CBN Advert
Farm For Health Africa Partners With NICERT , Nigeria Export Promotion Council To Host “African Agro Health And Export Readiness Conference”

*Farm for Health Africa (FHA)* announces the African Agro-Health and Export Readiness Conference 2025, to be held on Thursday, 30th October in Lagos, Nigeria, with the theme: “Advancing Africa’s Health and Global Trade through Scalable Agro-Health and Export Standards.”

This high-level gathering will convene farmers, exporters, government officials, food safety agencies, certification bodies, researchers, AgriTech providers, investors, NGOs, and consumer advocates across Africa to explore practical solutions for strengthening food safety and export readiness in Africa’s agricultural sector.

*Why This Conference Matters*
Africa’s agriculture is the backbone of its economy, employing over 60% of the population. Yet, food safety challenges such as pesticide residue, microbial contamination, weak traceability systems, and non-compliance with international standards continue to limit Africa’s global competitiveness. These problems not only harm public health but also lead to billions in rejected exports annually.

The African Agro-Health and Export Readiness Conference 2025 will:
• Showcase innovative solutions to improve food safety and compliance.
• Engage policymakers in strengthening agro-export policies.
• Equip farmers and SMEs with tools for export readiness.
• Foster stronger partnerships across the agro-health ecosystem.

*Target Participants*
• Smallholder & commercial farmers
• Agro-exporters & aggregators
• Government ministries & regulators
• Food safety & certification bodies
• Cooperatives & farmer organisations
• Research institutes & international agencies
• Buyers, processors & retailers
• AgriTech innovators & service providers
• NGOs, development partners & donor agencies

*About Farm for Health Africa (FHA)*
Farm for Health Africa is a hybrid model organisation advancing safe, organic, and export-compliant farming practices. Through its Foundation (a non-profit organisation), FHA drives training, advocacy, and farmer empowerment, while its Ventures (business arm) delivers seedlings, traceability solutions, cold chain services, and value-added processing support. FHA envisions a continent where African farmers produce safe, healthy, and globally competitive food.

_“Food is medicine, and Africa’s farmers are the first doctors. This conference is about equipping them to heal, feed, and trade with the world.”_
– *Farm for Health Africa*

*Event Details:*
Date: Thursday, 30th October 2025

Venue: Lagos, Nigeria (with hybrid participation online)

Theme: *“Advancing Africa’s Health and Global Trade through Scalable Agro-Health and Export Standards”*

*Conference Speakers:*
Dr Nonye Ayeni, DG, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC)
Rev. Tony Akinyemi, Healthy Living Coach
Annabel Kamuche, GMD, NICERT
Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, DG, NAFDAC
Dr Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, DG, SON
Engr. Sola Obadimu, DG, NACCIMA
Tunde Banjoko, Chairman of the LCCI Agro-Allied Group
Amb. Abiodun Olaniyi, Executive Director, Agriquest Africa Network
Bright Doro, Founder, Bright Doro AgricTech
Ademola Oyetunji, Project Director – GMG AGRIC Farm4us
Dr Farouk Rabi’u Mudi, The National President, AFAN
Blessed OLA Saint, The Founder & CEO, FHA

*Registration and Sponsorship*
Secure your spot now—register to join key changemakers in Africa’s agri-food future!

*Register today:* https://farm4health.africa/conference

*Partnership and Sponsorship Opportunities*
Farm for Health Africa invites corporate organisations, development partners, impact investors, certification bodies, and agri-tech providers to partner as sponsors.

*By sponsoring, your organisation will:*
• Gain exclusive brand visibility before a pan-African and international audience.
• Connect with policy shapers, export buyers, and agribusiness leaders.
• Demonstrate leadership in driving Africa’s food safety and export competitiveness.
• Be featured in the Healthy Africa Video Broadcast (HAVB) campaign, reaching millions.

*Sponsorship and Partnerships:*
Email: partnerships@farm4health.africa | Call/WhatsApp: 09050828207

Nigerian Widow Empowerment Takes Center Stage At CBA Foundation Conference

By Winifred Bosa
The Chinwe-Bode Akinwande (CBA) Foundation has announced  its upcoming conference themed “Empowering Widows in Nigeria: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty and Vulnerability,” scheduled to be held on 9 October 2025 at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.
The pivotal event is aimed at spotlighting the pressing challenges faced by underprivileged widows across the country.
The CBA Foundation is a registered not-for-profit organisation, dedicated to providing a beacon of hope for underprivileged widows and children, protecting and empowering them with the courage to build better lives.
Widows, particularly those from marginalised communities, frequently endure isolation, neglect, and systemic injustice.
 The CBA Foundation Conference will provide a platform for meaningful conversations that illuminate these realities and explore empowerment strategies such as skill acquisition, microfinance, impact investing, and advocacy.
Speaking about the conference, the founder of the CBA Foundation, Chinwe Bode-Akinwande, stated, “Widows are often exploited, largely because they are vulnerable. Our mission is to empower them through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, amplifying their voices and strengthening their positions in society. With this conference, we are creating a platform for stakeholders to share their experiences on these issues, proffer solutions to them and drive everyone to commit to implementing the solutions.”
The conference will feature a keynote address by Amina Oyagbola, Founder of Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR), and a plenary session moderated by Hansatu Adegbite, Executive Director of Women in Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ).
The event will also include interactive discussions, success stories from impact-driven programmes, and a call to action for attendees to engage in meaningful support for widows across the country.
It will bring together stakeholders from civil society, government, academia, and the private sector to share experiences, successes, and policy recommendations to build more supportive environment for widows.
Since its official launch in 2015, the CBA Foundation has impacted over ten thousand widows with women empowerment/capacity building projects.
It has provided support for over seventeen thousand widows with health intervention support, food distribution, business start-up assistance, clothing, and one-on-one counseling.
The Foundation has also supported over 100 underprivileged children with tuition fees and skill acquisition training.
NLNG Calls For Africa-Centric Strategies To Safeguard Energy Security

By Winifred Bosa

Olakunle Osobu, NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, delivering a keynote address titled “The Role of African LNG in a Dynamic Export Market” at the Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025 in South Africa.

NLNG has urged Africans to move beyond the role of raw material suppliers and take their place as key players in the global LNG market.

According to a press release by NLNG , speaking during a keynote address titled “The Role of African LNG in a Dynamic Export Market” at the Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025 in South Africa, the Company’s Deputy Managing Director, Olakunle Osobu, stated that Africa was not a bystander in this conversation on energy security, affordability, and sustainability.

He also said  Africa was a rising pillar of global supply, and that Nigeria has a duty to lead.
He stressed that with more than 850 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, about six percent of the total global reserves, Africa has the resources, the position and the ambition to double its share of the global LNG market within the next decade.

Osobu highlighted Nigeria’s role as the continent’s LNG pioneer, pointing to the NLNG Train 7 expansion project, which will grow the company’s capacity from 22 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 30 MTPA, as a demonstration of sustained leadership.
“Our investment in expansion shows that Nigeria is driving LNG growth not only for exports but also for domestic industries and energy access. We must prove that Africa can deliver LNG that is secure, competitive, and sustainable,” he added.

Osobu noted that emerging LNG frontiers across the continent collectively represent more than 45 MTPA of potential new supply. With these additions, Africa’s LNG output could rise from about 70 MTPA today to 120 MTPA by 2035, further consolidating the continent’s standing as a global LNG hub, he added.

While noting Africa’s strategic advantage, shorter shipping routes to both Europe and Asia, Osobu warned that competitiveness, financing, and domestic responsibility remain Africa’s biggest hurdles.

He pointed out that the U.S. and Qatar are rapidly expanding LNG capacities, while financiers increasingly demand low-carbon and decarbonised LNG projects.

He stressed that Africa’s LNG journey must strike a balance by supplying the world reliably, catalyse African industrialisation, and demonstrate sustainability in line with global decarbonisation goals.

Organised by the African Energy Chamber, Africa Energy Week 2025 brought together policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to shape Africa’s energy future.

AIICO Celebrates Retiring Employees: Honouring Decades Of Service With Gratitude

Left – right: Adeleke Adeshina (rtd), Lanre Oladehinde (rtd.), Sunday Obinga (rtd), Babatunde Fajemirokun (MD/CEO), Funmi Abidogun (rtd), John Ebowe (rtd.), Adewale Kadri (Executive Director), Timothy Momoh (rtd.), Taiwo Onadipe (rtd)

AIICO Insurance Plc recently hosted a glamorous retirement party in honour of eight distinguished members of staff who concluded their meritorious service after decades of unwavering commitment. The colourful evening of music, entertainment, family, and friendship brought together the retirees, their families, senior management, and colleagues from across generations, in what became a moving celebration of legacy, growth, and renewal.

The event was not only a farewell but also a statement of what AIICO represents: a workplace where careers are nurtured, values are passed across generations, and employees thrive in an environment of strength, stability, and timeless relevance.

Speaking at the event, AIICO Insurance Plc’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun, described the evening as a celebration of dedication, resilience, and legacy. He commended the retirees for their invaluable contributions to the company’s growth, noting that their individual journeys embody the values that define AIICO – service excellence, trust, team spirit, entrepreneurship, and professionalism.

“Our retirees have each left footprints of impact on people, on teams, and on this company,” he said. “They may be retiring today, but they are certainly not tired. This next chapter is an opportunity to continue shining, to be ambassadors of AIICO wherever they go, and to remain examples of what a successful career and retirement look like.”

Mr. Fajemirokun also extended heartfelt appreciation to the families of the retirees for the encouragement and support that made it possible for them to give their best at work, emphasizing that their sacrifices have been a quiet but powerful part of the AIICO success story.

Stories of Inspiration: Journeys of the Retirees

John Ebowe – South-East & South-South Region

Joining AIICO in 2007, Mr. Ebowe transformed struggling branches into high-performing offices, growing revenue from ₦34.5 million to nearly ₦2 billion over his 18 years. Known fondly as “IGWE,” he inspired colleagues with his resilience, innovation, and humility. His story of repairing a grounded branch car with personal funds just to win business reflects his extraordinary commitment. For him, retirement is a moment of fulfilment and gratitude to God, leaving behind a legacy of growth and mentorship.

Taiwo Onadipe – Senior Legal & Compliance Officer

Mr. Onadipe’s journey, which began in 1995, is a testament to resilience and faith. Rising from Superintendent in Claims to Principal Manager and Group Head, Claims, he combined work with law studies, overcoming academic setbacks before being called to the Nigerian Bar in 2007. In 2023, he was redeployed to the Legal Department, where he now retires from, marking the close of a distinguished career at AIICO. Through various career and personal challenges, he embodied perseverance and departs with values of discipline, honesty, and integrity deeply etched in AIICO’s culture.

Adeleke Adesina – Principal Manager, Group Life Sales Executve

Mr. Adesina joined in 2010 and carved his niche in Group Life Sales, navigating competitive markets and internal challenges with determination. His early breakthrough in Ibadan despite broker resistance showed his grit and persuasive spirit. He later rose to leadership roles in Group Life, making significant contributions to AIICO’s growth. His story reflects adaptability and courage in the face of change.

Timothy Momoh – Ikeja Branch Manager

For over 20 years, Mr. Momoh served with passion and precision, beginning in Life Underwriting in 2002. Rising through the ranks to Senior Manager II and leading both technical and sales teams, his career highlights include being the only AIICO candidate to qualify as a Chartered Insurance Professional in 2006 and leading the technical migration to TURNQUEST in 2012. His guiding principles – integrity, mentorship, and customer focus—remain a gift to the next generation.

Lanre Oladeinde – Senior Manager, Sales Executive

Mr. Oladeinde’s story began in 1996 in Claims and later across several technical departments. His standout achievement was growing Jos Branch’s production from ₦20 million to over ₦400 million despite severe external challenges, including insecurity. His mentoring of colleagues like Mr. Haruna Yakubu, now in Jos Branch, reflects his belief in legacy building. His resilience and results-oriented approach remain an enduring inspiration.

Johnson Ehindero – Estate and Facility Manager

For nearly 30 years since joining in 1996, Mr. Ehindero dedicated his career to building AIICO’s Facilities function. Rising from technician to Manager, he spearheaded projects like the Independent Power Project that cut diesel costs by 70%, and branch infrastructure upgrades that improved operational efficiency. His leadership, mentoring, and innovative solutions reshaped the company’s facilities nationwide. His philosophy: success is collective, driven by passion and respect.

Funmi Abidogun – Cashiering, Ibadan Branch

Mrs. Abidogun’s 30-year journey, beginning in 1995 as a secretary, reflects resilience and growth. Rising to become Ibadan Branch Cashier, she combined work with academic pursuits, earning degrees in Business Administration and Entrepreneurship. Her fondest memories include long-service awards, festive office celebrations, and women’s empowerment programmes. For her, patience, focus, and commitment remain the cornerstones of success.

Sunday Obinga – Principal Dispatch Rider

Joining as a dispatch rider in 2001, Obinga worked his way up to Principal Clerk. His story is one of quiet consistency, discipline, and integrity. Despite the daily rigours of navigating Lagos traffic, he maintained a clean service record over two decades. His words of wisdom are simple yet profound: “Be faithful, diligent, humble. Dishonesty has no lasting reward.”

A Night of Glamour and Gratitude

The retirement party was a joyous affair filled with music, dance, laughter, and tributes. Colleagues shared anecdotes, management expressed deep appreciation, and family members watched with pride as their loved ones were celebrated. The atmosphere reflected AIICO’s culture—a blend of respect for tradition and readiness for the future.

Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Oluyemi Obakin, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the MD/CEO, Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun, for his consistent support for initiatives that celebrate employees and their contributions. He said, “Tonight is about honouring years of dedication, sacrifice, and legacy. It’s our way of saying thank you – not just in words, but by creating moments that our retirees, their families, and all of us will remember for years to come.”

The company then presented the retirees with symbolic parting gifts, tokens of gratitude for their years of service and loyalty. For many, the night was not a goodbye but a reminder that once a member of the AIICO family, always a member.

AIICO: A Workplace for Every Generation

The celebration also highlighted AIICO’s multi-generational workforce – spanning Generation X, millennials, and Gen Z – united by shared values of service excellence, trust, team spirit, entrepreneurship and professionalism. While the older generation passes down institutional knowledge, the younger generation brings energy, creativity, and new perspectives, ensuring AIICO remains future-ready while rooted in its legacy.

AIICO Insurance Plc continues to stand out as a place where employees confidently invest their careers, knowing their contributions are valued, their growth is supported, and their legacy is celebrated. The retirees’ stories remind younger professionals that careers here are not just jobs but journeys of impact, resilience, and fulfilment.

About AIICO Insurance Plc

AIICO Insurance is a leading composite insurer in Nigeria, with a 60-year record of accomplishment in delivering quality service to its clients. Founded in 1963, AIICO provides life and general insurance, health insurance, and investment management services to create and protect wealth for individuals, families, and corporate customers.

NDIC covers 99% commercial banks’ deposits – MD

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) currently provides full insurance cover for 98.98 percent of Deposit Money Banks’ total deposits.

The Managing Director of the Corporation, Mr. Thompson Sunday, revealed this at the NDIC Special Day of the ongoing 20th Abuja International Trade Fair, with the theme, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation”.

He restated NDIC’s commitment to ensuring financial sector stability, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

In a message read on his behalf by the Director of Performance Management, Mrs. Bimpe Akande, the MD said, “Currently, the NDIC insures depositors of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Mobile Money Operators and Non-Interest Banks, up to a coverage limit of five million naira. Depositors of Payment Service Banks (PSBs), Microfinance Banks (MFBs) and Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs) are insured up to two million naira.

“This enhanced coverage ensures that approximately 98.98% of total depositors in Deposit Money Banks, 99.27% in Microfinance Banks, 99.34% in Primary Mortgage Banks, and 99.99% in Payment Service Banks are protected, reflecting NDIC’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its mandate.”

Mr. Sunday added, “We are dedicated to protecting Nigerians’ bank.  In collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), we strive to maintain stability in the banking sector, enforce compliance with banking regulations, and exercise effective oversight over insured deposit-taking institutions.

“Our mission, embodied in the tagline ‘Protecting your bank deposits,’ is to promote financial inclusion and stability by reassuring Nigerians of the security of their savings.

“Significant progress has been made in protecting depositors’ funds, notably through the increase in the maximum deposit insurance coverage, which has broadened protection across various licensed banks.”

He added that the corporation had, over three decades, played a vital role in safeguarding depositors’ funds, particularly the most vulnerable, and fortifying the financial system.

The NDIC boss assured that banks’ depositors had no reason to worry about the safety of their funds, as all their claims in excess of the insured deposits.

He said, “In the event that a bank fails, depositors with account balances exceeding the insured coverage limit receive an initial payment up to the maximum insured amount.

“Their remaining balances are then paid through liquidation dividends. Liquidation dividends refer to payouts made to depositors and creditors from the proceeds generated from the sale of a failed bank’s assets and recovered debts during the liquidation process.

“These dividends are usually paid on a pro-rata basis, meaning depositors receive a proportionate share of the recovered funds relative to their outstanding balances beyond the insured limit.”

Ponzi schemes

Mr. Sunday warned members of the public against patronising Ponzi schemes and other fraudulent investment platforms.

His words, “I would like to emphasise the importance of Nigerians to remain vigilant against Ponzi schemes and other fraudulent investment platforms.

“Always ensure your funds are placed only in Central Bank of Nigeria licensed banks, all of which are covered by deposit insurance provided by the NDIC. This vigilance is crucial to protecting your hard-earned savings.”

Earlier, the President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chief Emeka Obegolu (SAN) commended the corporation for providing comfort to Nigerian depositors.

He pledged the chamber’s collaboration with the NDIC with a view to providing public awareness on the safe deposit of savings in the country.

“We are pleased to note the alignment between this theme and the mandate of the NDIC, which provides a safety net for depositors, contributes to financial system stability, and supports confidence in our banking sector,” the president said.

Chief Obegolu, who was represented by the Director-General of the ACCI, Sir Agabaidu Jidani, said the NDIC was more than a regulator, describing it as “a strategic partner in advocacy and economic development.”

He added, “By working together, we can build stronger linkages between financial safety, enterprise growth, and national development.

“This synergy is vital in advancing Nigeria’s competitiveness, reducing business risks, and ensuring that our financial system supports innovation, job creation, and sustainable investment.”

NESCAFÉ Celebrates Global Coffee / Nigeria’s Independence Day , Samples 65,000 Cups Nationwide

By Winifred Bosa
L-R: Muideen Abdulsalam, Category Development Manager, Coffee; Jean-Pierre Duplan, Category Manager, Coffee; Adebayo Olujobi, Category Development Executive, Coffee
In commemoration of International Coffee Day and Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, NESCAFÉ executed a large-scale activation, serving 65,000 cups of coffee to consumers nationwide to mark the dual occasion. The initiative spanned 25 cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Enugu, Jos, Nasarawa, Minna, Kaduna, Bauchi, Owerri, Onitsha, Abeokuta, Ilorin, Calabar, Uyo, Lokoja, Lafia, Osogbo, Ado Ekiti, Maiduguri, Yola, Benin, Asaba, Makurdi, and Sokoto, reaching consumers in universities, business districts, markets, and community hubs.
This activity also follows the relaunch of the original NESCAFÉ 3-in-1 in Nigeria, which now comes with enhanced creaminess, a smooth milky taste, and the brand’s signature aroma, all developed from local consumer insights. The product is now delivered in design-for-recycling packaging, underscoring Nestlé’s commitment to sustainability while meeting evolving consumer preferences.
Speaking on the occasion, Jean-Pierre Duplan, Category Manager, Coffee, Nestlé Nigeria, said: “Earlier this year, we relaunched NESCAFÉ 3-in-1, offering an improved flavor and smoother creaminess in a convenient sachet. This coffee variant is loved by many in Nigeria. The relaunch was carefully shaped by consumer preferences while advancing our sustainability commitments through recyclable packaging. We also recognized that International Coffee Day, a global celebration of the people who make coffee special across the value chain from farm to cup, coincided with the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary. We decided to delight our consumers by serving 65,000 cups across the country as a way of celebrating both milestones while reinforcing NESCAFÉ’s role in everyday Nigerian coffee moments, helping consumers start their day strong.”
The response from consumers highlighted the impact of the campaign. One of the participants, Tobilola Felix, shared his excitement: “I was thrilled to get my cup of NESCAFÉ this morning. It was such a pleasant surprise, especially on my way to work. As a Nigerian, it feels special to be part of this celebration, knowing that I am experiencing both International Coffee Day and our 65th Independence in such a unique way. It gave me a great start to my day and reminded me of the pride we share as Nigerians.”
Beyond the sampling, NESCAFÉ continues to give back to its consumers, particularly through the MYOWBU (My Own Business) program, which nurtures youth entrepreneurship and fosters economic opportunities across Nigeria. In collaboration with Nestlé professional, the program has empowered over 1,400 young Nigerians to start businesses and achieve financial independence.
CSCS Celebrates Customer Service Week 2025 With Theme: Mission: Possible

What is the 2025 Customer Service Week Theme and Logo? – Customer Service  Week

Amaka Obiefuna

 

The Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), Nigeria’s capital market infrastructure, joins the world in celebrating Customer Service Week 2025, themed “Mission: Possible.” The theme underscores the importance of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, values that are deeply embedded in CSCS’s operations.

This year’s celebration reflects CSCS’s continuous strides in delivering exceptional service by leveraging technology and innovation to transform the Nigerian capital market. From record-breaking transactions to pioneering digital solutions, CSCS has consistently redefined efficiency, accessibility, and trust in the market.

In 2025, CSCS has further enhanced its digital processes with key innovations, including RegConnect Version 2, an upgraded registrar platform featuring advanced tools for real-time data validation, omnichannel transaction capabilities, and seamless API integration. The organization also launched the Custodian Portal, a secure, user-centric platform that simplifies portfolio and trade management, document tracking, and share transfers for custodians.

In partnership with MTN Nigeria, CSCS introduced the *7270# USSD Code Service, designed to democratize access to investment services by enabling investors to check balances, stock positions, and Direct Cash Settlement (DCS) status directly from their mobile phones, without the need for internet access.

Speaking on the significance of the week, Haruna Jalo-Waziri, MD/CEO of CSCS PLC stated “It’s with a heart full of gratitude that I write to thank you for being who you are: our most valuable stakeholder. Our impressive achievements are only made possible by your unflinching faith in our audacious mission to revolutionize the Nigerian capital market.”

Mr Jalo-Waziri further added, “As we celebrate our esteemed customers, I like to also appreciate my colleagues, whose empathy and dedication to go the extra mile continue to make real positive changes in serving our customers and the market at large. As always, I want you to know that your resilience and tenacity towards delivering exceptional service is well appreciated, and you truly deserve all the celebration.”

Customer Service Week provides CSCS an opportunity to reaffirm its customer-first philosophy and recognize the tireless efforts of its employees, whose commitment ensures seamless clearing, settlement, and market access for millions of investors across Nigeria and beyond.

As the Nigerian capital market prepares for its transition to the T+2 settlement cycle in November 2025, CSCS remains steadfast in its mission to deliver world-class services, foster investor confidence, and drive innovation that makes the impossible, possible.

Parthian Pensions Harps On Financial Literacy, Targets Micro Pension Market

 

Parthian Pensions Harps On Financial Literacy, Targets Micro Pension Market

 

By Amaka Obiefuna

 

 

Parthian Pensions Limited has advocated increase in financial literacy to enhance and deepen adoption of pension scheme in the country.

This is even as the newly approved Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) is focusing on the micro pension market to gain fresh Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders into its customer base.

Speaking at the 10th National Conference/Anniversary of Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE) held in Lagos, the Head of Operations, Parthian Pensions Limited, Mr. Adetunbi Ashaye called on stakeholders in Nigeria’s pension sector to educate Nigerians on the importance of subscribing to the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

While highlighting some of the developments in the industry that demonstrate its potential for growth, he said, people that are clamouring to exit the scheme, have forgotten so soon that it was because of the past bad experiences that the new scheme came on board.

“This is because the previous pension system was unfunded. Now that it is funded through the contributions of the employees and the employers, it is highly regulated.

“What really needs to happen is the need to drive financial literacy because people in Nigeria see pension as insignificant, something that is not important,” he advised.

“The impact of the scheme to the economy is ensuring that people have good retirement; people have good life after they have stopped working. In other words, what we need to do in the industry as operators is to ensure financial literacy. We need to let people know what is going on and why they should continually support the contributory pension scheme,” he added.

Saying most Nigerians see insurance and pensions as unnecessary, he noted that, “their concern is that, if they cannot provide for their immediate needs, which is food, shelter and clothing, why should they save? And it still boils down to a Micro Pension Plan.

“What should be happening in the industry now is to simplify, digitise micro pension plans, and ensure diversification in different ways so that we can reach out to everybody.”

With pension assets projected to reach N29 trillion at the end of the year, he said, “the pension industry performance in the first quarter, 2025 shows N79 billion was paid for Programme Withdrawal and N54 billion for Annuity.

“There is also the certification of asset classifications, and what we need is transparency, which is what PenCom is doing, people are looking and seeing how the funds are growing.”

Meanwhile, he said, his PFA will leverage on the opportunities provided by micro pension plan to enrich its customer base and bring more people who are not currently covered under the regular scheme into the pension safety net.

“Though, we are one of the late entrants into the industry, that doesn’t mean that we don’t have what it takes to excel.

“So, we are technology driven as we leverage technology for effective service delivery to our contributors. This is effective and it’s going to drive people and companies towards us.

“In another instance, we are going to flood micro pension space which still remains untapped. About 70 to 80 million people are in that space.

“So, we are not just coming into the business, to cannibalise RSA holders, we are coming to bring on board new RSAs and chart a new course,” he assured.

Saying its prospective contributors should expect simplicity, and less complexity in onboarding, he added that, “they can onboard from the comfort of their homes. We care about you (our customers) and we will always check on you. There is human face to every service we render. We will drive towards financial literacy. We are the pensions managers of choice, trust and we will get that actualised.”

Polaris Bank Reaffirms Commitment To Service Excellence As Customer Service Week Kicks Off

 

Amaka Obiefuna

 

Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to deepen delivery of exceptional customer experiences as it joins institutions across the world to celebrate 2025 Customer Service Week, themed “Mission: Possible.”

 

The annual global event, which runs from today Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 10, is dedicated to recognising the vital role of customer service professionals and the value they bring to customers and businesses alike.

 

Speaking to customers and staff, the Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, emphasised that excellent service remains central to the Bank’s culture and success. He noted that while great service can sometimes seem like a challenge, it is always worth the effort.

 

According to him, Polaris Bank’s approach to service is anchored on consistency, thoughtfulness, and excellence, ensuring that customers experience genuine care and responsiveness in every interaction. Lawal expressed appreciation to customers for their trust and feedback, describing them as the reason Polaris Bank continues to push boundaries and innovate.

 

He reaffirmed Polaris Bank’s commitment to stand by its customers and deliver the kind of service they truly deserve every step of the way.

 

Throughout the week, Polaris Bank will host a variety of engaging activities across its branches and digital platforms to appreciate customers and recognise service champions within the Bank. These will include staff recognition events, customer appreciation sessions, and internal learning engagements aimed at deepening service excellence.

 

Customer Service Week is celebrated globally in the first full week of October to honour the importance of service excellence and the professionals who make it possible. For Polaris Bank, it represents yet another opportunity to celebrate its people and customers, while reinforcing that with dedication and teamwork, great service is always a Mission Possible.

Union Bank Champions Employee Wellness with Stay Recharged Health Walk

 

Amaka Obiefuna

 

 

Union Bank of Nigeria held its first-ever Stay Recharged Health Walk, a dynamic event that affirmed the Bank’s steadfast commitment to employee well-being and sustainable workplace development.

 

The walk kicked off at the Stallion Plaza, Union Bank’s Head Office in Marina. It concluded at the Bank’s Sports Complex, The Stable, on Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, tracing an energising 7.5km route through Lagos’ vibrant streets. The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from employees from diverse departments and locations made it a celebration of physical fitness, mental health, and the power of community spirit.

 

Stay Recharged is a featured event drawn from a cornerstone of Union Bank’s employee value proposition: employee wellness, thoughtfully crafted to foster a culture where health, happiness, and productivity flourish. The initiative responds directly to the urgent need for purposeful wellness programmes that nurture both physical and mental health at work. It reflects the Bank’s recognition that employee wellbeing is fundamental to sustained productivity, engagement, and organisational excellence.

 

Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, Chief Talent Officer, emphasised the significance of this milestone event:
“At Union Bank, well-being is not an afterthought; it is part of how we work. Our inaugural Stay Recharged Health Walk reflects our commitment to building a culture where our people are energised, supported, and thriving. When we take care of ourselves, we build stronger teams and stronger institutions.”

 

The Stay Recharged Health Walk aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. This initiative reflects Union Bank’s commitment to fostering a workplace culture that prioritises employee wellness, supports decent and productive work, and contributes to long-term organisational sustainability.

 

By investing in these wellness experiences, Union Bank not only strengthens its internal community but also reinforces its reputation as an employer of choice.

 

Union Bank remains dedicated to developing innovative, health-focused programmes that inspire employees to adopt healthier lifestyles, supporting long-term growth for both individuals and the organisation.