Polaris Bank has positioned gender equity as a core business strategy, announcing it has disbursed more than ₦1bn to support women-led businesses as part of its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) commitments.

The bank made this known at its IWD 2026 event, themed “Gender Equity as a Business Imperative: The Give to Gain Advantage,” where executives and industry leaders called for more deliberate investments in women.

Speaking at the event, the bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kayode Lawal, said empowering women delivers measurable returns for both institutions and the wider economy.

“Investing in women delivers measurable returns for institutions and economies alike,” Mr Lawal said.

He added that supporting women remains central to Polaris Bank’s long-term strategy, citing targeted financing, enterprise advisory services and capacity-building programmes for female entrepreneurs.

Why it matters

Gender equity is increasingly being linked to economic performance, especially in developing economies like Nigeria, where women-owned businesses face limited access to finance and leadership opportunities.

Polaris Bank’s latest figures suggest growing private-sector involvement in closing this gap, with over ₦1bn already channelled into female-led enterprises.

The bank also said it continues to invest in health and social initiatives, including breast cancer awareness, early detection campaigns and girl-child education.

Industry voices: ‘Move beyond rhetoric’

Delivering the keynote address, Tomi Somefun, former Managing Director of Unity Bank, urged organisations to take practical steps toward gender inclusion.

“Gender equity is not just a social obligation but a pathway to better decision-making, innovation, and long-term resilience,” she said.

She warned that many institutions still treat inclusion as a symbolic gesture rather than a structured business priority.

Youth and leadership perspective

Social entrepreneur Belinda Nkechi Indinmachi challenged young professionals, particularly Gen Z, to rethink how they approach career and business growth.

“Purposeful contribution and long-term thinking are essential for sustainable career and business growth,” she said.

“Giving should be seen as an investment that yields tangible returns.”

Polaris Bank’s internal strategy

Polaris Bank executive director, Corporate & Investment Banking, Abimbola Ozomah, said the bank’s initiatives go beyond annual campaigns.

She highlighted programmes such as the Polaris Women Connect platform, which focuses on mentorship, knowledge-sharing and leadership development for women.

“Our focus on women empowerment extends beyond symbolic observance,” she said.

Earlier, Bukola Oluyadi, Group Head of Customer Experience and Value Management, emphasised the role of collaboration and support systems in driving inclusive success.

What’s next

Polaris Bank says it will continue expanding its women-focused initiatives, including its flagship Polaris Pearl programme, which provides tailored financial solutions and growth platforms for female professionals and entrepreneurs.

The bank also called on other organisations to adopt inclusive systems, arguing that gender equity is key to building resilient institutions and sustainable economies.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a criminal syndicate accused of disguising as security operatives to gain access into residential estates and vandalise high-end vehicles across Lagos.

The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, announced the arrests during a press briefing on Wednesday, describing the suspects as part of a “notorious and vicious gang” operating within the Lagos metropolis.

Police said the suspects identified as Obinna Okeke (27), Emmanuel Anyanwu (38), and Joshua Nkemdirim (31) were apprehended around 4:00 a.m. in the Lekki area following a coordinated operation by detectives.

How the syndicate operated

According to the police, the gang used deception and intimidation to bypass estate security systems.

They allegedly disguised themselves in fake security uniforms and used a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack shaped like a firearm to create fear and gain access.

“They present the object like a rifle. At that point, victims believe it is a real weapon and comply,” the commissioner said.

Once inside estates, the suspects reportedly targeted vehicles particularly Toyota, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz models removing valuable components.

Police said the gang specialised in dismantling critical parts such as brain boxes, wiring systems, air-conditioning control units, mirrors, and other high-value components.

“Some of these parts are extremely expensive. Replacing them can cost between three to five million naira depending on the vehicle,” Jimoh said.

Arrest, confession and recovered items

The police confirmed that the suspects confessed during interrogation and have been assisting with ongoing investigations.

Recovered items include vehicle components, tools used for vandalism, whistles for communication, and fake number plates allegedly used to evade detection.

Authorities said the suspects also led detectives to crime scenes, where victims identified them.

“The suspects admitted they specialise in vandalising vehicles parked within estates,” the police said.

Wider crackdown and ongoing investigation

Police say efforts are underway to track down other members of the syndicate, including those who buy stolen vehicle parts.

Jimoh warned that individuals who purchase stolen components are equally culpable.

“If there is no market for stolen items, the crime will reduce. Receivers of these items are as guilty as those who steal them,” he said.

The command also hinted at a possible clampdown on markets suspected of dealing in stolen automobile parts.

Why it matters

Vehicle vandalism has become a growing concern in Lagos, especially in gated estates previously considered secure.

The police say the syndicate exploited trust in security systems, raising fresh concerns about identity verification and estate safety protocols.

Residents are now being urged to adopt stricter verification processes before granting access to anyone claiming to be security personnel.

Police advisory to residents

The police advised estate managers and residents to verify all security operatives through Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) before granting entry.

“Where there is any doubt, such persons should immediately be referred to the nearest police division,” Jimoh said.

Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious activities or request verification through the Lagos State Police Command emergency lines:

07061019374

08065154338

08063299264

08039344870

“Together, through vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting, the safety and security of all communities in Lagos State will be strengthened,” the commissioner added.

What’s next

The suspects are expected to be charged in court, with police indicating that the use of a fake firearm could attract armed robbery charges under Nigerian law.

Investigations continue as authorities seek to dismantle the wider network behind the operation.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has held talks with the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat to accelerate plans for a Simplified Trade Regime (STR) aimed at supporting small-scale traders.

The meeting took place on 23 March 2026 at the NCS headquarters in Abuja, focusing on reducing barriers for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in cross-border trade.

Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, said the initiative is designed to make trade more inclusive.

“Our goal is to make trade easier, more transparent, and inclusive for small-scale traders, while ensuring compliance with national and regional trade regulations,” she said.

Why it matters

Small-scale traders form a major part of West Africa’s informal economy, but many face complex customs procedures, high costs, and delays at borders.

The Simplified Trade Regime is expected to:

Reduce paperwork and border delays

Support women traders and MSMEs

Encourage formalisation of informal trade

Boost regional economic integration

Nigeria’s role is especially significant, as it has been selected as the pilot country for STR implementation in West Africa.

Nigeria named pilot country for West Africa

Leading the AfCFTA delegation, Pedro Estevao said Nigeria’s economic size gives it a strategic advantage.

He noted that the country’s large market positions it to drive inclusive trade and regional growth under the AfCFTA framework.

What was discussed

During the meeting, the Nigeria Customs Service presented a draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for implementing the STR.

Key proposals include:

Simplified customs processes for informal trade

Streamlined rules for passenger baggage

Easier handling of low-value e-commerce goods

Use of digital declaration systems

Risk-based controls to ensure compliance

Nabil Zibani, a consultant with the AfCFTA Secretariat, emphasised the importance of accessible systems.

“Simplified, transparent, and accessible systems are critical to enabling MSMEs to participate in regional trade,” he said.

Industry and expert perspective

Trade analysts say the move could significantly improve cross-border business for small traders, especially in border communities.

Economists also note that simplifying trade processes could increase government revenue by bringing informal trade into formal channels.

However, experts caution that success will depend on effective implementation, digital infrastructure, and awareness among traders.

What’s next

Both parties agreed to continue technical discussions to refine the framework and address operational challenges.

The next steps include aligning Nigeria’s procedures with continental guidelines and rolling out pilot programmes.

If successful, the initiative could serve as a model for other African countries under the AfCFTA.

Polaris Bank has positioned gender equity as a core business strategy, announcing it has disbursed more than ₦1bn to support women-led businesses as part of its 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) commitments.

The bank made this known at its IWD 2026 event, themed “Gender Equity as a Business Imperative: The Give to Gain Advantage,” where executives and industry leaders called for more deliberate investments in women.

Speaking at the event, the bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kayode Lawal, said empowering women delivers measurable returns for both institutions and the wider economy.

“Investing in women delivers measurable returns for institutions and economies alike,” Mr Lawal said.

He added that supporting women remains central to Polaris Bank’s long-term strategy, citing targeted financing, enterprise advisory services and capacity-building programmes for female entrepreneurs.

Why it matters

Gender equity is increasingly being linked to economic performance, especially in developing economies like Nigeria, where women-owned businesses face limited access to finance and leadership opportunities.

Polaris Bank’s latest figures suggest growing private-sector involvement in closing this gap, with over ₦1bn already channelled into female-led enterprises.

The bank also said it continues to invest in health and social initiatives, including breast cancer awareness, early detection campaigns and girl-child education.

Industry voices: ‘Move beyond rhetoric’

Delivering the keynote address, Tomi Somefun, former Managing Director of Unity Bank, urged organisations to take practical steps toward gender inclusion.

“Gender equity is not just a social obligation but a pathway to better decision-making, innovation, and long-term resilience,” she said.

She warned that many institutions still treat inclusion as a symbolic gesture rather than a structured business priority.

Youth and leadership perspective

Social entrepreneur Belinda Nkechi Indinmachi challenged young professionals, particularly Gen Z, to rethink how they approach career and business growth.

“Purposeful contribution and long-term thinking are essential for sustainable career and business growth,” she said.

“Giving should be seen as an investment that yields tangible returns.”

Polaris Bank’s internal strategy

Polaris Bank executive director, Corporate & Investment Banking, Abimbola Ozomah, said the bank’s initiatives go beyond annual campaigns.

She highlighted programmes such as the Polaris Women Connect platform, which focuses on mentorship, knowledge-sharing and leadership development for women.

“Our focus on women empowerment extends beyond symbolic observance,” she said.

Earlier, Bukola Oluyadi, Group Head of Customer Experience and Value Management, emphasised the role of collaboration and support systems in driving inclusive success.

What’s next

Polaris Bank says it will continue expanding its women-focused initiatives, including its flagship Polaris Pearl programme, which provides tailored financial solutions and growth platforms for female professionals and entrepreneurs.

The bank also called on other organisations to adopt inclusive systems, arguing that gender equity is key to building resilient institutions and sustainable economies.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a criminal syndicate accused of disguising as security operatives to gain access into residential estates and vandalise high-end vehicles across Lagos.

The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, announced the arrests during a press briefing on Wednesday, describing the suspects as part of a “notorious and vicious gang” operating within the Lagos metropolis.

Police said the suspects identified as Obinna Okeke (27), Emmanuel Anyanwu (38), and Joshua Nkemdirim (31) were apprehended around 4:00 a.m. in the Lekki area following a coordinated operation by detectives.

How the syndicate operated

According to the police, the gang used deception and intimidation to bypass estate security systems.

They allegedly disguised themselves in fake security uniforms and used a modified Mercedes-Benz car jack shaped like a firearm to create fear and gain access.

“They present the object like a rifle. At that point, victims believe it is a real weapon and comply,” the commissioner said.

Once inside estates, the suspects reportedly targeted vehicles particularly Toyota, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz models removing valuable components.

Police said the gang specialised in dismantling critical parts such as brain boxes, wiring systems, air-conditioning control units, mirrors, and other high-value components.

“Some of these parts are extremely expensive. Replacing them can cost between three to five million naira depending on the vehicle,” Jimoh said.

Arrest, confession and recovered items

The police confirmed that the suspects confessed during interrogation and have been assisting with ongoing investigations.

Recovered items include vehicle components, tools used for vandalism, whistles for communication, and fake number plates allegedly used to evade detection.

Authorities said the suspects also led detectives to crime scenes, where victims identified them.

“The suspects admitted they specialise in vandalising vehicles parked within estates,” the police said.

Wider crackdown and ongoing investigation

Police say efforts are underway to track down other members of the syndicate, including those who buy stolen vehicle parts.

Jimoh warned that individuals who purchase stolen components are equally culpable.

“If there is no market for stolen items, the crime will reduce. Receivers of these items are as guilty as those who steal them,” he said.

The command also hinted at a possible clampdown on markets suspected of dealing in stolen automobile parts.

Why it matters

Vehicle vandalism has become a growing concern in Lagos, especially in gated estates previously considered secure.

The police say the syndicate exploited trust in security systems, raising fresh concerns about identity verification and estate safety protocols.

Residents are now being urged to adopt stricter verification processes before granting access to anyone claiming to be security personnel.

Police advisory to residents

The police advised estate managers and residents to verify all security operatives through Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) before granting entry.

“Where there is any doubt, such persons should immediately be referred to the nearest police division,” Jimoh said.

Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious activities or request verification through the Lagos State Police Command emergency lines:

07061019374

08065154338

08063299264

08039344870

“Together, through vigilance, cooperation, and timely reporting, the safety and security of all communities in Lagos State will be strengthened,” the commissioner added.

What’s next

The suspects are expected to be charged in court, with police indicating that the use of a fake firearm could attract armed robbery charges under Nigerian law.

Investigations continue as authorities seek to dismantle the wider network behind the operation.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has held talks with the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat to accelerate plans for a Simplified Trade Regime (STR) aimed at supporting small-scale traders.

The meeting took place on 23 March 2026 at the NCS headquarters in Abuja, focusing on reducing barriers for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in cross-border trade.

Representing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Deputy Comptroller-General in charge of Tariff and Trade, Caroline Niagwan, said the initiative is designed to make trade more inclusive.

“Our goal is to make trade easier, more transparent, and inclusive for small-scale traders, while ensuring compliance with national and regional trade regulations,” she said.

Why it matters

Small-scale traders form a major part of West Africa’s informal economy, but many face complex customs procedures, high costs, and delays at borders.

The Simplified Trade Regime is expected to:

Reduce paperwork and border delays

Support women traders and MSMEs

Encourage formalisation of informal trade

Boost regional economic integration

Nigeria’s role is especially significant, as it has been selected as the pilot country for STR implementation in West Africa.

Nigeria named pilot country for West Africa

Leading the AfCFTA delegation, Pedro Estevao said Nigeria’s economic size gives it a strategic advantage.

He noted that the country’s large market positions it to drive inclusive trade and regional growth under the AfCFTA framework.

What was discussed

During the meeting, the Nigeria Customs Service presented a draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for implementing the STR.

Key proposals include:

Simplified customs processes for informal trade

Streamlined rules for passenger baggage

Easier handling of low-value e-commerce goods

Use of digital declaration systems

Risk-based controls to ensure compliance

Nabil Zibani, a consultant with the AfCFTA Secretariat, emphasised the importance of accessible systems.

“Simplified, transparent, and accessible systems are critical to enabling MSMEs to participate in regional trade,” he said.

Industry and expert perspective

Trade analysts say the move could significantly improve cross-border business for small traders, especially in border communities.

Economists also note that simplifying trade processes could increase government revenue by bringing informal trade into formal channels.

However, experts caution that success will depend on effective implementation, digital infrastructure, and awareness among traders.

What’s next

Both parties agreed to continue technical discussions to refine the framework and address operational challenges.

The next steps include aligning Nigeria’s procedures with continental guidelines and rolling out pilot programmes.

If successful, the initiative could serve as a model for other African countries under the AfCFTA.