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All Posts in "Month: May 2025"

Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe Champions Transformational Leadership At London Business School Women’s Day Forum

 

As part of this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations, the London Business School (LBS) Alumni Community Nigeria hosted a private brunch and fireside chat that placed the spotlight firmly on one of Nigeria’s most impactful business leaders—Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc.

 

Held in Lagos, the event gathered an elite group of C-suite executives from across finance, FMCG, investment, and other critical sectors for a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the shared responsibility to “Accelerate Action,” this year’s global Women’s Month theme. But it was Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s presence and insights that set the tone for the day.

 

As the first female CEO in Fidelity Bank’s history, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has not only shattered ceilings but redefined what bold, values-driven leadership looks like in Nigeria’s banking sector. Drawing from her remarkable journey rising through the ranks of a male-dominated industry, she shared personal stories marked by perseverance, strategic thinking, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.

 

“I have personally never acknowledged the gender glass ceiling in my career—or in anything in my life,” she declared. “When something looks like a barrier, I see it as motivation to go even harder.”

 

Her words were not merely motivational—they reflected a lived philosophy that has defined her leadership at Fidelity Bank, where she has championed innovation, diversity, and financial inclusion while delivering record-breaking financial results. Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s tenure has become synonymous with transformation—not just for the bank, but for the broader financial services industry.

 

She spoke candidly about the power of discipline, self-belief, and taking calculated risks. “Don’t fear failure. It’s part of the process,” she added. “Every misstep has taught me something that helped me get better.” These insights resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom saw reflections of their own challenges and aspirations in her journey.

 

But Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe also emphasized the broader dimensions of leadership—particularly the importance of balance in the lives of modern women. “Learning to balance family and career is not just important for business success, it’s important for success in life,” she noted, reminding participants that holistic well-being is a leadership imperative.

 

A passionate advocate for gender equity, she acknowledged the progress made in the financial sector, pointing out that 11 of Nigeria’s 26 commercial bank CEOs are now women. Still, her call was clear: “That’s progress, but we must not stop there. We want to see that number go to 14, 15, and beyond.”

 

The London Business School, renowned for producing global business leaders, is home to a vibrant Nigerian alumni community committed to impact. Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s conversation was a reminder of the kind of leadership that truly drives change—one that is visionary, courageous, and deeply rooted in purpose.

“I’m truly impressed by the quality of professionals in this network,” she said. “It’s refreshing and inspiring to see so many women leading with excellence.”

 

In closing, Akintayo Sanwo-Olu, President of the LBS Alumni Community in Nigeria, echoed the spirit of the gathering: “As a community, we’re not just talking about change—we’re building it. At LBS, we are committed to empowering more women to lead across industries and actively changing the narrative around gender and leadership.”

 

Indeed, in Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the community found not just a speaker, but a symbol of what’s possible when women lead with vision and purpose

Online Poster by — May 26, 2025 in News 0
ARCON DG, Fadolapo Gets NIPR Honorary Fellowship Award

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has conferred an honorary fellowship on the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo.

 

He was awarded the fellowship alongside two other distinguished individuals, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Tim Akano, MD/CEO of New Horizon Nigeria, during Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025 held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

 

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Fadolapo stated that the honor recognizes the synergy between the advertising and public relations sectors in promoting the growth of the marketing communication industry.

 

“For me, personally, this honor signifies that other industries and key stakeholders appreciate my contributions to the growth and improvement of the industry,” Dr. Fadolapo said. “It demonstrates their belief in the reforms ARCON is championing and shows that we are providing effective leadership to the advertising industry.”

 

He highlighted the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ARCON, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and the National Institute of Marketing Nigeria (NIMN), emphasizing the importance of a united front within the marketing communication industry.

 

“This induction is an endorsement, a collaboration, and an alignment with other sectoral groups, and it affirms that we are on the right path,” Dr. Fadolapo noted.

 

He further emphasized that ARCON and other sectoral groups are integral parts of the marketing communication ecosystem, with both public relations and advertising playing critical roles in communication strategy. The MoU, he explained, will facilitate collaboration and smoother transitions for public relations practitioners into the advertising industry, reducing bureaucracy and improving workflow.

 

“The curricula for both fields are closely related within the marketing communication industry. This collaboration will ensure greater synergy and smoother operations.”

 

The honorary fellowship underscores the increasing recognition of the interconnectedness between public relations and advertising, as well as the importance of regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders working together to promote excellence in the industry.

 

On his part, Tim Akano, MD/CEO of New Horizon Nigeria, expressed his gratitude for the honorary fellowship. He noted that, although he has received several awards in the past, the NIPR recognition is particularly meaningful due to the institute’s reputation as one of the most respected institutions in Nigeria and Africa.

 

“The fact that NIPR considered me alongside two other esteemed individuals for this award means a great deal to me,” Akano said.

 

Dr. Fadolapo attended Ogun State University, where he earned his first degree in Economics. He further obtained three master’s degrees: a Master of Science in Marketing (MSc.), a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), and a Master’s in Legal Studies (MILS) from Babcock University, Illisan, Ogun State; the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State; and Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos, respectively.

 

He holds a PhD in Marketing with a specialization in Marketing Communications from Babcock University, Illisan-Remo, Ogun State. Dr. Fadolapo is a Fellow of the Advertising Profession, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), and the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN). He has been actively involved in the industry, serving as a member of the immediate past Governing Council of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) and as a member of the Executive Committee of the Heads of Advertising Sectoral Groups (HASG). Additionally, he has served as Secretary to various advertising industry organizations and bodies.

 

Following the recent reform of the advertising regulatory sector, the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) was renamed the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). Dr. Fadolapo was appointed as the first Director-General of ARCON by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Prior to this, he was the fourth (4th) substantive Registrar/Chief Executive of APCON, appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in August 2020. Under his leadership, ARCON continues to advance the regulation and growth of the advertising industry in Nigeria. He is a recipient of numerous awards and has facilitated many seminars, conferences, and symposiums.

Winifred Bosa by — May 24, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0
NGX Confirms No Insider Trading was Done By MD/CEO Of Fidelity Bank PLC

The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) has affirmed that the recent purchase of 18 million units of Fidelity Bank shares by its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, was conducted in full compliance with applicable regulations.

In a letter dated May 22, 2025, the regulator dismissed allegations of insider trading and the misuse of bank funds for the transaction stating “….Following the filing of the Bank’s 2025 Q1 UFS on 30 April 2025, the Directors and other insiders of the Bank became eligible to trade on the securities of the Bank after twenty-four (24) hours.

Therefore, the share purchase transaction referenced by Sahara Reporters which occurred on 19 May 2025 was transacted during an open trading window and NGX RegCo is not aware of any other price sensitive information that the Bank is required to disclose which should hinder trades on the securities of the Bank by insiders.”

 

Fidelity Bank has subsequently issued a statement addressing the accusations, categorizing them as false, misleading, and maliciously intended to tarnish the reputation of both the bank and its MD/CEO, as well as to mislead the investment community and the general public.

Signed by the bank’s Divisional Head of Brand and Communications, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, the statement clarified that Fidelity Bank was compelled to respond to the erroneous article published on May 21, 2025.

“As a publicly quoted company regulated by the NGX and subject to the Listing Rules of the NGX and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, we unequivocally confirm that neither the Bank nor its MD/CEO has ever engaged in insider trading.”

Dr Nwagboh further emphasized that the MD/CEO personally funded the share purchase and did not utilize bank funds or take a loan for the transaction.

The statement reaffirmed that the transaction was conducted in strict adherence to the Listing Rules and insider trading regulations governing publicly traded companies.

Winifred Bosa by — May 24, 2025 in Capital Market 0
Shell Nigeria Gas Engages Stakeholders On Deepening Gas Distribution

L-R: Manager, Strategy and Sustainability, NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML) Daniel Aso; Team Lead on Gas, Office of The Special Adviser to The President on Energy, Lateef Biobaku; Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo); Ronald Adams; General Manager, Shell Energy Nigeria (SEN), Markus Hector ; Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG) Ralph Gbobo and Joseph Musa, Director Gas at The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) at Shell Nigeria Gas customers Forum that held in Lagos

 

Nigeria’s premier gas distribution company, Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG) last week engaged more than 100 gas off takers in the Agbara Ota industrial zone in Ogun State on ways of consolidating the gains from the supply of gas to the businesses. Set up in 1998 as a fully Shell-owned company, SNG currently operates in Abia, Rivers and Ogun states providing gas to customers through distribution pipelines of approximately 150km.

 

SNG interacted with the off takers in customers’ fora to receive feedback and explore ways of improving gas supply. The theme of the customer’s forum at Agbara Ota was “The Natural Gas Partner of Choice, Powering Nigeria,” and it was also attended by industry partners and officials of the Federal Government, the Ogun State Government and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

 

“Our commitment is to build, operate and maintain a gas distribution system that is  not just reliable, but resilient, transparent, and growth-oriented, to support businesses, industries and ambitions,” General Manager, Shell Energy Nigeria Markus Hector said, while welcoming guests. “This session is an opportunity for honest feedback, shared learning, and co-creating a better path forward. Your voice matters and we want to hear it.”

 

The Special Adviser to the President on Energy, represented by the Team Lead, Gas, Lateef Biobaku used the opportunity to share the vision of the government for the oil and gas industry. He said: “Our vision is to unlock Nigeria’s energy potential, to help fuel economic growth, to drive industrialization and help diversify our economy.” The aim is to attract investments to help raise oil and gas production to 4 million barrels per day and 12 billion cubic feet of gas per day by 2030.

 

The Managing Director of the NNPC Gas Marketing Limited, represented by the Manager, Strategy and Sustainability, Dan Aso said: “The future of the Agbara Ota industrial zone is bright, and natural gas will continue to play a pivotal role as Nigeria transitions towards a driven economy.” His remarks were echoed

by several other speakers, among them the Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Adebola Sofela, the Director General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir and the Chairman of Ado-Odo Ota Local Government Council, Wasiu Lawal.

 

Participants took part in three panel sessions on “Agbara Ota Industrial zone: present and future possibilities,” “Energy future” and “Nigeria’s oil and gas: Energised, invigorated and reawakened.”

 

SNG Managing Director, Ralph Gbobo reflected on the outcome of the Agbara Ota customer’s forum: “We have noted the comments of our customers and will continue to improve our services to drive the growth already recorded through gas distribution. We’re grateful for the support and cooperation of our partners, communities, customers and the Ogun State Government and look forward to more collaboration for greater strides.”

Online Poster by — May 24, 2025 in Industry 0
Fidelity Drives NGX Early Rally As Investors Swoop On Bank Stocks

 

By Iheanyi Nwachukwu

After muted days of buy activities, Nigeria’s stock market recorded early rally on Friday as invested pounced on the stocks of Fidelity Bank Plc.

As at 11am, the NGX All Share Index (ASI) was up by 0.19 percent to 109,385.94 points. Fidelity Bank was up to N18.60, after adding N1.255 (6.63 percent).

After Thursday’s negative close, Vetiva analysts said in their post trading commentary that, “With market breadth weakening and key sectors under pressure, investors may stay defensive unless renewed buying interest emerges in oversold key names. Barring a strong rebound in the banks or consumer goods space, the market looks set to close the week on a softer note”.

BusinessDay had ahead of Friday’s trading told investors to buy into recent dip in the stock market, specifically why they should hold or buy the Fidelity Bank stocks.

Fidelity Bank’s recent financial results provide further context. The lender recorded a Profit Before Tax of N105.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025, up 167.8 percent from the same period in 2024. Gross earnings also rose by 64.2 percent year-on-year to N315.4 billion, driven by both interest and non-interest income.

On the balance sheet, the bank’s total deposits climbed to N6.6 trillion, representing an 11.1 percent increase year-to-date, while net loans and advances rose by 5 percent to N4.6 trillion. These figures suggest sustained liquidity and the capacity to manage lending and investment operations effectively.

As published on the BusinessDay Website.

Online Poster by — May 23, 2025 in Industry 0
Ike Neliaku Re-elected As NIPR President; Nwankwo And McMedal Join Council


L-R: Dr. Ike Neliaku, Comfort Nwankwo, and Olusegun McMedal

Dr. Ike Neliaku has been re-elected as the President and Chairman of the Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), alongside Vice President Prof. Emmanuel S. Daudara from Nasarawa Chapter. They will steer the affairs of the council for the next two years, together with other new executives.

 

Neliaku, who is from the FCT Chapter, was re-elected at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, tagged ‘Uyo 2025.’ This event was part of the annual Nigeria Public Relations Week (NPRW) 2025, held in Uyo. Former Chairman of the Lagos Chapter, Olusegun McMedal, and the current Chairman of the chapter, Comfort Nwankwo, were elected as Council members.

 

A total of 17 members were elected into the council through e-voting, which members praised as credible and demonstrative of the viability of e-voting in Nigeria.

 

The other newly elected council members include Mr. Akin Agbejule (Niger), Mrs. Olubunmi Adedoyin Badejo (FCT), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha (Anambra), Mallam Bashir Adamu Chedi, and Dr. Saudat Salah Abdubaqi (Kwara).

 

Additional new members are Comrade Ini Ememobong (Akwa Ibom), Malam Kabir Ali Kobir (Bauchi), Pastor Paulinus Enyidah Nsirim (Rivers), Prof. Sarah Benjamin Lwahas (Plateau), Mr. Adaramola Temitope (Ogun State), Dr. Adewale Oladipo Oyekanmi (Osun), Chief Patrick Ogoegbunem Uka (Delta), and Sajoh Ahmed Ibrahim (Adamawa).

 

Since Dr. Neliaku assumed office, NIPR has undergone several reforms. Recently, Nigeria secured the bid to host the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF).

 

The NPRW 2025 edition, themed “Solid Minerals: A Solid Path to Nigeria’s Sustainable Economic Recovery – The Challenge for Public Relations,” brought together PR professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders. The event was held at Ceedapeg Hotels, Uyo, from May 19–24, 2025.

Winifred Bosa by — May 23, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0
Study Tour: Ghana Cargo Technical Committee meets NIA-MOC  

The Ghana Cargo Technical Committee, which includes representatives from the National Insurance Commission(NIC), Ghana Insurance Association(GIA) Ghana Shippers Association (GSA),Ghana Revenue Authority(GRA)and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers(ICS), on Tuesday visited the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) on a study tour.
The Ghana Cargo Technical team was received at the Insurers House in Victoria Island, Lagos by the management of the NIA led by the Director-General, Mrs Bola Odukale, officials of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) led by Dr Julius Odidi,Head of Lagos Control Office, NAICOM, and executive members of the NIA Marine Offices Committee (NIA-MOC).
The primary objective of the educational tour is to gain insights into the operations of compulsory cargo insurance in Nigeria.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the Ghana Cargo Technical Committee to understand the processes, challenges, successes, and expectations regarding marine insurance business in Nigeria.
The visit was also an opportunity for the Ghana Cargo Technical Committee and the NIA team to discuss the intricacies of cargo insurance, share experiences, and explore potential collaboration.
The Ghana Cargo Technical Committee was led by Mr. Fred Asiedu-Darteh of Ghana Shippers’ Authority.
Other members of the Cargo Technical Committee from Ghana are: Mrs. Gertrude Adwoa Ohene-Asienim of Whitestone Shipbrokers Ghana Ltd/Maritime Consultant , Mrs Mercy Naa Koshie Boampong of Serene Insurance Company Ltd., Mr. Nutekpor Emmanuel of Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority and Mr. Mawuli Zogbenu of National Insurance Commission, Ghana.
Online Poster by — May 23, 2025 in News 0
Guinea Insurance PLC Hosts Strategic Board Retreat To Reinforce Vision And Leadership Transition

Standing (L–R): Mr Ademola Abidogun (Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer), Mrs Chinenye Nwankwo (Company Secretary), Mrs Ogonna Offor-Orabueze (Executive Director, Technical), and Mr Pius Edobor (Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services) Seated: Mrs Chioma Okigbo (Non-Executive Director), Mrs Bernice Izilen Okosun (Non-Executive Director), Mr Temitope Borishade (Chairman, Board of Directors), Mrs Ijeoma Pearl Okoro (Non-Executive Director), and Mr Samuel Onukwue (Non-Executive Director)

 

Guinea Insurance PLC convened a high-impact Board of Directors retreat from 15th to 16th May 2025 at the prestigious Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. The retreat marked a defining moment of legacy, renewal, and strategic alignment, culminating in a formal Board meeting on 17th May, where the newly appointed and outgoing Board members engaged in collaborative dialogue, insightful knowledge exchange, and forward-looking deliberations focused on strengthening leadership synergy and reinforcing governance for the company’s future growth.

 

The event marked the official onboarding of the newly NAICOM-approved Directors, including Mr Temitope Borishade as Chairman, along with Mrs Bernice Izilen Okosun, Mrs Ijeoma Pearl Okoro, and Dr Nkemakonam Chukwukaodinaka as Non-Executive Directors. They join the existing Non-Executive Director, Mr Samuel Onukwue, and Independent Non-Executive Director, Mrs Chioma Okigbo, with Executive representation from Mr Ademola Abidogun (MD/CEO), Mr Pius Edobor (ED, Finance & Corporate Services), and Mrs Ogonna Offor-Orabueze (ED, Technical).

 

Designed to foster a shared vision and establish strategic priorities, the two-day retreat provided an in-depth overview of Guinea Insurance’s journey, spotlighting operational progress, brand repositioning, stakeholder engagement, and the company’s redirection towards sustainable profitability. Senior Management delivered performance insights, structural reforms, and growth opportunities aimed at repositioning the company as a formidable and competitive player in Nigeria’s insurance sector.

 

Speaking at the event, MD/CEO Mr Ademola Abidogun remarked: “This retreat is a clear reflection of our resolve to entrench corporate excellence, deepen stakeholder confidence, and unlock strategic growth. The combination of continuity and fresh perspectives at the Board level uniquely positions us to navigate the future with clarity and reinforce our renewed focus on profitability and long-term market competitiveness.”

 

Guinea Insurance remains committed to building a resilient, innovation-led, and trusted brand — exceeding expectations at every turn.

Online Poster by — May 23, 2025 in Insurance and Pension 0
Fidelity Bank Increases Staff Salaries

Tier-one lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has recently announced salary increments for its staff following a remarkable full year 2024 financial performance.
The salary increase announced in May follows a prior increment from November 2024 and aims to recognize staff contributions in customer service and achieving corporate goals.
It will be recalled that the Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe-led institution recorded the highest growth in year-on-year profitability in the Nigerian banking industry in 2024 with a 210% growth in Profit Before Tax to N385.2 billion.
Similarly, the bank recently announced that it was on the verge of closing out on the Central Bank of Nigeria-mandated recapitalization directive with a private placement exercise scheduled to conclude in June 2025.
Online Poster by — May 23, 2025 in Capital Market 0
Insurance Industry Fellows Tasked On Mentoring Next Generation Professionals

CIIN President/Chairman of Council giving her welcome address at the Year 2025 CIIN Fellows’ Interactive Session held in Lagos

By Amaka Obiefuna

 

 

 

Insurance industry fellows in Nigeria have been charged to conscientiously and purposefully mentor budding insurance enthusiasts for the next generation professionals.

 

Speaking at the 2025 Fellows’ Interactive Forum of the Society of Fellows Committee, Chartered Insurance Institute Of Nigeria(CIIN), its Past President, and Chairman, Society of Fellows, Adeyemo Adejumo, who gave this advice said elders in the industry should show themselves approved by eagerly sharing their exceptional expertise and leadership with the young generation.

This, he counseled could be done by attending all programs organized by the Institute, which are basically a time for cross- pollination and fertilization of ideas by shakers and movers of the industry. To him, such a commitment comes with lots of benefits to them and the Institute.

 

“As fellows, you are recognised leaders, shaping the future of our industry through your innovative ideas, thoughtful leadership, and mentorship. The insurance industry is navigating a complex landscape, marked by emerging risks, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations.

 

“We are all aware that AI has come to stay. As fellows, we must stay ahead of the curve, leveraging on our expertise to drive innovation, improve risk management, and enhance customer experience. we have a critical role to play in shaping the industry’s future”

Cross Section of Paper Presenter, Paper Discussant, Chairman of Society of Fellows with CIIN President/Chairman of Council giving her welcome address at the Year 2025 CIIN Fellows’ Interactive Session held in Lagos

The past president urged the Fellows to leverage their collective expertise to drive innovation and address industry challenges (one of which is declining interest among young people in insurance as a career).

 

“We need to groom and develop them to become better professionals. The task is on us to guide the next generation of insurance professionals, sharing our experience and insights with talented individuals to help our industry”

 

With the theme ‘Mentorship and Knowledge Transfer: Sustaining Professional Excellence’ he beckon on them to drive leadership in the industry with high level of integrity no matter what is going on in our society.

 

Adejumo who enjoined young people to draw from their fountain of knowledge added, “Let us lead by good example and build relationships that will drive our industry forward. Our expertise, leadership, and commitment are invaluable assets to our profession. I look forward to continuing our interactions, driving innovation, excellence, and growth in the insurance industry.”

Online Poster by — May 22, 2025 in Insurance and Pension 0