Matrix Energy Strengthens Leadership, Appoints Umunna as Deputy GMD
Matrix Energy Strengthens Leadership, Appoints Umunna as Deputy GMD
In a decisive move to consolidate its growth trajectory and deepen operational excellence, Matrix Energy Group has appointed Mr. Patrick C. Umunna as its new Group Deputy Managing Director (G-DMD), effective November 3, 2025.
The appointment underscores the Group’s renewed commitment to innovation, efficiency and sustainable profitability across its diverse energy operations, as it positions for the next phase of strategic expansion within and beyond Nigeria.
Umunna, a seasoned corporate leader with more than 27 years of experience spanning banking, energy and financial services, brings a strong track record of transformative leadership.
Before his appointment, he served in senior management roles at Premium Trust Bank and Polaris Bank Limited, where he was instrumental in driving growth, managing large business portfolios and strengthening operational performance.
At Matrix Energy, Umunna will work closely with the Group Chief Executive Officer to execute the company’s strategic agenda — focusing on operational optimisation, value creation, and the expansion of the Group’s footprint across critical sectors of the economy.
Industry observers have said the move reflects Matrix Energy’s proactive approach to leadership renewal at a time when the energy landscape demands adaptability, innovation and bold thinking.
Founded on a vision to deliver reliable energy solutions across Africa, Matrix Energy has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading integrated energy players, with operations spanning petroleum products trading, downstream oil and gas, shipping, storage, and logistics.
The company has been instrumental in bridging supply gaps and strengthening Nigeria’s energy value chain through investment in infrastructure, technology and strategic partnerships.
Welcoming Umunna to the team, the Group’s Corporate Communications Unit, led by Mr. Ibrahim Akinola, described the appointment as “a strategic reinforcement of Matrix’s leadership team to sustain growth momentum and deliver long-term value to stakeholders”.
“The Group is confident that Mr. Umunna’s wealth of experience and leadership acumen will further energise Matrix Energy’s mission to be a preferred energy partner for success,” Akinola stated.
With the appointment, Matrix Energy signals its readiness to accelerate its next phase of growth — one anchored on operational excellence, sustainability and a renewed commitment to powering Africa’s economic development.
In a decisive move to consolidate its growth trajectory and deepen operational excellence, Matrix Energy Group has appointed Mr. Patrick C. Umunna as its new Group Deputy Managing Director (G-DMD),
Read moreNELFUND: Student Loan Application Hits One Million
NELFUND: Student Loan Application Hits One Million
* N116bn has been disbursed so far
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disclosed that records on its portal indicates that application for student loan has hit one million.
The Director, Strategic Communications,
Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, in a statement on Sunday, noted that over N116 billion has been disbursed to students so far.
“This covers both institutional fees and upkeep allowances to students across universities, polytechnics and colleges of education nationwide.
“This milestone reflects the administration’s unwavering commitment to human capital development and inclusive growth, restoring faith in government-led social empowerment programmes and making higher education more accessible to all Nigerians,” Oluwatuyi said.
NELFUND’s Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, described it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s journey towards equitable education financing.
He said: “Crossing the one million mark represents more than data; it represents renewed hope for a generation of Nigerians determined to rise above financial barriers to education. It is a testament to visionary leadership, sound policy design and the collective efforts of all stakeholders driving this transformative agenda.”
He reaffirmed NELFUND’s commitment to continuous process improvement, ensuring that every qualified Nigerian student regardless of background or location, can access education funding with transparency, efficiency and dignity.
“With this milestone, NELFUND stands as a shining example of a government initiative that is working, authentic, effective and truly transformative. The programme demonstrates that when leadership, vision, and accountability align, lasting change is possible,” he added.
He maintained that NELFUND is a non-discriminatory initiative that benefits Nigerians of all faiths and tribes, Christians, Muslims, and others across diverse ethnic backgrounds, adding that it helps unify the country by providing equal access to education and fostering shared progress.
“As the NELFUND continues to expand its reach and impact, it remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that no Nigerian is denied the opportunity to learn, grow, or contribute to national progress because of financial limitations,” he added.
* N116bn has been disbursed so far Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disclosed that records on its portal indicates that application for student loan
Read moreNigerian Christians will be rescued soon – EU Parliament member, Tarcziñsky
A Polish politician who serves as a member of the European Parliament, Dominik Tarcziñsky, has said Nigerian Christians will be rescued very soon. Tarcziñsky expressed the view in a post on his X handle on Sunday. “Nigerian Christians will be rescued very soon,” Tarcziñsky wrote on X, expressing support to US President Donald Trump’s designation
Nigerian Christians will be rescued soon – EU Parliament member, Tarcziñsky
A Polish politician who serves as a member of the European Parliament, Dominik Tarcziñsky, has said Nigerian Christians will be rescued very soon.
Tarcziñsky expressed the view in a post on his X handle on Sunday.
“Nigerian Christians will be rescued very soon,” Tarcziñsky wrote on X, expressing support to US President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a country of particular concern.
DAILY POST reported that the US President had cited what he described as ongoing violence against Christians and the failure of the government to protect religious minorities.
But the Nigerian government denied persecution of any religious groups in Nigeria.
On Saturday, Trump went ahead to threaten military action against Nigeria if nothing is done about the matter quickly.
Nigerian Christians will be rescued soon – EU Parliament member, Tarcziñsky
Read moreSanwo-Olu calls for collective action to end plastic pollution in Lagos
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on residents to take collective responsibility for ending plastic pollution, declaring that Lagos must be defined not by pollution but by innovation, responsibility, and decisive action toward a zero-plastic waste future. The governor made the appeal through his Special Adviser on Environment and Water Resources, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, during
Sanwo-Olu calls for collective action to end plastic pollution in Lagos
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on residents to take collective responsibility for ending plastic pollution, declaring that Lagos must be defined not by pollution but by innovation, responsibility, and decisive action toward a zero-plastic waste future.
The governor made the appeal through his Special Adviser on Environment and Water Resources, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, during the 19th Annual Walk for Nature held over the weekend at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.
Speaking on the theme, “Lagos, Let’s Beat Plastic Pollution,” Sanwo-Olu described the topic as timely and critical, emphasizing that unchecked plastic waste has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the era.
He noted that tackling plastic pollution is key to achieving a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient Lagos, adding that the initiative aligns with the administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, which prioritizes environmental sustainability and inclusive growth.
“Across the world, plastic pollution has become a silent crisis-clogging our drains, polluting our waterways, threatening marine life, and endangering our collective pursuit of a sustainable future,” the governor said.
He revealed that Nigeria produces about 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with Lagos contributing roughly 870,000 tonnes, of which less than 12 percent is recycled.
He stressed that plastics block drainage channels, worsen flooding, harm aquatic ecosystems, and pose severe health hazards to humans.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the solution lies in collective responsibility, behavioural change, and active environmental stewardship, urging Lagosians to take individual and community-level actions toward reducing plastic use.
“As a coastal megacity, Lagos must continue to lead efforts in reversing this dangerous trend and set a global example in sustainable waste management,” he stated.
He recalled that earlier in the year, the state government began enforcing the ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam containers to curb littering and drainage blockages.
He added that the Lagos State Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, had strengthened waste collection and recycling systems while expanding the Blue Box Programme for waste separation at the point of generation.
According to him, the state has also expanded waste-to-wealth initiatives to convert recyclables into viable economic opportunities and increased investment in recycling infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and community clean-up exercises across all local government areas.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the Cleaner Lagos Initiative continues to empower waste managers, improve landfill operations, and enhance public-private partnerships in waste recovery and recycling.
He disclosed that the State Environmental Marshals are now better equipped to enforce sanitation laws, with stricter penalties for indiscriminate dumping of refuse.
Beyond enforcement, he said, the government is collaborating with innovators to develop sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics and to strengthen environmental education through schools and community outreach programmes.
However, the governor maintained that government effort alone cannot solve the problem, urging residents to adopt the 8Rs of sustainable living-Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rethink, Repair, Re-gift, Recover, and Refuse.
Sanwo-Olu commended the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, NCF, for its partnership with the Lagos State Government in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.
He described the Walk for Nature as a symbol of unity and shared purpose, representing the growing movement toward responsible consumption, circular economy practices, and environmental preservation.
Sanwo-Olu calls for collective action to end plastic pollution in Lagos
Read moreNigeria belongs to all of us – Gov Alia urges prayer for nation
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called on Nigerians to rekindle their spirit of patriotism and faith as essential ingredients for building a stronger and more united nation. The Governor, according to his media aide, Tersoo Kula spoke on Sunday during a Holy Mass at the Government House Chapel in Makurdi.
Nigeria belongs to all of us – Gov Alia urges prayer for nation
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called on Nigerians to rekindle their spirit of patriotism and faith as essential ingredients for building a stronger and more united nation.
The Governor, according to his media aide, Tersoo Kula spoke on Sunday during a Holy Mass at the Government House Chapel in Makurdi.
Governor Alia emphasized the need for citizens to imbibe the spirit of nationalism by showing love for their country and maintaining a positive outlook despite prevailing challenges.
He further cautioned against acts or utterances that undermine national unity, urging Nigerians instead to promote peace, hope, and mutual responsibility.
According to the Governor, “Nigeria belongs to all of us. We must continue to pray for our country, believe in her potential, and contribute our quota to her growth. National development is a collective task that requires our unity, optimism, and hard work.”
Governor Alia offered special prayers for the repose of departed souls, including members of the Armed Forces who paid the ultimate price for national security, as well as for past leaders and every Nigerian striving for a better future.
He prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and divine protection upon all citizens.
Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to peace, development, and moral rejuvenation, the Governor assured that his government would continue to implement policies that uplift the welfare of Benue people and contribute to Nigeria’s overall progress.
He urged Nigerians across all faiths and regions to remain steadfast in their prayers for the country’s peace, stability, and prosperity, adding that collective faith and patriotic action remain the bedrock of a great nation.
Nigeria belongs to all of us – Gov Alia urges prayer for nation
Read moreGov Kefas reaffirms commitment to peace in Taraba community amid mosque dispute
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has said the temporary measures adopted to resolve the recent Donga Central Mosque dispute were taken in the best interest of peace and unity among the people. The governor made this known at the weekend at the TY Danjuma House in Wukari while receiving a delegation from the Coalition
Gov Kefas reaffirms commitment to peace in Taraba community amid mosque dispute
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has said the temporary measures adopted to resolve the recent Donga Central Mosque dispute were taken in the best interest of peace and unity among the people.
The governor made this known at the weekend at the TY Danjuma House in Wukari while receiving a delegation from the Coalition of Indigenes of Donga Resident in Abuja.
Governor Kefas emphasized that maintaining peace and stability in Donga remains a top priority for his administration, stressing that his government would not tolerate any actions capable of disrupting the existing harmony in the area.
“The peace of Donga is very dear to me. I cannot condone anything that will undermine the unity and harmony of our people,” the governor said.
He appealed to the people of Donga for cooperation and understanding in the collective effort to advance development across Taraba State, adding that governance is ultimately about bringing progress closer to the citizens.
Governor Kefas also expressed appreciation to the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, the Gara Donga, and other members of the delegation for their visit.
He further extended his condolences to the Donga community over the unfortunate incident that led to the dispute.
Earlier, Maigari, who led the delegation, said their visit was to applaud the governor for his swift and decisive action in addressing the crisis.
He lauded governor Kefas for personally visiting Donga at a critical time, describing the gesture as a reflection of genuine leadership and commitment to peace.
“For the governor to personally visit Donga despite his tight schedule shows that he is a leader who truly cares for his people,” Maigari stated.
The Minister pledged continued collaboration with the state government to attract sustainable development and ensure lasting peace in Taraba State.
Gov Kefas reaffirms commitment to peace in Taraba community amid mosque dispute
Read more“Country of Particular Concern by US President undeniable reality – Arewa group
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, has viewed the recent proclamation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the United States President as a stark and undeniable reality that necessitates urgent and complete reassessment of our Nigeria’s security architecture. NYCN National President, Isah Abubakar, in a statement, on Sunday in Kaduna, said,
“Country of Particular Concern by US President undeniable reality – Arewa group
The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, has viewed the recent proclamation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the United States President as a stark and undeniable reality that necessitates urgent and complete reassessment of our Nigeria’s security architecture.
NYCN National President, Isah Abubakar, in a statement, on Sunday in Kaduna, said, “This designation is not merely a diplomatic observation but a damning indictment of the current inability of the security leadership to effectively contain the escalating threat of insurgency, banditry, and national instability.
”The time for complacency is over. The safety of Nigerian citizens must take absolute precedence over political considerations.”
Consequently, the NYCN made the urgent demands on President Tinubu, to urgently, relieve both current Ministers of Defence of their appointment and replace them with experienced and capable hands with deep knowledge of security operations.
Abubakar observed, “The tenure of the current ministers is marked by critical failure of oversight and strategic direction in safeguarding the nation.”
According to him, “The National Security Adviser must be replaced with a more competent, experienced, and proven hand. We strongly advise that this replacement should be drawn from a pool of retired, highly decorated military generals who possess a comprehensive and superior knowledge of the country’s security landscape, capable of injecting the necessary strategic vision and execution prowess.”
He is of the opinion that it is evident that the lack of synergy and effective coordination between the current Ministers of Defence and the Office of the National Security Adviser has critically hampered the collective national counter-insurgency effort, stressing that the current trio of appointees lacks the coordinated command necessary to salvage this dire situation.
Speaking on the Inspector General of Police, IGP, he said the IGP must not be exempted from the necessary overhaul, stressing that he, too, should proceed on immediate retirement as the move is essential to allow the Presidency to execute a complete and holistic restructuring of the entire security command chain, from military strategy to internal law enforcement.
”The NYCN insists that this comprehensive overhaul of the security leadership is the crucial first step toward restoring public confidence and achieving tangible peace and stability across Nigeria, particularly in the Northern region which has borne the brunt of insecurity.
“We stand ready to support any sincere effort to secure the lives and properties of all Nigerians,” Abubakar opined.
“Country of Particular Concern by US President undeniable reality – Arewa group
Read morePDP mocks APC’s endorsement of Tinubu, calls it desperate move to revive expired product
The Zamfara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, describing it as “a political comedy and a joke taken too far.” In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Halliru Andi, the
PDP mocks APC’s endorsement of Tinubu, calls it desperate move to revive expired product
The Zamfara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, describing it as “a political comedy and a joke taken too far.”
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Halliru Andi, the party said the APC’s stakeholders meeting in Talata Mafara, where Tinubu was endorsed was a desperate move to revive an expired product.
According to the statement, “the endorsement is nothing but an insult to the intelligence of suffering Nigerians.”
The PDP questioned how anyone could endorse a President whose government has inflicted unprecedented hardship, hunger, insecurity, unemployment, and poverty on Nigerians within just one year and a few months in office.
The party accused APC leaders in Zamfara of being seelfish and desperate, saying they have lost touch with reality and the plight of the common man.
It added that the same leaders “who ruined Zamfara and Nigeria are now attempting to sell an expired political product to the same masses they have betrayed.”
The PDP said, “Whenever APC leaders in Zamfara gather, it is never about the welfare of the people, but rather about sharing positions, protecting personal interests, and plotting how to remain politically relevant.”
It also blamed the APC government for worsening insecurity and economic collapse, saying, under President Tinubu and the APC, the Nigerian economy has collapsed, insecurity has worsened, and life has become unbearable for ordinary citizens.
The PDP assured that “2027 will not be business as usual,” adding that the era of alleged deceit, manipulation, and propaganda is over.
The statement said Nigerians “will reject Tinubu and the APC overwhelmingly at the polls.”
“Our great party, the PDP, remains the only credible alternative with a clear vision to restore hope, rebuild the economy, and secure our nation from the devastating failures of the APC,” it added.
The statement urged the people of Zamfara not to be distracted by the “political drama in Talata Mafara,” insisting that “it was never a meeting for the people, but a meeting for the few.”
“Zamfara State and Nigeria deserve better and that better future lies with the PDP,” it said.
PDP mocks APC’s endorsement of Tinubu, calls it desperate move to revive expired product
Read moreOne soldier killed as troops raid bandits’ hideout in Kano
Nigerian soldiers have launched a raid on bandits’ hideouts in Faruruwa, near Goron Dutse and Tsaure villages in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, killing several bandits and arresting others. During the operation, which took place on Saturday night, the troops recovered about 30 motorcycles used by the bandits to carry out attacks in
One soldier killed as troops raid bandits’ hideout in Kano
Nigerian soldiers have launched a raid on bandits’ hideouts in Faruruwa, near Goron Dutse and Tsaure villages in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, killing several bandits and arresting others.
During the operation, which took place on Saturday night, the troops recovered about 30 motorcycles used by the bandits to carry out attacks in rural areas.
The raid was part of ongoing military operations in northern Kano aimed at flushing out criminal groups hiding in the forests.
However, one soldier was confirmed dead during the exchange of gunfire with the bandits.
According to reports, the operation followed intelligence that the bandits had invaded some villages in the area and were attempting to rustle hundreds of animals before the troops intercepted and overpowered them.
The Chairman of Shanono Local Government, Hon. Abubakar Barau, commended the efforts of the security forces and promised continued support for their operations.
He also thanked both the state and federal governments “for their tireless efforts day and night to ensure the bandits are cleared from Shanono area.”
Additional ground and air troops have been deployed to the area to sustain the momentum and prevent the bandits from regrouping.
One soldier killed as troops raid bandits’ hideout in Kano
Read moreWolves Sack Manager After Winless In Opening 10 EPL Matches
Wolves have sacked manager Vitor Pereira after losing eight of their opening ten games of the Premier League season, talkSPORT understands. Pereira departs Molineux with his side rooted to the bottom of the table and without a win following a dismal start to the campaign. Wolves are the first team in Premier League history to […] The post Wolves Sack Manager After Winless In Opening 10 EPL Matches appeared first on Complete Sports.
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