'AI-at-scale' method accelerates atomistic simulations for scientistsEditor’s note: The Social Security Administration previously warned users that accounts not connected to Login.gov would be retired starting in September 2024. However, as of Dec. 12 2024, Social Security recipients still have the ability to use their old login methods to access my Social Security. SSA told VERIFY: “We are currently in the transition process and our current goal is to notify the public about these upcoming changes, therefore we have not set a final deadline for legacy accounts to transition to a Login.gov account.” In an update to the frequently asked questions page on Dec. 12, SSA addressed concerns the process would affect payments, saying: “Your Social Security benefits and Medicare premium deduction are not affected by the transition. While we strongly encourage you to transition to or create a Login.gov or ID.me account to access your personal my Social Security account, it is optional.” The story continues as originally published below. The Social Security Administration has an online system, my Social Security , where people can log on and see information about their Social Security cards, applications or benefits. VERIFY readers Mary and Joan reached out to ask if notifications they received about setting up an account with a different website, Login.gov, to access their Social Security information online were real and whether it’s safe to create an account. THE QUESTION Is it safe to use Login.gov to access online Social Security accounts? THE SOURCES Social Security Administration AARP THE ANSWER Yes, it’s safe to use Login.gov to access online Social Security accounts. Sign up for the VERIFY Fast Facts daily Newsletter! WHAT WE FOUND Login.gov is a legitimate website run by the federal government to authenticate the identity of online account holders. Users who aren’t using it or another government-approved authenticator will be required to do so in the coming months. The Social Security Administration is making updates to its online account system, according to a July 12 press release published by the agency. Starting in September , Social Security recipients will be required to use verification tools Login.gov or ID.me in order to access Social Security information online. “The agency is making the changes to simplify the sign-in experience and align with federal authentication standards while providing safe and secure access to online services,” the Social Security Administration says . The Social Security Administration has an update regarding the change pinned to the top of its website, ssa.gov . The email notice VERIFY reader Mary sent to us came from subscription.service@subscriptions.ssa.gov , a legitimate Social Security email address, according to the administration’s website . A pop up on Login.gov also confirms the website is an “official website of the United States government.” The .gov domain is also specifically reserved for government agencies. The other option for authentication, ID.me, is also legitimate. The company has partnered with 16 federal agencies to facilitate a login service “that meets the U.S. government's online identity proofing and authentication requirements,” the Social Security administration says. RELATED: No, Project 2025 doesn’t propose eliminating Social Security benefits Both provide users the ability to use just one username and password across multiple websites with two-factor authentication. The big difference between the two is that Login.gov is operated and run by the government, while ID.me is a third-party login system that can be used for government agencies, as well as non-government businesses. The Social Security Administration recommends ID.me for people living outside the United States. The systems offer additional protection from scammers who may “obtain your Social Security number and other personal information phishing, data breaches or other means may be able to go online and set up a My Social Security account in your name,” AARP says. Users already have the option to log in to their my Social Security accounts using Login.gov or ID.me, and people who have previously set up accounts through one of the authentication sites won’t need to take any action. Users who created my Social Security accounts before Sept. 18, 2021, and who have not created a login on one of the new authentication websites have just a few more months before their account is phased out. The Social Security Administration says “over five million of these account holders have already transitioned to Login.gov.” “Starting September 2024, these accounts will be retired,” the my Social Security login page says . For users who do not currently use Login.gov, switching over an account can be done when logging into my Social Security. After logging in on the my Social Security website with their username and password as usual, users with soon-to-be outdated accounts will be given an option to transfer over to the Login.gov system. They will then need to set up a second authentication method. Once the user links their account, a confirmation message will be shown, and Login.gov can be used to sign in to my Social Security in the future. The Social Security Administration recommends switching to a Login.gov account as soon as possible. The VERIFY team works to separate fact from fiction so that you can understand what is true and false. Please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter , text alerts and our YouTube channel . You can also follow us on Snapchat , Instagram , Facebook and TikTok . Learn More » Follow Us Want something VERIFIED? Text: 202-410-8808Zimbabwe's Triumph: A Surprise Victory over Pakistan
SANTA CLARA — Brock Purdy is charged with distributing the ball to the 49ers’ still-plentiful array of offensive weapons. On Tuesday, he threw disgruntled wide receiver Deebo Samuel his full support. “I want to get Deebo the ball every play if I could,” Purdy said. “I want to have him break all the records as best as possible. I want Deebo to do Deebo things, and we all do in this building.” Thing is, Samuel’s sub-par production this season has mirrored the 49ers’ rocky road to a 6-7 record entering Thursday night’s visit by the Rams (7-6). “Not struggling at all just not getting the ball!!!!!!!” Samuel wrote Monday in a since-deleted post on the social media platform X. The timing off that complaint was peculiar. The 49ers had just shaken a three-game losing streak with a 38-13 win over the Chicago Bears, a game Samuel acknowledged was their best offensive showing and most complementary outing. But the 49ers did so with minimal production again from Samuel, who had two catches for 22 yards and five carries for 13 yards. “You read what you read. A little frustrated, for sure,” Samuel said Tuesday at his locker before practice. General manager John Lynch asked 49ers fans to give Samuel “some grace,” and coach Kyle Shanahan also threw support behind Samuel’s gripes. “Deebo and I talk every day so I understand Deebo saying that,” Shanahan said. “Deebo wants to help us out, and the only way he is helping us is getting the ball more. And we’d like to get him the ball more.” Samuel, a two-time captain, has scored just two touchdowns (Week 1 run, Week 5 reception) after 12 last regular season; he had 14 in 2021. He missed the 49ers’ Week 3 loss in Los Angeles because of a calf injury. Three years removed from his All-Pro breakout season, Samuel’s production has taken a nosedive this season, even though he is getting the ball. His 72 touches (40 receptions for 533 yards, 32 carries for 92 yards) are second to only now-injured running back Jordan Mason’s 164. In an X post 10 minutes after complaining about his opportunities, Samuel wrote : “Just cause I voice my opinions don’t mean I’m hating on any of my teammates!!” Jauan Jennings (57 catches, 774 yards, six touchdowns) and tight end George Kittle (56-800-8) have seized more on their targets from Brock Purdy, while 2022-23 mainstays Brandon Aiyuk and Christian McCaffrey have missed most of the season injured. “We’d always love things to stay in-house,” Shanahan said. “It’s probably why I don’t go on social media: I’d get worked up if I was reading stuff all the time. Is it a distraction in our building? No.” “He’s one of my best friends on this team. I absolutely love Deebo and what he’s done for me,” Purdy said. “He’s right: he’s doing great right now with what we ask of him the offense. He’s not struggling. Like Ricky (Pearsall) or Aiyuk last year a little bit, there are moments through a season where guys just don’t get the ball, depending on defensive schemes and taking guys away.” Samuel has flourished in the 49ers’ rivalry against the Rams, including three years ago when his “wide back” persona emerged as he scored on both a run and a reception to lead the victorious 49ers out of a 3-5 rut and toward the playoffs. That dual-threat duty is not such an inventive concept anymore, however. “They’re not surprised anymore,” Samuel said. “We’ve been doing it almost three years now, so you’ve got a 50-50 chance whether I’m in the backfield getting a handoff or anything along those lines. They have a glimpse of what’s going on. ... There’s three or four (defenders awaiting) no matter who has the ball.” “Deebo has created such a high standard, the things he’s done, the innovation which we’ve created things for Deebo. That’s part of the problem,” said Lynch, noting that multiple teams now deploy Samuel-esque, dual-threat players that no longer surprise defenses. “... That frustration mounts. But he’s made so many plays for us, I think we need to give this guy some grace and bring him along, because we need him the rest of the way,” Lynch added. “We need him Thursday night. Deebo’s a big part of this team. We’re alright. We can all learn from different situations and a lot of things in the world these days that you can get caught up in.” Some of Samuel’s most productive efforts this season have come as a kick returner (11 returns for 333 yards, including six returns in their Dec. 1 loss at Buffalo). “We’ve got a lot of big football to play and he’ll be a big part of our season moving forward,” Lynch said. As for next season, Samuel carries a $16 million mark on the salary cap. The 49ers restructured his contract in March, so he would incur a $31.6 million hit if he’s released or traded before June 1; after that date, an exit would count $11 million in 2025 and $21 million in ’26. GUERENDO IDLING Running back Isaac Guerendo’s foot sprain Sunday kept him out of Tuesday’s light walkthrough and it’s uncertain whether he’ll make a second straight start. Guerendo ran for 78 yards and two touchdowns, and he had 50 yards on two catches, before exiting and bequeathing the backfield to Patrick Taylor Jr. Guerendo got clocked at 20.2 mph on a 30-yard, second-quarter carry that was the NFL’s fastest by a running back in Week 14. GREENLAW UPDATE The 49ers remain reluctant to declare whether linebacker Dre Greenlaw will make his season debut Thursday night, the date pegged for his comeback from an Achilles tear in the Super Bowl. Shanahan said there’s been no setback, that he merely wants to talk first to Greenlaw and see how the next two days go. OTHER INJURY UPDATES Defensive end Nick Bosa (oblique, hip) and left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) will officially miss the fourth week of practice, albeit this week’s only consisting of Tuesday’s walk-through that began at 5:10 p.m. Shanahan has not indicated whether they’ll miss a fourth straight game. While left guard Aaron Banks practiced for the first time since a Nov. 24 concussion in Green Bay, guard Ben Bartch (ankle) did not practice and is expected to go on Injured Reserve before Thursday’s kickoff. Limited were defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos, safety Malik Mustapha, and linebackers Dee Winters and Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles. HARGRAVE MOVEMENT Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave’s bloated contract was restructured to lessen the 49ers’ financial restraints next year. While that could stage his potential release after two seasons, as pointed out by OverTheCap.com, Hargrave is also more affordable to keep, seeing how his 2025 salary was chopped from $19.9 million to $2.1 million, and his salary cap mark fell from $28 million to $10.3 million. “The plan for him is to be a Niner,” Shanahan said, deferring business matters to the front office staff. “The mechanics of contract stuff, those are things I don’t look into until after the offseason.” Hargrave, 31, has been on injured reserve since tearing a biceps in the Sept. 22 loss at Los Angeles. He made the Pro Bowl last season and totaled seven sacks in his first year with the 49ers. Jordan Elliott replaced him in this season’s lineup next to Maliek Collins, with rookie Evan Anderson, Kevin Givens, Kalia Davis and Khalil Davis also in the interior rotation.
76ers' star Paul George sidelined the next 2 games with bone bruise in left kneePete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, is continuing to meet with Senators who will decide whether to approve his elevation to the post. There are still questions about reported sexual misconduct allegations, allegations of mismanagement of funds while leading a veterans' charitable organization, and questions about alcohol and drinking issues that he reportedly had while working at Fox News. Those questions have reportedly come up with Hegseth's meetings with senators. Hegseth met Monday with Sen. Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa, who is herself a military veteran and a sexual assault survivor. Sen. John Cornyn on Tuesday told reporters he has learned more about Hegseth's reported history with alcohol. "[Hegseth] admitted that coming back from deployment he and a lot of his young single service members did enjoy drinking and partying. I don't find that unusual or abnormal," Cornyn said. "He doesn't currently believe that he has a problem. He has in the past consumed alcohol, but I don't think he would be unique here on Capitol Hill or in the Pentagon for having done that." RELATED STORY | Trump doubles down on support for Hegseth amid contentious nomination process Cornyn and other Republican senators have also reiterated that the allegations of sexual misconduct against Hegseth so far come from anonymous accusers. It's still not clear if accusers would come forward before or during confirmation hearings. Hegseth is expected to meet soon with Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, another pivotal voice in the Senate who could lend crucial support to Hegseth's nominations. Republicans have a large enough majority in the next Congress to not need Democratic votes to confirm any of Trump's cabinet nominations — but that majority is still slim enough that the party can sustain only a few defections.
Incoming US President Donald Trump is reportedly wasting no time in making changes to the nation’s vehicle policies, with electric vehicles (EVs) in the firing line while autonomous cars are set for greater freedoms. News agency Reuters reports Mr Trump’s transition team is recommending the axing of the federal tax credit for EVs, worth up to US$7500 (A$11,625), shortly after his inauguration in January. At present, the incentive is available for EVs built in North America and below certain price points – US$55,000 (A$85,250) for passenger cars, and US$80,000 (A$124,000) for pickups and SUVs – with just 16 models eligible for the full amount. According to Reuters, this is set to be one part of Mr Trump’s plans to cut off support for EVs and charging stations, which threatens to stagnate or reverse the sales growth of battery-powered vehicles in the nation. 100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now . The publication reports the transition team plans to redirect money spent on EV chargers – which had been earmarked to receive US$7.5 billion (A$11.8bn) under Joe Biden – to the “national defense supply chain and critical infrastructure”. A transition team document seen by Reuters reportedly says EV batteries, minerals and other related components are “critical to defense production”, however EVs themselves and charging stations aren’t. Mr Trump is also reportedly planning to wind back the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emissions and fuel economy standards to 2019 levels, undoing the recent work of the government department. The EPA has a target for EVs to account for between 35 to 56 per cent of sales on the new vehicle market by 2032, however this is not an enforcement or mandate, rather an outline of what carmakers will need to do to meet wider emissions regulations across their fleets. This target was previously as high as 67 per cent before being walked back in April this year, following cooling demand for EVs. In the leadup to the US election, Mr Trump falsely claimed the US government has mandates which will require EV sales to reach 100 per cent, promising to repeal these if he was elected. Reuters reports that if the 2019 emissions regulations are revived, vehicles will on average be allowed to emit about 25 per cent more than under the 2025 regulations, while using up to 15 per cent more fuel. Additional proposals include restricting even more “adversarial nations” from receiving EV battery technology from the US; implementing tariffs as a means of negotiating with foreign markets to export EVs to; and removing requirements for US federal agencies to buy EVs by 2027. Meanwhile, another Reuters report claims Mr Trump’s transition team is looking to repeal a requirement for crashes involving autonomous vehicles to be reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The most vocal opponent of the requirement has been EV specialist Tesla, whose CEO Elon Musk reportedly spent more than US$250 million ($392m) towards Mr Trump’s election campaign. Autonomous driving has been a major focus of Tesla, not only via the ‘Autopilot’ and ‘Full Self-Driving’ systems in its current model range, but also with its upcoming driverless Cybercab robotaxi. Under the crash reporting requirement, Tesla has reported more than 1500 incidents to the NHTSA, which has led to the organisation launching multiple investigations against the company. According to Reuters, from when reporting first started to October 15, 2024, Tesla’s vehicles accounted for 40 out of 45 fatal crashes reported to NHTSA involving semi-autonomous vehicles. While the potential repeal of the crash reporting requirement would be of benefit to Tesla as it wouldn’t need to jump through as many regulatory hoops, the axing of pro-EV policies may also help the company. Mr Musk has previously welcomed the prospect of EV tax credits being cut, as it’s more likely to harm Tesla’s potential rivals, which need to trade on their price advantage in an effort to dislodge the EV sales leader. Following the November election, Tesla share prices have increased to record highs. MORE: Donald Trump is against everyone having an EV MORE: US Government walks back electric car sales targets MORE: Tesla shares surge to record high after Donald Trump election winToday, the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) stands as a hub for over 160 listed companies, with a total market capitalization of N58.91 trillion as of November 2024. Among these, only a select few surpass the $1 billion valuation milestone, showcasing the strength and resilience of Nigeria’s top-performing firms. Leading the market are giants like Airtel Africa, Dangote Cement, and BUA Foods, collectively valued at over N20 trillion, which represents nearly 40% of the NGX’s total market capitalization. Related Stories Nigeria’s Anthony Chiejina and others featured in ‘2024 world most influential communications executives’ Dangote Wins ECOWAS’ Manufacturing Brand of the Year Award Behind these billion-dollar companies are directors of marketing and communications. These leaders play a vital role in driving revenue growth, fostering industry partnerships, and ensuring their brands thrive in competitive and volatile markets. Their innovative strategies and ability to manage crises effectively have positioned their companies for sustained success while building trust among stakeholders. This article highlights 10 marketing and communications leaders who lead the expert teams reshaping Nigeria’s corporate landscape. From managing brand narratives to leveraging data-driven strategies, they have become the driving force behind some of the country’s most valuable and influential companies. Tolu Alero Ladipo- Group Head of Marketing/Corporate Comms UBA Market cap-N1.1 trillion Tolu Alero Ladipo is a seasoned marketing professional with extensive experience in corporate communications, marketing strategy, and customer experience. She is currently the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at UBA Group, a role she has held since April 2023. Prior to UBA, she was the Executive Head of Marketing and Customer Experience at Old Mutual Nigeria, where she led marketing efforts from August 2018 to July 2023. Tolu has also worked in senior marketing roles at United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Smile Communications Nigeria, building brand strategies and executing impactful campaigns. Tolu holds a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Trade from the University of Essex (2001-2002), a Bachelor of Law (BL) from The Nigerian Law School (2004-2005), and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Northumbria, Newcastle (1998-2001). Her expertise spans strategic marketing, advertising, and customer relationship management. As of November 22, 2024, UBA’s market capitalization reached N1.1 trillion, fueled by strong Q3 2024 performance. Interest income, which accounted for 77% of gross earnings, saw notable growth. Despite a 19% decline in Q3, interest income from loans and advances contributed 40.4% of total interest income for the quarter and 37% for the nine-month period. Oyinade Adegite (Ogunade)- Chief Communications GTCO Market cap: N1.6 trillion Oyinade Adegite (Ogunade) is the Chief Communication Officer at GTCO Plc, a role she has held since July 2021. She is responsible for developing and implementing the brand and communication strategy for one of Africa’s largest financial services groups. With over 20 years of experience in banking, strategy, and communication, she is widely recognized as a leading growth strategist in the finance sector. From 2012 to 2022, Oyinade served as Head of Corporate Communication at GTBank, where she spearheaded marketing initiatives that drove significant revenue growth and customer acquisition across multiple African markets. Between 2009 and 2011, she worked at Stanbic IBTC as Global Markets Head, specializing in interest rate sales and structuring. Earlier in her career, she gained experience in treasury and upstream energy roles at GTBank between 2003 and 2006. Oyinade holds a Master’s degree in Finance and Management from Cranfield University (2006–2007) and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Lagos (1997–2000). She is passionate about leveraging strategic communication to enhance corporate reputation, foster trust, and deliver meaningful impact. GT Holding ranks ninth with a valuation of N1.60 trillion, representing 2.5% of the total equity market. The company’s stock saw a 7% price appreciation. Olarewaju Daramola-General Manager, Commercial Aradel Holdings Market cap- N2.2trillion Olarewaju Daramola is a seasoned professional with over 31 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, holding senior roles across Nigeria, Australia, and the Netherlands. His expertise spans commercial operations, government relations, opportunity maturation, contracts and agreements, acquisitions, and divestment deals. He joined Aradel Holdings in September 2021, bringing his vast knowledge and leadership to drive the company’s commercial strategy and operational excellence. Daramola holds a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Lagos, and an MBA from Rushmore University. Prior to Aradel, he served as Gas Planning and Optimisation Manager for Shell Nigeria, where he played a pivotal role in the development and implementation of the country’s gas strategy, business planning, and gas advocacy. He also served as Non-Operated Venture Manager, overseeing governance, marginal fields management, divestment transactions, and commercial agreements, solidifying his reputation as a transformational leader in the industry. Oyindamola Fashogbon- Head Brand Marketing/Corp Comms Transcorp Power Market Cap – N2.69 trillion Oyindamola Fashogbon is a distinguished marketing and communications professional, recognized as one of the Top 35 Under 35 Marketing and Communication Professionals. With over six years of experience spanning corporate communications, integrated marketing, and brand management, she has made significant contributions across industries, including technology, energy, and aviation. Before joining Transcorp Power in August 2024, Oyindamola worked at Quidax, Cavista Holdings, and Dataleum, contributing significantly to the success of brands like Airtel, Nokia, and Nestlé. Her extensive background also includes roles at Green Africa and Noah’s Ark Communications, where she developed and executed impactful marketing campaigns. Oyindamola holds a Postgraduate Degree in Business Administration from the National Open University of Nigeria, an Award in Applied Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (with distinction), and certifications in Brand Management and Data Science. She also has a Higher National Diploma in Estate Management from YABATECH. Transcorp Power, listed in 2023, represents 4% of the market capitalization with a stock price of N359, although it experienced a 19% decline in share price during the quarter. Yvonne Afe- Director External Affairs & Social performance Seplat Energy Market Cap– N3.3 trillion Yvonne Afe has over 24 years of extensive experience in marketing and communications across various industries, including telecommunications, FMCG, and financial services. She joined Seplat Energy in May 2023 as Director of External Affairs, where she is responsible for managing Seplat’s global reputation, external relations, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Prior to Seplat, Yvonne held senior roles at Access Bank, where she served as Head of Marketing Communications from May 2022 to June 2023 and Group Head of Retail Marketing & Analytics from April 2019 to May 2022. Yvonne’s earlier experience includes serving as Head of Corporate Communications at Diamond Bank, Marketing Manager at MultiChoice, and Brand Manager at Cadbury Nigeria. She also worked as Senior Manager for Brand Assets and Activations at Airtel Nigeria and Senior Brand Manager at Coca-Cola Nigeria, where she developed and executed various brand strategies and consumer promotions. Afe holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Imperial College Business School and a Diploma in Direct Marketing from The Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing. She has a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in English/Language Arts Teacher Education from the University of Port Harcourt (1992–1996). Seplat Energy, with a market capitalization of N3.3 trillion , is a major player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Its recent $1.28 billion acquisition of ExxonMobil’s Nigerian assets strengthened its market position, with its share price surging 146.75% year-to-date, reflecting strong investor confidence. Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka- Chief Marketing Officer MTN Nigeria Market cap –N3.6 trillion With over 23 years of experience spanning telecommunications, logistics, and education, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka is a business leader renowned for crafting innovative strategies, expanding markets, and fostering talent development. Her academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence, with an MBA in General Management from Alliance Manchester Business School (2008-2010) and a BSc in Geology from the University of Calabar (1994-1997). She has further honed her expertise through executive programs at Columbia Business School (Business to Business Marketing, 2014) and Harvard Business School (Strategic Negotiations, 2012). At MTN, Onyinye has made a significant impact by developing profitable business models for enterprise and digital initiatives, serving SMEs, large organizations, and multinationals. As General Manager, Enterprise Sales, she led nationwide efforts, achieving consistent year-on-year growth and driving market expansion. Her ability to oversee go-to-market models has nurtured emerging products into mature, revenue-generating engines. Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka is an accomplished international speaker on leadership, commercial strategies, and technology. She serves as guest faculty at Tekedia Institute and PearlMutual Academy, co-founded theOIEhub, and is a John Maxwell-certified leader. Additionally, she is on the boards of two Nigerian startups, a member of the Forbes Business Development Council, and a doctoral student at Cranfield University, UK. MTN Nigeria, with a market capitalization of $2.19 billion (N3.67 trillion), represents 6.21% of the equity market. Despite a $462.81 million (N713.63 billion) pre-tax loss due to naira devaluation, it generated $1.53 billion (N2.37 trillion) in service revenue in the first nine months of 2024, demonstrating strong resilience. Adewunmi Desalu – Group Head of Corporate Communications, BUA Foods Plc Market Cap – N7.10 trillion Adewunmi Desalu is a dynamic marketing and communications leader with over two decades of experience spanning the food production, financial services, luxury retail, and advertising industries. Currently serving as the Group Head of Corporate Communications at BUA Foods Plc, she oversees strategic initiatives that enhance brand visibility, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement for one of Nigeria’s leading food companies. Adewunmi’s career began with a foundation in public health, earning a Bachelor’s degree from Babcock University, where she served as President of the Department of Health Sciences and an advisor to the Student Association Executives. Her transition into marketing and communications saw her excel in the financial sector, where she contributed to innovative communication strategies and rebranding initiatives at Guaranty Trust Bank and Wema Bank, setting industry standards in customer engagement. At BUA Foods Plc, Adewunmi plays a core role in driving the company’s growth, ensuring it maintains its position as a market leader. Notably, BUA Foods is has a market capitalization of N7.10 trillion, representing approximately 13% of the market. Emeka Oparah-VP Corporate Communications & CSR at Airtel Africa Market Cap – N8.10 trillion With over 25 years of distinguished experience, Emeka Oparah is a crisis communication expert, rebranding veteran, and leadership transition strategist. As Vice President, Corporate Communications & CSR at Airtel Africa, he oversees media relations, government affairs, and impactful social investment initiatives. Emeka is renowned for his expertise in navigating complex transitions, having successfully managed seven leadership changes and six brand transformations at Airtel Nigeria, guiding the company through seamless rebranding phases from Econet Wireless to its current identity. His career spans journalism, advertising, public relations, and corporate social responsibility, with key roles in organizations like Cadbury Nigeria. Emeka holds a BA (Hons.) in Mass Communications from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he graduated top of his class, and a Postgraduate Diploma in International Public Relations. A member of professional bodies such as NIPR, IPRA, and APCON, he has honed his skills through global leadership and communications programs. Currently, Emeka collaborates with teams across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets, championing digital inclusion and educational access for underprivileged children. His passion for storytelling, sustainability, and strategic communication continues to position Airtel as a transformative force in Africa. Airtel Africa overtook MTN Nigeria in Q3 2024 to become Nigeria’s second most valuable company, with a market capitalization of N8.10 trillion. Anthony Chiejina- Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer Dangote Group Market Cap – N8.15 trillion Anthony Chiejina is an accomplished communications professional with a rich academic and career background. He earned a B.Sc (Hons) in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos in 1981, graduating with Second Class Upper honors. He furthered his education with an M.Sc in Industrial Relations & Personnel Management from the same university in 1984, followed by an M.A. in Organizational Analysis & Behaviour from the University of Lancaster, UK, in 1988, and an M.A. in Development Studies from the Institute of Social Studies (ISS) in The Hague, Netherlands, in 1994. Chiejina’s career spans journalism and corporate communications. He held editorial roles as Associate Editor and Deputy Editor at African Economic Digest in London and African Concord in Lagos before transitioning to banking. He served as Assistant General Manager at Zenith Bank Plc and Deputy General Manager at Oceanic Bank International Plc, where he led corporate communications. Currently, as Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer at Dangote Industries Limited, he drives strategic communication across the Group’s Pan-African operations. A Salzburg Fellow, Chiejina has received prestigious scholarships and academic honors. He is also a Fellow of the Oxford University Centre of Corporate Reputation and an active member of several professional organizations, including ASPN and the IoD. As of October 31, 2024, Dangote Cement is Nigeria’s second most valuable company, with a market capitalization of N8.15 trillion. Note: The personalities featured in this compilation have been carefully selected by a distinguished panel of editors, experts, and analysts at Nairametrics. It is important to note that none of the individuals listed have solicited their inclusion. While this list aims to be comprehensive, it is by no means exhaustive; numerous other contributors have played significant roles in advancing the marketing and communications sector in Nigeria. This compilation is exclusive to Nairametrics and may be updated periodically to reflect changes and advancements in the field. Feedback will be appreciated.
Caregiver son struggles with guilt over not doing enoughPurpose Investments Inc. Announces December 2024 Distributions
Key Automotive Ambient Lighting Market Trend 2024-2033: Tech Innovations
Famous Liam Payne friend defended over outfit to funeralPope Francis Divulges New Details About 2021 Assassination Attempts On Him In Iraq