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NDIC CLINCHES FIRST, THIRD PLACES AT THE 2024 FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICE INNOVATION COMPETITION

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) is proud to announce its exceptional performance at the 2025 Federal Public Service Innovation Competition, emerging as both the overall winner (1st place) and Third runner-up (3rd place) out of 155 competing entries from across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

This remarkable achievement was announced by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation(HOSF), Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, during the award ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday, April 29. The NDIC’s winning entry, the Carpooling Team, developed an innovative digital carpooling application that acts as a rideshare platform aimed at reducing commuting costs for federal workers — a solution that earned them the coveted top prize of N5 million.

In addition to this, a second NDIC team came in at third place with the prize of N3 million for an innovative digital platform to enhance staff productivity and streamline administrative processes called Perfoma. It acts as a convenient online secretariat that facilitates the creation and tracking of documents, as well as measuring the output and implementation of tasks to monitor performance of staff – a full packaged office-suite.

Speaking at the event, HOSF, Mrs. Walson-Jack, emphasized that “Innovation is one of the six key pillars of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025 (FCSSIP 25)” commending participating agencies for aligning with the federal government’s vision for a dynamic and efficient public service.

The MD/CE, Mr. Bello Hassan, who was represented at the ceremony by the Director, Strategy Development Department, Mrs Gwa Uduwak Zachary, lauded the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) for sustaining the innovation tradition while commending the NDIC’s teams for their ground-breaking achievements underlining the Corporation’s commitment to excellence, problem-solving, and a forward-thinking approach to public service delivery. While receiving the teams at his office, the MD/CE, NDIC stated that “This double recognition is a testament to the innovative spirit and professionalism that NDIC nurtures. Our teams have once again demonstrated the Corporation’s leadership in deploying technology and creative thinking to solve real-world challenges”.

The NDIC’s success in the competition, organized by the OHCSF, is a strong endorsement of its ongoing drive to embed innovation into its operational culture. It also reflects the Corporation’s strategic alignment with national priorities on public service reform, digital transformation, and cost-effective governance.

The NDIC remains committed to supporting and scaling solutions that improve service delivery across the civil service and contribute meaningfully to national development.

 

AXA Mansard Health Reiterates Commitment To Customer-First At South-West Providers’ Forum

AXA Mansard Health Reiterates Commitment to Customer-first at South-West  Providers' Forum | THISDAYLIVE
AXA Mansard Health, Nigeria’s leading health insurance provider, has reiterated its continued commitment to quality healthcare for its millions of customers across Nigeria.
 The CEO of the company, Tope Adeniyi, made this know during the company’s South-West Provider Forum in Ibadan, recently.
According to Adeniyi, the forum is part of AXA Mansard Health’s ongoing initiative to work with its providers, its customers across Nigeria can enjoy quality, affordable and accessible healthcare. He noted that AXA Mansard Health is care deeply about its customers, so the forum is an opportunity to engage with its providers to jointly chat the best ways to ensure that AXA customers receive the best healthcare services.
“For us at AXA Mansard Health, its about the customer first. It’s not just a core value, it’s the mantra that guides everything we do from innovation to process improvement, product development and even our CSR initiatives. We are a company built on protecting what matters to our customers. But in all of these, we know that its over providers that complete this value-chain of superior customer service. The hospitals, the clinics, the laps, and so on. That’s how our customers experience us. So we are here today to consolidate on the partnership, so our customers can always get the best”.
“Our customers are always first, and they are followed by our providers. We are convinced that if we keep this model, we will remain the brand to beat in Nigeria. Our wider plan is to touch all corners of Nigeria and bring premium healthcare services to every Nigerian because they deserve it. These forums are crucial in building strong partnerships with our providers, which ultimately lead to better healthcare outcomes for our customers,” Adeniyi stated.
The Forum, which has been held previously in various cities including Lagos, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Ibadan, and Abuja over the last four months, underscores AXA Mansard Health’s commitment to bridging the healthcare gap and ensuring that premium healthcare services are accessible to all Nigerians, not just those in major cities. This nationwide reach ensures that the benefits of these engagements are felt across the country, fostering collaboration and sharing best practices needed to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by different parts of Nigeria.
Nigeria faces significant healthcare challenges, with only about 4.08% of its GDP spent on healthcare. The country has a doctor-to-patient ratio of approximately 1 to 10,000, far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation of 1 to 600. With healthcare access unevenly distributed across the country and rural areas experiencing higher out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare compared to urban zones, there is an urgent need for initiatives like the Providers Forum to improve healthcare delivery for all Nigerians.
AXA Mansard Health is committed to enhancing its products and services through these forums while also working on improving the overall healthcare experience for its customers. The company plans to hold future forums in the South East region in the coming months, further demonstrating its dedication to ensuring quality healthcare is accessible to all.
“As we progress further into 2025, the insights and feedback gathered from these forums will play a pivotal role in shaping our company’s strategies to enhance customer experience and ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to all Nigerians” Adeniyi concluded.
AFRIMA 2025: Lagos Ready To Host Africa, Gov. Sanwo-Olu Declares

L-R (front roll): Mike Dada, President/Executive Producer, All Africa Music Awards – AFRIMA; Angela Martins, Director, Social Development, Culture & Sport, African Union (AU); Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State; Matlou Tsotetsi, Director, Brand Communications and Sponsorship, AFRIMA; Kenny Ogungbe, Member, International Congress of AFRIMA; Victoria Nkong, Associate Producer, AFRIMA;
(back roll) Francis Doku, Country Director, Ghana, AFRIMA; Adenrele Niyi, Chief Experience Officer, CXO, AFRIMA; Mike Strano, Regional Director, Eastern Africa, AFRIMA; Toke Benson -Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture; Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment; and Sam Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, during a courtesy visit by the African Union and International Committe of AFRIMA to the Lagos State Governor at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja on Tuesday
L-R: Mike Dada, President/Executive Producer, All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA; Angela Martins, Director, Social Development, Culture & Sport, African Union (AU), receiving a gift from the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a courtesy visit by African Union Commission and International Committee of AFRIMA to the Lagos State Governor at his office, Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja on Tuesday
Lagos, the bustling cultural and commercial heartbeat of Nigeria, is once again highly favoured to host Africa’s most prestigious music celebration, All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially declared the state’s readiness to host the rest of the continent and the world for the 2025 edition of the award ceremony.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who made the declaration when he received a high-powered delegation from the African Union and the AFRIMA International Committee in his office on Tuesday, said Lagos is more than prepared to roll out the red carpet for the rest of Africa in a demonstration of the state’s status as the creative and cultural capital of Africa.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos’ acceptance to host AFRIMA 2025 aligns perfectly with his administration’s vision to make the creative and tourism industry a major pillar of the state’s development drive.
He stated that his government has made significant investments in the creative industry, recognizing it as a key component of its THEMES agenda. He expressed his admiration for the flourishing creative ecosystem that nurtures talent, attracts global attention, and drives economic growth, all of which have been created by his administration.
“I am impressed by the diversity and calibre of the members of the AFRIMA International Committee. Seeing representatives from countries like Cote d’Ivoire, Mozambique, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Morocco, and South-Africa is a strong affirmation that AFRIMA is a global pan-Africa initiative, it is a true continental platform,” Sanwo-Olu said as he welcomed the team.
“One of the key pillars of our administration’s development agenda is the creative industry. Since I took office, we’ve been intentional about building a vibrant creative ecosystem supporting film, music, fashion, photography, and cultural tourism. This year, Lagos will be at the Cannes Film Festival, and in October 2025, we’ll host the E1 world championship, Africa’s first international water sports event right here in Lagos. Our packed creative calendar is a strategic effort to position the state as Africa’s cultural and creative capital.
“We are happy to receive the AFRIMA team; we will do it, and we will be part of this, this is one initiative we are proud to accommodate. Our team will work together with your team to action this. We thank the African Union and the AFRIMA Committee for trusting Lagos.”
In her remarks, Ms. Angela Martins, Head of Culture and Acting Director for Social Development, Culture and Sport at the African Union Commission, commended the Governor for his continuous support of the arts and reaffirmed the AU’s long-standing partnership with AFRIMA.
“The African Union has been proud to partner with AFRIMA since 2014. Over the years, we’ve supported the awards to make sure they live up to their promise to celebrate and reward African talent and music and to promote our cultural values. Beyond entertainment, AFRIMA has become one of the tools through which we promote and communicate the African Union’s cultural policies and the wider vision of Agenda 2063, particularly in building the creative economy of Africa.
“Lagos has played a major role in the success of AFRIMA in the past. The state has hosted previous editions of the awards, and each time it has left a strong and lasting impression. This year, we are here again, not just to visit, but to officially ask for Lagos’ partnership and support to host AFRIMA 2025 because Lagos is at the heart of Africa’s creative industry,” she said.
Mike Dada, AFRIMA President and Executive Producer, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the state’s investment in the creative industry, stating that AFRIMA is positioned to create big opportunities for tourism, entertainment, jobs, and the economy for the host city.
Dada said, “Your Excellency, under your leadership, Lagos has made great progress in the creative industry. You’ve been a strong supporter and a true promoter of talent and fresh ideas. Whether it’s film, fashion, music, or technology, your efforts have helped make Lagos stand out as Africa’s creative capital. We at AFRIMA truly appreciate your support, and we believe Lagos is more than ready to host an unforgettable AFRIMA 2025.
“Since AFRIMA was birthed in 2014, and hosted in Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, with road shows in over 22 countries around the world, we’ve remained committed to celebrating and uniting Africa through music. AFRIMA is not just about music, it also resonates with real human stories, we’ve seen dreams come through, talents discovered, and careers launched. More importantly, AFRIMA is helping to reshape the global narrative about Africa. We’re showing that Africa is not a continent of lack but a cultural powerhouse that supports development and economic growth.
“With over 1,600 nominees, and their teams, more than 1,100 production crew members expected in 2025 and over 400 million global broadcast audience, Lagos won’t just host an event; the impact of the one-week festival will be massive, opening more doors for tourism, hospitality, and new economic opportunities for business in the sector and beyond.”
Ahmed Soultan, a past winner of the Best Male Artist in Northern Africa award, and a member of the visiting team, recalled how the award he won in 2014 transformed his career globally and opened a window of collaboration with top stars including Femi Kuti, late Sound Sultan and Waje.
Other members of the visiting team included Ms. Matlou Tsotetsi from South Africa, Director of Brand Communications at AFRIMA; Ms. Adenrele Niyi, Chief Experience Officer (CXO) from Nigeria; Mr. Mike John Strano, an Australian-Kenyan and Regional Director for Eastern Africa; and Mr. Francis Doku, Country Director for Ghana. Also in the delegation were Mr. Kenny Ogungbe from Nigeria, a member of the AFRIMA International Congress and Media Committee, Ms. Edwidge Goli from Cote d’Ivoire, who serves as Liaison and Partnership Advisory Executive, Francophone region, and Ms. Victoria Nkong from Nigeria, an AFRIMA Associate Producer.
The African Union and AFRIMA International Committee will on May 13 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia officially announce and present the certificate to the host of the 2025 AFRIMA.
emPLE Unveils BETA Life: A Three-In-One Endowment Plan For Smarter Savings And Protection

emPLE Provides Free One-Year Insurance to Female Entrepreneurs - MSME Africa

 

emPLE Life Assurance Limited has announced the launch of BETA Life, an endowment policy designed to empower Nigerians to grow their wealth, secure their future, and protect what matters most.

 

In a market where financial uncertainty and underinsurance remain widespread, BETA Life offers a refreshing alternative. The product offers a unique combination of protection and savings in one simple, flexible plan helping Nigerians meet their financial goals while staying protected through life’s uncertainties.
With three cash benefits spread over the policy term, BETA Life helps customers plan for real goals be it education, rent, homeownership, or business without having to wait till the end of the tenure to benefit from their plan.
Speaking on the launch, Rantimi Ogunleye, MD/CEO of emPLE Life Assurance Limited, said:

 

“BETA Life is more than a product; it’s a solution built around the realities of our customers. It’s for the parent who wants to secure their child’s future, the entrepreneur planning ahead, or the individual who wants to save smartly without losing the safety net of protection. We’ve brought together savings and life insurance into one plan, because we believe financial empowerment shouldn’t mean choosing one over the other.”

 

With flexible policy durations and multiple payout points, BETA Life is designed to adapt to a customer’s journey while providing peace of mind. In the unfortunate event of death or permanent disability, the plan ensures that loved ones or the policyholder are financially supported, proving that life insurance can be just as much about living well as it is about preparing for life’s uncertainties.
This launch is a continuation of emPLE’s mission to make life insurance more inclusive, relevant, and empowering, giving more Nigerians the tools to build financial resilience with confidence.
For more information, visit www.emple.group/betalife

About emPLE

emPLE is a leading financial services company dedicated to providing insurance and investment solutions to retail and corporate clients across Africa. At emPLE, our purpose is to empower Africans by providing innovative financial solutions that enhance their freedom, security, and prosperity. We believe that true empowerment comes from providing not just access to financial products but also the knowledge and tools necessary for our customers to make informed decisions and achieve financial independence.
For more information about emPLE, visit: www.emple.group

Soyinka Lauds Nigerian Workers On  May  Day

As the world marks this year’s edition of Workers’ Day on Thursday, May 1, 2025, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Mr. Olaotan Soyinka has lauded the efforts of Nigerian workers and their contributions to national development.
 He noted that a virile and dedicated workforce is very instrumental and germane to the progress of any society. He gave this remark at the company’s Appreciation Day Ceremony held at the Head Office of the Underwriting Firm located in Victoria Island, Lagos.
He said the date, May 1, should be seen as a very important one because it is the day set aside to celebrate and give due respect to workers all over the world regardless of their social strata in the society. According to him, “every legitimate form of work is as important as the other and credence must be given to all and sundry without any bias”.
In appreciating the Staff of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, the Managing Director/CEO of the Underwriting Firm congratulated all members of the Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc Team and urged them not to relent in the judicious discharge of their duties as they strive to maintain the worldclass standard of the STI Brand.
He further said that the Management of the company will not stop at investing in the development of the company’s human capital while also placing technology at the heart of its business operations. He equally assured the members of staff that their labour will not go in vain as they contribute their quota to the growth and advancement of the organization.
He wished them all a hearty Workers’ Day on May 1, 2025, and encouraged them to always think of making the customer the focal point in their day-to-day activities. In his words, ‘our customers should be at the heart of our business just as we must not compromise on delivering service excellence at every given opportunity thrown our way’
The Head of Human Resources for Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Adeola Onichabor in her response to the MD/CEO’s speech thanked the Management for the uncompromising stance in investing in Training and Human Capital Development for members of staff both at the local and international level. She made bold to say that Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc has on parade in the Insurance Industry, an array of professionals in different fields of specialization who effectively compliment the efforts of the professional underwriters in the organization.
She equally used the opportunity to thank and encourage her colleagues to continue in their stride of hard work and dedication to the ideals of the company. She enjoined them to also respect and honour one another in the discharge of their duties as the organization strives to maintain best practice standards in the comity of insurance companies in the country and beyond.
Some members of staff who had been with the organization from inception were equally recognized and appreciated for their commitment, unwavering dedication and contribution to the growth of the organization in the last 30 years of the company’s formation.
Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc is an equal opportunity employer of labour with an uncompromising stance on high ethical standards and astute professionalism. The Head of Human Resources and Capital Development equally used the opportunity to wish every Nigerian worker and workers globally, a happy celebration on Workers’ Day come May 1, 2025.
Fidelity Bank’s FY 2024 Performance Praised By Shareholders

Fidelity Bank investors earn 406% gain in 5 years - Daily Post Nigeria

 

Shareholders of tier one lender, Fidelity Bank, have applauded the board and management of the bank for delivering an outstanding performance in FY 2024.

 

Speaking at the bank’s 37th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held virtually on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the National Chairman of The Progressive Shareholders Association, Chief Boniface Okezie, praised the bank, saying, “This is a superlative performance and we the shareholders are grateful to management and staff for giving us a bank to be proud of. It is also important to note that the bank has earned its spot as one of the top 3 dividend-paying financial institutions in Nigeria.”

 

On his own part, the Chairman, Zonal Shareholders Committee, Sir Tunji Okelana, recognized the bank’s exceptional leadership, which has seen the bank grow to unprecedented heights.

 

“The achievements of the current MD have surpassed that of everyone who held that office before her. In addition, staff working with her are assets. They are truly ‘Fidelity, they keep their word’. Without any doubt, I am very happy with the bank”, he declared.

 

In his remarks at the meeting, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi, said, “Despite the global economic headwinds, we demonstrated exceptional resilience, achieving record breaking growth across all performance indicators, most notably our Profit Before Tax (PBT)”.

 

He further added that the bank’s stakeholders were all pleased with the success of the first stage of the capital-raise exercise. “The oversubscription of 237.9% in the Public Offer and 137.7% in the Rights Issue is a testament to the strength of our brand and the confidence the investing public has in us. Equipped with this vote of trust, we will proceed swiftly and conclude the second tier of our capital-raise exercise”.

 

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe in her statement to shareholders, shared the strategic outlook to build on the bank’s FY 2024 success stating that, “Our priorities in 2025 financial year are to complete the next phase of our capital raise and further strengthen our asset base, enhance operational efficiency and digital innovation and explore strategic regional expansion into select African markets.”

 

According to the bank’s 2024 annual report available on its website and distributed to shareholders, the bank recorded an impressive 210% growth in Profit Before Tax to N385.2 billion. Gross Earnings increased by 87.7% to N1,043.4bn, driven by 106.9% growth in interest and similar income to N950.6bn. The bank also witnessed an impressive 47.9% growth in deposits from N4.0trn in 2023FY to N5.9trn while Advances grew from N3.1tn in 2023FY to N4.4tn in 2024FY.

 

Several resolutions were considered and passed at the AGM, including the declaration of a final dividend of N1.25 kobo, the election of non-executive directors -Alhaji Abdullahi Sarki Mohammed and Ms. Obiaku Augusta Okam; the election of Mr Sufiyanu Ibrahim Garba as executive director; and the re-election of non-executive directors -Mr Mustapha Chike-Obi and Engr Henry Obih, among others.

 

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

 

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Enugu Reps Caucus Backs Concessioning Of Enugu Airport

LarryBravo Nwaiwu
The Enugu State Caucus in the House of Representatives has thrown its weight behind the federal government’s plan to concession the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, describing it as a potential catalyst for the South East economy.
The caucus commended the federal government for the initiative and urged it to hasten the concession process to enable the people of the South East and the nation to benefit from it in earnest.
It equally called on the people of the region to support the concessioning as the only way to guarantee sustainable investment to fully develop the airport into a truly international facility.
The caucus made its position known in a statement signed and issued on Monday by the caucus leader, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, as well as Hon. Martins Oke, Hon. Dennis Agbo, Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu, Hon. Chimaobi Atu, Hon. Sunday Umeha, Hon. Paul Nnamchi, and Hon. Mark Obetta. These are  the representatives of all the eight federal constituencies in Enugu State.
 “Due to poor capital investment, the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, AIIA, Enugu, remains partially completed and indeed an international airport only in name over two decades since it was designated as such by the federal government. Critical components such as cargo terminal, runway, international terminal, among others, are either non-existent or requiring completion or upgrade.
“Businesses and the people of the South East especially have borne the brunt of these inadequacies, which manifest in the paucity of international flights and intermittent closure of the airport for repair of the runway, as recently witnessed.
“Therefore, we believe that the concessioning of the airport, as currently being processed by the federal government, is the only realistic approach to attracting adequate resources to build the requisite infrastructure and expand existing ones to place AIIA in the league of other international airports around the world,” the caucus said.
The statement explained that concessioning was not the same thing as privatisation or sale of the airport as being peddled by some persons, but a well-known and tenured to Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework, which pulls private capital investment into public infrastructure while government retains ownership and regulatory or supervisory authority.
“We call on the federal government to hasten this process, for the people of the South East region in particular and Nigeria in general to start benefiting from the huge possibilities and blessings it holds.
“Indeed, we also have faith in federal government through the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to entrust AIIA to a concessionaire with the financial and technical prowess, strong international pedigree and reputation as well as antecedent of verifiable successes to actualise the target. Nothing less than this is acceptable and capable of catalysing the much-needed South East  regional economic prosperity and transformation,” the statement added.
C-One To Acquire Bankly Microfinance Bank

…To Restore Stability And Accelerate Growth

 

 

C-One Ventures Platform (C-One) today announced it has entered into an agreement to invest and acquire the licences, technology and select assets of the Nigerian operations of Bankly -a licensed
microfinance bank and fintech leader known for bridging financial access gaps across Nigeria’s informal economy.

 

The deal which is subject to regulatory approvals including from the Central Bank of Nigeria, reflects C‑One’s
commitment to ensuring stability, protecting customers, and building a more resilient financial services platform. Upon completion, it will see Bankly’s services and talent integrated with complementary offerings
from other companies within the C-One ventures portfolio.
“We believe financial services should be simple, affordable and accessible to everyone,” said a representative
of C-One. “Bringing Bankly into our ecosystem allows for a combination of community networks with our
powerful digital infrastructure to expand access to finance for underserved communities and drive real
economic participation.”

 

The investment from C-One when finalised, will prioritise the immediate resolution of customer obligations, stabilisation of operations, and strategic integration of Bankly’s technology into its broader financial services ecosystem. The transaction structure involves a modest cash consideration, ensuring a focus on sustainable growth and customer protection.
“Restoring customer confidence and ensuring operational resilience are our immediate priorities. We are
committed to scaling Bankly’s vision while delivering lasting value to our community” added the rep.

 

Founded in 2018, Bankly has been instrumental in advancing financial inclusion, serving Nigerians through innovative savings, payments, and credit solutions. However, in recent times, it has faced significant liquidity
constraints and operational disruptions, including delays in customer withdrawals and reduced service availability.

 

As part of the acquisition, C-One will build on Bankly’s foundation, ensuring continuity while investing in long-term growth. Bankly’s Co-founder, Tomilola Majekodunmi, will serve in an advisory capacity ensuring continuity and long-term success.

 

Speaking on the development, Majekodunmi said, “We are immensely proud of the impact we have made over the years. Bankly was built to serve people who were left out of the formal financial system and with C-One’s
backing, we have an opportunity to build on this foundation, address recent challenges, and expand our reach to even more communities.”

 

With Bankly being part of its platform, C-One is further expanding its reach in grassroots financial services, scaling impact and building resilient solutions for real people in real communities.

 

About C‑One Ventures Platform
C‑One is a venture studio focused on building, acquiring, and scaling technology-enabled businesses that address Africa’s most critical needs. Its portfolio spans education, healthcare, commerce, and financial
services, combining operational excellence with strategic investment to promote inclusive economic growth.

Seplat Energy’s Cash Generation Soars To N464.9 Billion In  Q1 2025

Seplat Energy's revenue soars to N1.652tr in 2024 financial year – The  Business Intelligence

 

… Achieves 7.3 Million Hours Without Lost Time Injury

  Seplat Energy PLC, leading Nigerian independent energy Company listed on both the Nigerian Exchange and the London Stock Exchange, has announced its audited results for the three months ended 31 March 2025, recording a revenue of N1.228 trillion for the period from N268.6 billion reported same quarter last year. Its gross profit soared to N535.4 billion from N63.8 billion Year-on-Year.

Cash generated from its operations for the period grew to N464.9 billion from N25.2 billion Year-on-Year whilst profit before tax rose to N314.6 billion from N103.5 billion Year-on-Year.

The energy company delivered robust production and cost performance during 1Q 2025, at a new scale, and firmly on track to deliver FY 2025 guidance. Strong cash position supports early repayment of $250 million reducing the Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) to $100 million, and an increase in our quarterly dividend to US$ 4.6 cents per share.

For the period, production averaged 131,561 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) up 167% from 1Q 2024 (49,258 boepd), above the midpoint of 2025 guidance (120 – 140 kboepd).

Seplat Energy achieved more than 7.3 million man hours without Lost Time Injury (LTI), of which 2.5 million was Seplat onshore-operated assets (1Q 2024: 2.3 million man hours) and 4.8 million hours without LTI for Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU) – formerly Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU).

 

Operational highlights

• Production averaged 131,561 boepd up 167% from 1Q 2024 (49,258 boepd), above the midpoint of 2025 guidance (120 – 140 kboepd).

• Onshore production contribution of 56,196 boepd, was 14% higher than 1Q 2024, and above 2025 guidance. Within this, liquids +10% and gas +21% vs 1Q 2024, following strong performance at Oben Gas Plant and first contribution from Sapele Gas Plant.

• SEPNU production contribution of 75,365 boepd, within guidance, of which 88% crude and condensate, 4% NGL and 8% gas.

• SEPNU idle well restoration programme added c.11 kbopd gross JV production from the first 10 wells restored to production.

• Sapele Integrated Gas Plant (‘SIGP’) was commissioned and achieved first commercial gas sales in February 2025. Plant is delivering high quality processed gas, and condensate yields of c.2 kbopd.

• Carbon emissions intensity for Seplat onshore assets: 30.6 kg CO2/boe (revised 1Q 2024: 31.1 kg CO2/boe), reduction driven by lower emissions at Sapele post start-up of SIGP. End of routine flaring for onshore assets on track for H2 2025.

• Achieved more than 7.3 million man hours without Lost Time Injury (LTI), of which 2.5 million was Seplat onshore-operated assets (1Q 2024: 2.3 million man hours) and 4.8 million hours without LTI for SEPNU.

Financial highlights

• Revenue $809 million up c.350% on prior year (1Q 2024: $180 million).

• Unit production operating cost of $12.6/boe (1Q 2024: $9.5/boe), better than guidance of $14-$15/boe, due to timing of planned maintenance activities.

• Adjusted EBITDA of $401 million, up 226% on prior year (1Q 2024: $123 million).

• Cash generated from operations of $306.5 million, up materially from $16.8 million in 1Q 2024.

• Cash capital expenditure of $40.2 million (1Q 2024: $47 million). Onshore drilling activity to ramp up from 2Q 2025.

• Completed refinancing of $650 million senior notes, with newly issued notes having a 2030 maturity and priced with a coupon of 9.125%. Seplat notes were priced inside the Nigerian sovereign for the first time, reflective of established reputation in credit markets.

• Reduced gross debt by ~21% following early repayment of $250 million of RCF and $19.3 million repayment of Eland RBL.

• Balance sheet remains robust, end-March cash at bank $334.6 million (YE 2024: $469.9 million), excluding $128.9 million restricted cash.

• Net Debt at end-March of $747 million down 17% on prior quarter (YE 2024: $898 million). Pro-forma ND/EBITDA improves to 0.56x.

Dividend & Board

• 1Q 2025 declared dividend of US$ 4.6c/share, an increase on the prior quarter dividend (US$ 3.6c/share), reflecting the strength of our financial position and confidence in our outlook. The company plans to set out a revised capital allocation policy in the Capital Markets Day scheduled for September 2025.

• Mr. Bello Rabiu, Senior Independent Non-Executive Director and Mr. Babs Omotowa, Independent Non-Executive Director resigned from the Board following their appointment to the NNPC Ltd board. The Board has unanimously appointed Mrs. Bashirat Odunewu as Senior Independent Non-Executive Director.

2025 Outlook

• 2025 guidance unchanged.

• Production guidance of 120-140 kboepd (Seplat Onshore 48-56 kboepd, SEPNU 72-84 kboepd).

• Capex guidance $260-320 million. (Seplat Onshore $180-220 million, SEPNU $80-100 million).

• Unit operating costs for the group are expected to be $14.0-15.0/boe.

• Capital Markets Day in September 2025 to detail our medium to long term growth ambitions.

Roger Brown, Chief Executive Officer, said: “2025 has started positively for Seplat. As we deliver the business at a significantly enhanced scale, our focus is on the successful integration of the combined companies, and I am pleased to report that we are making goodprogress. It is clear that we can benefit greatly from the combined expertise of our onshore and offshore workforce.

Production has been strong, showing the benefit of the continuous drilling programme, investment in asset integrity and the availability of multiple evacuation routes. Financial performance was also strong, allowing us to be pro-active in materially reducing gross debt, maintaining low balance sheet leverage, and further strengthening our company as the near term global economic outlook becomes less predictable.

We remain conservative in our approach, but our confidence in the future trajectory for our business, combined with our strong financial position, means that we are delighted to increase our quarterly dividend to $ 4.6c/share, an 28% increase in our quarterly dividend versus 4Q 2024. Our assets are high quality, and while we will remain agile to the prevailing oil price environment, our business plan is designed to be robust at lower oil prices and our gas revenues, which are largely delinked to oil prices, provide long-term stability for the business. We are committed to our plan of growth and maximising value for our stakeholders.”

Supreme Court Sets Aside N22trn Judgement Against Union Bank

 

The Supreme Court has set aside a Federal High Court judgement in which over N22 trillion was awarded against Union Bank and other parties since 2014.
The judgement arose from a suit instituted by a company known as Visana Nigeria Limited which claimed that Union Bank was indebted to it in the sum of approximately $8 million at an interest rate of 2.5 per cent per month compounded from January 2000 until judgement and thereafter at 10 per cent per annum from the date of judgement until the sum was fully paid.

 

Delivering the lead judgement of the Supreme Court, with which four other Justices agreed, Justice Stephen Jonah Adah regretted how non-adherence to a settled judicial precedent by the two lower courts had caused a simple matter to be in court for over 25 years.
The final determination of the case is expected to lay to rest the discomfort of the CBN and other regulators of Union Bank, its auditors and rating agencies on the possible impact of the judgement on the going concern status of the bank.

 

Visana instituted the suit against the defendants, alleging that Metalloplastica Nigeria Limited, a Borrower from Union Bank was indebted to it in the sum of $7,616,188.94 as at December 1993 and that the purported Deed of Debenture made on 24th February 1989, pursuant to which Continental Merchant Bank appointed Chief R. U. Uche as Receiver/Manager of Metalloplastica was invalid, same having been procured “without the prior written consent of Universal Trust Bank and its successors-in title or assigns (being Union Bank) as provided in paragraph 13(f) of the original Debenture issued by Metalloplastica in favour of Universal Trust Bank.

 

Judgment was delivered against Union Bank on 16 December 2014 for the sum of USD7,616,188.94 or its equivalent in Naira with pre judgement compound interest at the rate of 4.25 per cent per month from 26th January 2000 till the date of judgement and thereafter at the rate of 10 per cent on the judgement sum per annum from the date of the judgement till final liquidation of the debt.

 

The Court of Appeal later heard the application filed by the 1st respondent (Visana Nigeria Limited) to rely on fresh evidence. The Appeal was heard, and judgement was delivered on the 16th of April 2021. Judgement was reduced to the sum of USD 365, 605.32 or its equivalent in Naira with pre-judgement with interest at 4.25 per cent per month simple interest from 31st December 1993 to 16th December 2014 and thereafter at the rate of 10 per cent per annum from the date of the judgement at the court below until final liquidation of the Judgment debt.

 

Still dissatisfied by the judgement of the Court of Appeal, Union Bank further appealed to the Supreme Court in 2021. Union Bank’s persistence paid off in the judgement delivered on Friday, 25 April 2025.