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All Posts in "Day: July 2, 2025"

By Winifred Bosa

FirstBank, the West Africa premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider has launched an advanced facial biometric technology on its mobile banking application- FirstMobile, along with other exciting features that includes:

• Facial recognition sign-up and activation

• Virtual credit cards for secure online shopping

• Instant credit card activation

• Flexible salary advances with 3-month repayment options

• General improvements, bug fixes,

These upgrades all aim to provide customers with a seamless, secure, and efficient digital banking experience.

The new facial biometric feature enables users to activate or register on FirstBank’s mobile app- FirstMobile securely, using facial verification. This feature also includes an advanced anti-spoof detection, to enhance customer account protection and ensure robust security.

This innovative solution effectively addresses the diverse needs of customers, including new customers, diaspora customers without cards, individuals with lost or expired cards, those who have opted out of card use, as well as customers facing card verification failures or lacking convenient access to card details.

This feature will provide seamless access to essential banking services, such as fund transfers and bill payments ensuring swift, reliable, and convenient transaction processing for all users.

The newly enhanced FirstBank mobile banking platform, FirstMobile, offers a comprehensive array of features and services designed to provide our customers with a seamless and innovative digital banking experience, no matter where they are in the world. With these substantial improvements, users can easily sign up and activate the app using just their face.

They can shop online securely with a virtual credit card that is instantly issued and always accessible within the app. Additionally, customers can activate their new credit card directly from the app to start spending immediately. They also have the option to access salary advances with a convenient 3-month repayment plan.

“With these new services now live on FirstMobile, we are confident we will undoubtedly enhance our customers’ digital experience.” remarked Chukwuma Ezirim, Group Executive, E-Business and Retail Products Division, FirstBank. “FirstBank is committed to innovative ways of delighting our customers so that they can carry out their transactions with no stress and with utmost convenience.

We understand the importance of keeping up with the evolving digital landscape, and we are dedicated to providing our customers with cutting-edge solutions that make banking simpler, faster, and more accessible. Our goal is to ensure that every interaction with FirstBank enhances customer satisfaction and builds long-lasting relationships”

 

To deliver on its promise of gold-standard banking services, FirstBank remains committed to advanced innovative solutions and robust secure security measures, to protect customer data and empower them to transact effortlessly and manage their finances effectively.

Winifred Bosa by — July 2, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0
Access Bank Highlights Leadership at Climate Governance Initiative Launch

Access Bank PLC has once again demonstrated its leadership in sustainable finance with a strong showing at the launch of the Climate Governance Initiative Nigeria (CGIN) Chapter, hosted by Lagos Business School.

Dr. Greg Jobome, Executive Director, Risk Management at Access Bank, was specially invited to speak at the event in recognition of the Bank’s pioneering role in integrating sustainability into its business model and its inspiring leadership within Nigeria’s corporate landscape.

In his presentation, Jobome provided a comprehensive overview of how Access Bank has embedded climate risk considerations across its governance structure, operations, and financial decision-making processes. He noted that climate change is a standing agenda item at both Board and Executive Management levels, with dedicated policies and systems in place to monitor and manage its impact.

Access Bank operates in 24 countries and serves over 60 million customers, with more than 18.5 million digital banking users and over 800 branches. The Bank has a capital adequacy ratio of 20.46% for its banking group and maintains a broad international footprint, including branches in Paris and subsidiaries in Angola.

The Bank has implemented a range of climate-focused initiatives including the measurement and reporting of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, adoption of the  Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) model for financed emissions, and application of global reporting frameworks such as Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the recently launched International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) S1 and S2 standards.

To date, Access Bank has installed over 974 solar-powered ATMs, reduced paper usage by more than 72% through process automation, and achieved a 50% reduction in landfill waste at its headquarters through comprehensive recycling initiatives. Its Sustainable Finance Accelerator programme has supported numerous businesses in the climate space, providing funding, capacity building, and technical assistance. The bank has also reached over 63 million lives through social investments.

Dr. Jobome stated that climate considerations are integrated into credit approvals, capital expenditure planning, and the development of green financial products. These include offerings like Switch to Solar, Solar for Health, and mini-grid solutions targeted at supporting energy transition and low-carbon growth.

Access Bank has also issued Green and Sustainability Bonds and is the first commercial bank in Africa to be certified by the Sustainability Standards and Certification Initiative. Over the years, the Bank has received several recognitions including the World Finance Award for Most Sustainable Bank in Nigeria (twelve consecutive times), Euromoney’s Best Bank for ESG (Ghana), and the IFC’s Best Trade Partner in West Africa.

“Access Bank’s climate risk journey reflects   a long-standing commitment to building a sustainable institution,” Jobome said. “We recognised early that climate risk is financial risk. We did not wait for regulation; instead, we acted proactively. That decision has made our institution more resilient and positioned us to unlock new growth opportunities.”

Dr. Jobome was invited to speak because Access Bank’s journey in building a sustainable organisation and leading the Nigerian corporate landscape has been truly inspiring. The Bank’s proactive stance, deep expertise, and results-driven implementation have made it a model for other financial institutions in Nigeria and across Africa.

The Climate Governance Initiative Nigeria Chapter was formally launched by Lagos Business School as part of the World Economic Forum’s global network to promote climate-conscious decision-making in corporate boardrooms. The event brought together board members, C-suite executives, regulators, and sustainability experts to strengthen climate governance and drive corporate responsibility in addressing climate change.

Online Poster by — July 2, 2025 in Capital Market 0
Fidelity Bank Extends Relief Efforts To Eti-Osa Community With Food Bank Initiative

As part of its unwavering commitment to reducing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities, Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, has distributed food packs to residents of Victoria Island in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos as part of its nationwide Fidelity Food Bank initiative.
This initiative, which attracted beneficiaries from diverse backgrounds, forms a key pillar of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy and reinforces its dedication to driving meaningful impact across Nigerian communities.
Speaking during the distribution event, Mr. Adebayo Adeyinka, Executive Technical Assistant to the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative. “The Fidelity Food Bank was established to address the pressing challenges of poverty, hunger, malnutrition, and infant and maternal mortality within our communities,” he said.
“It aligns with Goal No. 2 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – Zero Hunger – and reflects our long-term commitment to improving lives across the country. From IDP camps to flood-affected regions like Niger State, this is a nationwide outreach that we are proud to continue,” Adeyinka added.
Also present at the event was the Divisional Head, Operations, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Henry Asiegbu, who highlighted the growing support and impact of the program.
“This intervention has been positively received at all levels – from community members to government and partner organizations,” he noted. “The support has been overwhelming, and it encourages us to sustain and expand the initiative further.”
For many of the community members, the gesture offered more than just nourishment – it restored dignity and hope. Victoria Olubiyo, resident and representative of the members of the community, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Fidelity Bank has brought joy to our lives. Even during the no-cash crisis, their ATMs were always working. They’ve provided boreholes, fulfilled their promises, and shown genuine care. Today, people – men, women, children, even those living with disabilities – are supported. I urge other banks to follow their example.”
Another beneficiary, Jerome Igbe, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This means so much to struggling families. I honestly didn’t expect this kind of support. May God bless them and replenish their resources.”
Through initiatives like the Fidelity Food Bank, the bank continues to demonstrate its role as a socially responsible corporate organisation committed to impacting Nigerians positively.
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 a 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.
Online Poster by — July 2, 2025 in News 0
Shell Companies In Nigeria Commended For Elaborate Exhibition At Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference

 

Dignitaries at Shell Booth during the 24th NOG Energy Week Conference & Exhibition…in Abuja

Shell Companies in Nigeria (SCiN) today kicked off their participation at the 24th Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition in Abuja with an elaborate exhibition on their operations which drew commendation from top government functionaries and other conference participants.

 

Among the visitors to the stand were the Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Bayo Ojulari, who were conducted round by Business Value Manager, Chidi Nkazi.

 

SCiN are Diamond sponsors of the conference and are among many exhibiting companies from 85 countries. The exhibition features the positive impact of the Shell presence on the development of the country through the businesses run by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company of Nigeria Ltd (SNEPCo), Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG), All On and Daystar Power. These companies have achieved many milestones in deep-water production, gas supply to industries as well as provision of off-grid energy and renewables.

 

Highlighting some milestones, Chidi said SNEPCo and SNG paid combined royalties of $1.208 billion dollars to the Nigerian government last year. Shell is also investing in the future of Nigeria with the Final Investment Decision on the $5 billion Bonga North deep-water project, and SNEPCo increasing its interest in the OML 118, which includes the Bonga field, from 55% to 67.5%, through the acquisition of the 12.5% stake of TotalEnergies.

 

On its part, SNG serves more than 140 industrial and commercial customers in Ogun, Abia, and Rivers states while All On now has a total portfolio of 51 renewable energy companies, which have delivered more than 210,000 energy connections across the country. Daystar Power is offering integrated solar power to businesses in five countries in Africa, including Nigeria.

 

Chidi added: “A robust social investment portfolio by SCiN has also led to the implementation of programmes in education, health, employment generation as well as infrastructural development across communities in Nigeria.”

 

The participation of SCiN at NOG continues with Shell leaders making presentations and participating in key panel sessions.

Online Poster by — July 2, 2025 in News 0
Zedcrest Joins Lagos Govt, MacTay to Empower ICT Graduate Trainees with Jobs, Internships

 

By Fidelia Okafor

Leading financial services firm, Zedcrest Group has entered a strategic partnership with the Lagos State Government and MacTay, to offer internships and entry-level jobs to top graduate trainees from the recently concluded, state-sponsored specialized ICT skill acquisition program.

The Head of Brands and Communications, Zedcrest Group, Oyinkansola Adeboye made this announcement at the graduation ceremony for the 2024 cohort, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Ikeja, Lagos State.

 

Adeboye explained that the program aligns closely with Zedcrest’s commitment to capacity building, not only in finance but across all sectors of the economy, highlighting the company’s continued investment in programs and initiatives that empower young Nigerians with the skills required for success.

Head of Brands and Communications, Zedcrest Group, Oyinkansola Adeboye

 

She then commended the Lagos State Government and MacTay for initiating the program which she described as critical to closing the digital skills gap among youths in Lagos and across Nigeria, assuring that every talent placed at Zedcrest Group will receive all the support they need to thrive in their chosen careers.

Commenting on the initiative, Director of MacTay, Tunde Rotimi, disclosed that the training was created in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment as part of a broader mission to transform the future of work in Lagos by equipping young Lagosians with cutting-edge digital skills necessary to excel in a technology-driven world.

Director, MacTay, Tunde Rotimi

Rotimi further revealed that MacTay meticulously designed the program’s curriculum to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy and urged the graduate trainees to leverage their newly acquired skills to build successful careers.

In his address, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu underscored the importance of the training program and existing partnerships with MacTay and Zedcrest Group, stating that the initiative aims to empower youths to become innovators and job creators who will seize global opportunities, transform local businesses, and contribute to economic development.

 

Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe

 

Speaking through the State Commissioner, Ministry for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the program attracted over 3,000 applicants when it launched in 2024, with only 200 candidates selected after a rigorous screening process. He added that the graduates were trained as full stack software engineers and data analysts, earning globally recognized certifications that give them an edge in the job market.

Governor Sanwo-Olu then congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the program and encouraged them to remain exemplary ambassadors of Lagos State by upholding the values of resilience, innovation, and ambition in their future endeavors.

Online Poster by — July 2, 2025 in News 0
MAN President Commended BAT’s Role In Nigeria’s Manufacturing Growth, Sustainability

 

By Fidelia Okafor

The President of the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, alongside the Director-General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, led a distinguished delegation on a courtesy visit to the British American Tobacco (BAT) factory in Ibadan.

This visit not only underscores BAT’s critical role as a dedicated member of MAN but also highlights the organisation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between the government and the manufacturing sector.

During the visit, Meshioye, the president of MAN, commended BAT for its high operational standards and commitment to excellence.

“From the moment we arrived, BAT’s dedication to safety, quality, and innovation was evident. The company’s Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) induction process reflects its strong commitment to workplace safety and employee welfare. I encourage BAT to intensify its transition to reduced-risk products. MAN remains committed to supporting BAT’s initiatives and recognises its leadership in the sector,” Meshioye stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Ajayi-Kadir, MAN DG, applauded BAT for its resilience and steadfast commitment to the Nigerian manufacturing landscape, particularly in the face of a complex regulatory environment.

“BAT stands out as a responsible and committed member of MAN, effectively addressing industry challenges. The government needs to support businesses that adhere to regulations, and BAT exemplifies this commitment. We deeply appreciate BAT’s substantial contributions to the manufacturing sector and encourage the company to continue its efforts,” he added.

The delegation observed BAT’s rigorous EHS induction protocols, reinforcing the company’s unwavering commitment to workplace safety.

The visit coincided with BAT’s celebration of an impressive milestone: four years of zero lost-time incidents at the factory which highlights BAT’s robust safety culture and operational excellence, setting a benchmark within the industry.

The visiting delegation participated in a guided factory tour, donning protective gear to witness BAT’s advanced production processes firsthand.

Hasnain Ishtiaq, BAT’s Operations Director, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainability and employee welfare.

“At BAT, we are dedicated to building A Better Tomorrow by prioritising employee safety, minimising our environmental impact, and embracing sustainable practices. Our mission is to continue innovating and leading the industry while upholding responsible manufacturing standards,” he stated.

Ishtiaq highlighted BAT’s legacy since its founding in 1902, noting its presence in Nigeria since 1912 and the commissioning of the Ibadan facility in 2003.

“With ₦500 billion in tax remittances (2018–2024), we have created over 350,000 jobs and strengthened Nigeria’s economy,” he said.

He emphasised that the Ibadan factory, with 16 production lines, generates up to $110 million in foreign exchange annually.

“This visit and MAN’s endorsement reaffirms BAT’s role as a strategic manufacturing partner committed to innovation, safety, and sustainability,” he concluded.

Online Poster by — July 2, 2025 in Industry 0
Access Bank Highlights Leadership At Climate Governance Initiative Launch

 

By Amaka Obiefuna

Access Bank PLC has once again demonstrated its leadership in sustainable finance with a strong showing at the launch of the Climate Governance Initiative Nigeria (CGIN) Chapter, hosted by Lagos Business School.

 

Dr. Greg Jobome, Executive Director, Risk Management at Access Bank, was specially invited to speak at the event in recognition of the Bank’s pioneering role in integrating sustainability into its business model and its inspiring leadership within Nigeria’s corporate landscape.

 

In his presentation, Jobome provided a comprehensive overview of how Access Bank has embedded climate risk considerations across its governance structure, operations, and financial decision-making processes. He noted that climate change is a standing agenda item at both Board and Executive Management levels, with dedicated policies and systems in place to monitor and manage its impact.

Access Bank operates in 24 countries and serves over 60 million customers, with more than 18.5 million digital banking users and over 800 branches. The Bank has a capital adequacy ratio of 20.46% for its banking group and maintains a broad international footprint, including branches in Paris and subsidiaries in Angola.

 

The Bank has implemented a range of climate-focused initiatives including the measurement and reporting of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, adoption of the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) model for financed emissions, and application of global reporting frameworks such as Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the recently launched International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) S1 and S2 standards.

To date, Access Bank has installed over 974 solar-powered ATMs, reduced paper usage by more than 72% through process automation, and achieved a 50% reduction in landfill waste at its headquarters through comprehensive recycling initiatives. Its Sustainable Finance Accelerator programme has supported numerous businesses in the climate space, providing funding, capacity building, and technical assistance. The bank has also reached over 63 million lives through social investments.

 

Dr. Jobome stated that climate considerations are integrated into credit approvals, capital expenditure planning, and the development of green financial products. These include offerings like Switch to Solar, Solar for Health, and mini-grid solutions targeted at supporting energy transition and low-carbon growth.

Access Bank has also issued Green and Sustainability Bonds and is the first commercial bank in Africa to be certified by the Sustainability Standards and Certification Initiative. Over the years, the Bank has received several recognitions including the World Finance Award for Most Sustainable Bank in Nigeria (twelve consecutive times), Euromoney’s Best Bank for ESG (Ghana), and the IFC’s Best Trade Partner in West Africa.

 

“Access Bank’s climate risk journey reflects a long-standing commitment to building a sustainable institution,” Jobome said. “We recognised early that climate risk is financial risk. We did not wait for regulation; instead, we acted proactively. That decision has made our institution more resilient and positioned us to unlock new growth opportunities.”

Dr. Jobome was invited to speak because Access Bank’s journey in building a sustainable organisation and leading the Nigerian corporate landscape has been truly inspiring. The Bank’s proactive stance, deep expertise, and results-driven implementation have made it a model for other financial institutions in Nigeria and across Africa.
The Climate Governance Initiative Nigeria Chapter was formally launched by Lagos Business School as part of the World Economic Forum’s global network to promote climate-conscious decision-making in corporate boardrooms. The event brought together board members, C-suite executives, regulators, and sustainability experts to strengthen climate governance and drive corporate responsibility in addressing climate change.

Online Poster by — July 2, 2025 in Capital Market 0