forces.

“Lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at every level and ensure that the safety of lives and property remains our highest priority. It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support.”

 


President Tinubu urged Disu to advance the security pillars of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda; expressing confidence in the Acting IGP’s discipline, operational experience and leadership capacity.

He reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria would prevail under a committed leadership.

 



President Tinubu also paid tribute to the outgoing Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who was present with his spouse.

 


“To the outgoing Inspector-General, we are a grateful nation. Nigeria appreciates your contribution to maintaining law and order,” he said.

He urged Egbetokun to be ready to offer useful advice to his successor and wished him and his family peace, good health and success in future endeavours.

“You have not succeeded without a good successor. His success will also be part of your legacy,” Tinubu stated.

 


The President urged all security stakeholders to work collectively to safeguard lives and property during this critical period.

Present at the decoration were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, AIG Hakeem Odumosu (rtd), senior government officials, as well as the parents and family members of the Acting IGP.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

Information & Strategy)

February 25, 2026

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

Fidelity Bank CSR Initiative


Fidelity Bank Donates Essential Items To Inmates At Ikoyi Correctional Centre



Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives and wellbeing of indigent persons with the donation of relief items to inmates at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos.

The project, executed under the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative known as Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), saw the bank's Human Resources (HR) department hand over various household tools and gift items to the leadership of the correctional facility as part of its efforts to support the rehabilitation and development of indigent persons in society.

Through the FHHP, staff across Fidelity Bank branches nationwide identify crucial interventions needed in their immediate community and raise funds to execute them. The bank’s management then matches this contribution with an equal amount and disburses it for the selected project.



Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Chief Human Resources Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Charles Nwachukwu, reaffirmed the bank’s deep commitment to transforming lives and restoring hope. He emphasized that true progress lies not only in financial growth but in extending compassion and opportunity to those that society often overlooks.

“At Fidelity Bank, we believe that every individual deserves a second chance. Our approach to Corporate Social Responsibility is rooted in empathy, standing with communities, uplifting the vulnerable, and opening doors for brighter futures. By supporting inmates today, we are setting them on the true path of rehabilitation, empowering them to return tomorrow as productive and confident members of society.”

Reacting to the gesture from Fidelity Bank, Deputy Controller of Corrections at Ikoyi Custodial Centre, Dr Julius Ogueri appealed to Nigerians to avoid cybercrimes and stigmatization of ex-inmates.

Highlighting the challenges faced by correctional facilities in Nigeria, Ogueri noted that Ikoyi correctional center initially designed for 800 inmates, now houses over 3,000 inmates, with 396 convicted persons and 3,604 awaiting trial.

Whilst thanking the bank, the Deputy Controller also emphasized the importance of rehabilitation, citing examples of inmates who have pursued education and skills acquisition, including 72 inmates studying with the National Open University of Nigeria and 120 inmates who have benefited from WAEC and GCE support.

Fidelity Bank’s visit to the Ikoyi Correctional Centre reinforces its unwavering commitment to meaningful community impact and demonstrates its strong dedication to advancing social responsibility and rehabilitation efforts across the society.




L-R: Sunday Olasupo, Assistant Controller, Ikoyi Correctional Centre; Nwamaka Kalu, Head, Human Resource Business Partnerships and Communication, Fidelity Bank Plc; Sunday Ogundele, Assistant Controller, Ikoyi Correctional Centre; Obiora Mbaekwe, Head, HR Shared Services, Fidelity Bank Plc; Dr Julius Ogueri, Deputy Controller, Ikoyi Correctional Centre; Charles Nwachukwu, Chief Human Resources Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc; and Dr Chidi Nwankwo, Assistant Controller, Ikoyi Correctional Centre; during the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP) donation of essential materials to inmates at Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos.









Sterling HoldCo Commences Allotment of Public Offer Shares

Achieves 109.8% Subscription Feat


 Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc ("Sterling HoldCo" or "the Group") has announced the commencement of the allotment process for its 2025 Public Offer of 12,581,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at ₦7.00 per share. 

This follows the earlier receipt of final approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the recent clearance by the Securities & Exchange Commission.



The allotment process, which begins immediately, marks the continuation of a disciplined, multi-year capital-raising programme that has positioned the Group as one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the region.

The Public Offer, which opened on September 15, 2025, attracted strong participation from the investing public, with the Company receiving 18,280 applications for 16,839,524,401 ordinary shares valued at approximately ₦117.88 billion. 

Following a thorough verification process, valid applications were received from 18,276 shareholders for a total of 13,812,239,000 ordinary shares. This represents a subscription level of 109.79% and reflects 

sustained confidence in Sterling HoldCo's strategic direction, governance, and long-term growth prospects.

In line with the guidelines set out in the offer prospectus, the Group confirmed that all valid applications will be allotted in full. Every investor who complied with the terms of the offer will receive all the shares for which they applied. A very small number of applications were not processed or were partially rejected due to non-compliance with the offer terms, including duplicate payments and failure to meet the minimum subscription requirement of 1,000 units or its multiples, as stipulated in the offer documents.

The Public Offer forms part of a broader capital-raising programme designed to enable Sterling HoldCo expand credit responsibly, accelerate innovation, and provide sustained support to businesses and households across Nigeria.

In addition to strengthening the capital buffers of its banking subsidiaries, Sterling HoldCo will inject ₦10 billion into SterlingFI Wealth Management Limited, its asset management subsidiary, in line with the revised minimum capital requirements for Capital Market Operators issued by the SEC in January 2026. 

The capital injection will support the commencement of full operations and contribute to the Group’s revenue diversification objectives.

The Group ensures a seamless post-offer process, with refunds for excess or rejected 

applications, along with applicable interest, to be remitted via Real Time Gross Settlement or NIBSS Electronic Funds Transfer directly to the bank accounts detailed in the application forms. 

The payments will be processed by the Registrars, Pace Registrars Limited, not later 

than Tuesday, 17 February 2026.

Simultaneously, the electronic allotment of shares will be credited to successful shareholders' accounts with the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) by the same date. 

For applicants who do not currently have CSCS accounts, their allotted shares will be 

temporarily held in a registrar-managed pool account pending the submission of their completed account opening documentation to Pace Registrars Limited, after which the shares will be transferred to their personal CSCS accounts.

The Offer attracted significant participation from a new generation of investors, with data from the application process showing that a substantial proportion of successful applicants were first-time shareholders in a financial services company. This broadening of the ownership base reflects growing retail investor belief in Sterling HoldCo’s vision and strengthens the Group's connection to the communities it serves.

The allotment announcement follows a period of strong financial momentum for Sterling HoldCo. In its FY25 interim results, the Group reported a 99% increase in profit before tax, building on the 102% growth achieved in 2024. Gross earnings rose 46% to ₦476.5 billion, driven by growth across both interest and non-interest income streams, while total assets expanded to ₦3.92 trillion. Customer deposits grew by 18% to ₦2.98 trillion, and shareholders' 

Funds increased by 39% to ₦424.0 billion, reflecting sustained profitability and balance-sheet expansion. 

The Group’s cost-to-income ratio improved to 63% from 72% in the prior year underscoring the scalability of the Group's platforms and the resilience of its business model.

This performance is supported by a diversified financial services structure that spans multiple segments of the market. Its core businesses include Sterling Bank Limited, its conventional banking subsidiary; The Alternative Bank Limited, its non-interest banking arm; and SterlingFI Wealth Management, which provides investment and wealth advisory services. 

This diversified structure enables the Group to serve a broader customer base, reduce 

concentration risk, and generate income across multiple revenue streams.

The recapitalisation of the Group's core banking subsidiaries is already complete. Sterling Bank Limited and The Alternative Bank Limited are fully compliant with the CBN's revised minimum capital requirements, having received final regulatory approvals in January 2026. 

The Alternative Bank, in particular, has emerged as a national non-interest bank with aphysical network now surpassing 150 points, deploying capital to solve real-world 

challenges through initiatives such as the Mata Zalla project, which trains women as electric tricycle drivers and mechanics, and an agricultural programme in Plateau State designed to secure economic futures.

These outcomes demonstrate that the capital raised is already being put to work in ways that create tangible impact.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc warmly welcomes its new shareholders and thanks all investors for their participation.

With a strengthened capital base, increasing deposits, a diversified earnings mix, and residual capacity for further investment, the Group is wellpositioned to sustain growth across its subsidiaries, deploy capital responsibly, and support sustainable economic activity.

HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0

Fidelity Bank to Empower Women with Sustainable Entrepreneurship Skill





Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the launch of the second edition of its flagship women-empowerment initiative, the Her Fidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 (HAP 2.0).

In an effort to equip women with practical, income‑generating skills and structured pathways to entrepreneurship;the Fidelity Bank HAP 2.0 initiative will build on the success of its inaugural edition held in 2023.

Addressing journalists at a media chat to herald the launch of HAP 2.0, the Divisional Head, Product Development, Fidelity Bank Plc, Osita Ede, explained that the initiative has been enhanced to deliver greater impact.

“HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 reflects our commitment to continuous improvement".

 "Having evaluated feedback from the first edition, we have returned with stronger partnerships and deeper mentorship programmes to ensure that women acquire not just skills, but sustainable economic opportunities”.

“At the heart of the programme is guided, real‑world learning. Participants will undergo intensive apprenticeship training under reputable institutions and industry experts across select fields such as hair styling, shoe making, auto mechatronics, and interior decoration,”.

Ede noted that HerFidelity Apprenticeship Programme 2.0 goes beyond skills acquisition; offering participants a wide range of business advisory services.

 These include business and financial literacy training, mentorship support throughout the apprenticeship journey, access to Fidelity Bank’s women‑focused and SME financial solutions, as well as guidance on business formalisation and growth strategies.

He further harped on the bank’s vision saying “By integrating structured mentorship with entrepreneurial development, Fidelity Bank is positioning women not just as trainees, but as future employers, innovators, and economic contributors within their communities".

This aligns with our mandate to help individuals grow, businesses thrive and economies prosper.”

Interested participants are encouraged to indicate their interest by visiting https://bit.ly/Apprenticeshipbyherfidelity.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.


 The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. 

In addition, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.



State House Press Release

President Tinubu Accepts IGP Egbetokun's Resignation; Appoints AIG Disu In Acting Capacity.




President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has accepted the resignation of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, following the submission of his letter citing pressing family considerations.

President Tinubu received Mr Egbetokun's resignation earlier today and expressed his profound appreciation for Egbetokun's decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation. The President acknowledged his dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to strengthening internal security architecture during his tenure.

Appointed in June 2023, Egbetokun was serving a four-year term scheduled to conclude in June 2027, in line with the amended provisions of the Police Act.



In view of the current security challenges confronting the nation, and acting in accordance with extant laws and legal guidance, President Tinubu has approved the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu to serve as Acting Inspector-General of Police with immediate effect.

The President is confident that AIG Disu’s experience, operational depth, and demonstrated leadership capacity will provide steady and focused direction for the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.

In compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation.

The President reiterates his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing national security, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains professional, accountable, and fully equipped to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information and Strategy)

February 24, 2026

Sunday, February 1, 2026

FELA’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The world of music has honoured a giant: Fela Anikulapo Kuti.



Fela was more than a musician. He was a fearless voice of the people, a philosopher of freedom, and a revolutionary force whose music confronted injustice and reshaped global sound.

His courage, creativity, and conviction defined a generation and continue to inspire the world. In Yoruba mythology, he has transcended to a higher plane as an Orisa. He is now eternal.

Fela Kuti has blazed the trail with the Recording Academy of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the first African to receive this honour, though posthumously. 

 The award is an affirmation of his enduring global influence and the foundational role he has played in the evolution and impact of Africa on modern music. 





He defined Afrobeat, and you can hear and see his influence in generations of Nigerian musicians and in Afrobeats and beyond.

Fela lives.


Asiwaju President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

CITAD

  Condemns Continued Detention of Two Nigerians Over Social Media Commentary. ‎The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD)...