Connect with us

News

Operation Safe Haven Strikes Again: Gunrunners Arrested in Plateau State

info

Published

on

OSH8

In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal arms trafficking, troops from Operation Safe Haven have arrested two notorious gunrunners and seized a cache of automatic weapons in Plateau State. This operation follows closely on the heels of the apprehension of five gunrunners just three days earlier in Jos North Local Government Area.

On September 18, 2024, intelligence-led operations at the Banana Island Hotel in Bokkos Town led to the arrest of Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict, who were reportedly finalizing the sale of arms valued at approximately Five Million Naira (₦5,000,000). Security forces recovered two AK-47 rifles, one automatic pistol, and three AK-47 magazines during the operation.

The suspects are currently in custody for interrogation, with authorities aiming to uncover information that could lead to the arrest of additional members of the criminal syndicate. The recent arrests and arms recoveries highlight a persistent threat of criminal activity that transcends ethno-religious lines, emphasizing the need for a united front against such threats.

“Criminality is a common enemy that we must jointly tackle to afford law-abiding citizens the freedom to carry out their socio-economic endeavors without fear,” stated Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Military Public Information Officer for Operation Safe Haven. He reiterated the importance of community involvement in providing credible information to assist security agencies in their operations.

Operation Safe Haven remains committed to combating the proliferation of firearms, which is a major contributor to security challenges in the region. The military has called upon the citizens of Plateau, Bauchi, and Southern Kaduna to actively participate in efforts to ensure a safer environment.

As the operation continues, the security agencies are resolute in their mission to disrupt illegal arms trafficking and enhance the safety of the communities they serve.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

News

Legends Return to the Pitch: IASC Above 45 Tournament 2026 Begins with Blockbuster Opening Fixtures

info

Published

on

By

WhatsApp Image 2026 08 04 at 10.00.46 PM.jpeg

The stage is set for another memorable chapter in the history of the Island Allstars Sports Club (IASC) as the much-anticipated IASC Above 45 Tournament 2026 kicks off on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the LBS Sports Arena, Lekki, promising an exciting display of football, sportsmanship and camaraderie among veteran players.

The annual tournament, one of the club’s flagship sporting events, celebrates the enduring passion, fitness and competitive spirit of football enthusiasts aged 45 years and above. It has become a unique platform where experience meets talent, bringing together distinguished members of the club to compete while strengthening the bonds of friendship that define the IASC family.

Read Also: Island AllStars Celebrate Grand Synergy Cup Finish As President Okeke Commends SMC and Competing Teams

According to the fixtures released by the Sports Management Committee (SMC), the opening match will see Team A take on Team D at 8:30 a.m., while the second fixture will feature Team B against Team C at 10:30 a.m. Both matches will be played at the LBS Sports Arena, with the tournament concluding on August 15, 2026, when the champions will emerge.

Beyond the excitement on the pitch, the Above 45 Tournament continues to promote healthy living, active ageing and community engagement, proving that football remains a lifelong passion capable of inspiring generations.

This year’s competition is proudly supported by Sure B Homes, Dinice Royal Investment Limited, Network Times Nigeria Limited, and Cartel Beach House Del Viento, whose sponsorship underscores the growing corporate confidence in the vision of the Island Allstars Sports Club.

To ensure supporters across Nigeria and beyond do not miss the action, selected matches will be streamed live on Sports247 YouTube Channel and website: sports247.ng, allowing football lovers around the world to follow every tackle, goal and dramatic moment as it unfolds.

Speaking on behalf of the Sports Management Committee, the committee’s Secretary, Ugochukwu Chukwudalu, assured members and supporters of a professionally organised tournament that reflects the values of excellence, unity and fair play for which the club is known.

As anticipation reaches fever pitch, all roads lead to the LBS Sports Arena this Saturday for what promises to be an unforgettable football spectacle. For the players, it is another opportunity to chase glory. For the fans, it is a celebration of football at its finest—where legends return to the pitch and experience takes centre stage.

Continue Reading

Business

Coronation Insurance, Coronation Life Meet NIIRA 2025 Minimum Capital Requirements Following Successful ₦9.2bn Capital Raise

info

Published

on

By

Coronation Insurance Plc and Coronation Life Assurance Limited have successfully met the new minimum capital requirements stipulated under the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025.

This marks the successful completion of the Nigerian insurance industry’s year-long recapitalisation exercise as announced by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

A statement released today by both underwriters, that the milestone follows the successful conclusion of a ₦9.2 billion private placement by both companies, which attracted strong participation from existing and new investors. The offer, comprising 4.2 billion ordinary shares, was oversubscribed, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the companies’ long-term strategy, sound corporate governance, and growth prospects.

Meeting the new regulatory capital requirements reinforces the financial strength of both Coronation Insurance and Coronation Life Assurance, positioning the companies to accelerate innovation, expand access to insurance solutions, and create greater value for customers, shareholders, and other stakeholders.

The strengthened capital base will support strategic investments in product innovation, digital transformation, customer experience, and the expansion of the companies’ distribution footprint. It will also reinforce their bancassurance partnership with Access Bank, enabling both companies to extend insurance solutions to customers across one of Africa’s largest banking networks.

Reacting on the milestone, Olamide Olajolo, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Coronation Insurance Plc, said: “Meeting the new capital requirements under NIIRA 2025 is a significant milestone for our business and reflects the confidence investors continue to place in our strategy and long-term vision. The successful completion of our private placement is a testament to the strength of our governance, our business model, and our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient insurance company that consistently delivers value to customers, shareholders, and the wider economy.

“With our strengthened capital position, we remain focused on expanding our product offerings, deepening our distribution capabilities, investing in digital innovation, and delivering exceptional service across every customer touchpoint. We are well positioned to respond to emerging opportunities within Nigeria’s evolving insurance market while driving sustainable growth and operational excellence.”

Also Adebowale Adesona, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Coronation Life Assurance Limited, “said: The successful completion of this recapitalisation represents much more than regulatory compliance; it is a strong affirmation of our commitment to building a future-ready life insurance business that inspires confidence and delivers lasting financial security for our customers.

“This stronger capital base enables us to deepen our investment in innovative life insurance and wealth creation solutions, enhance our digital capabilities, strengthen our customer experience, and expand access to insurance through strategic partnerships. As Nigeria’s insurance industry enters a new era, Coronation Life Assurance is well positioned to help more individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most while creating sustainable long-term value for all our stakeholders.”

Both firms continue to strengthen their market position through customer-focused solutions spanning general insurance, life insurance, risk protection, savings, retirement planning, and wealth creation for individuals, businesses, and institutions.

The successful recapitalisation underscores growing investor confidence in the long-term prospects of Nigeria’s insurance industry while reaffirming Coronation’s commitment to building resilient financial institutions that create sustainable value.

With enhanced financial capacity, strong corporate governance, and a clear strategic growth agenda, Coronation Insurance and Coronation Life Assurance are well positioned to accelerate innovation, broaden market access, deepen customer relationships, and contribute meaningfully to the continued development of Nigeria’s insurance sector under the new regulatory framework.

The post Coronation Insurance, Coronation Life Meet NIIRA 2025 Minimum Capital Requirements Following Successful ₦9.2bn Capital Raise appeared first on Business Today NG.

Continue Reading

Trending