The leadership of the Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), led by its Chairperson, Theresa Moses, on Friday, paid a courtesy visit to Polaris Bank in appreciation of the bank’s invaluable support towards the successful hosting of the NOMA Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Workshop, held to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The NOMA delegation was received by Mr. Rasheed Bolarinwa, Group Head, Brand Management and Corporate Communications, Polaris Bank, at the bank’s corporate headquarters.

Expressing its heartfelt appreciation, the association presented a Plaque to Polaris Bank in recognition of its partnership and commitment to promoting responsible journalism and addressing critical social issues through strategic collaboration.

Speaking during the visit, Theresa Moses thanked Polaris Bank for believing in NOMA’s vision and for supporting initiatives that empower journalists to become advocates for positive social change.

“Your commitment to youth development, financial literacy, and responsible media advocacy is sincerely appreciated,” She re-emphasized.

Moses noted that combating drug abuse requires a multi-sectoral approach, stressing that partnerships between the media, corporate organizations, government agencies, and civil society are essential to tackling the growing menace of substance abuse among young people.

She expressed with optimism about deepening the relationship between NOMA and Polaris Bank, adding that the alliance looks forward to future collaborations on advocacy campaigns, media development programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, and other nation-building projects.

“We are here to sincerely appreciate Polaris Bank for standing with us. Your support contributed significantly to the success of our capacity-building workshop for journalists. We believe this partnership can grow stronger as we continue to use the media to promote responsible reporting, public enlightenment, and national development,” she reiterated.

Responding on behalf of Polaris Bank, Mr. Rasheed Bolarinwa commended NOMA for championing advocacy against drug abuse and other social challenges, describing the menace as a serious threat to society.

He said: “Drug abuse in our society is a time bomb, and any organization or group that has taken it upon itself to champion advocacy to address this social issue deserves to be appreciated. Almighty God will continue to strengthen you so that you can continue this wonderful work of helping society confront this challenge. Thank you so much for coming, and you are always welcome.”

The visit further reinforced the shared commitment of both organizations to promoting social responsibility, youth development, public awareness, and sustainable national development through strategic partnerships.

Members of the NOMA delegation included Mr. Oluwatosin Simon Faleye, Mr. Dennis Okosun, and Mr. Eric Elezuo, who joined the Chairperson in presenting the appreciation plaque and engaging in discussions on future areas of collaboration.

The courtesy visit marks another milestone in NOMA’s efforts to build strategic alliances with institutions that share its vision of strengthening journalism, promoting responsible media practice, and advancing advocacy on issues of national importance.

The Chairman/GCEO of Adron Group, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, KOF, has joined eminent Nigerians in celebrating the First Lady of Ogun State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, on the occasion of her 60th birthday, describing her as “an icon of courage, compassion and charisma whose life continues to inspire hope, uplift humanity and exemplify purposeful public service.”

In a goodwill message jointly signed by Aare Emmanuelking and his wife, Olori Aderonke Emmanuelking, the Adron Homes boss paid glowing tribute to the First Lady’s enduring legacy, noting that her six decades have been defined by commitment to humanity, exemplary leadership, and a remarkable ability to positively impact lives through humility, kindness, and compassion.

He described Her Excellency’s Diamond Jubilee as a fitting celebration of a woman whose life reflects the timeless qualities of the precious gemstone it represents, resilient, refined, enduring, and radiant through every season.

Aare Adetola Emmanuelking also acknowledged the First Lady’s steadfast support for the developmental aspirations of Ogun State, particularly her commitment to initiatives that have positively impacted women, children, and other vulnerable members of society. He described her contributions to public service and human development as enduring and worthy of national recognition.

He prayed that Almighty God would continue to bless Her Excellency with excellent health, renewed strength, abiding peace, and many more years of purposeful living, while granting her greater opportunities to continue touching lives and advancing the cause of humanity.

He wished the First Lady a joyous 60th birthday and a new decade filled with greater accomplishments, divine favour, and enduring fulfilment.

By Eric Elezuo

Premier commercial bank, the United Bank of Africa (UBA) has announced the retirement of its chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu after 12 years of meritorious service. The retirement notice will take effect from August 21, 2026.

The announcement was made on Monday after a meeting of the Board of Directors, according to a statement titled NOTIFICATION OF RETIREMENT OF GROUP CHAIRMAN OF UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA AND APPOINTMENT OF SUCCESSOR, and made available to Pointblank.ng.

Elumelu will be replaced by Non-Executive Director of the bank, Mr. Emmanuel N. Nnorom, chartered accountant with over forty years’ experience in banking, finance and audit.

Expressing his appreciation for the privilege of serving the bank for 12 years as Chairman, Elumelu noted: that “Serving United Bank for Africa has been one of the great privileges of my career. UBA has established a unique competitive position, across Africa and globally, and I leave the Board with great confidence in UBA’s future. Emmanuel Nnorom is a leader of integrity, experience and sound judgement, and I am confident that the Bank will continue to thrive under his leadership.”

In his acceptance speech, the incoming Chairman, Emmanuel Nnorom remarked that “I am honoured by the trust the Board has placed in me and deeply conscious of the legacy I inherit. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board, Management and our staff across all our markets to sustain UBA’s momentum and continue delivering long-term value to our shareholders, customers and stakeholders.”

The statement quoted the Board as placing on record “its profound appreciation to Mr. Elumelu for his visionary leadership and exceptional contribution to the strategic vision and institutional strength of the UBA Group.”

It added that “Mr. Elumelu’s tenure has been a defining chapter in the Group’s history. Under his stewardship, UBA was transformed into a pan African institution, operating in 20 African countries and 4 global financial centres and serving over 50 million customers.”