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All Posts in "Month: November 2025"

BJAN Conference : Experts Task Marketing Professionals, Others On Ethical AI , Human Mastery

By Winifred Bosa
13th annual conference of the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) recently concluded in Lagos, addressing the seismic impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the marketing and communications landscape. The event, themed “AI and Future of Marketing Workflow: Disruption or Opportunity,” brought together regulators, industry veterans, and tech innovators who unanimously agreed that survival depends on ethical application and human ‘mastery’ of the new technology.
In his welcome address, Daniel Obi, BJAN Chairman, set the tone for the discussion, observing that the world of marketing and communication “is undergoing a profound shift driven by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence”.
He detailed how AI is transforming processes across the board, from content generation to personalised advertising, challenging old models and shaping new possibilities.
Mr Obi emphasised that the theme “captures not only the excitement but also the responsibility placed on professionals in our sector,” requiring them to use the technology “ethically, strategically and intelligently”.
Tomi Ogunlesi, Divisional Head, Brands, Communications, Content & CSR, representing Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President/Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications at Interswitch; Bethel Obioma, Head Corporate Communications, Sahara Group; Udeme Ufot, GMD, SO&U and Daniel Obi, BJAN Chairman at BJAN’s conference 2025 in Lagos. 
Udeme Ufot, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited and Chairman of the occasion, echoed this dual perspective, stating plainly that “AI brings both disruption and opportunity”.
He acknowledged that while the technology burdens old systems, “it also offers new possibilities, greater efficiency, deeper insights, faster processes, and more personalised communication than ever before”.
Mr Ufot stressed that the key question for professionals is no longer whether “AI will transform our industry,” but rather how they “will be responsive”.
Ultimately, he advised the audience that professionals “must see AI and enabler not the first [a threat]” and build new skills alongside strong ethical standards.
The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), represented by Dr. Susan Ngozi Agbo (Director, Registration Directorate), presented the regulatory stance. Speaking on behalf of Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director-General of ARCON, Dr Agbo noted that AI is “already revolutionalising the marketing workflow, presenting both disruptions and opportunities”.
However, the regulator expressed serious concerns about maintaining local norms and ethics. Dr Agbo insisted that “the ethical standard of marketing communication is what to ensure that we all continue to be one Nigerian so that we will not break that which makes us thick as a nation”.
She warned that if AI is allowed to be used unchecked, “there will be anarchy in the system”.
Consequently, she called on practitioners to “always self censor yourself in anything you are churning out” to ensure conformity to the norms of advertising practice. Furthermore, ARCON has developed a stock image bank for Nigerians, meaning if practitioners cannot use the beautiful faces of Nigerians, they will need to provide “variations and reasons why” they are using stock imagery.
Bethel Obioma, the Head of Corporate Communications at Sahara Group, emphasised that while technological disruption is inevitable, the inherent value of human creativity and insight remains paramount. He noted that professionals in this field gain “an opportunity to have multiple expressions”.
 Mr Obioma elaborated that effective communicators are “exceptional at different things” because they are able to acquire “a best IQ of everything and put it together in a way no one can ever express it,” which is what allows a marketer to truly stand out.
He strongly cautioned against relying solely on technology, asserting that the crucial differentiating factor is that “the human edge will always trump anything else”.
This human capacity is essential for transforming AI-generated outputs into actionable excellence.
Corroborating this strategic view, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President/Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications at Interswitch, whose presentation was delivered by Tomi Ogunlesi, Divisional Head, Brands, Communications,  Content & CSR,  highlighted the convergence of various professional paths in today’s landscape.
She observed that whether one is “a journalist, whether you’re in media or in advertising or you’re a junior brand manager, the insights will converge”.
This convergence is now powered by what she termed the ‘New Marketing Trinity’. In this powerful strategic framework, Eromosele explained that “Data has always been the.fuel” that ignites efforts, while “Creativity is the spark,” and AI acts as “the multiplier”.
She stressed how technology has fundamentally shifted media consumption, noting that “everybody’s screen has now become their network,” rendering traditional mass communication less effective as it transitions toward precision communication.
Offering a stark reality check, Segun Umoru, Senior AI and ML Engineer at Optimus AI Labs, during the panel session confirmed that “AI will take over some jobs; I mean that’s the truth”.
He noted that this reduction in workforce is already happening outside Nigeria due to agentic solutions automating tasks that previously required junior personnel. Mr Umoru warned that in 2026, “there’s going to be a lot of jobs affected,” citing how lean startups are now successfully running marketing, content creation, graphics, and web design with minimal staff using these solutions.
Despite the disruptive potential, panellists emphasised the critical role of human intellect and skill. Emma Adeniran, Business Unit Director at +Aculty Limited, commented on the high adoption rate among professionals in Nigeria, noting that “the penetration is high and it will continue to get deeper”.
He argued that AI has “made a whole lot of things democratized,” thereby ensuring that “the standard has been elevated,” meaning professionals need to “move… a lot higher”.
The conference was attended by industry leaders, policymakers, marketing professionals, and students.
Winifred Bosa by — November 30, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Brand Visibility: Stakeholders Hail BJAN’s Contribution, Stress Ethical AI Use

By Winifred Bosa
Dr. Dare Ogunyombo, PR professional and Lecturer, Mass Comm dept, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoyin, John Ehiguese, Founder/CEO, MediaCraft Associates; Daniel Obi, BJAN Chairman; Clara Okoro, immediate past Chairman, BJAN; Dr. Samuel Ayetutu, NIPR Lagos Chairman and Tomi Ogunlesi of Interswitch.

Marketing communications leaders and stakeholders who gathered at the 2025 Annual Brands &Marketing Conference organised by the Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) have lauded the contributions of Brand Journalistsfor their consistent work, which has dramatically enhanced the respect and growth of the marketing Communications industry in the country.
While celebrating the vital role of the media in shaping brand narratives, speakers at the event, whose theme was “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Future of Marketing Workflow: Opportunities and ,” emphasised that journalists must master AI tools to ensure that the human element remains central to communication.
Captains of industry reflected on how far the profession has come, acknowledging that decades ago, advertising and marketing communications lacked respect and public awareness.
Udeme Ufot, Group CEO of SO&U, highlighted that the current stature of the sector is a direct result of media coverage. “The fact that marketing and advertising are now so well recognised and respected is because of the work that journalists have done,” he stated.
He further explained that the more awareness created around brand management and marketing communications, the more the industry attracts quality professionals, thereby earning greater respect and recognition.
This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Susan Ngozi Agbo, Director of the Registration Directorate at ARCON, representing Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON). She noted that the value journalists bring to the table cannot be overstated.
“The work you do within the entire marketing ecosystem cannot be overemphasised,” she said, adding that brands are visible “because of the journalists and the attention you give to those brands”.
Daniel Obi, Chairman of BJAN, welcomed attendees to the pivotal conference, emphasising that AI is transforming how the industry creates, communicates, plans, measures, and engages.
He stressed that professionals, including journalists and regulators “must understand this technology deeply enough to use it ethically, strategically, and intelligently”.
The core discussion focused on Artificial Intelligence, which speakers agreed is no longer a future prospect but the current reality.
Bethel Obioma, Head of Corporate Communications at Sahara Group, described the present landscape as “an equilibrium where disruption meets opportunity”. He strongly advised emerging professionals, stating, “The human edge will always trump anything else.” He asserted that while AI can handle tasks such as scaling, data analysis, and initial drafting, human practitioners must oversee strategy, creative decisions, and emotional nuances.
Mr. Obioma cautioned against relying solely on AI outputs, warning that AI-generated stories or pitches often miss the crucial “why” and lack the emotional and cultural context specific to the Nigerian market. For example, AI might fail to anticipate cultural backlash triggered by subtle emotional cues or the use of culturally sensitive language.
To leverage AI effectively, Mr. Obioma outlined a three-pronged framework for journalists and marketers: Discovery, Smoothly (The Human Edge), and Mastery. He urged journalists to actively learn about AI tools, understanding what AI is, its limitations, and which specific tools to use for tasks such as writing or data analysis.
Explaining “Smoothly (The Human Edge)”, he advised applying critical thinking to AI outputs, interrogating results, and contextualising them with real-world business insights and local nuances. Journalists must ask: “Why?” and “Is this true?”.
Regarding “Mastery”, he explained that taking command of AI, integrating insights within one’s own business metrics, and delivering authentic, high-quality work are essential. Mr. Obioma summarised, “AI only takes you to the bus stop; you need to start the vehicle and move on to the next stage”.
The speakers also emphasised that AI amplifies the need for vigilance, particularly against misinformation and bias.
Delivering insights on behalf of Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President of Interswitch Group, Tomi Ogunlesi, Divisional Head of Brands, Communications, Content & CSR at Interswitch, highlighted that in the new marketing trinity, Data is the fuel, Creativity is the spark, and AI is the multiplier. Yet, she underscored that despite technological advancements, human elements remain irreplaceable. “Human skills define the why and the soul of the brand,” the presentation stated.
Dr. Eromosele’s recommendations for the advancing brand journalist included strengthening investigative skills, fostering collaboration rather than competition, and paying close attention to detail. She warned against the ethical risks of publishing AI-generated content without diligent review, citing instances where major publications outsourced content creation only to publish glaring errors.
Winifred Bosa by — November 30, 2025 in brands and Marketing
CSCS Plc Announces GO-LIVE OF T+2 Settlement Cycle In Nigerian Capital Market 

Amaka Obiefuna
The Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), Nigeria’s premier capital market infrastructure, is pleased to announce the official go-live of the T+2 settlement cycle in the Nigerian capital market, effective today, Friday, 28 November 2025. This transition from the long-standing T+3 cycle represents a significant milestone in the ongoing modernisation of Nigeria’s post-trade infrastructure and reflects the market’s collective commitment to global best practices.
With the implementation of T+2, all trades executed from today will now settle two business days after the trade date. This achievement strengthens operational efficiency, enhances market liquidity, and significantly reduces counter-party risk, ultimately improving investor experience and ensuring quicker access to funds and securities. The transition also positions Nigeria more competitively within the global capital market landscape, where shorter settlement cycles are increasingly becoming the standard.
Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CSCS, expressed confidence in the readiness of the market. “The successful commencement of the T+2 settlement cycle is the product of extensive collaboration, rigorous testing, and the unwavering commitment of all market stakeholders. We are proud to lead this change at a time when efficiency and resilience are critical pillars for market competitiveness.”
Mr Jalo-Waziri further added, “As we embrace the T+2 framework, we are unlocking efficiencies that will shape the future of Nigeria’s capital market for years to come. This milestone sends a clear message that the Nigerian market is evolving, forward-thinking, and determined to match and surpass global benchmarks in post-trade operations.”
CSCS has worked closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), exchanges, market operators, custodians, and key trade associations to ensure smooth implementation. Comprehensive readiness assessments, industry-wide testing, and participant engagements were conducted to guarantee that systems, processes, and operational frameworks were aligned with the new cycle ahead of today’s launch.
As the market adjusts to this new settlement environment, CSCS remains committed to providing continuous support and guidance. The organisation has also made implementation procedures and guidelines available to all market participants to aid operational clarity and ensure seamless adoption. You can access these on our website dedicated to the transition at https://www.cscs.ng/ngt2/
The T+2 transition marks another bold step in CSCS’s long-standing mission to drive innovation and operational excellence across Nigeria’s capital market. The organisation will continue to champion initiatives that strengthen market confidence, promote efficiency, and align the Nigerian market with global standards.
Online Poster by — November 28, 2025 in Capital Market
Abelinis Hosts Second Edition Of WITFLIX Experience, Inaugurates High-Impact Leadership Conversation

… Screens Kunle Afolayan’s “October 1” in a convivial atmosphere
Funmi Oleghe
L-R Femi Bello, the moderator, Milagrosa Nana Utomi, CEO MPXM Africa, Tolu Medebem, President EXMAN, Abiodun Oshinibosi, Founder WITFLIX, and Larry Thompson, Country Manager WITFLIX
It was an atmosphere of conviviality and knowledge sharing as Abelinis Limited, a forward tech-driven experiential marketing company, hosted industry practitioners, undergraduates, students, and upwardly mobile high-net-worth individuals to the second edition of WITFLIX, an experiential learning initiative.
The event, which was held at the Kunle Afolayan Production Cinema on Wednesday, 26th October, featured the screening of Kunle Afolayan’s October 1 and a high-impact leadership conversation. brought together students from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Bells University, and a vibrant network of young individuals eager to learn, connect, and grow.
This edition featured an exclusive screening of Kunle Afolayan’s October 1, a film that blends history, conflict, culture, and national identity. Beyond entertainment, the movie served as the backdrop for a powerful conversation on leadership, communication, pressure, complexities of human behavior, and conflict navigation, key themes embedded in the storyline.
Following the film screening, attendees were treated to an engaging and insightful panel session featuring two distinguished industry leaders, Mrs. Victoria Adewunmi, CEO, Watermark & Victoria, and Mr. Kingsley James, Managing Director, IDCL.ng. Their discussion offered profound insights into how the film mirrors real-life leadership challenges, communication lapses, and the emotional and psychological factors that influence human behavior.
During the session, the facilitators explained that true leadership reveals itself in moments of pressure. Using the film’s protagonist as a reference, they highlighted the importance of clarity, courage, and strong values when navigating difficult situations. They also reminded the audience that communication goes beyond talking it requires active listening, understanding context, and managing emotions with intention and empathy.
They also explored how bias and personal trauma shape the way people react and make decisions. The speakers noted that many conflicts arise from unspoken experiences or assumptions, and encouraged attendees to become more emotionally aware. By understanding their own wounds and perspectives, young people can communicate more thoughtfully, reduce misunderstandings, and show compassion in everyday interactions. This flowed into a broader conversation about power dynamics and influence, and how authority and privilege, whether through knowledge, access, or position, must be handled responsibly and with integrity.
The facilitators concluded by emphasizing that personal growth and self-awareness are the real foundations of leadership. Individuals who understand their strengths, triggers, and blind spots are better equipped to build meaningful relationships, lead effectively, and handle conflict with maturity. They encouraged the audience to embrace continuous self-reflection as a pathway to becoming more intentional, confident, and influential leaders.
The atmosphere at WITFLIX was vibrant and engaging. Participants enjoyed interactive moments such as the photobooth experience, puzzle and word games, networking sessions, and live interview recordings. The presence of TVC News and Channels Television, who covered and documented the event, added to its credibility and visibility. Many attendees shared that the experience broadened their understanding of leadership, enhanced their communication skills, and inspired them to pursue personal growth with greater intentionality.
WITFLIX once again demonstrated the power of storytelling as a catalyst for learning and transformation. Through the fusion of cinema and conversation, Abelinis Limited created a space where young people could explore complex themes in a relatable and impactful way. The organization extends its appreciation to Malta Guinness, Ritemate, EXMAN, and the Brand Experience Summit for their partnership and unwavering support in shaping a meaningful experience for the next generation.
Abelinis Limited remains committed to empowering young minds with knowledge, confidence, and opportunities to lead with clarity and purpose. The WITFLIX initiative continues to set a standard for experiential education rooted in creativity, reflection, and real-life relevance.
Winifred Bosa by — November 28, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Interswitch, FMN, Sahara Group, Other Top Brands Back BJAN Conference On Nov 28

By Winifred Bosa

Leading brands in Nigeria such as Interswitch, Flour Mills of Nigeria, Sahara Group, Nigerian Breweries and Checkers Custard, among other top brands, have thrown their weight behind the 2025 National Brands and Marketing Conference slated for Friday, November 28, 2025 at Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.

Powered by Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria, BJAN, this year’s conference is the 13th edition and is themed: “AI and Future of Marketing Workflow: Disruption or Opportunity”.

The annual gathering, now regarded as one of the most influential knowledge-sharing platforms in the Nigerian integrated marketing communications (IMC) space, will bring together industry stakeholders from the IMC and allied sectors.

Confirmed to deliver the keynote addresses are Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing & Corporate Communications, Interswitch Group and Bethel Obioma, Head, Corporate Communications, Sahara Group.

Their presentations will be dissected in a panel discussion to drive home the conversation.

The session will be moderated by Adedayo Odulaja, Director of Research and Public Policy at Caritas Communications and General Secretary of BJAN.

Members of the panel comprise tech experts and top marketing professionals including Dr. Seyi Akindeinde, Founder, Hyperspace Technologies and Austin Onyebuchi Akosa, Chief Information Officer, UBA.

Meanwhile, other top brands that have communicated their support for the conference include LG Electronics, UBA, ARCON, Stanbic IBTC, Dangote, Rite Foods, Mouka Foams as well as Guinness Nigeria.

Others are Hyperspace, Oracle, Union Bank, Coke, X3M Ideas, AAAN, Multichoice, OAAN, Modion Communications, IT Labs and SO&U.

Winifred Bosa by — November 27, 2025 in brands and Marketing
World Children’s Day Symposium : Media Leaders Champion Child-Centered Advocacy

By Winifred Bosa

Leading voices from Nigeria’s media, government, and development community came together yesterday at the World Children’s Day Media Symposium in Lagos, urging stronger media advocacy for the rights and welfare of children.

Organized by UNICEF Nigeria, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), and the Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME), the event held under the theme “Reinforcing the Role of Media in Mainstreaming Child Rights” brought together editors, journalists, UNICEF Champions, development partners, civil society, and private sector representatives to explore how storytelling, accountability journalism, and public dialogue can shape a better future for Nigeria’s children.

As was contained in a press release by UNICEF, the symposium followed the release of the “Nigerian Child 2025 Report”, which shows that two out of every three children in Nigeria live in multidimensional poverty, lacking access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and safety. The report also reveals that over half of all children experience some form of violence before age 18, and that one in three girls is married before reaching adulthood.

UNICEF Nigeria Representative, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, presented the key findings of the report and called on the media to be a driving force for change.

“The data tells us that millions of children are being left behind, but it also shows where progress is possible. The media can change how we see these children, from statistics to stories of strength and hope. Every time a journalist gives voice to a child, the nation takes a step forward,” she said.

The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba, underscored the power of media in shaping perception and driving accountability.

“Editors decide what the nation pays attention to. We must ensure that the struggles and dreams of Nigeria’s children remain part of our everyday conversation. That is how societies grow more humane, more honest, and more hopeful,” he said.

In his remarks, Mr. Lanre Idowu, Chairman of DAME, reminded participants that powerful journalism can transform children’s lives.

“Good journalism does not just inform, it saves lives. When the press asks why a child is out of school or why a health centre is closed, it triggers solutions. Today is a call to all of us in the media to be the steady voice that speaks for those who cannot yet speak for themselves,” he said.

One of the major highlights of the event was the panel discussion moderated by Dr. Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, on “Equipping the Nigerian Child for the Future: How Prepared Are We?”. The session brought together government officials, media leaders, and UNICEF representatives who stressed the urgency of turning policies into real impact for children in communities. They called for stronger collaboration with the media to challenge harmful practices, promote ethical reporting, and keep child welfare at the center of national priorities. The discussion also highlighted the need to equip young people with skills, mentorship, and opportunities that will prepare them for meaningful participation in Nigeria’s future economy.

The symposium concluded with a call to action for Nigerian media organizations to establish Child Rights Desks, build stronger partnerships with development agencies, and increase evidence-based reporting that highlights both challenges and solutions.

Key Asks from the Symposium

1. Elevate children’s stories beyond charity narratives to matters of public policy and accountability.

2. Strengthen collaboration between editors, government, and development partners on evidence-based reporting.

3. Promote children’s voices in media, ensuring they are seen as active participants in shaping the future.

4. Integrate child rights into journalism training and newsroom priorities nationwide.

The World Children’s Day Media Symposium 2025 reaffirmed that the path to a just and equitable Nigeria begins with putting every child, especially the most vulnerable, at the centre of public dialogue and national action.

Online Poster by — November 27, 2025 in News
EDC , Fidelity Bank Charge Entrepreneurs To Embrace Impact-Focused Business Models

Executive Director, MTN Nigeria Foundation, Mrs Odunayo Sanya (left), and Programmes and Partnerships Director, Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Dr. Olawale Anifowose, during the 2025 EDC Global Entrepreneurship Week’s Social Enterprise Dialogue held in Lagos recently.
The Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University, Fidelity Bank Plc, and MTN Nigeria Foundation have called on Nigerian entrepreneurs and small business owners to build an impact-driven enterprise for a better future, rather than for profit alone.
This call was made at the 2025 Social Enterprise Dialogue session, powered by the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University and Fidelity Bank during the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Week held in Lagos.
The keynote speaker and executive director at MTN Nigeria Foundation, Mrs. Odunayo Sanya, who spoke on the theme: ‘Purpose meets profit: building an impact-driven enterprise for a better future’, reechoed the call and urged entrepreneurs to ensure the purpose of their businesses is bigger than profit.
She said, “Entrepreneurs need to know that purpose is critical in building a business. That it is not just about the profits, when you have a purpose, and you are driven by your purpose, you will be guided by pillars to purpose, which include ethics, values, and good governance.”
Mrs. Sanya emphasised the importance of culture in building local businesses and advised entrepreneurs to consider culture as a critical ingredient because culture will always eat strategy for breakfast,” she added.
She advised entrepreneurs to build beyond themselves because small businesses grow into big businesses in the long term.
According to her, “Entrepreneurs should build beyond themselves. A small business today grows into a big business tomorrow. They shouldn’t settle for the small visions of their businesses, and the small versions, too. They should have a mental image of what their business is about in the long term. And they shouldn’t play the short-term game, but they should play the long-term game, where even after they’re long gone, their efforts through their establishments will continue to serve humanity,” she enthused.
The Managing Director, Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN Nigeria), DR. Olawale Anifowose, encouraged Nigerian-owned small businesses to innovate and create offerings that do not just generate revenue but also fulfil the needs of both individuals and the community.
Team Lead in the SMEs Banking Group at Fidelity Bank, Chiwike Okere, who spoke on the bank’s collaborative effort with EDC said, “Fidelity Bank, being a bank that is focused on supporting entrepreneurs and SMEs, deems it very key and important to be associated with this event. And that is why we are partnering with one of our long-standing partners, EDC, to support the various activities that are geared towards showcasing entrepreneurs showcasing how different kinds of institutions can support entrepreneurs, and more importantly, showcasing how our bank is supporting entrepreneurs in Nigeria.”
Online Poster by — November 27, 2025 in brands and Marketing
AFC, NGX Strengthen Market Capability To Unlock Capital For Nigeria’s Infrastructure Development

 

Amaka Obiefuna 

 

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, and Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), the sustainable exchange championing the development of Africa’s largest economy have concluded a two-day capacity-building programme designed to strengthen the technical capabilities required to structure and finance infrastructure projects through Nigeria’s capital markets. The two-day workshop, held on 17–18 November 2025 in Lagos, convened professionals from regulatory agencies, institutional investors, project sponsors, and financial institutions to strengthen capacity in project and infrastructure finance, and to explore how Nigeria’s capital markets can serve as a critical platform for financing sustainable infrastructure.

 

Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit, long recognized as a constraint on productivity and competitiveness, is estimated to reach US$2.3 trillion by 2043, with some projections rising toward US$3 trillion over the coming decades. The workshop was convened to address the urgent need for innovative financing mechanisms capable of mobilizing long-term domestic capital into bankable infrastructure opportunities.

 

Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member and Head of Financial Services at AFC said,” Closing the continent’s funding gap requires building local expertise and robust market structures that can support complex, long-term projects. At AFC, we are committed to advancing not just project financing, but the full framework required to deliver bankable, sustainable infrastructure solutions. Our partnership with NGX reflects our belief that Nigeria’s capital markets can and must play a pivotal role in mobilising the scale of domestic resources required to drive the country’s long-term development.”

 

Over the two-day programme participants explored frameworks for project structuring, risk allocation and credit enhancement- tools essential for bringing infrastructure assets to market. The sessions also examined emerging capital market instruments including green bonds, infrastructure REITs, blended finance structures and partial risk guarantees, highlighting practical pathways to mobilize long-term domestic and international capital for infrastructure.

 

Jude Chiemeka, Chief Executive Officer of NGX, highlighted the importance of deepening expertise across the market: “As capital markets assume a more central role in financing Africa’s development, building technical depth across the entire ecosystem becomes essential. Through NGX X-Academy, our dedicated capacity-building platform, we are equipping market participants with the specialized knowledge required to originate, structure and manage infrastructure assets that meet both local needs and global investment standards. This collaboration with AFC is a critical step in ensuring that Nigeria and the wider region develop the institutional capabilities to attract and deploy patient capital at scale.”

 

The workshop marks a milestone in the growing collaboration between AFC and NGX, reinforcing their shared commitment to unlocking sustainable, market-led infrastructure financing. Both institutions plan to build on this momentum through follow up initiatives aimed at deepening engagement and translating insights from the programme into tangible financing solutions for critical infrastructure projects.

 

 

About Africa Finance Corporation (AFC)

 

AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

 

Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 47 member countries and has invested over US$17 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

 

 

 

About Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX)

Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), is a leading listing and trading venue in Africa with its history dating back to 1960. It is an open, professional, and vibrant exchange, connecting Nigeria, Africa, and the world.

 

NGX is a multi-asset exchange providing a home to the best of African enterprises listed on our Premium, Main, and Growth Boards; diverse fixed income securities; Exchange Traded Products (ETPs); Mutual and other investment funds. Through our vibrant secondary market, we provide domestic and international investors access to these securities. In addition, NGX provides licensing services, market data solutions, ancillary technology services, and more in our quest to be Africa’s preferred exchange hub.

Online Poster by — November 27, 2025 in Capital Market
FG Names Dr. Wakeel Lawal As Substantive Medical Director Of NOHIL

By Winifred Bosa

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the appointment of Dr. Wakeel Lawal as the substantive Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos (NOHIL), effective Monday, November 10, 2025.

Dr. Lawal, a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon, is a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where he earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB). He also holds two Master’s degrees — a Master’s in Orthopaedics from the University of Chester, United Kingdom, and a Master’s in Healthcare Management from the University of Zambia.

In addition to his academic qualifications, he has obtained specialized certifications in Arthroplasty from the University of Assiut, Egypt, and the Ganga Medical Centre and Hospitals, India, among other professional trainings.

Dr. Lawal has contributed significantly to NOHIL’s development, serving on various key committees within the hospital. Until his latest appointment, he was the Acting Medical Director, a role in which he provided leadership and continuity for the institution.

The announcement was signed by Ayo Adenike, Assistant Director, Information & Public Relations, on behalf of the hospital’s management.

Online Poster by — November 27, 2025 in News
BJAN 2025: Experts From ARCON, Interswitch, Vault Hill Lead National Dialogue On AI-Driven Marketing

By Winifred Bosa
Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) has announced plans for its 2025 Annual Conference, a flagship industry event set to gather influential voices from Nigeria’s marketing, advertising, and technology ecosystem for a high-level discourse on the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Scheduled for November 28, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the conference will explore the theme: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Marketing Workflow: Opportunities and Challenges.”
According to BJAN Chairman, Mr. Daniel Obi, the conference aims to deepen conversations around AI’s accelerating impact on brand management, consumer engagement, content creation, and regulatory frameworks.
He explained that as global industries adopt AI at unprecedented levels, Nigeria’s marketing communication landscape must strategically position itself for transformation and competitiveness.
“AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality reshaping industries, economies, and consumer behaviour,” Obi stated.
 “This year’s conference will equip stakeholders with insights on adaptation, innovation, and the ethical considerations critical to AI-driven marketing.”
An impressive lineup of guest speakers underscores the significance of this year’s edition.
Among them are: Dr. Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing & Corporate Communications, Interswitch Group, who will examine how AI is redefining customer experience and brand positioning in the digital economy.
Mr. Folajimi Daodu, Chief Executive Officer of Vault Hill, expected to provide a deep dive into AI-powered technology ecosystems and the emerging opportunities for immersive brand interactions.
Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), will address one of the most anticipated topics of the day with his paper titled “AI and Advertising Regulation in the Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities.”
The event will also feature a robust panel session comprising experts from telecommunications, technology, banking, and advertising sectors. Panelists will analyse emerging trends such as AI-driven consumer analytics, data privacy concerns, ethical advertising practices, and the risks of misinformation arising from generative AI.
The conference will be chaired by Mr. Udeme Ufot, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited, a respected industry veteran known for championing innovation within Nigeria’s advertising ecosystem.
Over the years, the BJAN Annual Conference has grown into a major platform for dialogue and capacity building within the Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) industry.
Obi noted that the 2025 edition will bring together business leaders, regulators, academics, marketers, journalists, and consumers, offering opportunities for networking, collaboration, and policy engagement.
He added that as AI continues to influence global business operations, Nigeria must harness its potential to enhance marketing efficiency, unlock creativity, and foster competitive advantage.
The forum will therefore encourage participants to develop strategies for responsible, ethical, and effective AI integration into marketing workflows, ensuring that the industry evolves in line with global best practices.
Online Poster by — November 27, 2025 in News