CBN Advert

All Posts in "Day: December 11, 2025"

Airtel Africa Foundation Opens Undergraduate Scholarship Portal In Nigeria

By Winifred Bosa
The Airtel Africa Foundation has opened applications for its Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria, inviting first-year university students with strong academic potential to apply for financial support aimed at accelerating their studies in technology and related fields.
The scheme provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for eligible 100-level students. It forms part of the Foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.
Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity. He noted that, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development,” adding that “as an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”
Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.
Dr Segun Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders. “Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure. This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” he said.
Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting. Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.
The Foundation encourages qualified students across the listed institutions to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector. Applications can be submitted at candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.
Online Poster by — December 11, 2025 in News
BJAN Mourns Marketing Edge Publisher, Describes His Death As A Monumental Loss

Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) has expressed profound shock and grief over the passing of Mr. John Ajayi, Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Marketing Edge, a foremost brand and marketing communications publication that has shaped the industry for decades.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, by the Chief Information Officer of the group, Rev. Stanley Ihedigbo, they  described Mr. Ajayi’s death as a devastating loss not only to the media landscape but to the entire integrated marketing communications (IMC) ecosystem in Nigeria and beyond.
BJAN noted that Mr. Ajayi distinguished himself as a visionary media leader, trailblazer, and industry reformer whose work helped define and elevate brand journalism in the country.
Through Marketing Edge, he built one of Nigeria’s most respected platforms for marketing intelligence, industry reportage, brand review, and sectoral thought leadership.
The association highlighted that Mr. Ajayi’s influence went far beyond publishing.
He was a passionate advocate for excellence, innovation, and professional development within the Nigerian marketing communications industry.
He pioneered several initiatives—including awards, conferences, and knowledge-sharing forums—that have today become important reference points for stakeholders.
“For many of us in BJAN, Mr. Ajayi was more than a publisher,” the statement reads.
 “He was a mentor, a supporter of brand journalists, and a believer in the power of ethical, credible, and impactful storytelling. His guidance, encouragement, and commitment to nurturing talent have left an imprint on our association and the profession at large.”
BJAN emphasized that the late media entrepreneur’s dedication to industry growth, his relentless pursuit of quality, and his unwavering integrity would remain a source of inspiration for journalists, marketers, brand owners, and corporate leaders for years to come.
“His passing is a monumental loss to the media community, the marketing communications industry, and the nation. Nigeria has lost one of its most consistent voices in championing brand development and marketing excellence,” the association stated.
BJAN extended its heartfelt condolences to his family, the Marketing Edge team, industry stakeholders, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of working with or learning from him.
The association prayed for God’s comfort and strength for his family and for the peaceful repose of his soul.
“While we mourn, we also celebrate a life of impact, courage, and service. The Nigerian IMC industry has lost a shining light, but his footprints will remain indelible,” the group added.
Online Poster by — December 11, 2025 in News
NLNG Unveils Roadmap For Sustainable LNG At World LNG Summit

 By Winifred Bosa

NLNG has called for a new era of global collaboration to strengthen LNG supply, improve affordability for emerging markets, and safeguard energy expansion in a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical fragmentation and trade uncertainty.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Philip Mshelbila, made this call while speaking at the panel titled “Energy Expansion in a Challenging Global Trade Environment” at the World LNG Summit & Awards holding in Istanbul, Turkey.

Mshelbila emphasised that only coordinated effort across the LNG value chain can prevent a widening energy divide and keep natural gas central to a balanced, lower-carbon global future.

In his words: “In order to safeguard global energy security from the risks of geopolitics and unilateral (national and regional) policies and sanctions, LNG contracts must evolve from merely defining volume and price to actively managing sovereign risk, through diversification of supply sources, delivery routes and contract terms.”

He stated that global energy expansion will stall unless structural bottlenecks in LNG supply, pricing, financing, and decarbonisation are urgently addressed and warned of the negative implications of retaining the status quo.

While speaking on shifting trade dynamics in the industry, Mshelbila noted that the LNG market had moved from a period dominated by short-term contracting to heightened interest in long-term commitments after the 2022 supply shock, emphasising that both contract types are now in strong demand, driven by elevated global risk and uncertainty.

Addressing the broader question of how LNG can continue to meet rising global energy demand, Mshelbila stated that several foundational elements like availability, affordability, and decarbonisation must be in place.

He explained that while many still regard natural gas as a transition fuel, its relevance will extend well beyond the next few decades. For this to be realised, he said the industry must secure more supply, ensure improved affordability, and accelerate decarbonisation across the entire natural gas and LNG value chains.

Mshelbila referenced major capacity expansions in the United States and Qatar, alongside NLNG’s own Train 7 development, which will add eight million tonnes per annum of new production as examples of the supply growth needed to meet future global demand. However, he cautioned that affordability remains the most challenging dimension of LNG’s future, noting that high prices have repeatedly pushed developing markets back to coal and other cheaper but environmentally dirtier alternatives.

The World LNG Summit, now in its 25th edition, continues to serve as the industry’s foremost global gathering, bringing together policymakers, producers, buyers, financiers, and innovators to shape the future of LNG.

Online Poster by — December 11, 2025 in News
MILO Signs On Northern Influencers To Strengthen National Representation

L-R Sulaiman ‘Bosho’ Yahaya Kannywood actor and comedian, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria, Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate and Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer.
Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria; Sulaiman ‘Bosho’ Yahaya, Kannywood actor and comedian; Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate; and Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer.

By Winifred Bosa

MILO Nigeria has welcomed a new group of influencers to strengthen its long-standing connection with consumers in Northern Nigeria.
 The influencers include Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer and youth role model; Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate; Ali Jita, songwriter and musician; Sulaiman Yahaya (popularly known as Bosho), Kannywood actor and comedian Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), who has renewed her contract as a member of the MILO family.
Speaking on the new partnerships, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the brand’s commitment to inclusivity.
 “This partnership reflects our dedication to ensuring that every Nigerian child experiences the nourishment, energy and possibilities that MILO represents. By working with creators who authentically reflect their communities and whose values align with ours, we are celebrating the bonds MILO has built with families across Nigeria in the most inclusive and meaningful way.”
During their induction, the influencers went on an immersive factory tour  to get first hand information on MILO’s key ingredients, including cocoa, milk, and sorghum, which is 100% sourced in Northern Nigeria.
  They had the opportunity to see how these ingredients are transformed into the final product through cocoa roasting, milk blending, and malt preparation.
 Their reports confirmed that the visit highlighted MILO’s dedication to quality, nutrition, hygiene and food-safety standards.
Reflecting on the experience, Mansurah Isah said: “Seeing how MILO is made gave me a new level of respect for the brand. I was particularly impressed by the level of hygiene maintained throughout the process. The thoroughness, the quality checks at every stage were remarkable. It made me even prouder to take this journey with MILO.”
The signing ceremony took place at the Nestlé Head Office in iIlupeju, Lagos, where the influencers engaged with employees and shared their personal reflections on joining the MILO family. Ahmed Musa spoke about his excitement, highlighting MILO’s significant impact in communities across Northern Nigeria.
“What stands out for me is how MILO invests in young people. From sports to school activities, you see the brand’s impact everywhere. I’m excited to use my platform to inspire even more children across the North,” he said.
For Sulaiman Yahaya (Bosho), the opportunity to partner with a brand that consistently supports youth development was a key motivator. “MILO has been part of our lives for years. To now be part of this journey is something special,” he shared.
From the MILO Basketball Championship to Building Champs and other school-driven programs, MILO continues to nourish children, support communities, and inspire a generation to grow stronger through active and healthy living.
Online Poster by — December 11, 2025 in brands and Marketing
FIRS, French Tax Agency Partner On Digital Transformation, Others 

L…..R, Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier,
Prepared to take off on a strong footing when it transitions to Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) next month, the Federal Inland Revenue Service, (FIRS) and its French counterpart, Direction Générale des Finances Publiques (DGFP), on Wednesday, signed a memorandum of understanding on areas of mutual interests and promotion of efficient tax administration.
Speaking at the French Embassy in Abuja where the event took place, FIRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, who signed for FIRS, said the event reflects a shared commitment to building stronger, more resilient, and more forward-looking tax administrations for the two countries.
The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, who signed on behalf of DGFP, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the two countries.
Adedeji, in a statement by Dare Adekanmbi, his Special Adviser on Media, listed digital transformation as one of such critical areas where Nigeria can leverage France’s advanced use of technology in compliance management, taxpayer services, and data-driven enforcement.
According to him, France will in return gain “fresh perspectives from Nigeria’s rapid digital expansion, our agile adoption of new tools, and the unique solutions we are developing for a fast-growing, technology-driven population.”
“This two-way exchange is essential as both countries adapt to emerging challenges such as Artificial Intelligence deployment, cybersecurity, and cross-border taxation,” Adedeji said.
Revealing that Nigeria will deliberately engage more with similar global partners, he said the partnership between France and Nigeria will enable the tax institutions to exchange ideas, share innovations, and learn from each other’s experiences.
“Another important aspect is workforce development. While we look forward to learning from France’s well-structured human capital systems, particularly in professional standards, continuous learning, and organizational discipline, we also believe that our experience in managing a young, dynamic and diverse workforce will offer valuable insights to DGFIP.
“Together, we can develop models that strengthen institutional culture, build global competencies, and prepare our respective institutions for the future of public finance administration.
“We also anticipate strong bilateral cooperation in international taxation, exchange of information, transfer pricing, and Base Erosion and Profit Shifting BEPS-related work.
“As economic activities become increasingly borderless, the ability of both our institutions to collaborate, share intelligence, and harmonise approaches will be crucial. This MoU provides exactly the platform we need to deepen that cooperation.
“As Nigeria moves into the era of the Nigerian Revenue Service, we see this partnership as a cornerstone of our transformation, one that will help us build a revenue administration that is modern, trusted, innovative, and globally connected,” the statement quoted Adedeji to have said.
Online Poster by — December 11, 2025 in News