Events

Mutual Trust MFBank gives back with festive food drive

Published

1 year ago

January 4, 2024

Christmas, known as the season of good cheer, took a gloomy turn for many Nigerians this year as the rising cost of festive essentials casts a shadow over celebrations. With higher prices impacting everything from food and drink to gift items, Nigerian households grappled with increased financial strain.

The costs of basic necessities essential for a joyful Christmas celebration have surged, with families having to allocate more of their budgets to food, beverages, clothing, shoes, and transportation.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s headline inflation rate for November 2023 stood at 28.2 percent, marking the 11th consecutive month of inflationary increases. This rate is the highest recorded since July 2005, spanning over 18 years. A previous NBS report on the Customer Price Index for October also revealed a rise in the headline inflation rate to 27.33 percent, up from September’s 26.72 percent.

With these economic challenges looming large, many Nigerian families face the prospect of a less-than-merry Christmas and New Year celebration due to the surge in the prices of goods and services.

In a heartwarming response to this growing concern, Mutual Trust MFBank Limited, a Nigerian microfinance bank headquartered in Abuja, organized a one-day feeding initiative as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program. This initiative aimed to provide underprivileged individuals and families with various packages of food and water to brighten their festive season.

The bank collaborated closely with local partners to identify those in need, ensuring the initiative reached the most deserving beneficiaries.

Addressing attendees at the event, Josh Oyebisi, managing director/CEO of Mutual Trust MFBank Limited, characterized the Feeding Initiative project as a crucial component of the bank’s CSR mission to give back to the community.

“The Mutual Trust MFBank Feeding Initiative is a CSR endeavor that seeks to support vulnerable members of society and alleviate hunger, especially during this festive season,” he stated. “We hope that this initiative will make a meaningful difference in the lives of people who are struggling to put food on their tables for themselves and their families.”

The bank’s feeding initiative received widespread commendation from local community leaders and beneficiaries, including widows, children, and elderly men.

Speaking at the event, Gbenga Adetola, the Chief Corporate Services Officer of Mutual Trust MFBank Limited, emphasized the vital importance of the initiative as a service to humanity. “Numerous individuals are grappling with the challenge of putting food on the table during the festive season,” he noted. “The bank’s feeding initiative is just one of the ways in which we are giving back to the community. Our bank also actively supports various charitable organizations, including schools, hospitals, and orphanages.”

Mutual Trust MFBank’s CSR program constitutes a significant part of its overarching mission, reflecting the institution’s commitment to improving the community. The bank firmly believes in its responsibility to contribute to the betterment of society, and its feeding initiative stands as a testament to this enduring commitment.

As Nigerians grapple with the economic hurdles posed by inflation, acts of goodwill like the one organized by Mutual Trust MFBank are a beacon of hope, bringing warmth and joy to those in need during the festive season.

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Events

Igbere Cultural Festival: Promoting Heritage and Unity

Published

1 week ago

January 6, 2025

Lanre

The Igbere Cultural Festival celebrates the ancestral heritage of 13 villages in Abia State, uniting communities through tradition and culture.

Eminent entrepreneur and politician Chimaobi Anyaso has lauded the annual Igbere Cultural Festival for its role in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the Igbere people.

The festival, held in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, is sponsored by the OUK Foundation, founded by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.

Speaking during the event at Amaiyi Village, Anyaso commended the former governor of Abia State for his unwavering support of the festival, which celebrates the ancestral practices of Igbere’s 13 villages.

The event showcases the unique folklore, traditional cuisines, dances, hospitality, attire, and language nuances of each community.

“This is a remarkable initiative to promote our forefathers’ culture, especially the positive aspects,” Anyaso said. “Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s efforts to unite the people and celebrate our heritage are commendable.

It’s a sacrifice that fosters reconnection with our roots and sets an example for others to emulate.”

Anyaso urged both the government and private sectors to increase investments in Nigeria’s cultural and tourism industries, emphasising their potential for substantial economic returns.

The 4th edition of the Igbere Cultural Festival, a two-day event, was held simultaneously across all 13 villages of Igbere: Agbo, Eziama, Amaukwu, Amakpo, Amankalu, Ibinanta, Amaofufu, Ibinaukwu, Umunsi, Okafia, Ohumola, Amaoji, and Amaiyi.

The celebration featured an array of traditional activities, including local food processing, wrestling, drama, folklore, poetry, lectures, dancing, and beauty contests.

Foreign tourists from the Republic of China also attended, enjoying the warm hospitality of the Igbere people, the pleasant weather, and the region’s scenic hilly landscape.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, in a statement, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting unity, peace, and social interaction.

“The cultural splendour of the 13 villages was once again reinvigorated, leaving a lasting impression on participants. This event is a testament to our historical existence and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage,” Kalu said.

The festival not only strengthens community ties but also showcases Nigeria’s vibrant cultural diversity to a global audience, positioning it as a key event in the nation’s cultural tourism calendar.

Events

Destination Lagos Awards 2024: A night to celebrate culture, tourism, and excellence

Published

3 weeks ago

December 27, 2024

Lanre

Lagos celebrates tourism and culture with the Destination Lagos Awards 2024, honouring contributions to the city’s growth and development.

Today, Friday, December 27, 2024, Lagos will shine once again with the highly anticipated Destination Lagos Awards 2024 and the glamourous beauty pageant, Oju-Ibile Eko, taking place at the John Randle Cultural Centre in Onikan.

The event promises to be a spectacular celebration of the state’s cultural heritage, tourism, and the contributions of influential figures in the industry.

Also read: Recognition awards celebrate exceptional service during black history month

This year’s awards come on the heels of the IPADA Initiative Celebration 2024 fiesta, which has captivated global attention over the past ten days.

The recent festivities included a host of exciting events such as the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024, where vibrant displays from Lagos’ five Ibile divisions dazzled audiences with intricately decorated boats, live performances, rowing competitions, and much more, leaving attendees with lasting memories of Lagos’ aquatic excellence and cultural vibrancy.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 is the brainchild of renowned tourism expert Apata Nunanyon Sampson, the Project Director and National Vice President of the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN).

Sampson has worked tirelessly to position Lagos as a global tourism destination, and today, the event will honour the efforts of key stakeholders, including Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who will be recognised for his unparalleled commitment to the tourism sector.

Sampson praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership, which has significantly contributed to the development of Lagos’ tourism sector.

“The Governor’s administration has been instrumental in promoting tourism in Lagos State. His vision for tourism development is unparalleled, and we are proud to recognise his efforts through the Destination Lagos Awards,” Sampson stated.

Today’s event will not only spotlight the achievements of individuals and organisations in the tourism and hospitality industry, but also celebrate Lagos State’s diverse and rich cultural heritage.

The activities lined up include cultural performances, an Art and Crafts exhibition showcasing the finest works of local artists and artisans, a Fashion Display featuring the latest trends in Lagos’ vibrant fashion scene, and a beauty pageant, Oju-Ibile Eko.

There will also be an exclusive performance by the Indian community in Lagos, adding an international flair to the celebration.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 will also provide a platform to recognise outstanding contributions to the growth and success of the hospitality sector, with awards set to be presented to key figures and organisations that have played a pivotal role in shaping Lagos as a global destination of choice.

Speaking ahead of today’s event, Mr. Diwesh, Managing Director of Donias and Head of the Expatriate Communities Committee for the event, shared his excitement for the unique opportunity that this occasion represents.

“The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 is a chance to showcase Lagos’ diverse cultural landscape and celebrate those who have contributed to its growth in tourism.

We are committed to making this event a resounding success and reinforcing Lagos’ position as a premier global destination,” he said.

The Destination Lagos Awards 2024 promises to be an unforgettable event that highlights the best of Lagos’ culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors while cementing the state’s reputation as the Centre of Excellence.

Events

Samuel Nwajagu makes history as First African Mister international winner

Published

4 weeks ago

December 17, 2024

Lanre

Samuel Nwajagu made history as the first African to win Mister International, taking the title in Bangkok, Thailand, on December 14, 2024.

Nigerian model Samuel Nwajagu has made history by becoming the first African to win the prestigious Mister International title.

The groundbreaking achievement occurred at the 16th edition of the global competition, held in Bangkok, Thailand, on Saturday, 14th December 2024.

Also read: Top 10 most spoken languages in the world 2024

The event, which drew 47 contestants from around the world, saw Nwajagu rise to the top amidst fierce competition. His victory is not only a personal triumph but also a significant moment for African representation in international beauty pageants.

Nwajagu’s journey to the global stage began earlier in the year when he was crowned Mister International Nigeria in July 2024, securing his place in the Mister International competition in Thailand.

This victory was a result of months of preparation, dedication, and his innate charisma, which captivated both the judges and audiences throughout the event.

In the grand finale, Nwajagu went head-to-head with two top finalists: Nguyễn Mạnh Lân from Vietnam and Glenn Victor Sutanto from Indonesia.

The three competed in various segments, showcasing their modelling skills, physical fitness, and personality. Ultimately, Nwajagu emerged as the winner, marking a historic milestone for Africa in the realm of global pageantry.

The Mister International competition is known for its emphasis on not just physical appearance but also character, leadership, and social responsibility. Nwajagu’s win serves as an inspiration to aspiring models and young people across the African continent, reinforcing the importance of confidence, dedication, and hard work in pursuing global recognition.

As the newly crowned Mister International, Nwajagu’s victory is expected to open doors for further international opportunities in modelling and ambassadorial roles.

His achievement continues to raise the profile of African talents on the world stage, proving that Africa’s presence in international competitions is stronger than ever.