In a strategic engagement aimed at advancing Nigeria’s digital economy, Airtel Nigeria’s Group CEO, Sunil Taldar, held high-level discussions with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, on February 12, 2025, in Abuja.

The meeting focused on Airtel Africa’s ongoing efforts to drive digital transformation, expand financial inclusion, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth. Mr. Taldar reaffirmed Airtel’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure, enhancing access to digital financial services, and fostering an inclusive economy through innovative solutions.

“Airtel Africa remains dedicated to Nigeria’s economic development by leveraging technology to empower businesses and individuals. Our continuous investment in digital infrastructure and financial inclusion is aligned with the government’s vision of a more connected and economically vibrant Nigeria,” Taldar stated.

The discussions also highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between the private sector and regulatory bodies to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide, improve mobile connectivity, and enhance financial accessibility, particularly for underserved communities. Airtel Africa has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at integrating millions of Nigerians into the financial system through mobile money services and digital banking solutions.

Furthermore, the meeting underscored Airtel’s role in supporting government policies that promote economic stability, financial literacy, and technological advancement. The telecom giant has continued to invest in expanding broadband penetration and developing fintech solutions to enable seamless transactions and economic participation for Nigerians.

Airtel Nigeria expressed deep appreciation to Minister Edun and Governor Cardoso for their engagement, describing the meeting as a valuable step towards fostering a stronger partnership between the government and the telecommunications sector. The company reiterated its commitment to working closely with policymakers to create an enabling environment that supports digital innovation and economic empowerment.

As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation as a catalyst for economic growth, Airtel Africa’s engagement with key stakeholders signals its proactive approach to shaping the future of connectivity, financial inclusion, and economic development in the country.

Tony O. Elumelu, C.F.R, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, has issued a strong call to global investors, urging them to reconsider their perception of Africa as a high-risk investment destination. Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Elumelu emphasized that Africa presents unparalleled opportunities for economic growth and offers some of the highest returns on investment (ROI) globally.

“As an investor with a diversified portfolio spanning four continents—including power, oil & gas, financial services, and healthcare—I can confidently say that nowhere else offers the kind of ROI that Africa does,” Elumelu asserted. He stressed that outdated narratives about Africa’s business environment need to be discarded, allowing investors to recognize the continent’s vast potential.

Citing the remarkable contributions of Heirs Holdings Group, Elumelu highlighted the company’s pivotal role in Africa’s energy sector. “We have the capacity to generate 2,000MW of electricity daily, and currently, our available capacity stands at approximately 1,000MW. This is transformative for a continent where energy access remains one of the most pressing economic challenges,” he explained. Elumelu noted that bridging Africa’s power deficit is essential for driving industrialization and economic empowerment.No alternative text description for this image

Beyond energy, Elumelu pointed to Africa’s youthful and rapidly growing population as its greatest asset. “With a median age of 19 and 65% of our 1.5 billion people under the age of 30, Africa boasts an unstoppable demographic advantage. This youthful energy is a goldmine for investment, innovation, and economic expansion,” he said. He encouraged global investors to harness Africa’s human capital by investing in education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Elumelu further underscored the immense opportunities within Africa’s infrastructure, energy, and transportation sectors, arguing that what are often perceived as challenges—such as infrastructure deficits and inadequate transport systems—are, in fact, untapped investment frontiers. “The key is identifying these gaps and structuring approaches to mitigate the risks. That’s where the competitive edge lies,” he remarked.

Concluding his address, Elumelu delivered a powerful message: “Invest in Africa. The returns are undeniable, the opportunities are limitless, and the future is ours to shape. Let’s build a prosperous, self-sustaining Africa together.” His words resonated strongly with attendees, reinforcing the notion that Africa is not just a viable investment destination but a continent on the rise, ready to drive global economic transformation.

Elumelu’s advocacy at the World Governments Summit aligns with his broader mission of fostering entrepreneurship and sustainable development across Africa. Through his leadership at Heirs Holdings and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, he continues to champion initiatives aimed at empowering African entrepreneurs and creating an enabling environment for long-term prosperity.

 

 

“Invest in Africa. The returns are undeniable, the opportunities are limitless, and the future is ours to shape. Let’s build a prosperous, self-sustaining Africa together.” His words resonated strongly with attendees, reinforcing the notion that Africa is not just a viable investment destination but a continent on the rise, ready to drive global economic transformation.

 Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, Pioneer President of the Forum of Regions of Africa and former Governor of Ekiti State, has reaffirmed his commitment to regional development, emphasizing the necessity of long-term infrastructure investments for the Southwest region of Nigeria.

Speaking at the DAWN Commission roundtable in Ibadan, Fayemi highlighted the progress made in institutionalizing regional integration, stressing that the commission’s framework now serves as a guiding structure for the newly established Southwest Development Commission (SWDC).

“Regional development has always been at the core of my vision for governance. At the DAWN Commission roundtable in Ibadan, we reflected on the journey that led to its establishment and the immense potential it holds for the Southwest. It was a moment of pride to see how far we have come in institutionalizing a framework for regional integration, one that is now positioned to guide the newly established Southwest Development Commission (SWDC),” Fayemi stated.

He expressed gratitude to Dr. ‘Seye Oyeleye and the DAWN Commission team for their unwavering commitment to advancing regional economic integration. According to Fayemi, their contributions have laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth.

To ensure SWDC fulfills its mandate effectively, Fayemi emphasized the importance of prioritizing large-scale infrastructure projects, such as rail, power, and energy transition, over fragmented short-term initiatives. He underscored that regional development must be driven by strategic, long-term investments that guarantee sustainable economic prosperity.

Fayemi also called for a non-partisan approach to regional growth, urging all stakeholders to set aside political differences in favor of collective progress.

“True development is not about competition but collaboration. It is about forging partnerships, strengthening governance, and ensuring that regional integration translates into tangible benefits for our people. I remain committed to this vision and to working with all stakeholders to drive real, lasting progress for the Southwest and Nigeria at large,” he added.

His remarks reinforced the necessity of coordinated regional efforts, with the DAWN Commission and SWDC playing pivotal roles in advancing economic development and integration in the Southwest region.

 

 Amaechi Michael Okobi, Chief Communications Officer at Access Holdings, recently shared a moving and inspirational story about Esther Okuru, a corporate lawyer at Access Bank Plc. Beyond her legal career, Okuru has emerged as a symbol of resilience, turning personal tragedy into a source of hope for many.

In a heartfelt statement, Okobi introduced Okuru, emphasizing her dual role as a corporate lawyer and a published author. Her book, What Love Left Unfinished, is a deeply personal account of love, loss, and the strength to heal. The book tells the story of how she coped with an unimaginable tragedy—the untimely death of her husband in a motorcycle accident just five weeks after their wedding.

“Thirty-five days. Five weekends. That’s all she got,” Okobi stated, highlighting the brevity of their time together and the devastating impact of such a sudden loss. Despite the overwhelming grief, Okuru found solace and strength in writing, transforming her pain into a narrative that offers hope and encouragement to others facing similar hardships.

During their meeting, Okuru personally presented Okobi with a signed copy of her book, leaving him deeply moved by her journey. He praised her courage, noting that her ability to document her experience serves as a beacon of inspiration for others navigating grief and personal loss.

What Love Left Unfinished is more than just a memoir; it is a testament to human resilience and the enduring power of love. Okobi strongly encouraged the public to read the book, which is available on Amazon, describing it as a compelling and transformative work that speaks to the depths of human emotions.

Adding a lighthearted twist to his statement, Okobi shared an amusing exchange with a colleague while reviewing a Valentine’s Day campaign. When the phrase “Spread love, it’s the Access Way” was read aloud, he instinctively responded with a reference to the late rapper Notorious B.I.G., saying, “…it’s the Brooklyn way.” However, his colleague’s confusion at the reference led to an amusing moment that underscored generational and cultural differences in music knowledge.

Esther Okuru’s story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of adversity. Her journey, both personal and professional, continues to inspire many within and beyond the Access Bank community, reinforcing the importance of hope, healing, and the ability to transform pain into purpose.

By Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy & Evangelist at KnowBe4 Africa (www.KnowBe4.com

 

With growing cybersecurity concerns top of mind for many organisations this year, recognising the varying approaches that different generations have to digital safety is an important component of effective security cultures. Even though younger generations grew up in a hyperconnected world, their overconfidence and lax approach to cybersecurity precautions are potentially putting organisations at great risk.

According to a 2022-survey by Ernst & Young (EY) (https://apo-opa.co/3Q4Wnbx), almost half of Gen Z respondents (48%) say they take cybersecurity protection on their personal devices more seriously than on their work devices.The same survey found that Gen Z workers are far more likely than older employees to use the same password for professional and personal accounts and to ignore important IT updates.

Even though Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) and Gen Alpha (born after 2013) (https://apo-opa.co/3XbQeOX) have grown up on a steady diet of tablets, smartphones, and social media, their vast exposure to the digital world – and the confidence it’s brought about – makes them increasingly susceptible to cyber threats, particularly in the face of AI-powered attacks.

This vulnerability is evident from the fact that 72% admit to clicking on suspicious links at work (https://apo-opa.co/3CEoWtc), a figure that is far higher than that among older generations.

Gen Z’s elevated risk profile 

Unlike millennials and older generations, Gen Z and Gen Alpha have grown up in a fully connected world. Their awareness of technology is instinctive rather than learned – but this has both negative and positive side effects.

On the plus side, they may instinctively understand certain risks, but paradoxically are therefore less concerned about them, such as when it comes to sharing personal information. These younger adults exhibit a classic case of the Dunning-Kruger effect (https://apo-opa.co/3Ej2XIL): they overestimate their cybersecurity knowledge, while lacking the overall competence needed to recognise that they are, in fact, not proficient. This may make them resistant to training from older generations, whom they feel know less about technology than they do.

Because they’re more comfortable sending messages via social media, Gen Z and Gen Alpha are, for instance, more vulnerable to phishing emails. The EY survey found that despite being digital natives, only 31% of Gen Z-respondents actually feel confident in identifying phishing emails (https://apo-opa.co/3CEoWtc). In addition, their love of media-multitasking makes them more distracted and therefore more susceptible to social engineering threats.

Another risk is that younger employees tend to mix personal and work devices, increasing organisations’ exposure to security vulnerabilities. Moreover, digital-first employees may resist traditional security systems at work, viewing them as inefficient or unnecessary.

The key differences relating to cybersecurity to be aware of among various generations in the workplace are:

  • Millennials:
    • More cautious, as they witnessed the rise of the internet and early cybercrime.
    • Tend to follow traditional cybersecurity protocols, like password rotation and antivirus usage.
  • Gen Z/Alpha:
  • Exhibit more trust in tech solutions like password managers, but are less vigilant with manual precautions.
  • More reliant on AI-based protections and quick fixes, leading to assumptions that systems are inherently secure. ​

 

Building an intergenerational cybersecurity culture

Knowing younger generations’ different approaches to learning and technology can make it easier for cybersecurity training programmes to really work.

 

Forget old-school compliance training: standardised cybersecurity training might not connect well with Gen Z employees.

 

If you want to grab their attention, use gamified learning platforms to make training interactive and fun. Not only will they be more engaged, but you’ll be aligning the training with their tech-savvy nature and familiarity with social media, making it more impactful.

 

Gen Z and Alpha thrive on bite-sized content, being far more likely to consult TikTok to learn something new than consult their parents (https://apo-opa.co/3Er4exw). Organisations can take advantage of this by creating short, engaging, and mobile-friendly lessons that resonate with younger generations.

 

Another way to make cybersecurity risks hit home is by incorporating real-life examples into training sessions. Because younger employees may not fully understand the consequences of cyber risks, case studies are useful in pointing out the impact that cyberattacks can have on individuals and organisations, such as losing your job or costing the organisation millions of rands in damage.

 

Bridging this awareness gap can also be done by encouraging intergenerational collaboration at work. Younger employees can learn from the experience and insights of older workers while also providing great insights and wisdom by sharing their perspectives too. Mentorship and knowledge exchange programmes where experienced employees can guide but also listen and try to learn from the Gen Z workers will solidify your organisation’s cybersecurity culture. This bridge can also be crossed by encouraging collaborative learning. Younger employees are far more likely to embrace cybersecurity initiatives when they feel involved and their input is actively welcomed.

 

By tailoring cybersecurity training to the unique characteristics and preferences of each generation, organisations can create more effective and engaging programmes. In this way, workplaces can cultivate a culture of shared responsibility and ongoing improvement by empowering Gen Z with a sense of ownership and autonomy.

Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (www.GTBank.com) has announced the removal of processing fees on all GTBank POS terminals, reinforcing its commitment to supporting businesses with cost-effective payment solutions.

 

This initiative, which took effect Tuesday, 11 February 2025, communicates that merchants using GTBank POS terminals will no longer incur Merchant Service Charges (MSC) when receiving payments from customers.

At Guaranty Trust Bank, we are always looking for ways to add value to our financial ecosystem

With this initiative, all qualifying SME Merchants can now receive payments at zero cost, allowing them to reduce operational expenses, whilst promoting the merchant’s enterprise, and enhancing customer experience.

Speaking on the initiative, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director, Guaranty Trust Bank Nigeria, said: “At Guaranty Trust Bank, we are always looking for ways to add value to our financial ecosystem. By implementing the zero processing fees on POS transactions, we are empowering businesses to get the full value of every payment they receive, whilst also ensuring a more seamless and efficient payment experience.”

The Zero Processing Charge campaign aligns with GTBank’s ongoing efforts to empower businesses with innovative financial solutions that drive growth and efficiency.

For more information, merchants are encouraged to contact their Relationship Managers or reach out to the Digital Banking Support Team at poshelpdesk@gtbank.com.

 

 

The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris fnipr , has declared 2025 as a pivotal year of consolidation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, aimed at building upon the significant achievements recorded in the first 19 months of governance.

During a Ministerial Press Briefing held in Abuja, Minister Idris emphasized the importance of reflecting on these accomplishments as the administration approaches its mid-term. He stated, “This inaugural briefing for 2025 serves as a reminder of our progress and the context in which these gains are being realized.”

The Minister outlined key areas of achievement under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, including:

1. Fiscal, Macroeconomic, and Legislative Reforms:

• Fuel Subsidy Removal: This strategic move has plugged financial leakages amounting to hundreds of billions of Naira annually.
• Foreign Exchange Transparency and Stability: The introduction of the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) has led to unprecedented stability in the FX market, clearing billions of dollars in backlogs and boosting foreign investment. The Naira recently reached an eight-month high in the official market.
• Oil and Gas Reforms: In 2024, Nigeria became the most attractive destination for oil and gas investments in Africa, securing over $5 billion in Final Investment Decisions (FIDs).
• Electricity Act: The 2024 Electricity Act provides a framework for state governments to establish regulated electricity markets, following a constitutional amendment.
• Local Government Autonomy: A landmark Supreme Court ruling in July 2024 empowered local governments with unprecedented financial autonomy, with an Inter-Ministerial Committee established to ensure compliance.

2. Targeted Interventions:

• Students Loan Fund: Over 169,000 students have benefited from NELFUND, receiving N32.8 billion for school fees and upkeep.
• Regional Development: New Development Commissions have been established for the North-Central, South-East, and North-West regions, alongside the creation of a Federal University of Environmental Technology.
• Healthcare Initiatives: The Federal Executive Council recently approved $1.07 billion from the World Bank for health programs, including targeted subsidies for cancer patients.
• Passport Reforms: A backlog of over 200,000 international passports was cleared within three weeks in 2024.
• Compressed Natural Gas: An investment of over $450 million has been made to develop Nigeria’s CNG value chain.

3. Infrastructure Development:

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria has become a hub of construction activity. Recent approvals from the Federal Executive Council include over 2.5 trillion Naira for various road projects, including:

• N1.334 trillion for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
• N470.9 billion for access roads to the Second Niger Bridge.
• N195 billion for the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway reconstruction.

4. Defence and Security:

In 2024, security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, rescued 8,000 kidnap victims, and established a Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency.

5. Food Security:

The establishment of a Ministry of Livestock Development aims to tap into a multi-billion-dollar agricultural opportunity, contributing to significant drops in grain prices.

2025 Budget Overview:

On December 18, 2024, President Tinubu presented a proposed budget of N49.7 trillion, later increased to N54.2 trillion due to additional revenue projections. The budget, termed the “Budget of Restoration,” prioritizes:

• Security: N4.91 trillion
• Infrastructure: N4.06 trillion
• Education: N3.52 trillion
• Health: N2.48 trillion

Minister Idris concluded by asserting that the bold initiatives of President Tinubu are fostering greater fiscal capacity, a reformed tax regime, and improved living standards for Nigerians through various support programs.

“We are witnessing a transformative era, where hope is being renewed for all Nigerians, regardless of age or gender, across the nation,” he added

 

 

The Anambra South Concerned Citizens, led by Engr. Ikechukwu Nwosu, Convener of the Anambra South Concerned Citizens movement, have formally petitioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Assembly, demanding urgent action to fill the vacant senatorial seat in their constituency.

In a strongly worded letter addressed to the INEC Chairman, with copies sent to the Senate President, the Clerk of the National Assembly, and traditional institutions within the constituency, the group expressed deep dissatisfaction over the prolonged vacancy following the passing of their late Senator, Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, who died on July 27, 2024.

Highlighting the implications of the delay, the petitioners noted that Anambra South, which comprises seven local government areas—Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Aguata, Orumba North, Orumba South, Ihiala, and Ekwusigo—has been without representation in the Senate for over 180 days. They described the situation as a gross disenfranchisement of their people, an act of political negligence, and a blatant disregard for democratic principles.

Speaking on the matter, Engr. Ikechukwu Nwosu stated, “This has been far more than one hundred and eighty (180) days since the unfortunate passing of our distinguished Senator, Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah. The people of Anambra South have been left without a voice in the Senate, and we can no longer condone this impunity. We will not accept another four months without a representative at the Red Chambers. This political carelessness must stop.”

Engr. Nwosu further emphasized the far-reaching consequences of the prolonged vacancy, warning that it has left the region voiceless on crucial national matters. “Without a senator to represent us, the voices of Anambra South remain unheard on key national issues, including budgetary allocations, legislative deliberations, and policies that impact our region. This is a deliberate political exclusion that should not be tolerated. We have waited long enough, and we demand action. The electorate of Anambra South must be given their democratic right to choose a new representative without further delay,” he said.

Expressing the growing frustration of the people, Nwosu described the situation as “a dangerous precedent that undermines democracy and fair representation.” He added, “This is not just about politics; this is about governance and accountability. Our people deserve to have a voice in shaping policies and decisions that affect their lives. The continuous delay in holding a by-election is an outright violation of our rights.”

The group called on INEC and the National Assembly to act swiftly in conducting a by-election to fill the vacancy, stressing that Anambra South must regain its place in national legislative affairs. They urged the authorities to uphold democratic principles and ensure that the constituency is no longer left without representation.

As the demand for immediate action intensifies, political observers are keen to see how INEC and the National Assembly will respond to the mounting pressure from the electorate in Anambra South. The petitioners have also hinted at possible legal action should the authorities fail to address their demands in a timely manner.

With rising concerns over governance gaps in the constituency, residents and stakeholders have begun mobilizing support to amplify their call for action, signaling a heightened wave of advocacy that could shape the political landscape of Anambra South in the coming months.

 

In a significant legal development, the Lagos State Special Offences Court, sitting in Ikeja, has ordered the forfeiture of all shares previously held by the former owners of Keystone Bank Limited, effectively transferring full ownership of the bank to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The ruling, delivered on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, marks the culmination of a legal battle over the acquisition of the bank by its previous shareholders—Sigma Golf Nigeria Limited and Alhaji Umaru H. Modibbo. This follows a series of regulatory actions taken by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address governance concerns within the financial institution.

Background of the Case

The ownership dispute dates back to January 10, 2024, when the CBN announced the dissolution of Keystone Bank’s Board and Management, citing breaches of corporate governance. In response, the Federal Government, through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), initiated legal proceedings at the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, to challenge the legitimacy of the bank’s acquisition by its former shareholders.

After months of legal deliberations, the court ruled in favor of the Federal Government, ordering the forfeiture of the bank’s shares held by the former owners. This decision now solidifies the government’s control over the bank, ensuring a new phase of stability and oversight.

Implications for Keystone Bank

With this judgment, Keystone Bank is now fully under the ownership of the Federal Government, providing a clear path for its recapitalization and long-term financial health. The bank has assured its customers, investors, and stakeholders that this transition will not affect its operations but will instead strengthen its stability and growth prospects.

Keystone Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong financial position, fulfilling all regulatory obligations, and ensuring customer confidence in its services. The institution remains focused on enhancing its balance sheet, forging strategic partnerships, and driving profitability.

“We want to reassure our customers and stakeholders that Keystone Bank remains safe, stable, and resilient. This development further strengthens our financial standing and enables us to continue delivering value-driven banking solutions,” the bank stated in an official communication.

Next Steps and Future Outlook

As Keystone Bank embarks on this new phase under government ownership, industry analysts anticipate that the move will create opportunities for enhanced restructuring, potential capital injection, and long-term sustainability. The bank’s management has pledged to work closely with regulators to ensure smooth operations and uninterrupted service delivery.

Keystone Bank continues to prioritize customer satisfaction, innovation, and regulatory compliance, positioning itself for a new era of growth in Nigeria’s banking sector.

For more information, visit: www.keystonebankng.com.

A security checklist for your prospective home

 

When searching for a new home, location, size, and price are key considerations – but security should be just as important. Before making a final decision, prospective buyers should conduct a thorough security evaluation, assessing both existing security features and potential risks. Identifying vulnerabilities before signing on the dotted line can save homeowners time, money, and stress in the long run.

For most South Africans, home security is a non-negotiable priority, whether the house is free standing or part of a gated community or complex.

“No home is entirely immune to break-ins or theft,” says Damian Judge, Sales and Marketing Executive at Trellidor. “Assessing security before purchasing a property can help homeowners avoid costly retrofits and unexpected vulnerabilities.”

Once you have established that a house suits your needs and budget – it has the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the kitchen can accommodate your culinary skills and entertaining schedule, there’s a garden for children and pets, plus a pool and off-street parking, it’s time to conduct a security evaluation. Look beyond aesthetics and assess the security measures already in place.

“Retro-fitting shutters and burglar bars can be expensive and may even require some structural alterations to accommodate them, so if there is nothing already in place, you will need to add security installations to your budget,” says Judge. “Alternatively, if security isn’t up to scratch, negotiate on the selling price based on the cost to you of mitigating any potential security risk to you and your family.”

Start your security evaluation by taking a walk through the house and examining doors and windows to assess the vulnerability of access points. If windows are accessible from the ground, are they protected by burglar bars or similar barriers? If they are, have they been properly installed and maintained? Are they well anchored, not fixed into soft wooden frames, and are they free of rust and corrosion that could weaken them? Ensure that all locking mechanisms are working and that the current owners have keys to all windows, doors and shutters that open. Additionally, sliding doors are a common security weak point – if the house has sliding doors, check whether they have reinforced locks or security bars to prevent forced entry.

Gates and fencing matter with regards to a property’s visibility from the street and its exposure to passers-by. Is the house’s perimeter adequately protected with a wall or fence that will deter intruders? Keep in mind that criminals often target homes with high, solid walls because they block visibility from neighbours. A combination of fencing and visibility, such as palisade fencing with an electric fence, can offer better security.

“Neighbourhood watches and local security companies are a good source of information around crime trends in the suburb, which you should research before signing your purchase agreement,” recommends Judge.

Whilst you’re checking the perimeter of the house, look for blind spots; whether the house is adjacent to any disused land, parks or spruits which provide easy access or escape routes for criminals. If there are no external beams, outside lights or security cameras, ask a security company to quote, but remember to take the costs versus the seller’s asking price into consideration.

“In the event that a property’s wall is breached, the built-in security measures in the house become the last line of defence against criminals, and ensuring that you and your family can enjoy your new home with peace of mind is critical,” says Judge.  A well-secured home should have multiple layers of protection, making it difficult for intruders to move through the property undetected. These features should be strategically placed based on the layout and risk areas of the home. Expanding security gates, fixed burglar guards, louvre shutters, and mesh screens provide essential barriers for doors and windows, reducing entry points for criminals. By incorporating layered security measures, homeowners can create multiple obstacles for intruders, increasing the likelihood of detection and response before any real damage occurs.

Before committing to a purchase, consider a professional security assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities and ensure your home has the right protective measures in place. “Suitability and aesthetics as well as strength all play a role in the selection of a security product or installation,” says Judge whose company offers a no obligation consultation to assess the level and effectiveness of security installations of any home you might consider buying.

Your dream home is not a dream home if it doesn’t offer both comfort and security. Prioritising safety during the house-hunting process ensures you make an informed decision, rather than being swayed by aesthetic features like a sparkling pool or spacious built-in cupboards – because none of these will keep you safe at night.

Ends.

About Trellidor

Trellidor is a proudly South African company specialising in the manufacturing and distribution of security gates and window burglar proofing. Since the development of the original steel trellis-style sliding gate in the 1970s, Trellidor has expanded its product range to include internationally certified industrial-grade gates for high-security public spaces, including one of the strongest models in the world. The product line also features contemporary solutions such as see-through security screens, sliding gates in both aluminium and steel, aluminium louvre shutters, aluminium roller shutters, polycarbonate bars, and various window burglar-proofing styles.

Trellidor’s extensive franchise network ensures that products are shipped and installed professionally, providing personal service from experts familiar with local safety and security challenges. With over 70 skilled franchise teams throughout South Africa, Trellidor addresses crime concerns both locally and internationally, operating 54 franchises in 27 countries, including locations in Africa, the United Kingdom, Israel, several European countries, and Australia.