June 2025 Archives

All Posts in "Month: June 2025"

NAICOM, OHCSF Host Capacity Building Workshop On Group Life Assurance Policy

From left: Mr. Salami Rasaaq (Director, HR and Admin NAICOM), Mr. Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon (Dep. Commissioner for Insurance, Finance and Admin), Mrs. Oyekunle Patience (Permanent Secretary OHCSF) and Mr. Abubakar Maijama’a (Director, Insurance OHCSF).

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) successfully organized a capacity-building workshop on Group Life Assurance Policy in Abuja. The event brought together stakeholders from government ministries, departments, and agencies to enhance understanding and implementation of the policy.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, represented by Mrs. Oyekunle Patience, emphasized the importance of insurance in safeguarding public servants’ welfare and ensuring financial security for their families. She commended President Bola Tinubu for renewing the annuity policy and applauded NAICOM for initiating the training.

The Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, represented by Mr. Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon, Deputy Commissioner for Finance and Administration, expressed appreciation for the collaboration and assured participants of NAICOM’s commitment to transparency and accountability in policy implementation.

The workshop aimed to equip civil servants with knowledge and tools to effectively manage and benefit from the Group Life Assurance Policy, a critical component of the Federal Government’s welfare package. The event marked a significant step in strengthening life insurance policy implementation across the federal civil service, reinforcing the government’s dedication to employee well-being.

by Online Poster — June 19, 2025 in News 0

Staff Welfare, Training And Business Development Is The Heart Of My Administration – FAAN MD

By Fidelia Okafor

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, has called on aviation stakeholders to prioritise investment in project development to enhance bankability and attract investors. She emphasised the importance of conducting market studies, feasibility assessments, and developing strong business cases to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

Mrs. Kuku made this appeal on Monday, 16 June 2025, during her opening address at the ongoing Biennial FAAN Joint Trade Unions Conference 2025, held at the Abdurahaman Danbazau Conference Centre (COCOS Hotel), Correctional Services, Bill Clinton Drive, Airport Road, Abuja.

Mrs Kuku emphasised the crucial role of cargo operations in the sector’s future, noting that investment requires clear returns supported by comprehensive data. She pointed out that while FAAN has established the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services, additional support and data-driven studies are necessary to secure investor confidence.

Speaking on staff welfare, Mrs Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to improving working conditions, stating that the newly negotiated conditions of service—developed with union participation—are set for submission to the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to reassess staff training and international travel budgets for more inclusive coverage.

Addressing concerns about medical facilities, Mrs Kuku acknowledged the need to improve on what is currently available. She revealed that FAAN is reviewing partnership opportunities to enhance healthcare access for employees. Additionally, she mentioned plans to procure operational vehicles for airports and renovate staff quarters to improve living conditions.

In discussing airport management, she stressed the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure efficiency and accountability among airport managers and department heads.

Mrs Kuku expressed gratitude to the aviation unions—NUATE, ATSSSAN, and ANAP—for their cooperation and urged delegates to use the conference to strategise effectively for the sector’s advancement.

“This conference serves as a pivotal platform to address our concerns. By championing just culture, which emphasises fairness and accountability in safety practices, and just transition, which supports equitable shifts toward sustainable aviation, stakeholders can collectively drive meaningful change,” she stated.

Reaffirming FAAN’s commitment to dialogue and staff welfare, Mrs Kuku assured the unions that management remains open to constructive engagement, honest dialogue, and practical solutions to workplace challenges.

“I urge you, dear union delegates, to utilise this conference to strategise with foresight, engage with purpose, and emerge with resolutions that reflect both the aspirations of your members and the realities of our shared environment. Let us work together to protect jobs, enhance conditions of service, and strengthen the sector, not through conflict, but through cooperation,” she concluded.

by Online Poster — June 19, 2025 in Aviation 0

Moniepoint Demonstrates Commitment to Nurturing Africa’s Future Leaders

Moniepoint Inc, one of Africa’s leading financial institutions partnered with the Mega Impact Foundation to support the 5th edition of the NextGen Connect Interschool Oratory Competition in Asaba, Delta state. This collaboration showcases Moniepoint’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and human capital development across the African continent.

The competition, which was held commemoratively to celebrate this year’s International Day of the Boy Child, brought together SS2 students from across Delta State to address the critical theme: “The Role of Financial Inclusion and Technology in Shaping a Brighter Future for Young People in Africa.” Moniepont has received critical acclaim over its core mission of advancing financial inclusion through innovative digital financial technology solutions and payment services..

The oratory competition showcased exceptional talent among Nigeria’s youth, with Otovo Praise of Crystalloid International School emerging as the champion. His outstanding performance earned him a full-year scholarship through the Tosin Eniolorunda STEM Foundation, reflecting Moniepoint’s philosophy of investing in educational excellence. Second-place winner Audi Innocent of St Patrick’s College received ₦300,000, while third-place winner, Asher David of Glorious Kids Academy was awarded ₦200,000.

“At Moniepoint, we believe that driving sustainable innovation begins with future-proofing and expanding the talent pool by empowering the next generation with the tools that they need to succeed especially basic literacy skills which remain fundamental pillars in socio-economic development,” said Tosin Eniolorunda, CEO Moniepoint Inc. “These young voices represent the future of African leadership, and their insights into financial inclusion and technology demonstrate the remarkable potential that exists within our communities. Through our various educational and developmental initiatives such as the CAD/CAM lab we donated to OAU last year or the Moniepoint DreamDevs programme, we are betting big on an investment in Africa’s future.”

The initiative extends beyond monetary rewards, creating meaningful platforms for young people to express their ideas on a global stage. Through its support of the NextGen Connect Conference and Tech-In-School conversations, Moniepoint is fostering an environment where youth can develop critical thinking skills, build confidence, and engage with pressing societal issues.

In her remarks, Founder, Mega Impact Foundation, Florence Ogonegbu said that “we reaffirm our commitment to building an Africa where every young person has simplified access to sustainable education, capacity building, and empowerment. By leveraging technology and local initiatives, we are creating platforms that enable our youth to thrive and transform their communities. Together with partners like Moniepoint, we are not just shaping futures—we are driving a movement for social development that will resonate globally. Every boy, every young person, deserves the opportunity to unlock their full potential and drive lasting impact across our continent.”

The competition received additional support from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Delta State, highlighting the collaborative approach required to nurture young talent effectively.

by Online Poster — June 19, 2025 in Capital Market 0

NAMA Conducts Aircraft Emergency Table Top Exercise In Lagos

By Fidelia Okafor

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Tuesday conducted an Aircraft Emergency Table Top Exercise to enlighten aviation stakeholders on how to manage aircraft emergencies and disasters.

The Exercise which took place at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Conferences center brought key stakeholders in emergency management and Search and Rescue Units drawn from all the aviation agencies.

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Department of State Security (DSS), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Federal Fire Service (FFS), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Emergency Management (LASEMA), Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASANBUS), Nigerian Police Force (NPF), etc.

L-R : Representative of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority Authority (NCAA), Alhaji Safo Baba Jiya, Head of Search and Rescue Unit, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos Operations Office), Mrs. Ibitayo Adenike, Regional General Manager, South West, FAAN, Mr Olatokunbo Arewa, Search Mission Coordinator, MMIA, Igberaese David and an official of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Engr Jamin Olayinka Salami during the Aircraft Emergency Table Top Excercise conducted by NAMA on Tuesday at the MMIA, Lagos.

Declaring the exercise open, the Director of Air Traffic Services (ATS) at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) John Tayo urged all stakeholders who attended to take the exercise seriously.Tayo equally urged the media to take the exercise serious and report it widely, pointing out that other agencies had done similar exercise but was not adequately captured in the media space.

Emphasizing that Search and Rescue (SAR) is everybody’s business, he said, “This morning, we are going to combine two things. To get fruitful result, we want to separate stakeholders meeting and the aircraft emergency Exercise”.

The Director, who was represented by the General Manager, SAR, NAMA, Mr. Sunday Iwalaiye streamlined the Emergency Table Top Exercise into two sessions: “Search and Rescue Units and Responsibilities” and “Arrangement Into Groups of Search And Rescue Units According To Their Responsibilities” said

“We cannot start the exercise without knowing clearly the responsibilities of each agency. Any Search and Rescue involving an aircraft is aeronautical emergency”.

“This is a thing we should all support. Although, no one want emergencies to happen but it does happen. I want all stakeholders to take notes to what so as to know what to do when emergencies occur”, Arewa added.

Alhaji Safo Baba Jiya, a representative of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) also commended the coordinators.

Jiwa, who dwelt elaborately on the importance of safety said, “Safety is paramount for us at NCAA. We are here to learn. Let us be mindful on what we are doing here today”.

In his remark, Quality Assurance Manager (QAM) , MMIA, Onohwoakpo Chris said that, although, many stakeholders don’t want emergency situations but that, “”We gathered here to learn on what we don’t ever want to happen in aviation”.

Head of Search and Rescue Unit, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA, Lagos Operations Office), Mrs. Ibitayo Adenike equally commended the exercise.

Ibitayo said, “Last disaster in global aviation wasn’t expected. We have representatives of practically all airlines. I appreciate the efforts put in this exercise. Let us put our minds together to synergise and identify areas of shortcomings and make progress so that whenever we there is an emergency, we will do the right thing”.

To Engr Jamin Olayinka Salami of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), he was very pleased with the exercise as it is something that stakeholders need to be doing often.

Salami, however, insisted that, what most importantly is how do we prevent disasters. It will help us to prepare more for eventually.

Explaining the essence of the exercise, Search Mission Coordinator, MMIA, Igberaese David who coordinated the exercise said that NAMA have been they conducting joint operation with National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) NIMASA, they decided to come together for a better performance when incidence occurs.

Igberaese said, “The goal is rescuing the greatest number of people in the shortest possible time.

According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), 24 hour watch must be provided in the Search and Rescue operations”.

“Search and Rescue is everybody is everybody business because when it occurs in remote areas, the farmers eventually become the first responders.”, Igberaese added.

High point of the event was the activation of Search and Rescue scenario which was terminated after some minutes of demonstrations before debriefing of the exercise.

by Online Poster — June 19, 2025 in Aviation 0

Fidelity Bank Distributes Food Packs To 1,500 Mokwa Residents Affected By Flood

L-R: Branch Leader, Minna, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mustapha Abubakar; Her Excellency, First Lady of Niger State, Hajiya Fatima Umaru Bago; and the CEO, ABBASID (a Fidelity Food Bank partner), Hajiya Hauwa Abbas; at the Fidelity Food Bank Distribution in Mokwa, Niger State recently.

In a swift response to the recent flood that tragically displaced many families in Mokwa, Niger State, Fidelity Bank Plc has donated food packs to over 1,500 affected residents through its Food Bank Initiative.

The Fidelity Food Bank Initiative is a humanitarian outreach designed to help vulnerable communities across Nigeria. Through partnerships and collaboration with its branches and stakeholders, the bank delivers food packs to those in need, helping to ease hunger and provide hope during difficult times.

Commenting on the donation, the Divisional Head, Brand and Communications at Fidelity Bank, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, said: “At Fidelity Bank, we believe corporate citizenship means standing by communities in their greatest time of need. We are honored to support the people of Mokwa through the Fidelity Food Bank Initiative. This is more than just a relief effort — it’s a affirmation of our promise to always be there for the people and communities we serve, especially in challenging moments.”

He added: “This donation reflects our collective responsibility to respond with compassion and urgency. The people of Mokwa are not alone — we share in their struggles, and we will continue to support them as they rebuild their lives.”

The distribution event was well attended by government officials from Niger State, led by the First Lady, Hajiya Fatima Umaru Bago. Also present were the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman Gawu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Usman Abdullahi Gbatamangi; and the Deputy Chief of Staff, Alhaji Yusuf Sadiq. Other members of the delegation included the Commissioner for Budget & Planning, Alhaji Mustapha Ndajiwo; Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Hannatu Jibril; and the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Barrister Mairo Mamman Mann.

The Commissioner of Information, Hajiya Binta Mamman, and Alhaji Ayuba Usman Katako, representing the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Niger State, alongside various Local Government Chairmen, were also present to show their solidarity with Mokwa and its people.

The Fidelity Food Bank donation in Mokwa follows similar initiatives in areas affected by disasters. The bank previously donated food and sanitary items to victims of a fire outbreak in Taraba State and provided cash and food to those affected by the Zaria Central Mosque collapse in 2023.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

by Online Poster — June 19, 2025 in News 0

RE: FIDELITY BANK PLC – STATEMENT ON CBN CIRCULAR ON FORBEARANCE LOANS

Fidelity Bank Plc (“the Bank”) refers to the recent circular issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria “CBN” (Reference No. BSD/DIR/CON/LAB/018/008) concerning regulatory forbearance on Single
Obligor Limit (SOL) and other credit facilities and wishes to provide the clarifications below to its esteemed shareholders, NGX Regulation Limited (NGX RegCo), and other stakeholders:

(a) As a responsible financial organization, Fidelity Bank Plc remains committed to ensuring compliance with regulatory policies and directives, including the CBN circular on forbearance which is aimed at strengthening capital buffers and enhancing financial prudence within the banking industry.

(b) In terms of Capital, the Bank successfully raised ₦273 billion through a recent Public Offer and Rights Issue which were oversubscribed by 237.92% and 137.73% respectively and intends to raise the additional sum of ₦200 billion through a Private Placement in 2025FY, to achieve the
new minimum regulatory capital requirement of ₦500 billion for banks with international
authorisation. The CBN and Shareholders’ approval have been obtained for the Private
Placement, while other regulatory approvals are being processed to ensure completion in 2025.

(c) The Bank’s exposure under the SOL forbearance relates to two obligors. We are confident that this exposure will be brought within the applicable regulatory limit in H1 2025.

(d) With respect to the forbearance granted on other credit facilities, the Bank confirms that this applies to four customers. We have proactively made substantial provisions on these facilities and have taken targeted and comprehensive steps to ensure full provisioning or return of the accounts to performing status by June 30, 2025.
Thus, the Bank expects to exit all CBN forbearance arrangements (SOL/Credit) and remains in a strong position to meet the prevailing requirements to enable it to pay dividends for the current financial year and subsequently.

by Online Poster — June 19, 2025 in Industry 0

Day Of the African Child 2025: Every African Child Deserve The Gift Of History

History is not just about the past. It’s the compass for Africa’s future,” BrytaAfrica

As Africa marks this year’s Day of the African Child, BrytaAfrica, the fast-growing platform reshaping how young people engage with African history, is calling on leaders, parents, and educators to take bold steps in making history education anational priority across the continent.

“With each passing year, we lose more of our stories. Stories that can fuel identity, drive

innovation, and build future leaders,” says Rita Abiodun, Founder of BrytaAfrica.

“Empowering African children with their own historical narratives isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. This is how we raise changemakers.”

Founded on the belief that historical literacy is essential to shaping proud, resilient, and

visionary youth, BrytaAfrica uses bite-sized storytelling, gamified learning, and audio journeys to

make African history fun, relevant, and accessible for today’s generation.

On a day dedicated to

the voices and rights of African children, BrytaAfrica is urging a continent-wide commitment to

teaching Africa’s past. From ancient kingdoms and liberation struggles to modern movements

and innovation, every story matters.

Why African History Education Matters Now More Than Ever:

● Critical Thinking for a Complex World

History trains young minds to evaluate evidence, challenge assumptions, and analyze

cause and consequence. These are skills essential in today’s fast-changing world.

● Rooted Identity in a Global Age

Learning about Africa’s civilizations, cultures, and contributions builds confidence, pride,

and a sense of belonging. This is especially important in an age of shifting narratives.

● Pan-African Unity and Empathy

Through shared stories of resistance, triumph, and legacy, history helps foster a

generation that sees beyond borders and embraces collective progress

● Active Citizenship Starts with Understanding

A child who knows about pre-colonial governance, independence heroes, and

post-liberation challenges is more likely to step into leadership with clarity and conviction.

● Learning from the Past to Build the Future

From colonial disruptions to current climate justice battles, history offers a mirror and a

map. It helps youth avoid old pitfalls while crafting bold new paths.

BrytaAfrica

BrytaAfrica is more than a platform. It’s a movement to put Africa’s stories back into African

hands. Through short, engaging stories, immersive audio, and playful quizzes, BrytaAfrica helps

children, parents, and educators across the continent rediscover the heartbeat of Africa, anytime and anywhere.

With themed reading journeys, downloadable tales, offline access, and global trivia leaderboards, BrytaAfrica is making history fun, cool, and deeply relevant, because people who do not know where they are coming from will stumble through where they are going.

by Online Poster — June 18, 2025 in News 0

Samer Chedid Succeeds Mauricio Alarcón As CEO Of Nestlé Central And West Africa

By Winifred Bosa

Samer Chedid, CEO of Nestlé Indonesia has been appointed CEO of Nestlé Central and West Africa (CWAR) replacing Mauricio Alarcón who has taken on a new role within the Nestlé group.

A business leader with diverse experiences across Nestlé including Middle East, Asia, and Africa, Mr. Chedid is no stranger to CWAR as he previously served as Country Manager for Nestlé Ghana.

In his new role, he will steer affairs of the business across 25 countries in CWAR.

“I am delighted to return to a region that has been a part of my career within the Nestlé group. Together with our resilient team of over 5,000 employees, I will continue to advance our purpose through innovation, high-quality product offerings, and meaningful partnerships. Our goal is to enhance livelihoods, promote community development, and maintain our commitment to environmental stewardship”, Mr. Chedid commenting on his appointment said.

Mr. Chedid joined Nestlé in 1998 as a Sales Development Manager. He was later appointed Head of Channel Category Sales Development for Nestlé Middle East Region before his assignment as General Business Manager in Bahrain, Qatar and Dubai. He then moved to CWAR as Country Manager, Ghana then returned to the Middle East as Nestlé Middle East Region Sales Director. He was later appointed Country Manager, Saudi Arabia and eventually promoted to become CEO, Nestlé Pakistan.

Mr. Chedid is recognized for his strong leadership and strategic mindset, his passion for people and for building strong and effective teams.

by Online Poster — June 18, 2025 in News 0

GOCOP President Maureen Chigbo Delivers Welcome Address At Book Launch And Fundraiser For Media Centre

Welcome Address by GOCOP President Maureen Chigbo At GOCOP Book Launch/Fundraiser for Media Centre at Abuja Continental Hotel, Lagos on 17th June 2025

Protocols.

Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, and members of my constituency, the Media, permit me to warmly welcome you all on behalf of the leadership and entire members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) to this historic Book Launch/Fundraiser for GOCOP Media Centre.

We are grateful to God and those who made this event possible. We also appreciate your sacrifice and support by finding time from your busy schedules to honour us with your presence. These, we cannot take for granted.

Our sincere gratitude also goes to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the chairman of this epoch event, for his support and for keeping his word to be here with us.

We are also thrilled that Dr. Ikeh Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), graciously accepted to review our book. Thank you and welcome.

We equally acknowledge the presence of other dignitaries, prominent scholars, academics, chieftains of industry, and policy and decision makers in both public and private sectors, as well as public relations experts, spokespersons, and students.

We are all here to witness the unveiling of Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing, the maiden publication by the Guild.

It is a unique opportunity to reintroduce the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) to the world and its efforts to drive the business of the online media landscape in Nigeria. It is also an opportunity to explain who we are amidst the misunderstanding of categorizing us as bloggers, and to solicit support towards building our businesses and fighting Fake News.

Who we are:

GOCOP is a 120-member group of mediapreneurs made up of professional journalists who have worked in the traditional media, both broadcast and print, before transitioning to business owners in the online media community. You can call us the small and medium enterprises, a peer review body determined to entrench professionalism in the online media industry.

GOCOP was formed and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2013 to promote professionalism and fight fake news. It was rebranded in 2014 following the first attack by the very charlatans we were up against, who did not want us to exist.

Details of that assault on GOCOP are captured in the book we are here to unveil, and we would like everyone to please grab copies for self and your friends. We also welcome generous donations to strengthen GOCOP and the building of the Guild’s Media Centre to empower members to run their businesses profitably.

It is a truism that small and profitable businesses are the engine of growth of any economy. We therefore appeal to all public relations practitioners, advertisers, governments at all levels, and civil society to support our businesses to grow.

When you support us to run profitable businesses, you also strengthen us to serve you better as thoroughbred professionals with a critical stake in building a society where justice, peace, and the rights of individuals are respected against Fake News and similar threats.

GOCOP seeks to sanitize the online media space To succeed in this task, we require the collaboration of stakeholders, many of whom a represented here today. This collaboration draws from Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, which gave the media a critical role under Sections 22 and 39. Because the Constitution did not specify the funding mechanism for this important role, the online publishers have to innovate. This is challenging, but with determination, structured stakeholder collaboration, and support, the objective is achievable.

Online publication is the future of the media industry, which the government and lawmakers have to support through enabling laws, tax exemptions, and grants, among others. To weed out quacks, GOCOP has introduced a self-regulatory mechanism with zero tolerance for Fake News and similar threats.

Its members subscribe to the Ethics of the Journalism profession, which holds facts, truth, fairness, and balanced reporting as sacred.

GOCOP, as a body of professionals, has also put in place structures for effective peer review and regulation of its members. It has several Committees, including on Constitution Review Committee, the Welfare Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Membership Screening. There is also the Disciplinary Committee/Ombudsman, charged with checking excesses of the Guild’s members, with an avenue to the public to seek redress in case of unprofessional conduct. I must emphasize that GOCOP takes its self-regulation responsibility very seriously.

This informed the publication of Nigeria Media Renaissance – GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing. The book was made possible mainly by Godly inspiration and the exemplary teamwork spirit of Guild members.

Describing teamwork, Henry Ford, American industrialist and business magnate, said: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

My dear colleagues, may God reward you abundantly for your sacrifices and priceless work

We are grateful to Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, publisher of PREMIUM TIMES, who wrote the foreword – a rich perspective on the history of online publishing and the pioneers in Nigeria. We congratulate Mr. Olorunyomi on the National honour recently bestowed on him by President Bola Tinubu. The Guild is proud of your contributions to the journalism profession.

Permit me to also acknowledge other contributors to the book. (Please stand up for recognition as I mention your names). Danlami Nmodu, deputy President of GOCOP; Oladipo Dotun, former president, GOCOP; Ken Ugbechie, vice president of GOCOP, South; Tom Chiahemen, vice president of GOCOP, North; Akeem Oyetunji, GOCOP Coordinator, South West; Max Amuchie, GOCOP Coordinator, North; Olumide Iyanda, GOCOP General Secretary; Remmy Nweke, GOCOP Publicity Secretary; Gabriel Akindewo, publisher of Freedom Online; Segun Adeleye, publisher of WorldStage; and Hassan Gimba, publisher of Neptune Online.

Special thanks also go to members of the editorial team comprising my humble self, Ugbechie, Azuh Arinze, Financial Secretary GOCOP and publisher, Yes International, Ray Echebiri, publisher Next Money, and Akindewo. Yemisi Izuora, GOCOP Treasurer, and Jessica Uwadaze, GOCOP Administration Secretary, also deserve special mention for manning the Secretariat for the production of this book.

On behalf of GOCOP, allow me to express our deep gratitude to all our keynote speakers over the years, whose presentations were also featured in the book. They are Professor Onigbide, Bishop Hassan Kukah, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, Mr. Boss Mustapha, Professor Uchenna Uwaleke, and Dr. Liyel Imoke.

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, GOCOP is most grateful to the Federal Government of Nigeria, State governments, institutions, and organizations in both the private and public sectors, for their support over the years. These include Lagos, Delta, Kwara, Yobe, and Osun States, the Federal Ministry of Information, Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigerian Development Content Development and Monitoring Board, the Nigerian Communications Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Service, and the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas, among others. We appreciate your support over the years.

GOCOP also appreciates other professional media bodies for their collaboration over the years, including the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria, Nigerian Guild of Editors, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, International Press Institute, International Press Centre, and Media Rights Agenda. Thank you all.

GOCOP is equally indebted to spokespersons of various State governments, corporate bodies, including banks, institutions, security agencies, such as the Federal Road Safety Corps, the military, and the police, for their collaboration and support since its inauguration in 2014.

Finally, we solemnly remember two of our founding members who have transitioned to glory. May the souls of Late Chijama Ogbu, publisher of Rainbow Online, and Ben Bright Mkpuma, publisher of Watchdogreporters, rest in peace. Amen.

I cannot end this address without thanking government institutions and corporate organisations that have been supporting GOCOP activities over the years, particularly with adverts in the brochure of the Book Launch/Fundraiser. These are the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board, Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Natural and Liquefied Gas, NLNG, Fidelity Bank, Shell Nigeria/SNEPCO, TotalEnergies, and Zenith Bank Plc, for their initial support during the production of the book. We are most grateful to you all.

God bless GOCOP! God bless Nigeria.

Thank you all for your attention, and welcome!

by Online Poster — June 18, 2025 in News 0

Smartcash PSB Launches Access To Instant Motor Insurance Via Leadway Assurance

By Winifred Bosa

In continuation of its mission to make financial services simpler, faster, and more accessible, SmartCash Payment Service Bank, a subsidiary of Airtel Nigeria, has announced a strategic partnership with Leadway Assurance to offer Smartcash users an effortless access to Leadway’s mobile-friendly motor insurance service.

Starting from ₦15,000, this new offering provides a convenient and affordable way for motorists to stay protected and compliant with national insurance requirements.

With this collaboration, new and existing Smartcash customers can now acquire or renew two types of Leadway Assurance motor insurance: the Third-Party Insurance and AutoBase Comprehensive Insurance, directly on the Smartcash app or by dialling *939#.

While the third-party motor insurance plan offers the legally required minimum cover, protecting motorists from liability for damages or injuries caused to others, the AutoBase Comprehensive Insurance plan extends that protection to cover the user’s own vehicle in the event of accidents.

Commenting on this partnership, Chief Executive Officer, Smartcash PSB, Tunde Kuponiyi highlighted the importance of the collaboration in driving convenient and inclusive insurance access for Nigerians.

“At Smartcash, our goal has always been to bring inclusive financial solutions closer to everyday Nigerians. By partnering with Leadway Assurance, we’re making it easier for motorists to insure their vehicles without stress or delays. It’s insurance that moves at your speed,” he said.

He also noted that Smartcash users can complete the entire purchase process in under three minutes, from plan selection to payment with no physical paperwork or documentation required. Customers receive instant confirmation and their digital policy documents via email, making insurance more accessible than ever.

Also speaking on the partnership, Kike Fischer, Director, Sales, Retail and Partnership, Leadway Assurance, added: “At Leadway, innovation and exceptional service are at the core of our mission to deepen insurance penetration and inclusion.

This collaboration with SmartCash enables us to deliver real-time protection to more Nigerians via a trusted, everyday platform. It marks a bold step in transforming how insurance is accessed and experienced across the country.”

The insurance integrated service is also fully inclusive, as it works across all types of mobile phones. Users without smartphones or internet access can access the same features via USSD, ensuring nationwide reach, especially in rural and underserved areas.

This partnership reinforces Smartcash’s commitment to delivering digital-first financial services that meet the real-world needs of Nigerians. By simplifying access to essential products like motor insurance, Smartcash continues to empower users with tools that protect, support, and uplift their daily lives.

by Online Poster — June 18, 2025 in Industry 0