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BusyBee Event Business Summit Partners Sofitel Cotonou Hotel Marina & Spa For Global Visibility, Celebrates Legacy-Driven Brands

By Winifred Bosa

L-R: Mentor of the Year, Abidemi Adeyemi; Most Improved Business of the Year, Aanuoluwa Bamikole; Young Event Professional of the Year Janet Ogeh; Most Enterprising Personality of the Year, Abraham Oyinkansola Alogba; Convener, BusyBee Excellence Awards, Bisi Sotunde; Director of Sales& Marketing, Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel and Spa, Jean Yena; Most Resourceful member of the year, Joyce Imorhoa; Most Outstanding Member of the Year, Ogunyemi Babatunde Augustine; Member, Organizing Committee BusyBee Event Summit, Mr Layade Ogunshote; and Member, Event Committee BusyBee Event Summit; Mrs. Tinu Ogunshote at the BusyBee Excellence Awards 2025 held recently in Ikeja Lagos
It was a significant milestone at the 9th edition of the BusyBee Event Business Summit, a platform designed for event management companies and brands to exchange and share knowledge as well as celebrate outstanding contributors to the growth of the industry, as the organisation announced an international partnership with the Hospitality brand, Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa.
Speaking at the announcement that also offered two delegates of the BusyBee Event Business Summit an all-expense-paid trip to Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa, the Convener of the programme, Coach Bisi Sotunde, said, “Our international partnership with Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa is a significant milestone for the BusyBee Event Business Summit brand. It reflects the global recognition our platform is gaining and our commitment to expanding collaborations beyond Nigeria.”
According to her, “This partnership was created to foster cross-border relationships, enhance international exposure for our delegates, and provide a premium hospitality experience through one of Benin Republic’s most prestigious hotels. Sofitel Cotonou shares our values of excellence, luxury, and world-class service, making it the perfect international partner for this year’s summit.
From Left: Bisi Sotunde, Convener, BusyBee Excellence Awards, Jean Yena, Sales&Marketing Director, Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel and Spa, Adetobi Aladegbohungbe, and Ogunyemi Babatunde Augustine, recipients of an all-expense-paid trip to Cotonou, and Adeola Sessi-Traore, Chairman, Planning Committee, BusyBee Event Business Summit
The collaboration also opens doors for increased tourism, destination events, and future business exchanges between both countries, positioning BusyBee as a regional connector in the events industry,” she added.
Speaking further on the value the partnership has added to BusyBee Event, Mrs. Sotunde stated that the partnership has added immense value to the BusyBee Event Business Summit and the BusyBee Excellence Awards in several ways.
Prestige and Global Positioning: Their involvement elevated the summit’s profile and reinforced our brand as an international-standard platform.
Exclusive Sponsorship: They generously sponsored two delegates with an all-expense-paid trip to Sofitel Cotonou — a gesture that created excitement and gave our participants a memorable opportunity beyond the summit.
Luxury Brand Experience: Through their partnership, we were able to showcase world-class hospitality standards, which align perfectly with the BusyBee brand promise of excellence.
Strengthened Cross-Border Relations: Their presence helped deepen our connection with francophone West Africa and opened conversations around destination events, collaborations, and tourism.
“Overall, Sofitel Cotonou brought a blend of elegance, international appeal, and meaningful support that contributed greatly to the success and glamour of this year’s edition,” she revealed.
The 9.0 edition, which was themed “Building Legacy Driven Brands,” was carefully chosen because the event industry is rapidly evolving, and only brands with strong structures, long-term vision, and clear value propositions will remain competitive and relevant.
To bring the theme to life, we curated a well-rounded lineup of activities, including: masterclass Sessions with seasoned industry experts sharing practical strategies for growth and brand positioning, Panel Discussions addressing current industry realities, opportunities and the future of events, A Networking Cocktail Evening, designed to foster collaboration and business relationships and The Glamorous Gala Night, – BusyBee Excellence Awards celebrating creativity, excellence and industry achievements.
Also honouring outstanding contributions within the ecosystem.
She said, “The relevance of the theme cannot be overstated. Today’s event management sector demands more than creativity; it requires business intelligence, structure, leadership, financial discipline, and the ability to innovate. Building legacy-driven brands ensures that practitioners are not just active today but are also positioned for longevity, profitability, and global influence.”
Sotunde, who described the 9.0 edition as a transformational experience, stated that “It exceeded our expectations in terms of participation, content delivery, networking, and overall impact. We brought together event entrepreneurs from across Africa and beyond for two immersive days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. The energy was vibrant, the conversations were rich, and the delegates were fully engaged from start to finish.”
“This year’s edition reaffirmed why the summit remains a leading development platform for event professionals building sustainable, legacy-driven brands. The feedback we received reflects the growth, connection, and clarity so many attendees gained from the experience,” she said.
Speaking on the BusyBee Excellence Awards, which is the reward platform designed to recognise and celebrate outstanding event managers and contributors, she stated that the BusyBee Excellence Awards were conceived to celebrate, spotlight, and encourage exceptional individuals and brands who are raising the standards within the event industry.
Over the years, “We observed a gap in platforms that genuinely recognise hard work, innovation, and leadership across different areas of the sector. This award aims to motivate practitioners, promote professionalism, and showcase the quality of talent we have in Africa.
Putting the awards together was a meticulous process. We formed a dedicated committee that handled nominations, screening, and selection based on merit and set criteria. We also ensured a transparent and credible process so that honourees truly reflected excellence in their respective categories,” Sotunde mentioned.
The colorful execution you witnessed — from décor to entertainment, production, presentation and ambience — was intentionally curated to match the prestige of the awards and to give every guest an unforgettable experience,” she added.
Cadbury Nigeria Appoints Folake Ogundipe As Interim Managing Director 

Cadbury Nigeria Plc, a subsidiary of Mondelez International, Thursday announced the appointment of Mrs. Folake Ogundipe, the current Finance Director, as interim Managing Director.
In a statement by Dr. Frederick Mordi, the Company’s Head of Corporate Communications and Government Affairs, it was as a result of Mrs. Oyeyimika Adeboye’s retirement as Managing Director, effective 30th November 2025, when she attains the Company’s retirement age. The announcement is contained in a statement issued by the Company.
According to the statement, Mrs. Adeboye joined the Board of the Company in November 2008, as Finance and Strategy Director, West Africa. She was appointed Managing Director on 1st April 2019, becoming the first woman to be appointed to that role since the establishment of Cadbury Nigeria in 1965.
During her tenure, she steered the West Africa business through various phases of growth, transformation and macro-economic volatilities. Her contributions have been instrumental in achieving substantial growth, positioning the Company for continued, sustainable and profitable expansion.
She is known for her servant leadership, being a people-first leader who reliably delivers results for consumers and customers. Her passion for people has been evident in her focus on talent development, mentorship, overall engagement and strengthening capability of talent across the West Africa business.
“Serving as the Managing Director of Cadbury Nigeria Plc has been an incredible privilege and a crowning chapter of my career,” said Mrs. Adeboye. “Over the past six years, I have had the honour of leading a remarkable team and contributing to the growth of a company that holds a special place in the hearts of many.”
Pending the formal announcement of Mrs. Adeboye’s successor, Mrs. Ogundipe will manage the day-to-day operations of the Company in her capacity as Interim Managing Director. She joined the Company in September 2025, subsequently being appointed to the Board as Finance Director. She is recognised as a distinguished executive leader with extensive multi-decade experience in driving business transformation, delivering sustained shareholder value, and fostering high-performance cultures within the consumer goods sector.
Prior to joining Cadbury Nigeria, Mrs Ogundipe held senior leadership positions across diverse sectors, including Executive Director, Finance at Unilever Nigeria Plc, CFO for PES Group (Energy Services Company), and Financial Controller at Nigerdock Nigeria Ltd. Her sector experience spans FMCG, energy services, and management consulting, giving her a broad and strategic perspective on value creation across industries.
Engineers Rally For Infrastructural Growth At NIHTE’s 4th Chairman’s  Inauguration

By Chikaodi Chukwuleta
The Nigerian Institute of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), recently held its fourth inauguration ceremony for the Awka Chapter Chairman and his executive team.
In a welcome address, the National Chairman of NIHTE, Engr. Francis Oriakhi FNSE, FNIHTE congratulated the 4th chairman and his exco members, believing that the team will advance the chapter’s  progress and that of the profession at large, noting that the leadership within NIHTE reguires integrity, vision and unwavering dedication.
The national chairman, who was represented by Engr. Edmond Nkalu FNSE, pointed out that Nigeria resides in rural communities and these areas are responsible for the bulk of the nation’s  agricultural output, yet poor rural acess remains one of the biggest barrier to agricultural  productivity, market linkage, food distribution, healthcare access, education and overall quality of life.
He called for improvement in transport condition to bring sustained  acess to rural development.
In his remarks, the pioneer chairman Engr. Obiudu Chidi, FNITHE, a Rotarian, stressed that each tenure brings a new administration and urged the Awka Chapter to stay aligned with the national body.
He described the event as a platform for experienced lecturers to share practical engineering challenges and called for greater focus on rural road development to boost agriculture and the state’s economy.
He thanked the State Project Coordinator of RAAMP for explaining the programme, the government for its investment, the NIHTE Awka leadership, the organising committee, the national chairman’s representative, the managing director of a construction firm and the Commissioner for Works.
 Engr. Chidi urged resilience, practical experience, and active engagement in Anambra’s ongoing construction projects, encouraging students to “practice what they study” and step into the field.
A resource person, Engr
 Nwafor Anthony, warned against common pitfalls such as signing without reading, vague scopes, and ignoring statutory requirements.
He recommended thorough document review, especially clauses on change orders, claims and termination, and advised maintaining a contract register, contemporaneous records, early communication with contractors, and written documentation of variations.
 Engr. Ifeanyi Anarado (RAMP) explained that the workshop aims to boost agricultural productivity by providing all‑season road access to farms and markets, detailing components such as rural road construction, feeder‑road upgrades, and agrologistic hubs.
Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Orakyeh (National Vice‑Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineers) and Engr. MaryJane Oluchi Okoye (first female Chairman, NSE, Awka Branch), advised young engineers to have clear motives, seek mentors, be patient, and add value to professional bodies.
 Engr. Anthony Amaobi, Director of Maintenance & Engineering Services, Ministry of Works, who received an award of recognition for contributions to highway and transportation development in Anambra State, noted that the award motivates further work.
 Engr. Udechukwu Obianyo, the 4th Chairman of NIHTE, Awka, called for unity and support for the new administration, recalling his own service as treasurer of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
The ceremony ended with appreciation to all participants and a commitment to continue advancing infrastructure and professional growth in Anambra .
IHS Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment To National Security At NCTC Strategic Plan Launch

L–R: Deputy Chief of Military Affairs, Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Army Headquarters, Major General P. B. Koughna; Managing Director/CEO, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku; Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Services Officer, IHS Nigeria Limited, Dapo Otunla; Director, Security Services Department, FCTA (representing the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory), Mr. Adamu Buba Gwary, fdc; President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON; National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Maj. Gen. Adamu Garba Laka; and Representative of the African Union (AU), Dr. Usman Hussain, during the official unveiling of the National Counterterrorism Centre (NCTC) Strategic Plan 2025–2030 at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja recently.

By Winifred Bosa

IHS Nigeria, the country’s leading communications infrastructure provider and a subsidiary of the IHS Towers Group, joined senior government officials, security leaders, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, and senior private-sector stakeholders at the official unveiling of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) Strategic Plan (2025–2030).
The event which held at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in Abuja, marked an important step in strengthening Nigeria’s national security coordination and response architecture.
Delivering a goodwill message at the event, Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Services Officer (CCSO) for IHS Nigeria, Mr. Dapo Otunla, who represented the company, reaffirmed the company’s continued commitment to partnering with the NCTC to advance Nigeria’s security priorities through secured and resilient telecommunications infrastructure.
“Our towers, fibre networks, and other connectivity infrastructure are more than physical assets, they are digital lifelines that connect and propel the economy. They are also critical for national security,” he said, while emphasizing the company’s long-standing partnership with national security institutions.
“With the number of towers and other infrastructure we own and operate across the country, we consider ourselves strategic partners to the Government for the enhancement of national security. We congratulate the Office of the National Security Adviser, the NCTC, and all partners on the successful launch of the Strategic Plan. IHS Nigeria remains committed to providing the infrastructure and collaboration required to safeguard Nigeria’s future.” He added.
Also in attendance was Mr. Ayotade Oyinlola, Group Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of IHS Towers, whose presence underscored the company’s strong commitment to national development and public–private partnership.
The event commenced with remarks by Major General A.G. Laka, National Coordinator of the NCTC, who spoke on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
He highlighted the evolving nature of terrorism in Nigeria and stressed the need for a coordinated, intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-centered approach. He described the Strategic Plan being launched as a renewed national commitment to prevention, countering violent extremism, and strengthening Nigeria’s regional leadership in counterterrorism.
Additional goodwill messages came from representatives of First Bank of Nigeria Limited and the African Union Commission, who joined other partners in commending the Federal Government and the NCTC for providing a clear and coordinated framework to strengthen counterterrorism efforts across the country.
 They emphasized that collaboration, shared responsibility, and sustained investment remain critical to securing long-term national stability and resilience.
The Strategic Plan was reviewed by Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, who outlined the document’s core priorities.
 He emphasized that the plan provides a measurable, results-driven roadmap that strengthens intelligence capabilities, enhances interagency coordination, integrates technology-enabled solutions, and promotes community-based and non-kinetic strategies for preventing and countering violent extremism.
He noted that the plan also aims to strengthen Nigeria’s regional leadership role and position the NCTC as a centre of excellence.
The President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio GCON, in his keynote address described the document as a clear, pragmatic, and forward-looking national commitment to safeguarding communities and strengthening institutional resilience.
 He noted that the unveiling marks a renewed collective resolve to advance national security, emphasizing that its successful implementation will require shared responsibility across government, the private sector, and local communities.
Following the unveiling, dignitaries and partners made financial commitments to support the implementation of the Strategic Plan.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Commodore Ahmad Madawaki.
Leadway Assurance, AGRA, NADF, And Verdure Climate Advance Agricultural Insurance Solutions

Leadway Assurance Partners AGRA on 'Pay at Harvest' Crop Insurance Scheme |  Business Journal

Leadway Assurance, one of Nigeria’s leading insurance providers, has once again reinforced its industry leadership, following partnership with Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), and Verdure Climate, to lead a national dialogue on identifying challenges and proffering actionable solutions on agricultural and climate risks in Nigeria.

 

Held on Thursday, November 27, 2025, in Abuja, the high-level forum, themed “Accelerating Agricultural Lending to Market Actors and Smallholder Farmers Using Index-Based Agric Insurance & Blended Finance Solutions,” convened policymakers, financial institutions, agribusiness leaders, development experts, and critical value-chain actors to examine scalable models capable of strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural resilience.

 

Recent data shows that over 82% of Nigerian farmers remain uninsured (Phys.org, 2024), while projections warn that climate-induced disruptions could cut Nigeria’s agricultural productivity by 10–25% by 2080, with some rain-dependent regions facing losses of up to 50% (IOSR Journal, 2024; ScienceDirect, 2025). Against this backdrop, the dialogue provided a timely platform for advancing integrated solutions that combine insurance, credit, and climate-risk financing.

 

 

Speaking at the event, Ayoola Fatona, Global Head, Agriculture Risk Solutions, Leadway Assurance, reaffirmed the organisation’s long-term commitment to financial inclusion and agricultural transformation. “We are in a mission to make insurance a catalyst for productivity by ensuring farmers can access credit, adopt climate-keen practices, and recover quickly from weather-related shocks. Collaborating with AGRA, NADF, and Verdure Climate allows us to co-create solutions that strengthen the entire value chain and secure the future of our food systems.”

 

 

In his opening address, Mr. Fatona Ayoola, Global Head, Agriculture Risk Solutions, Leadway Assurance, underscored the urgency of building systems that empower farmers and de-risk financiers. He noted that “the dialogue forms part of our AGRA-supported initiative to build farmers’ resilience through innovative insurance models and financial instruments across Niger, Kaduna, and Nasarawa States. As climate risks intensify, our responsibility extends beyond underwriting; we must become enablers of productivity, inclusion, and long-term stability. Index-based insurance, when integrated with blended finance structures, creates the transparency, speed, and scalability needed to unlock credit for market actors and smallholder farmers alike.”

 

He added that the collaboration among government, insurers, financiers, and development partners is essential to translating innovation into real impact for farmers, the maize grower in Nasarawa, the rice producer in Niger, and the aggregators supporting thousands across Kaduna.

 

Leadway Assurance has consistently invested in strengthening Nigeria’s agricultural insurance framework through initiatives such as index-based crop insurance, public-private partnerships with state governments, and capacity-building programmes for rural farming communities. Between 2024 and 2025, Leadway has supported interventions that expanded coverage for thousands of smallholder farmers across multiple states, contributing to improved financial stability and agribusiness continuity.

 

 

About Leadway Assurance

Leadway Assurance is one of Nigeria’s foremost non-banking financial services groups, offering diversified solutions across insurance, pensions, health, and asset management. Founded in 1970, the company has built a legacy of trust and innovation, serving millions of individuals and businesses across Nigeria and West Africa.

IHS Nigeria Commemorates International Men’s Day With Student Outreach

In commemoration of the 2025 International Men’s Day, IHS Nigeria has hosted an outreach event at Ifesowapo Aboru Secondary School, Ipaja, Lagos State. The initiative was aimed at inspiring and empowering young students through conversations centered on leadership, respect, mental health, responsibility, and gender equity.
Welcoming the IHS team to the school, Director and Principal of Ifesowapo Aboru Secondary School, Giwa Muyideen, expressed appreciation for the company’s ongoing commitment to educational advancement.
“We are deeply honoured to have IHS Nigeria here to commemorate International Men’s Day with us. We thank them for what they have done, what they continue to do, and what they will yet do for our school and community. He said. “
He further emphasized the importance of encouraging students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), noting that such fields provide the strength and creativity needed to innovate and excel.
In his introductory remarks, Associate Director, Legal, IHS Nigeria, Gbenga Bello, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering positive values and supporting young people within its host communities.
 He explained that celebrating International Men’s Day in a school environment was intentional, as it provides an opportunity to engage boys at a formative age on themes of responsibility, leadership, and wellbeing.
“International Men’s Day reminds us of the role men and boys play in building stronger, more compassionate societies.
 At IHS Nigeria, we believe that empowering young minds, especially through education, mentorship, and value-based conversations is one of the most meaningful ways we can contribute to our community. We are here because the future we want begins with the boys we guide today.” He said.
The outreach featured two key sessions, an interactive discussion and a mentorship dialogue. The interactive session, facilitated by Morakinyo Fadipe, Associate Director, Human Resources at IHS Nigeria Limited, encouraged students to think critically about decision-making, responsibility, and respect for themselves and others. He emphasized that the choices they make ultimately shape who they become and that true leadership begins with self-awareness, responsibility, empathy, and respect in everyday actions.
The mentorship dialogue, led by Adepoju Adebusayo, Senior Specialist, Human Resources at IHS Nigeria, focused on resilience, making wise choices, and modelling positive behaviour in society. He drew from personal experiences to remind students that challenges are opportunities for growth and stressed the importance of perseverance and consistent effort in achieving their goals.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Giwa Muyideen, who expressed deep appreciation for IHS Nigeria’s consistent support for educational development.
He noted that the school is proud of its partnership with the company, describing IHS Nigeria as a reliable ally in empowering students and improving school facilities, and shared optimism for even greater collaboration in the future.
This outreach is one of many initiatives under IHS Nigeria’s community development programs, which continue to support schools, promote gender balance, and nurture leadership skills among young Nigerians.
FirstBank Introduces Vybe Hub To Elevate Customer Experiences For DecemberIssaVybe

By Bolaji Israel

Seth Godin, an American author, entrepreneur and one of the world’s most influential business thinkers said “A great brand always raises the bar — it adds a greater sense of purpose to the experience.” Godin’s thought aligns with a related view that “Enduring brands are those that pursue progress with intentional restlessness, continually elevating their standards across every action, every choice, and every expression of their purpose.”

This is a truth that echoes across the business world, but only a handful of institutions live it with the kind of consistency that makes the saying feel almost crafted for them. FirstBank of Nigeria stands firmly in that category.

For 131 years, the Bank has remained a foremost financial powerhouse in Africa not by resting on heritage, but by innovating—relentlessly, deliberately, and with a pulse tuned to the evolving aspirations of its customers.

This December, that tradition of raising the bar takes on a vibrant new expression with the launch of Vybe Hub, a dedicated microsite designed to elevate FirstBank’s famed DecemberIssaVybe (DIAV) campaign to an even higher level of excitement. The campaign—running since 2018 under the Bank’s First@Arts initiative—has become synonymous with December in Nigeria. It has supported the country’s creative and entertainment ecosystem while giving customers premium, curated access to the very best concerts, shows, musicals, plays, festivals, and fashion experiences that define Lagos’ festive season.

Now, with Vybe Hub, FirstBank isn’t just sustaining the tradition; it is amplifying it, modernising it, and packaging it in a way that gives customers more choice, more access, more rewards, more visibility, and ultimately more December memories.

A Platform That Gives December Its Groove

Vybe Hub is designed as an all-in-one digital experience for Vybers—those young-at-heart, culture-loving customers who want to be at the centre of the festivities without missing a beat. The platform brings order and convenience to what is usually a chaotic, overbooked season by helping customers secure exclusive access to the hottest concerts, festivals, and entertainment events. But the real magic of Vybe Hub lies in how experiential it is. It doesn’t just give access—it gives enhanced access, wrapped in rewards and surprise perks.

Vybers can get instant giveaways ranging from airtime to cashback on tickets and other goodies that make the entire season feel personalised. In a world where costs are rising and festive outings can take a toll on the wallet, these giveaways offer refreshing relief and signal FirstBank’s commitment to adding tangible value.

The platform also introduces the Vybe Wall of Fame, a curated space where Vybers can upload their best pictures and videos. It’s an invitation to show off, celebrate, and relive December’s finest moments while gaining visibility in the broader DecemberIssaVybe community. It also deepens the sense of belonging—because DecemberIssaVybe has always thrived on community energy.

Beyond personal experiences, Vybe Hub doubles as a collaboration channel. Corporates and individuals looking to connect with young Nigerians now have an exciting avenue to partner with FirstBank during the campaign. It is a win-win: brands reach the most vibrant demographic during the country’s busiest social season, while Vybers enjoy richer, more diverse experiences.

Bundles Built Around You

A major highlight of the 2025 edition is the introduction of three DecemberIssaVybe Bundles, curated to ensure no customer is left out of the fun—regardless of budget, preference, or how loudly they like their December to roar.

The Vybers Starter Pack is perfect for those easing themselves into the festive wave. It offers essential access and perks that guarantee you will not watch December from the sidelines, giving you a comfortable entry point into the season’s biggest experiences.

For those who prefer their December with a bit more flair and elevated excitement, the Vybers Premium Pack delivers a fuller experience. It offers expanded access, more rewards, and a richer blend of curated events—ideal for people who like their festive calendar busy, bold, and carefully orchestrated without the stress of last-minute ticket hunts.

Then there is the Vybers Ultimate Pack, created for the true December connoisseur—the Vyber who wants front-row seats, premium access, top-tier giveaways, and a December curated to perfection. This pack brings the loudest, most unforgettable version of the season, ensuring you glide through December with VIP energy and unmatched access. Together, these bundles create a buffet of excitement where every Vyber can simply choose their flavour and step into a December tailored for them.

CSR Meets Entertainment—And Everyone Wins

Since its inception, DecemberIssaVybe has been more than a seasonal marketing project. It represents FirstBank’s long-term investment in the creative economy. The bank has fuelled the ecosystem by consistently sponsoring festivals, concerts, and cultural showcases—giving Nigerian creatives a stronger platform while providing customers with access that might otherwise be out of reach.

This is corporate responsibility at its most responsive: supporting an industry that employs thousands of young people, shapes national identity, and improves quality of life. By launching Vybe Hub, FirstBank is not only enhancing customer experience but also strengthening a sector that feeds the aspirations of the nation’s youth.

Don’t Miss Out—This December Is Different

Perhaps the most compelling message of all is this: DecemberIssaVybe 2025 is not business as usual. With the Vybe Hub, things are faster, more connected, more curated, and more rewarding. The events will sell out. The memories will be massive. The season will be a whirlwind. And the question is simple: Will you be part of it?

If you want the access, the giveaways, the early tickets, the curated wall-of-fame moments, the bragging rights, and a December packed with premium energy, now is the time to move. Visit www.decemberissavybe.com, pick your bundle, and claim your space before the Vybe wave sweeps past.

Because December isn’t waiting. And this year, FirstBank has made sure the Vybe is bigger than ever.

Fidelity Bank, FMDQ, UBA, CSCS For CAMCAN 2025 Workshop

 

Amaka Obiefuna

 

 

CAMCAN Sets 2025 Workshop Agenda, Highlights ISA Reforms and Investment Climate

The Capital Market Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CAMCAN) has concluded plans to host its 2025 annual workshop, a key engagement platform designed to deepen dialogue and strengthen policy direction across Nigeria’s capital market and the wider economy.

The workshop scheduled for December 6 and 7, 2025, at Orchid Hotels, Ajah, Lagos, will focus on the theme: “Regulatory Reforms: ISA 2025 and Nigeria’s Investment Climate.”

The theme underscores the increasing urgency for coordinated regulatory reforms to stabilise the financial system, enhance investor confidence, and reposition the market for global competitiveness.

In a statement, CAMCAN said the workshop will highlight how the forthcoming Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 is expected to serve as a transformative legal framework capable of driving the depth, efficiency, and innovation required in Nigeria’s capital market.

The association described the Act as a forward-looking instrument that goes beyond merely replacing the 2007 legislation.

According to CAMCAN, ISA 2025 will strengthen the Securities and Exchange Commission by explicitly defining its regulatory objectives, powers, and functions—ranging from investor protection and market transparency to curbing unlawful practices, reducing systemic risk, and supporting capital formation.

The clarity of mandate, it added, is one of the most significant improvements expected to advance market governance and align Nigeria with international best practices while addressing domestic peculiarities.

The two-day workshop is expected to convene regulators, market operators, economists, bank executives, and other stakeholders for strategic discussions around the evolving investment climate.

The Director-General of the SEC, Dr Emomotimi Agama, will attend as the Special Guest of Honour.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, will chair the event, while the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of GTI Group, Mr Abubakar Lawal, will deliver the keynote address.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Group, Mr Temi Popoola, and the Group Chief Operating Officer of FMDQ Group, Ms. Tumi Sekoni, will serve as guests of honour.

A panel session featuring representatives from key regulatory bodies and capital market institutions will further dissect the keynote address, offering expert perspectives on reform priorities and market development strategies.

CAMCAN noted that its annual workshop remains central to its mandate of promoting market development through research, advocacy, and sustained engagement.

The 2025 edition, it said, will contribute significantly to ongoing conversations around economic stability, investor protection, and market modernisation.

As Nigeria continues to navigate macroeconomic headwinds, the deliberations and recommendations arising from the workshop are expected to guide policy adjustments and industry strategies geared toward building a stronger financial system and a more resilient capital market.

FMDQ Group Plc will lead the list of sponsors for the event.

Other sponsors include Fidelity Bank, United Bank for Africa, NGX Group, the Securities and Exchange Commission, Seplat Energy, Central Securities Clearing System, Oando, Zenith Bank, Access Corporation, FBN Holdings, United Capital, FCMB, VFD Group and Nestlé Nigeria, among others.

SEC vows Intensified Collaboration To Prosecute Ponzi Scheme Perpetrators 

SEC vows intensified collaboration to prosecute Ponzi scheme perpetrators |  Western Post
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reaffirmed commitment to strengthen inter-agency collaborations to identify and prosecute the promoters of Ponzi schemes in line with the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025.
The Divisional Head, Legal and Enforcement, SEC, Mr John Achile, said this at the commission’s Journalists’ Academy 2025 in Lagos.
Achille said the commission would strengthen various interagency collaborations to identify the promoters and those trading the assets.
He said SEC would continue to ensure criminal investigation/prosecution in collaboration with law enforcement agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, EFCC and Office of Attorney General of the Federation among others.
Speaking on the topic: “Combating Investments Fraud, Ponzi Schemes and Illegal Investments,” he said the commission would continue to freeze the accounts and seal-up offices of the preparators.
Highlighting the characteristics of Ponzi scheme, Achile said it requires the entrance of new investors to pay existing investors.
According to him, investors are usually provided with fake documents or incomplete documents.
He listed other characteristics to include high returns on investment with little or no risk, consistent promise of positive returns despite the economics difficulties, not registered by the appropriate regulatory agencies and promoters not known to the regulators.
He urged Nigerians to conduct thorough due diligence and be skeptical of “get-rich-quick” promises in order not to burn their hands.
He called on investors to enquire from regulators of the sector of business touted before investing.
“Ponzi scheme could be structured as investment in agricultural business or processing along the value chain, investment in Bitcoin or cryptocurrency or other digital currencies and investment in gold coins or precious stones,” he said.
He noted that Ponzi scheme undermines confidence in the financial markets, loss of confidence in the regulator and the government  when failurw occurs, reduces deposit in commercial banks, diversion of savings, huge scale of loses to investors and attendant socio-economic problems.