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Seamless Cross-Border Payments : FirstBank Integrates PAPSS Into LIT App

By Winifred Bosa

MD/CEO Of First Bank Olusegun Alebiosu


FirstBank, the premier bank in West Africa and a leading financial inclusion service provider, has announced the successful integration of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) into its flagship digital banking platform, the LIT app, enabling customers to make instant, secure, and local currency-based cross-border payments across Africa.

According to a press release by the bank, PAPSS, developed by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in collaboration with the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat, enables instant, low-cost payments in local currencies between African countries.

Speaking on the integration, the Group Executive, e-Business and Retail Products at FirstBank, Chuma Ezirim, said, “The integration of PAPSS into the LIT app is a testament to FirstBank’s commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions that simplify and enhance financial transactions. This milestone aligns with the Bank’s strategic goal of deepening digital capabilities and expanding access to seamless cross-border payment services across Africa.”

Commenting on this collaboration, Mike Ogbalu, CEO of PAPSS said, “Every time an individual, an SME or a Company sends money instantly within Africa in their own currency, we are not just moving funds, we are connecting ambitions, supporting livelihoods, and bridging dreams across borders. This collaboration with FirstBank and their LIT app brings us a step closer to making African borders invisible to movement of money, so that the continent’s entrepreneurs and families can focus on what matters most: building their future, not battling payment barriers.”

The LIT App, FirstBank’s innovative digital banking platform, offers a wide range of features including virtual cards, scheduled payments, and multiple transfers in one go, designed to meet the dynamic needs of customers. The addition of PAPSS expands its capabilities to support cross-border commerce, especially for individuals and SMEs engaged in pan-African business.

With PAPSS now live on the LIT App, FirstBank is breaking down barriers to payments, trade and financial inclusion across Africa. Customers can now send funds conveniently to other countries in Naira, without needing US dollar, GBP or Euro conversions. This landmark integration enables real-time cross-border payments in local African currencies, reduces transaction costs, and improves settlement efficiency. It also expands access to digital banking services, promotes financial inclusion, supports SMEs and fosters growth under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This integration of PAPSS to the LIT app reinforces FirstBank’s leadership in digital banking innovation and supports the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda by simplifying intra-African transactions.

Winifred Bosa by — October 24, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Media Key To Combating Health Misinformation, Experts Declare At HEWAN, NIMR , Roche Workshop

By Winifred Bosa

In an era where misinformation on health issues spreads rapidly and widely, health experts have raised concern over the growing infodemic—the overwhelming wave of misleading or false health information that often confuses and endangers the public.

Recognizing the media’s pivotal role in bridging this information gap, journalists and media professionals have been identified as key catalysts in promoting factual, insightful, and balanced health reporting to help Nigerians make informed decisions about their well-being.

This formed the central focus of discussions at a two-day capacity-building workshop organized by the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN) in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and Roche.

The workshop , themed : “Elevating Science and Health Journalism”, brought together journalists, health experts, and communication professionals to explore strategies for strengthening health and science journalism in Nigeria.

In his opening remarks, Professor John Obafunwa, the Director-General of Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), represented by the Director of Research NIMR, Professor Oliver Ezechi,   emphasized the need for collective commitment to improving the quality, integrity, and public value of health journalism in Nigeria.

 Obafunwa described the gathering as a reflection of shared dedication to strengthening the profession.

He noted that the values of integrity and accuracy in health reporting have been central to his career and should continue to guide media professionals in the years ahead.

“Today’s convergence comes at a watershed moment for health journalism in Nigeria,” he said.

“We live in an era of rapid scientific advancement and expanding health knowledge, yet we continue to face persistent challenges — from infectious diseases that demand future surveillance to the growing burden of non-communicable conditions requiring sustained lifestyle, policy, and clinical responses.”

The NIMR chief stressed the importance of ensuring that Nigerians have continued access to trustworthy health and scientific insights capable of informing personal decisions, guiding policy development, and strengthening the nation’s health systems.

According to him, journalists play a vital role in building public trust, reducing misinformation, and making complex scientific issues understandable to the public.

“Through enforcing trust, reducing uncertainty where possible, and explaining complexities in accessible terms, we can empower citizens to make informed choices that improve their lives and communities,” he said.

“Leadership in health is not the sole responsibility of any single organization or individual,” Obafunwa added. “It is a collaborative venture anchored on shared vision, mutual trust, and sustained cooperation. Our strength lies in enduring partnerships among media houses, research institutions, health agencies, professional associations, and civil society organizations.”

Delivering the keynote lecture at the workshop on the topic, “Why Health and Science Journalism Matters More Than Ever In Nigeria ” , Professor Oliver Ezechi underscored the critical role of the media as a public health tool, stressing that access to accurate information can save lives.

“Access to accurate information saves lives,” he said. “When journalists provide clear and verified reports, they enable people to make informed choices about vaccines, medications, and preventive practices. Investigative health journalism also exposes gaps in service delivery, driving accountability and prompting corrective actions.”

Ezechi observed that the growing challenges of infodemics, climate-related health threats, and complex scientific innovations make it imperative for journalists to stay informed and responsible in their reporting.

“In moments of crisis—whether during outbreaks, heat waves, or mental health emergencies—journalists play a vital role in translating complex data into practical, timely information that communities can act upon,” he stated. “Accurate health reporting informs decisions, protects vulnerable populations, and advances national progress.”

 

Urging media professionals to renew their commitment to accuracy, context, and public service, he emphasized that credible journalism remains essential to safeguarding public health and strengthening Nigeria’s development agenda.

In her welcome address at the occasion, President of the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN), Mrs. Vivian Ihechu, called on journalists to deepen their commitment to accurate and impactful health reporting, stressing that quality journalism plays a vital role in saving lives and shaping better public health outcomes.

She made the call during a workshop organized by HEWAN in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and Roche, held in commemoration of the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The theme of the event was “Elevating Science and Health Journalism.”

Ihechu said the workshop was designed to build the capacity of health journalists in Nigeria to effectively translate scientific data into information the public can understand and act upon.

“Journalism is not just about reporting facts; it’s about saving lives,” she stated. “In a country grappling with complex public health challenges, your expertise in translating scientific data into actionable public information is invaluable.”

She noted that the training, supported by NIMR and Roche, would equip journalists with advanced tools to cover issues such as disease outbreaks, policy changes, and medical innovations with accuracy and depth.

Ihechu emphasized that the event also aligns with the global fight against breast cancer, highlighting the need for early detection, equitable access to screening and treatment, and the dispelling of harmful myths that hinder timely intervention.

“October serves as a critical reminder that breast cancer remains a devastating threat to our mothers, sisters, and daughters,” she said. “As journalists, we must go beyond the statistics to tell the stories that inspire action and save lives.”

She expressed appreciation to NIMR and Roche for their unwavering support and partnership, noting that their collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to improving public health through informed reporting.

Winifred Bosa by — October 24, 2025 in Health
Roche Collaborates With Health Writers To Boost Breast Cancer Awareness

By Winifred Bosa
Roche Nigeria has partnered with Health Writers’ Association of Nigeria ( HEWAN ) to boost breast cancer education and media reporting in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month .
To commemorate this , a strategic capacity-building workshop for health journalists was held at the Cancer Centre, Nigerian Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) in Lagos .
The workshop was designed to equip journalists with the necessary tools to accurately inform the Nigerian public about the realities of breast cancer and the available care initiatives.
Key sessions at the workshop included:
1. An expert overview of breast cancer, presented by Dr. Samuel Otene, a Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist and State Chairman, Nigerian Cancer Society, Benue Chapter.
2. A presentation on the Presidential Directive for Mandatory Health Insurance and its implications for transforming healthcare in Nigeria by Dr Amade-Agada, GM Standards & Quality Assurance, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA)
3. . A detailed briefing on the Africa Breast Cancer Ambition (ABCA), an ongoing mission by Roche and its partners to improve breast cancer care outcomes.
Pharm. Gilbert Ogbewele, Marketing and Business Support Lead representing the General Manager Dr. Ladi Hameed, addressed the journalists highlighting their essential role. “Roche is proud to partner with HEWAN, a truly critical stakeholder entrusted with preserving public interest. Your role in educating the Nigerian public about the scourge of breast cancer is invaluable,” Ogbewele stated.
 “Crucially, you offer hope by arming our citizens with information about the available policies and breast cancer care initiatives that are functional in Nigeria today.”
The workshop aims to leverage the media’s reach to drive increased awareness, encourage early detection, and support the strengthening of Nigeria’s healthcare system for improved cancer care and survival. Mr. Ogbewele also noted that journalists are critical in supporting the government’s drive toward universal health coverage.
This initiative is part of Roche’s bold Africa Breast Cancer Ambition (ABCA), a mission dedicated to rewriting the story of breast cancer in Nigeria. Roche invited the media to join the quest to make a real difference in the essential fight against breast cancer.
Winifred Bosa by — October 22, 2025 in Health
Omi Eko Project: Lagos, AFD Promise All-Inclusive Implementation Strategy

By Winifred Bosa
Lagos State Government and Agence Française de Développement (AFD) have assured Lagosians and other satellite communities in the State of the inclusive implementation of the Omi Eko project, which was recently launched by the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in Lagos.
The assurances were made during the courtesy visit of the Lagos State and AFD officials to the palace of HRH OBA Afeez Oriyomi Adaran Shittu, (ADEYEMI 1) Agbojojoye of Ibasa, Ijegun, Egba, Oguntedo & Satellite Town in Oriade LCDA, Lagos over the weekend.
Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the AFD, European Union (EU), and European Investment Bank (EIB), had launched the €410 million Omi Eko Project to transform Lagos’ inland waterways into a world-class transportation system.
According to Lagos State, the project is aimed at providing cleaner, faster, and safer water transport, reducing congestion, and promoting sustainable mobility.
Speaking after briefing the Oba on the State’s preparedness to transform the waterways transportation, the Commissioner for Transportation, Lagos State, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said, “The whole essence of this project is to develop the waterways. And also in doing that, communities will benefit because we would have jetties, we would have electric ferries that would come. And also, there will be upgrades in those jetties as regards the kind of jetties that will be. It’s also an opportunity for us to move from fossil to clean energy, which this project will also provide.”
Furthermore, he stated that “One of the major things that we should always remember is that this project also speaks a lot to inclusivity, which means that the communities that would be benefiting. They would be part and parcel of the project, because without them, we would not be able to run it well.
“Therefore, there will be a lot of stakeholders’ engagements, there will be a lot of training that even the communities would have to go through in understanding how to manage the assets that will be handed over to them,” he added.
An elated Osiyemi reassured the communities that the project will not take away their source of livelihood but enhance it and even provide jobs for them.
“So, it’s a project that is not going to take away their jobs from them. It’s going to add more to what it is that they have. And above all things, it’s going to open up even the communities and increase the businesses around here,” adding that “The moment there’s efficient transportation, what you see is a lot of business opportunities open up.
We believe that this would also translate to increasing their own business, and in all, communities will be the biggest beneficiaries”.
According to Sandra Kassab, Director of the Africa Department, AFD, who spoke on the importance of the project, she said, “We launched an important project together with the Lagos State Government and Lagos Waterways Authority (LASWA).
 This project is Omi Eko. It’s dedicated to providing new solutions, a transport solution through the Waterway corridor for the Lagosians.”
Speaking about the visit, she said, Lagos and AFD officials were here to further brief community leaders and youth organizations on the project that would begin soon.
“We wanted to have the opportunity to visit the community, which will benefit from this important project from next year, to listen to the expectations, needs, and perhaps, some concerns they may have regarding the project.”
The Director of the Africa Department at AFD, who spoke on the project financing, said, “AFD’s support will be provided in the form of a sovereign loan of up to EUR 130 million to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which will be on-lent to Lagos State. EIB will co-finance the project with a EUR 170 million credit facility. In line with the Global Gateway initiative, the EU is completing the financial package with a EUR 60 million grant to finance the electrical charging infrastructure to power e-vessels.”
Kassab said that the key highlights of the project are development of 15 priority ferry routes, spanning 140 kilometers, deployment of 75 hybrid-electric ferries to reduce emissions and promote clean mobility, construction of 25 modern ferry terminals and jetties with electric charging facilities, expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth and reduction of CO2 emissions by 41,000 tons annually and improved air quality.
On the outcomes of the project when completed, Kassab disclosed that “100,000 public transport users per day on the priority IWT routes at the opening of the service will be achieved; 3 hours of travel time saving on main Omi Eko routes at peak hour; 41,000 tons of CO² emissions reduced every year.; 35% of e-vessels’ power consumption will be generated by solar energy; 0 boat accidents on the Omi Eko routes; an upgraded policy and regulatory framework through the implementation of a Vessel Industry Transition Program (VITP) for the paratransit industry; and thousands of indirect employments generated by the new ferry network”.
Speaking on behalf of the Youth, the Chairman of Ibasa, Ijegun, Egba, Oguntedo & Satellite Town, Comrade Karim Adewale Idowu, thanked Lagos State government and AFD, and other partners for finding their communities worthy to install some state-of-the-art jetties and develop the water transportation.
He called on the government to ensure that the development that is coming into their community is mutually beneficial, not one that will take away their sources of livelihood.
“We believe that the community in the riverine areas, particularly, is supposed to enjoy the benefits of the blue economy. And today, we are glad the Ibasa-Ijegun community will be enjoying the benefit of the blue economy as a result of the project.”
“The Omi Eko Project will introduce 15 structured ferry routes, spanning 140 kilometers and linking 25 upgraded and expanded ferry terminals across the city. As part of the initiative, 75 state-of-the-art electric vessels—each capable of carrying up to 440 passengers—will be procured.
 These vessels will significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions while drastically reducing air and water pollution,” she said.
A flagship component of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda, Omi Eko aims to increase the share of water transport from 1% to 5% of daily mobility in Lagos, while saving commuters up to two hours per day on major routes. The resulting reduction in road congestion will enhance mobility, productivity, and overall quality of life—unlocking new social and economic opportunities across the State.
As implementation progresses, residents will soon witness construction and rehabilitation works across the city—laying the foundation for a cleaner, safer, and more efficient transport system. Omi Eko will not only reshape Lagos but also position the city as a model of sustainable water transport for West Africa and beyond.
Winifred Bosa by — October 20, 2025 in News
Clinical Trial : NAFDAC , NNMDA Chart Path For Safe, Effective Nigerian Herbal Medicines

By Winifred Bosa
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is collaborating with the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) to develop scientifically proven, safe and effective herbal medicines that meet global standards through clinical trials.
According to a press release by Sayo Akintola , Resident Media Consultant, NAFDAC , the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, who dropped the hint, disclosed that Nigerian herbal medicine practitioners have the capacity to formulate safe and effective indigenous natural remedies that meet international standards.
NAFDAC has two types of approval for herbal medicines. The first type is a listing (L) approval, and it is granted after the product has been evaluated in our laboratory for toxicology safety tests with satisfactory results. Products in this approval category are listed for a period of two years, with a NAFDAC number bearing the letter L at the end.
The second approval type requires that clinical trials be conducted on the product to prove the efficacy of such a product. If this is done (in a well-designed protocol) with proven efficacy, a full approval with five-year validity is given.
The Director General identified cost as a major obstacle preventing herbal medicine practitioners from subjecting their products to clinical trials.
‘If you have an herbal medicine that you cannot prove scientifically the extent to which it works without causing harm to the user by providing some data on the efficacy, then it cannot be fully registered by NAFDAC.
Prof Adeyeye disclosed that NAFDAC has listed thousands of herbal medicines, with only a few products that have gone through clinical trial outcomes, But we cannot give 5-year approval without passing the efficacy test through a clinical trial.
We know that herbal medicine works. It is how to ascertain through clinical trial the level it can be used below which patients will be safe, and above which there could be damage to the liver, the kidney, and other internal organs, she explained, emphasising that the fact that its natural doesnt mean that its all safe. Thats where NAFDAC regulation and control come in.
The DG recalled that NAFDAC launched the Herbal Medicine Products Committee just before the COVID-19 Pandemic, which brought the practitioners, the Ministry of Health, NAFDAC and researchers together. This collaborative effort is very important because the practitioners know what their forefathers have been using, while the researchers know the science.
According to her, the Agency is looking for funding to assist the practitioners in the conduct of clinical trials, which is highly capital-intensive.
She pointed out that the Agency is working assiduously with the    NNMDA to ensure that clinical trial is conducted for the medicines that have met the regulatory requirements for listing.
She said that NAFDAC is working together with the NNMDA to use some selected listed herbal medicines to conduct clinical trials, so that we will prove beyond doubt that the medicine works well and those can now be registered fully.
Such medicines can be placed in a national formulary for herbal medicines, even if there are few.
She stated that NAFDAC has been educating the herbal medicine practitioners who intend to register products through stakeholders meetings.
The Agency even published a simple floor plan on the website as a guide for the practitioners.
She averred that it does not necessarily have to be a big place to use for production. She, however, maintained that the factory must be well-ordered to allow a good workflow so that there will not be contamination.
We are working with our practitioners. We are approving herbal medicines daily in NAFDAC, but we are working towards a phase where we will have a national formulary for those that have had clinical trials and have been proven to be very effective, she said.
The Director-General disclosed that before her appointment at NAFDAC, she was a professor in the United States. While at the university, she led a project that developed an anti-sickling polyherbal medicine.
This medicine, which NAFDAC had listed many years before her tenure, was tested in laboratory settings by incubating it with blood samples from children with sickle cell disease to prove its anti-sickling effect.
 Two research papers were published, confirming both the anti-sickling and anti-infective properties of the medicine.
We conducted a clinical trial approved by the Ethics Committee of Bowen University and the Institutional Review Board of my University in the U.S on the polyherbal in July before my assumption of office in NAFDAC in November 2017.
 She added that the trial showed that the product was efficacious but needed more data and funding for completion.
We are determined to assist our practitioners in the area of clinical trials and together with NNMDA we shall mobilise resources to get some herbal medicines fully registered after going through due process, she said.
Winifred Bosa by — October 12, 2025 in Health
Waves Of Innovation: How First Bank Turned Lagos Into Africa’s Electric Playground

The Lagos Lagoon glistened in shades of blue and gold as electric powerboats sliced through the water, cheered on by an ecstatic crowd that lined Victoria Island’s waterfront from Saturday, 3 October to Sunday, 5 October. For two unforgettable days, Lagos became Africa’s capital of clean energy, glamour, and innovation, all powered by First Bank of Nigeria, the sponsor of the continent’s first-ever E1 Lagos Grand Prix.

From the rhythmic sounds of Afrobeats echoing across the Marina to the sight of sleek, futuristic boats gliding silently on water, the E1 Lagos GP was more than a race, it was a celebration of Lagos’ vibrant spirit and Nigeria’s march towards sustainability.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a goodwill message, hailed the event as a bold statement of intent by Nigeria and Lagos, praising Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, First Bank, and other partners for delivering a world-class spectacle.

“The E1 Powerboat series combines world-class entertainment with clean energy innovation. This championship is not just a thrilling spectacle on water but a commitment to a greener and more sustainable future,” the president had said at the opening ceremony of the great event on Friday, 3 October.


He described Lagos as “a gateway to innovation, technology, and global sporting excellence,” affirming the nation’s readiness to lead Africa’s transition to clean energy.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who led the regatta that opened the event, described the championship as a proud moment for Lagos and a reflection of its global potential.
“E1 Lagos GP is more than a race; it is a celebration of Lagos’ dynamism, the Spirit of Lagos,” the governor said, adding that “It shows our capacity to host world-class events and underscores our commitment to sustainability.”

Crowds thronged the Lagos Lagoon and fan zones, having fun, snapping selfies, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

International sports icons, investors, and fans came from across the world, including former Chelsea and Ivory Coast football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa, who added a touch of celebrity magic to the weekend.

For First Bank of Nigeria, the event was not just about sports, it was about making history. Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said sponsoring the E1 Lagos GP reflected the bank’s heritage of innovation and renewal.

“Innovation, sustainability, excitement, speed, we are a heritage bank that has been around for 131 years, and for every one of those years, we have constantly renewed ourselves,” Ijabiyi said, saying that “When this opportunity came, who else could bring the first E1 GP to Nigeria but First Bank? We are proud to have presented Lagos and Nigeria to the world.”

At the First Bank Pavilion, visitors enjoyed interactive experiences, lifestyle engagements, and product showcases, while music, fashion, and food added a distinctly Lagos flavour. Families and young professionals mingled with entrepreneurs, all celebrating a fusion of technology, culture, and sustainability, hallmarks of the bank’s brand identity.

“This race is a net-zero emitter,” Ijabiyi added. “We are strong on sustaining the environment and supporting a cleaner, greener future. It’s innovation meeting responsibility.”

The E1 partnership also connects with the bank’s #FirstBankDecemberIssaVybe series, an annual celebration of entertainment and lifestyle that lights up Nigeria’s festive season. “December is the Vybe,” Ijabiyi teased. “This is just a taste of what’s to come-fun, fashion, food, and amazing experiences.”

The finale on Sunday was nothing short of electrifying as Team Brazil claimed victory, with pilots Timmy Hansen and Leva Millere-Hagin steering their electric boat to glory, beating Team Blue Rising and Team Drogba to the podium.

As the sun set over the Lagoon, the waterfront transformed into a sea of lights and cheers, a moment that captured the heart of Lagos: energetic, ambitious, and always ready to lead.

With its sponsorship of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix, First Bank once again proved that it is more than a financial institution, it is a lifestyle brand championing innovation, sustainability, and national pride.

In the words of Latoya Johnson, a Lagosian who attended the event: “I grew up knowing First Bank as the reliable one. Seeing them behind something this big makes me proud. They’re not just banking our money, they’re banking our future.”

From clean energy to cultural celebration, from racing boats to smiling faces, the E1 Lagos GP was a powerful reminder that when innovation meets tradition, the result is pure magic.

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Winifred Bosa by — October 12, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Sanya By Oyin Olugbile Clinches NLNG 2025 The Nigeria Prize For Literature

…New Prize category on Creative Arts introduced

By Winifred Bosa

Sanya by Oyin Olugbile has emerged winner of the 2025 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Literature, clinching one of Africa’s most prestigious literary honour valued at $100,000.

The announcement was made on Friday, 10th October 2025 at the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) Grand Award Night in Lagos by the Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Prize, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, who revealed the winner out of 252 novels submitted for the NLNG-sponsored Prize.

According to Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Olugbile’s mythology retelling approach was distinct and daring for casting Sango as a female and for the projection of Yoruba mythology through a story that captivates and meanders into a fantastical world. She stated that Olugbile achieved this through lucid and straightforward language, making for easy reading.

“We were impressed by the quality of the shortlisted books written by three writers with diverse backgrounds and experiences. The books, Sanya by Oyin Olugbile; The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obioma, both published by Masobe Books; and This Motherless Land by Nikki May, published by Narrative Landscape, indicate an improvement in the quality of local publishing.

“After much careful assessments and deliberations, we concluded that very little separates the novels and each is a potential winner of the award. However, Oyin Olugbile’s Sanya slightly takes the edge and is therefore our pick as the winner of the 2025 The Nigeria Prize for Literature,” she stated.

She further announced Okwudiri Anasiudu as the winning entry for The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism. Anasiudu won for his submissions titled Afropolitan Identity and Afrodiasporic Otherness in Selected African Novels; Allegorical Conjectures in Helon Habila’s Measuring Time; and Mimetic designs in Helon Habila’s Oil on Water. The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism comes with a $10,000 prize money.

In his opening remarks, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Philip Mshelbila, highlighted the enduring influence of literature, describing The Nigeria Prize for Literature as “a reminder of the power of words to shape identity and deepen understanding. Winning the Prize is recognition of scaling the highest heights of literature. All the shortlisted books this evening are works of the highest calibre,” he said.

He also revealed that The Nigeria Prize for Science will be renamed “The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation.” He said the new name reflects NLNG’s belief that progress depends as much on creativity and fresh thinking as on technology and infrastructure.

In another revelation, Mshelbila announced that NLNG would be resting The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism and introducing a new Prize category “The Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts,” with focus on Documentary Film. He stressed that the new Prize would inspire a new generation of storytellers to inform, challenge, and connect Nigerians more deeply to who they are as a nation and who they can become.

On energy, he stated that, according to the International Energy Agency, Africa requires over $200 billion annually in energy investments to achieve its climate and development goals. He added that Nigeria has the capacity and responsibility to lead this effort. He added that every kilometre of pipeline, every processing plant, and every household gas cylinder represents opportunities.

He stated further that NLNG takes pride in what it produces and enables, adding that “Train 7, now over 80% complete, is a $10 billion demonstration of what happens when policy, planning, investment and execution align. It is proof that investment yields results. A clear example of Nigerian content development at work. And it is a signal that Nigeria can remain competitive in the global LNG market if we stay focused, coordinated and ambitious.”

During his speech, Mshelbila unveiled a new book “Voices of Our Leaders,” a commemorative book on NLNG’s history and progress over three decades. He noted that the book captures the voices of some of those who have guided NLNG’s journey from dream to reality.

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, in his keynote speech, remarked that while there was much to celebrate, it was equally important to pause and reflect. He noted that The Nigeria Prize for Science, with its theme “Innovations in ICT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies for Development,” had not produced a winning work in 2025. He said it was a reminder that without innovation, Nigeria cannot hope to compete in a digital future.

He emphasised that Nigeria must deepen its investment in science, particularly in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, which he described as key to addressing many of the country’s developmental challenges. Concluding his remarks, he called on Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the broader national vision of nurturing both science and art, strengthening education, investing in digital technologies, and powering the engines of sustainable energy.

In September 2025, the Advisory Board of the Nigeria Prize for Science announced a no-winner verdict for the Prize.

Through The Nigeria Prizes, NLNG continues to reaffirm its enduring commitment to inspiring a sustainable future.

Winifred Bosa by — October 11, 2025 in Education
Two Nigerians Appointed As Independent Non-Executive Directors At Savannah Energy

By Winifred Bosa
Savannah Energy PLC, the British independent energy company focused around the delivery of Projects that Matter, has announced several planned Board changes, in line with the Company’s succession planning regime.
The company announced the retirement of Sir Stephen O’Brien and David Clarkson from the Board, extending its sincere thanks to both for their dedication and service as Directors over the past eight years.
 It said that during their tenure they have been instrumental in supporting the Company’s governance framework and Board processes.
Savannah also announced the intended appointments of Uyi Akpata and Kehinde Olamide Ogunwumiju as Independent Non-Executive Directors. Uyi and Kehinde bring significant experience in audit, finance and legal affairs, further strengthening the Board’s capabilities in these key areas. Upon joining the Board, Mr Akpata is expected to serve as Chair of the Audit Committee.
Joseph Pagop Noupoué, Chairman of Savannah, commented:
“The changes announced this morning form part of Savannah’s ongoing and dynamic Board succession planning process, which is designed to evolve in step with the Company’s strategic direction, operational priorities, and growth trajectory.
On behalf of the Board, I would like to wish Sir Stephen and David every success in the future. As part of our structured approach to Board renewal, their agreed retirement reflects the natural progression of our governance planning.
That said, both have been highly valued colleagues whose insight, integrity, and presence around the Board table will be genuinely missed. We are delighted that both have agreed to take on ongoing consultancy roles, ensuring the Company can continue to benefit from their extensive experience and deep understanding of our business. We wish them every success in the future and thank them wholeheartedly for their service.
I am also delighted to welcome Uyi and Kehinde as incoming Directors. Both are internationally respected professionals in their respective fields – finance and legal – and have proven track records supporting dynamic, high growth organisations. I believe their expertise will be instrumental as Savannah continues its growth trajectory across Africa.”
Sir Stephen O’Brien, Retiring Vice Chair and Non-Executive Director, Savannah, commented:
“Having been involved with the Company since its very inception 11 years ago, and after eight stimulating years as Vice-Chairman of Savannah, I am stepping down with pride in what has been built together as a team. Over this time, Savannah has transformed into a leading African energy company, advancing projects across the continent in both hydrocarbons and renewables. I am pleased to have had the opportunity to contribute to our journey. I wish everyone at Savannah every success and look forward to maintaining my support for the company in a new political advisory role.”
David Clarkson, Retiring Non-Executive Director, Savannah, commented:
“Since joining the Board in 2017, I have enjoyed a wonderful journey with Andrew and my Board colleagues as Savannah grew in stature delivering Projects That Matter. I wish the Company every success as it continues to build sustainable businesses across its portfolio of opportunities. I look forward to supporting the Company as Technical Advisor to the Board.”
New Director Biographies
Uyi Akpata
A Chartered accountant by background, with an over 40-year career, Uyi Akpata held multiple senior leadership roles at PwC, the leading international audit and professional services firm, prior to his retirement on 30 June 2024.
His key roles include Senior Partner for Nigeria and Regional Senior Partner for West Africa, Head of Oil and Gas for Africa and a member of both the firm’s Global Oil & Gas Leadership team and Africa Leadership team. With his assurance services background, Uyi led audit work for the energy supermajors active in Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and a host of high growth emerging energy companies.
He has also supervised teams auditing companies outside of the energy sector, in areas such as financial services, consumer goods and agriculture. More recently, in October 2024, Uyi founded Rusa Advisory, where he specialises in providing governance and risk management advisory services, partnering with business leaders to drive sustainable growth, efficiency and profitability.
Uyi is currently Chairman of the Board of emPLE Life Insurance, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Unified Payments Limited, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Unity Schools Old Students Association and President of the Nigerian Cricket Federation. He also served as Chairman of the Professional Services Group of the Nigeria British Chamber of Commerce. Uyi holds a Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) in Accounting from the University of Lagos. He is a qualified Chartered Accountant of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and is currently a Fellow of the Institute.
In recognition of his contributions to the business environment in Nigeria, Uyi was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Management Science by Wellspring University in 2018. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of Miva Open University, where he also serves as Professor of Practice in Financial Accounting.
Kehinde Olamide Ogunwumiju O.F.R., S.A.N., FCIArb. (U.K.)
Kehinde is the Managing Partner at Afe Babalola & Co, a leading African law firm. Since his appointment in 2017, and continuing to date, he has remained one of the youngest Senior Advocates of Nigeria (“SAN”), the Nigerian equivalent of a King’s Counsel, ever appointed.
His practice has seen him successfully represent the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation in over 100 disputes and the Federal Republic of Nigeria in multiple international disputes, including against a near US$5 billion claim at the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (“ICSID”) in Washington DC.
He has worked on many Nigerian and international arbitrations.
Kehinde received the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (“OFR”) as part of the National Honours List from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) UK, a member of the Nigerian Bar Association, the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (“CIIN”), the International Bar Association and the Abuja Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture, and is an associate of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (“ICSAN”), the professional body for corporate governance practitioners in Nigeria.
Kehinde began his legal education at the University of Ibadan, where he earned his LL.B with Honours.  He continued his studies at the Nigerian Law School, obtaining his B.L. in 2005, and then pursued an LL.M. in International Commercial Law at the University of Northumbria at Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, England, in 2007.
Regulatory disclosures (in accordance with Rule 17 and Schedule two paragraph (g) of the AIM Rules) are as set out below:
Uyiosa Nosawaru Akpata (aged 61) holds or has held the following directorships or partnerships in the past five years:
Current Directorships/Partnerships
Past Directorships/Partnerships
Maven Partners
Axum Constructs Limited
Proper Tee Limited
De-Petraco Leasing Co. Limited
Rusa Advisory
Kush Constructs Limited
Ecoba 74/79 Concept
PwC Africa Limited
emPLE Life Assurance Limited
PwC Nigeria Limited
Set-79 Investment Limited
Quince Prime Limited
Trishbeth Investment Limited
Unified Payments Limited
He has no shareholding in the Company.
Kehinde Olamide Ogunwumiju (aged 43) holds or has held the following directorships or partnerships in the past five years:
Current Directorships/Partnerships
Past Directorships/Partnerships
Abuad Management Company Ltd
N/A
Adga Investment Nig Ltd
Afe Babalola & Co.
Bita Exploration and Production Limited
Curlew Express Limited
Dekra International Services Limited
Doxology Oil Services Ltd
Doxology Oil Trading and Logistics Ltd
Kwaliteit Frieden Energy Resources Ltd
Lumen Energy Limited
Septagon Bros Limited
Strasbourg Shore Nig Ltd
Tee’s Mums and Kids Limited
He has no shareholding in the Company.
Financial Reporting Update
The Company now expects to publish its 2024 Annual Report and Accounts and its Half Year Results for the six months ended 30 June 2025 during the week commencing 13 October 2025, together with a comprehensive trading update for the nine months ended 30 September 2025. As a result of the delayed publications, and pursuant to the requirements of AIM Rules 18 and 19, trading in the Company’s shares will remain suspended until both sets of accounts and the trading update are published.
Winifred Bosa by — October 11, 2025 in Energy
2025 Media Awards : Nestlé Nigeria Calls For Entries

By Winifred Bosa
Nestlé Nigeria is pleased to announce the call for entries for the 2025 Nestlé Media Awards, an annual initiative that celebrates journalistic excellence and impactful storytelling across Nigeria.
Since its inception, the Nestlé Media Awards have celebrated journalists who use their platforms to highlight real issues that matter to Nigerians, from affordable nutrition and youth empowerment to sustainable livelihoods and community resilience.
This year, Nestlé Nigeria introduces a new category, Business and Economy Reporting, which recognizes outstanding journalism that explores Nigeria’s business landscape including economic trends, entrepreneurship, policy challenges, and opportunities for growth.
Unlike other categories, this is the only area where stories do not have to focus on Nestlé, allowing journalists to highlight broader solutions and developments shaping the nation’s economy.
This addition reflects Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to promoting solution-driven reporting that informs, inspires, and contributes to national development.
Speaking on the continued impact of the Awards, Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, said:
“Over the past five years, the Nestlé Media Awards have reinforced our commitment to advancing responsible journalism that drives meaningful progress in society. We are proud of the role this platform continues to play in recognizing stories that inform, challenge perspectives, and elevate conversations around national development.
 This milestone edition strengthens that commitment with the introduction of the Business and Economy category, reflecting the realities of doing business in Nigeria today. By spotlighting journalism that amplifies solutions and supports growth for both small and large enterprises, we aim to contribute to a more resilient and inclusive economy for all.”
Journalists are also invited to submit entries across the existing categories: Nutrition and Affordable Food Solutions, Environmental Sustainability, Youth Empowerment and Development, Women Empowerment, Community Development, Finance, Agriculture, and Best Photojournalist Award. Entries in these categories must focus on Nestlé Nigeria’s activities or initiatives, either locally or globally, that align with the theme.
The Awards are open to journalists and media professionals in print, broadcast and digital media. Submitted stories must have been published between November 9, 2024, and November 7, 2025, and must align with one of the award themes, highlighting activities of Nestlé Nigeria PLC or Nestlé globally.
Each entry must include a link or copy of the published work, a short profile of the entrant (minimum 100 words), and a brief description of the story (100 words). Also, each participant may submit one entry per category, and each piece of work may only be entered in one category.
Submissions must be made via the 2025 Nestlé Nigeria Media Awards Entry Form no later than November 8, 2025.They will be evaluated by an independent panel of experienced media and industry professionals using criteria such as accuracy, depth of storytelling, and relevance to societal needs.
Winners will be announced and celebrated at an award ceremony in Lagos on December 5, 2025.
Winifred Bosa by — October 11, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Three Visionaries Harnessing Project Management To Fight Climate Change

 TIME Studios and Project Management Institute (PMI), the world’s leading authority for project professionals, have teamed up to co-produce a new documentary series called The Solutionaries, highlighting three innovators driving scalable transformation to address the climate crisis. Cyrill Gutsch, Rebecca Hu-Thrams, and Lisa Dyson are The Solutionaries, making bold moves to tackle the world’s most urgent challenges and expanding their impact through project management.
United by a shared mission to drive cultural and social impact through storytelling, each innovator’s work is featured in an episode, the first of which premiered on Wednesday, October 8th, on time.com. Further episodes go live on Tuesday, October 28th, and Monday, November 10th.
“The Solutionaries demonstrate that the answers to our greatest challenges often come from individuals with the courage to build the world they imagine,” said Menaka Gopinath, Chief Marketing Officer at PMI. “To deliver real-world impact and address the urgent climate crisis, these innovations need to be unleashed – the world can’t afford to keep them in experimental labs. That’s where the power of project management to scale innovation makes all the difference, and The Solutionaries are doing just that.”
Episode #1: Parley for the Oceans – October 8
Episode one introduces viewers to Cyrill Gutsch, a German-born designer and founder of Parley for the Oceans, a global environmental organization that brings together creators, thinkers, and leaders to raise awareness about the fragility of our oceans and collaborate to end their destruction. Through Parley Future Material® they are introducing natural materials, biofabrication and green chemistry as alternatives to conventional and often harmful and toxic material standards, disrupting the status quo of the fashion and design industries and driving a material revolution.
• In 2024, Parley intercepted 1,609,979 kg of debris from the environment, cleaning a 16,028,161 m2 area.
• In partnership with Dior, Parley launched their third Beachwear Capsule collection, crafted entirely from innovative materials, including 30% made with Parley Ocean Plastic®, a bold step toward an eco-innovative future and a ‘Symbol of Change’ for fashion.
Parley’s mission is a powerful reminder that ocean health is the foundation of human and economic well-being. This is extremely evident in Africa, where the ocean is both a lifeline and a vast reservoir of opportunity. Africa’s oceans are among its greatest economic assets. Stretching over 30,000 kilometres of coastline and bordering two of the world’s most dynamic oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian, they sustain millions of livelihoods and power key sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and transport. Healthy oceans are essential to Africa’s food security, biodiversity, and climate resilience, but they are under increasing threat from pollution, overexploitation, and climate change. Protecting these blue ecosystems is therefore both an ecological and economic imperative. As global innovators like Cyrill Gutsch demonstrate through their work, reimagining our relationship with the ocean can spark a material revolution, one that aligns sustainability with creativity.
For Africa, maintaining ocean health is not just about conservation; it is about safeguarding a foundation for future prosperity, ensuring that the continent’s blue economy becomes a driver of inclusive growth rather than a casualty of neglect.
Episode #2: Glacier – October 28
The second episode spotlights Rebecca Hu-Thrams, co-founder of Glacier, a next-generation robotics company reinventing recycling to reduce landfilling and unlock a circular economy at scale. Today, Glacier’s robots process recycling streams for 1 in 10 Americans, a sign of how quickly material recovery facilities in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, Phoenix, and San Francisco are adopting the technology.
Glacier designs custom-built robots powered by proprietary AI models to trace and recover more recyclables from the waste stream. Their compact units install directly into recycling facilities, where robots extract valuable materials and computer vision captures real-time footage of every item, using AI to classify each one. The result: more materials recovered, higher-quality feedstock for manufacturers, and verified evidence for brands seeking accountability.
• Physical AI meets recycling: Glacier’s models already identify and sort more than 50 categories of materials—including plastics, fiber, metals, cartons, glass, and branded packaging—at industrial scale.
• From waste to feedstock: A single Glacier robot can recover over 10 million items per year, preventing 2,000 tons of CO₂ emissions (the equivalent of removing 500 cars from the road!)
• Circular manufacturing + brand intelligence: At full scale, Glacier could divert 200 million tons of recyclables annually and eliminate over 260 million tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions, while delivering the item-level data brands need to design more responsibly.
Episode #3: Air Protein – November 10
Episode three features Dr. Lisa Dyson, a physicist turned entrepreneur whose work was inspired by witnessing the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. She is the founder and CEO of Air Protein, a company that is pioneering AirFermentation™, a NASA-inspired process that transforms elements of the air (CO₂, oxygen, nitrogen, and water) into complete, highly nutritious protein. The result is a flour rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that can function as a drop-in alternative to egg, dairy, and soy.
Air Protein’s technology is patent-protected and backed by leading partners including ADM and DARPA. By producing nutrition anywhere on Earth without relying on fragile agricultural supply chains, the company is creating what it calls the “Air Chain™”, a new category of ingredients designed for resilience, reliability, and scalability. For governments, food producers, and humanitarian organizations, it offers a stable, future-proof way to secure supply with efficiency and climate benefits built in.
• Air Protein is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, with all 20 amino acids, including all 9 essential amino acids and 2x the amino acids of soybeans. It contains more protein per kg than most other proteins and is free from GMOs, pesticides, herbicides, hormones, and antibiotics.
Menaka Gopinath adds: “More often than not, the barrier to implementing solutions tackling seemingly insurmountable challenges is just figuring out where to start and having the tools and mindset to move from idea to action. The project profession is a critical element to enabling action. At Project Management Institute, we’re redefining how the world tackles environmental challenges, championing for every project to be designed with sustainability at its core. Our research shows projects with sustainability baked in are nearly twice as likely to deliver successfully. Our mission is to inspire project professionals to use their skills to shape a more sustainable future to drive meaningful change.”
Directed by Academy Award nominee Edward Buckles Jr., whose film Katrina Babies demonstrated his ability to find hope and humanity within complex challenges, The Solutionaries brings emotional depth and visual artistry to the climate conversation.
Project Management Institute (PMI): PMI is the leading authority in project management, dedicated to guiding the way to project success. Since 1969, PMI has shone a light on the power of project management and the people behind the projects. With a global community, gold-standard professional certifications, and career-long learning opportunities, PMI empowers current and aspiring project professionals, as well as organisations, with knowledge and resources to lead effectively and create an impact in the communities they serve.
Winifred Bosa by — October 11, 2025 in News