July 2025 Archives

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AXA Mansard Named Insurance Company Of The Year At 2025 Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards

By Amaka Obiefuna

AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, Nigeria’s leading provider of innovative insurance and financial solutions, has won the Insurance Company of the Year award at the prestigious Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025.

This recognition, bestowed by one of Nigeria’s foremost financial media platforms, Nairametrics, “underscores our unwavering commitment to our value of customer-first, excellence, resilience, and culture of innovation, even amid economic uncertainties”, said Kunle Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc.

Organized by Nairametrics, an authority in business and financial reporting, the Capital Market Choice Awards celebrate organizations that demonstrate outstanding performance, integrity, and industry leadership. With rigorous analysis and deep insight into Nigeria’s financial markets, Nairametrics has established itself as a leading voice in business intelligence, making this award a distinguished benchmark of excellence within the business ecosystem in Nigeria.

Despite a challenging economic landscape in 2024, AXA Mansard exhibited remarkable resilience, achieving significant milestones in customer service, financial strength, and digital innovation. The company strengthened its market position through strategic investments, enhanced product offerings, and a steadfast commitment to protecting the financial security of Nigerians.

Commenting further, Kunle Ahmed expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed the company’s dedication to its stakeholders, saying “We are honored to be recognized as the Insurance Company of the Year by Nairametrics, an institution renowned for its analytical rigor and industry expertise”.

“This award is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our entire team, as well as the trust reposed in us by our customers, partners, brokers and other market stakeholders. In the face of economic uncertainties, AXA Mansard remains resilient, innovative, and deeply committed to delivering insurance solutions that empower Nigerians to secure their futures.”

“As we continue to navigate the evolving financial landscape, the award present to us another reason to remains disciplined, focused on strengthening our operational efficiencies, fostering our digital transformations, and delivering exceptional value to our esteemed customers”, he concluded.

by Online Poster — July 5, 2025 in Insurance and Pension 0

Anambra State Government Investigating The SASA Clash In Obosi And Will Take Decisive Action

The Anambra State Government is actively investigating the recent clash between Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA) operatives and individuals in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, which led to property damage.

In a press release by Dr. Law Mefor, Information Commissioner, Anambra State, stated, “We assure the people of Obosi and the general public that we will take decisive action to prevent similar incidents in the future.”

“To enhance professionalism and efficiency, SASA is undergoing reorganisation. This step aims to ensure the squad operates effectively and responsibly.”

The government urges calm and cooperation from residents as we work to resolve this matter, he said.

by Online Poster — July 5, 2025 in News 0

Father O’Connell Science College , GSS Karu Crowned Champions At 25th MILO Basketball National Finals

By Winifred Bosa

The 25th anniversary edition of the MILO Basketball Championship came to an exciting close at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, with Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State, and Government Secondary School (GSS) Karu, FCT, emerging as national champions in the male and female categories, respectively.

The national finals brought together the best secondary school basketball teams from across Nigeria in a thrilling celebration of sporting excellence and youth empowerment. This milestone edition highlighted the impact of the championship, which has helped shape the lives of students in over 13,000 schools this year.

In a hard-fought match in the male category, Father O’Connell Science College clinched their third championship title, defeating Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa, with a final score of 66–64. This latest victory cements their position as one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.

In the female category, Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT, delivered a commanding performance, defeating Lanreleke Sports Academy, Ile-Ogbo, Osun State, with a 55–42 win to claim their first-ever national championship title. The victory is especially significant, as the team had previously finished in second place on three separate occasions, making this long-awaited triumph a defining milestone in their journey.

Speaking on behalf of Wassim El-Husseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Boladale Odunlami, Commercial Manager, commended the athletes and applauded the coaches for their dedication to nurturing young talent. He also reaffirmed Nestlé’s purpose behind the MILO Basketball Championship.

“For 25 years, we’ve stayed true to our belief in growing champions through sport.
The MILO Basketball Championship has supported hundreds of thousands of young athletes, some of whom have gone on to play on the international stage and earn scholarships.

Take Rueben Abuchi, now at the University of Florida, an NCAA National Champion with the Florida Gators, or Murjanatu Musa, recently drafted into the WNBA and currently playing for the Phoenix Mercury. They started with MILO, and they soared. But this isn’t just about creating stars on the court, it’s about building champions in life. That’s why we remain committed, not just as sponsors, but as partners in purpose,” he said.

Ifeanyichukwu Orabuche, Category Manager, Beverages, added “This championship has become a powerful symbol of the MILO basketball championship empowering boys and girls across Nigeria to discover their strength, showcase their talent, and unlock their full potential. We’re not just crowning new champions; we’re marking 25 years of transformation, purpose, and impact. Because every child who steps onto a MILO basketball court isn’t just playing a game, they are building the mindset, discipline, and resilience to win in life”

This year’s tournament included an inclusive match for young individuals with disabilities, highlighting the championship’s commitment to inclusivity and Nestlé’s dedication to ensuring that everyone can participate and thrive.

Both winning teams received trophies, cash prizes, full basketball kits, and MILO products. Their victory at this landmark 25th edition makes them part of the long history of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots youth basketball platform.

Now celebrating 25 years of impact, the MILO Basketball Championship continues to be a key youth program, showing Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to building talent, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and developing future champions, both on and off the court.

by Online Poster — July 4, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0

SO&U Group CEO Udeme Ufot To Chair Brand Handlers Summit 2025

By Winifred Bosa

The organisers of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards are proud to announce that Mr. Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited, will serve as Chairman of the 2025 edition of the highly anticipated summit and awards ceremony.

The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, Central Business District, Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos. The theme for the event is, “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth.”

With a legacy spanning over three decades, Mr. Ufot is one of the most revered figures in Africa’s advertising and branding landscape. He has led numerous groundbreaking campaigns and helped shape industry standards through visionary leadership and purpose-driven innovation. His role as Chairman further underscores the summit’s dedication to advancing thought leadership and brand excellence in Nigeria and across the continent.

Speaking on the appointment, Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space Magazine and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, highlighted the deep symbolic and strategic significance of Mr. Ufot’s leadership.

“When we envisioned that the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards has to be steered by someone whose journey reflects the core of what branding truly is; values, vision, and voice, Mr. Udeme Ufot immediately came to mind. He is not only a leader; he is a legacy. His works have shaped how brands are perceived, how stories are told, and how agencies align with purpose. He represents the gold standard, and having him as Chair for the event is both an honour and a symbol of what this platform stands for.”

“Bringing Mr. Udeme Ufot on board as Chairman for the 2025 Summit was not just a strategic decision, but a statement. A statement about excellence, depth, and industry evolution. Mr. Ufot’s career is a textbook of leadership, innovation, and commitment to African excellence in branding,” Ishau added.

He noted that, ‘’The summit will spotlight the urgent need to strengthen Nigeria’s marketing value chain, from education to execution, from strategy to storytelling. The focus will be on empowering professionals, inspiring fresh thinking, and bridging the gap between global trends and local relevance.’’

The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is designed to be one of Nigeria’s foremost gatherings of marketing minds and brand custodians, offering networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and a platform for spotlighting excellence in the marketing and communications industry.

As the countdown to August 29 begins, anticipation is building across the marketing, media, and creative landscapes. The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2025 promises to be more than an event, it will be a transformational experience that sets the tone for the future of brand development in Nigeria.

The organisers have extended a warm invitation to brand custodians, agency leaders, marketing professionals, aspiring students, policymakers, and visionary entrepreneurs to participate in this landmark event. It will be a dynamic gathering where industry players unite to ignite bold conversations, unlock new opportunities, and collectively shape a marketing ecosystem that drives lasting brand growth and national impact.

by Winifred Bosa — July 4, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0

I’ll Save Anambra From Calamity – Ukachukwu

The All Progressive Congress ( APC) flag bearer, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu has promised to save Anambra State from calamity when voted into office come November 8 election.

He made the promise during his campaign tour to Enugwu-Ukwu in Njikoka LGA and Nri in Anaocha LGA of the state.

He mentioned killings, and insecurity as a cankerworm eating the state deeply, and said he would secure lives of Ndị Anambra and their properties.

He advised Ndi Anambra who have not gotten their voter’s cards to register to enable them come out en masse and vote for good governance.

According to him: “We want to change Anambra for the betterment of the state. There will be job creation, industrialization, youth empowerment. We need to strengthen these parts; it is me and you, we will bring governance close to you,” he concluded.”

His running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife, advised people not to be deceived that political parties are the same, adding that all they need is somebody that will change the state for good in terms of good roads, empowerment of the youths, job creation, security and God fearing person like Nicholas Ukachukwu.

The Chairman, APC Anambra State, Basil Ejidike, said the purpose of coming was to thank APC members for choosing Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, saying that campaingns are yet to start.

“We will make sure our flag gets to the light,” he said.

by Online Poster — July 4, 2025 in News 0

Enugu Air Launches On July 7

LarryBravo Nwaiwu

Enugu Air, an Enugu-state owned commercial airline is set to launch on Monday, July 7, 2025, a statement released by the state government on Thursday has revealed.

According to the state government, Enugu Air is part of Governor Peter Mbah Administration’s integrated blueprint for a modern, multimodal transport ecosystem and vision to make Enugu a major aviation hub.

In the statement signed by the Commisssioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, the government said that the launch of Enugu Air would take place at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, as the Special Guest of Honour, among other dignitaries.

“Enugu Air will take off with an initial fleet of three Embraer aircraft, E170 and E190 series, selected for their efficiency, comfort, and adaptability to the regional market.

“The inaugural routes will establish a ‘golden triangle’ with Enugu at its core, connecting Abuja and Lagos and subsequently extending to Port Harcourt, Owerri, Benin, Kano, and other strategic cities across Nigeria and beyond.

“With a strong foundation of innovation and sustainability, we are ready to redefine air travel, instill pride, and elevate Enugu’s prominence on the national and global stage.

“Let the countdown begin—Enugu Air is ready for takeoff,” Ozor said.

by Online Poster — July 4, 2025 in Aviation 0

Unity Bank Empowers Young Entrepreneurs With ₦16M Business Grant

No fewer than 30 young entrepreneurs have been awarded a ₦16 million business grant by Unity Bank Plc during the latest edition of its flagship entrepreneurship development initiative, the Corpreneurship Challenge.

The winners, budding entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions across various business value chains including fashion design, bag making, pastry making, event management, beauty, vegetable farming, and more, emerged tops after participating in a business pitch competition held recently for Batch A Stream 2 across 10 NYSC Orientation Camps in Cross River, Niger, Abuja, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Plateau, Jigawa, Anambra, and Lagos States.

At the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ipaja, Lagos State, corps member Adeniyi Stephen Gbemininyi, who pitched a fashion design business, emerged as the overall winner, clinching the ₦800,000 grand prize. Kolawole Opeoluwa Darasimi, a budding bag maker, won a ₦500,000 grant, while Johnson Elizabeth Ene received a ₦300,000 grant to support her cake and pastry business.

Across the remaining nine states, 27 other winners also emerged after pitching business plans in diverse sectors such as fish production, poultry farming, fashion, soap and cake making, printing, piggery, beverage production, and more.

Over the past six years, the Unity Bank Corpreneurship Challenge has become an integral part of the NYSC programme, aligning with the Federal Government’s commitment to upskilling fresh graduates amid the growing dearth of white-collar jobs. The programme attracts thousands of applications from serving NYSC corps members, whose business plans are evaluated for originality, marketability, employability potential, and overall business acumen.

Speaking during the grand finale in Lagos, Unity Bank’s Divisional Head, Retail & SME, Mrs. Adenike Abimbola, said: “At Unity Bank, we believe that empowering young people to shape Nigeria’s economic future must be supported to provide longer-term sustainability. Through the Corpreneurship Challenge, we are not just providing funding, but nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs equipped with the skills, resources, and confidence to create jobs and transform communities. The success stories we see year after year reaffirm our commitment to youth empowerment and SME development.”

She added: “The overwhelming interest and high quality of business ideas we receive in every edition demonstrate the incredible potential among Nigeria’s youth. We are proud to partner with the NYSC SAED to make these dreams a reality.”

The Corpreneurship Challenge has earned Unity Bank national recognition for its contribution to youth empowerment and job creation, attracting over 2,000 applicants per edition.

In partnership with the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, the initiative features a business pitch competition that allows participants to present their business plans and win grants of up to ₦800,000.

So far, Unity Bank has invested over ₦100 million in the initiative, producing over 160 winners since its launch in 2019.

by Online Poster — July 3, 2025 in Industry 0

NGX Group Secures Funding Support From DEG Impulse To Kick Off N-Zero Programme In Nigeria

Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), a leading integrated market infrastructure provider in Africa, has signed a funding agreement with DEG Impulse gGmbH, a subsidiary of the German Development Finance Institution, DEG – Deutsche Investitions-und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH, part of KfW Bankengruppe, to commence the implementation of its flagship NGX Net-Zero Programme (N-Zero).

The recently signed agreement in Cologne, Germany, marks a major step forward in NGX Group’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience and promote low-carbon development across Nigeria’s private sector. The multi-billion-naira funding was secured under DEG Impulse’s develoPPP programme, which supports innovative private sector initiatives with high development impact.

N-Zero is designed to support businesses with the tools, frameworks, and technical guidance required to set, validate, and achieve science-based emission reduction targets. It aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C.

By bringing together global climate partners, including implementing partner Africa Foresight Group (AFG), NGX Group, through N-Zero, will assist companies in developing credible transition plans and carbon projects that generate verifiable carbon credits, thereby supporting economic resilience, promoting green investments, and contributing to a decarbonized future.

Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, said:
“The signing of this agreement with DEG Impulse marks a significant milestone in our sustainability journey. This partnership demonstrates strong confidence in our vision to drive sustainable finance, build a climate-conscious private sector in Nigeria and champion climate action across Africa. Through N-Zero, we aim to translate ambition into measurable impact by reducing emissions and positioning Nigerian corporates to benefit from emerging opportunities in the global carbon market.”

Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group, added:
“This initiative represents a bold step toward positioning NGX Group at the forefront of climate leadership in Africa. As we activate the N-Zero Programme, we reaffirm our long-standing commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and creating long-term value for the Nigerian economy. It is our firm belief that capital markets must play a central role in delivering climate solutions, and this partnership is a model for what is possible when global institutions collaborate with local expertise”.

Dr. Hubertus Pleister, Managing Director of DEG Impulse, commented: “With the support of the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the develoPPP initiative contributes to NGX’ transformation journey by addressing climate risks and advancing sustainability through strategic and innovative collaboration – reinforcing our shared commitment to building resilient capital markets and enabling long-term impact.”

The “NGX’ N-Zero Programme” will run from June 2025 to April 2027 and is expected to reduce or avoid 20,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. It will support at least 26 businesses in implementing environmental and social standards and provide access to carbon markets through credit registration and emissions offsetting. This collaboration underscores NGX Group’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) and its role in advancing Nigeria’s transition to a more sustainable and inclusive economy.

by Online Poster — July 3, 2025 in Capital Market 0

SEC DG Calls For Inclusive Capital Market At United Capital Investment Forum

By Amaka Obiefuna

United Capital Asset Management, a subsidiary of leading Pan-African investment banking and financial services group, United Capital Plc, hosted the second edition of its flagship Investment Forum on Tuesday, June 25, 2025, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Themed “Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments: Bridging Nigeria’s Knowledge and Wealth Gap,” the event brought together dignitaries, capital market regulators, digital media innovators, and financial literacy advocates to examine how inclusive investments can accelerate sustainable economic growth.

Peter Ashade, Group CEO of United Capital Plc, commenced the forum by reaffirming the Group’s commitment to advancing financial inclusion and revisiting the vision that gave rise to the event. He said: “When we launched the inaugural edition, our goal was simple: to create space for meaningful engagement on the role of the capital market in building wealth and driving inclusive economic growth. Today, that goal remains the same, but the urgency is even greater.”

He further noted that despite improvements in access to basic financial services, capital market participation remains critically low, leaving a vast pool of economic potential untapped. He called on all stakeholders, competitors and regulators alike, to align efforts on a shared vision of inclusion, innovation, and sustainable growth for the capital markets.

Dr. Emomotimi Agama, who served as the Keynote Speaker, brought weight to the conversation in his capacity as Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). His remarks set a compelling tone for the day, stressing that closing Nigeria’s financial literacy gap is not just a regulatory concern but a national imperative.

In a fireside chat with Peter Ashade, Group CEO of United Capital Plc, Dr. Agama advocated for structured and simplified channels to bring excluded Nigerians, especially those in the informal sector, into the capital market ecosystem. He spoke extensively about the newly enacted Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, outlining how the reforms are designed to strengthen market integrity, enhance investor protection, and enable broader access to capital market opportunities, particularly for underserved populations.

The conversation also highlighted the power of media and credible digital influencers in correcting misinformation, combating Ponzi schemes, and promoting safe and long-term investment options. Echoing a shared belief, both leaders concluded that true financial inclusion goes beyond access; all Nigerians must be empowered with knowledge and confidence to build wealth and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

The second half of the forum built on the momentum of the keynote, featuring actionable, cross-sector perspectives on building an inclusive investment ecosystem. Dr. Odiri Oginni, MD/CEO, United Capital Asset Management, kicked off the session with a compelling call to reduce Nigeria’s investment knowledge gap, supported by data-driven insights from Foyinsolami Akinjayeju, CEO of EFInA (Enhancing Financial Inclusion & Advancement).

“What people need is the understanding of finance – the understanding of risks, investments, returns and diversification. For us as capital market operators, we need to go beyond product presentation, but to give people actual information that would help them manage their finances properly”, said Dr. Oginni.

The ensuing panel session brought together distinguished thought leaders in capital market regulation, digital media, personal finance, and grassroot banking:

• Uche Uzoebo, CEO, SANEF

• Jude Chiemeka, CEO, Nigerian Exchange Ltd (represented by Abimbola Babasola, Head of the Trading and Products, Nigeria Exchange Ltd)

• Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, Founder, Nairametrics

• Oler Oladele, Founder, Money Wit Club

• Sola Adesakin, Founder, Smart Stewards

Together, they shared practical strategies on building financial trust in underserved communities, tailoring investment products to consumer needs, leveraging digital platforms and aligning policy to make capital market participation more inclusive and impactful.

The forum showcased United Capital Asset Management’s leadership and convening power in shaping national conversations on economic development. As one of Nigeria’s largest asset managers, with over ₦1 trillion in assets under management and 10 mutual funds, the firm continues to expand its portfolio of accessible investment solutions. These include the recently launched Children Investment Fund, joining an inclusive lineup that already features funds tailored to women, ethical investors, impact-driven individuals, and everyday Nigerians looking to grow wealth securely.

by Online Poster — July 3, 2025 in Capital Market 0

Universal Insurance, NHIA, PTAD, Rite Foods, Sponsor NAIPE 2025 AGM

By Amaka Obiefuna

The Universal Insurance Plc, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) as well as Rite Foods Limited will sponsor the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE).

This year’s NAIPE AGM will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the Nigerian Insurers House in Victoria Island, Lagos.

NAIPE is the umbrella body for journalists covering insurance and pension sectors in Nigeria.

NAIPE holds its AGM in July every year and companies that sponsor the AGM have the unique opportunity to market their products and services to NAIPE members in the course of the event who will in-turn push out the information to the general public through publication of stories and analysis in their mediums and platforms.

Stories generated from the event will be in the media for over one month.
The Universal Insurance Plc is one of the nation’s largest personal lines insurer with over N8 billion in assets, selling eight major lines of insurance, including auto, property and commercial.

Universal Insurance offers a broad spectrum of insurance products for all types of businesses, corporate and individuals with unique services delivery.

According to Universal Insurance Plc, “Our vision is to be a dominant, specialised non life insurer in Nigeria, creating and delivering value to stakeholders while our mission is to offer specialised non life insurance protection to clients inspired by innovation, efficiency and prompt claims settlement.”

On the other hand, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) was established under the National Health Insurance Act which was signed into law on 19 May 2022, replacing the National Health Insurance Scheme Act of 1999.

As of today, data shows that about 20 million Nigerians are covered by the scheme.

NHIA offers several benefits, including financial protection against high medical costs, access to quality healthcare services, and a comprehensive benefits package that covers a wide range of medical needs.

Also, the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) was established in 2013 and drawing its mandate from the Pension Reform Act of 2014, PTAD was tasked with consolidating and managing pensions under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) for pensioners who retired on or before June 30, 2007 and did not transit to the Contributory Pension scheme.PTAD has marked a significant milestone of revolutionizing Nigeria’s public sector pension administrative system.

When the Directorate was created, it inherited a host of challenges that had long plagued the legacy pension offices. These offices, comprising the Police, Customs, Immigration, Prisons, and the Civil Service, as well as the Boards of Trustees of Treasury funded Parastatals, Universities and Research Institutions and Agencies, were historically managed in a fragmented, inefficient, and underfunded manner. By 2004, this mismanagement had culminated in pension liabilities exceeding N2 trillion.

On the helm of affairs of the Directorate is the Executive Secretary, Tolulope Abiodun Odunaiya, a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record of managing complex workflows and consistently driving measurable outcomes. She was appointed to the position in November 2024, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Rite Foods Limited is the producer of Bigi Drinks, Fearless Energy Drinks, Sosa Fruit Drinks, and Rite and Bigi Sausage Rolls.

The company ably led by managing director/CEO, Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, believes in the power of innovation and its potential to change the recycling business.

As Nigeria’s top food and beverage manufacturer, it said: “we are committed to helping recyclers to adopt cutting-edge techniques to recycling plastic trash, particularly in coastal areas, among other Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

by Online Poster — July 3, 2025 in Insurance and Pension 0