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Ecowaka Launches Three-Wheeled Electric Vehicles, Boosts Sustainable Transportation In Nigeria

 

A new chapter is opening in Nigeria’s transportation sector as Ecowaka Limited (Ecowaka), an indigenous electric vehicle (EV) company, launches its three-wheeled electric vehicles (keke).

 

This innovation provides an affordable and eco-friendly solution to enhance urban mobility, supported by advanced battery swapping and charging infrastructure.

With rising fuel price, increasing urban congestion, and the urgent need for climate-conscious alternatives, Ecowaka is positioning itself as a pioneer in Nigeria’s electric mobility space, delivering sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective transport options tailored for everyday Nigerians.

“We are building more than electric vehicles; We’re building a cleaner future, creating jobs, and giving drivers and commuters a smarter alternative,” said Prince Ojeabulu, Founder and CEO at Ecowaka. “Our mission at Ecowaka is to drive innovation that not only redefines transportation but also contributes to a cleaner planet. This is about local innovation that solves real problems.”, he added.

Ecowaka adopts an inclusive model for electric mobility, providing access to both brand-new electric tricycles from ₦2.6 million and conversion solutions for existing petrol-powered kekes from ₦2.3 million. This approach supports a gradual and affordable transition for operators already in the system. With a supporting infrastructure of charging and battery-swap stations, Ecowaka’s model is designed to minimize downtime and reduce long-term operating costs.

The electric keke is designed to meet Nigeria’s transportation needs, offering high performance and reliability. The vehicles are equipped with an 8kWh battery that allows for a top speed of 50 km/h and a travel range of up to 120 km per charge. These vehicles can carry three passengers along with the driver, providing a practical solution for both personal and commercial transport. Charging is efficient with a 5-minute battery swap and 45-minute station charging. The vehicle also includes smart features like a digital display, vehicle tracking, USB charging port, and mobile app integration. Contributing to zero emissions, operators can save up to 60% on fuel costs.

Already gaining attention from key players in tech, transport, and environmental advocacy, Ecowaka is building strategic partnerships to scale across major cities in Nigeria. With its commitment to local assembly, driver training, and tech-driven mobility solutions, the company is poised to set the pace for clean transport across Africa.

Ecowaka is an indigenous Electric Vehicle (EV) brand focused on driving sustainable transportation in Nigeria. With a mission to deliver accessible, eco-friendly transport solutions.

MTN Nigeria Communications Plc has announced a N3.5bn investment in Corporate Social Investment initiatives in 2024, bringing its total CSI spending to N31.9bn since inception, as part of efforts to deepen environmental sustainability, digital inclusion, and socio-economic impact across the country.

 

 

The company’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Tobe Okigbo, disclosed this during the “Facts About the Sustainability Report” presentation at the Nigerian Exchange Limited in Lagos on Thursday.

 

 

Okigbo said the 2024 Sustainability Report highlights the company’s commitment to creating long-term value for stakeholders by embedding environmental, social, and governance practices across its operations.

 

 

According to him, MTN Nigeria’s interventions impacted over 663,300 individuals in 2024, supported 628 small businesses, and improved educational outcomes in 62 schools across the country.

 

 

“In 2024, we invested N3.5bn in Corporate Social Investment, bringing our total investment to N31.9bn since inception. Our efforts have made a tangible impact, benefitting over 663,300 individuals, supporting 628 small businesses, and improving educational outcomes in 62 schools across Nigeria,” he stated.

 

 

In line with its environmental goals, the company deployed 194 new solar-powered rural telephony sites and launched West Africa’s first eco-friendly SIM cards to cut down on plastic waste.

 

 

On governance, MTN Nigeria became the first Nigerian company and the first within the MTN Group to receive the Compliance Management System certification from the International Accreditation Service.

 

 

Also speaking at the event, the General Manager, Risk Management at MTN Nigeria Communications Plc, Esosa Balogun, added that the company paid N764.2bn in taxes, levies, and duties to the Nigerian government in the reporting year.

 

 

“We paid N764.2 billion in income taxes, duties and levies paid to the government, up 39.1 per cent.”

 

 

As part of its leadership in transparency, MTN Nigeria became an early adopter of the International Financial Reporting Sustainability Disclosure Standards ahead of the mandatory date set by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria. It also joined the ISSB’s Transition Implementation Group and the FRC’s Adoption Readiness Working Group.

 

 

Balogun stated that MTN Nigeria’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond business operations and includes active engagement with local communities through programmes such as “What Can We Do Together?”, which enables Nigerians to propose and implement development projects within their communities.

 

 

“Through stakeholder forums, grievance mechanisms, and independent impact assessments, we maintain transparency, measure effectiveness, and ensure long-term sustainability,” he said.

 

 

Additionally, MTN Nigeria maintained a 93 per cent network coverage rate and reported over 2.8 million active MoMo wallets in 2024. It also reported that 59.6 per cent of its procurement spending was on local suppliers.

 

 

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Exchange Limited, Jude Chiemeka, emphasized that sustainability has now evolved from a corporate responsibility add-on to a core business imperative.

 

 

He stressed that sustainability challenges continue to reshape global priorities, making Environmental, Social, and Governance factors essential to investment decisions.

 

 

“As business leaders, regulators, and educators, we share the responsibility to drive transformation. By working together, we can build a capital market that not only attracts investment but also supports societal progress and protects the environment,” the CEO stated.

 

 

He further highlighted that companies integrating sustainability at the core of their operations are not only better positioned to mitigate environmental and social risks but also more capable of strengthening brand value and capitalising on the rising demand for sustainable products and services.

Marketing Analytics Africa Poised To Transform Future Of Marketing Across The Continent

Marketing Analytics Africa (MAA) is proud to announce the return of its annual marketing conference scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, at the Landmark Events & Conference Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. This year’s conference, themed “Marketing in the New Economy: Data-Driven Success in Challenging Times”, reflects the urgent need for African marketers, businesses, and policy leaders to evolve with the digital era and economy and reshape Africa’s marketing future.

According to Victor Ojeakhena, the Co-Founder/CEO of Marketing Analytics Africa, the Africa Marketing Technology and E-commerce Conference (AMTEC) is an annual marketing event that brings together thought leaders, executives, marketing innovators, and data strategists from across Africa to explore the latest trends, tools and tactics in martech, e-commerce, data intelligence, and customer experience optimisation, all essential for thriving in today’s economic landscape.

Victor also hinted that this year’s AMTEC event will feature a top line up marketing professionals like Feyi Olubodun, Managing Partner at Open Squares Africa; Maurice Igugu, the Chief Marketing Officer at Sterling Bank Plc; Tomisin Adetola, Colgate’s Head of Marketing; Chinwe Bode-Akinwande (CBA), Head of Sponsorship and Events at First Bank, among others.

In a show of strong industry collaboration, brands like Colgate, Nutrify, Addmie, Indomie, Ladycare, DStv Nigeria, Dochase, Legit.ng, Cybertron, Accret Experience, among others, have joined MAA as official partners for #AMTEC2025. These partnerships further cement the event’s credibility and impact as Africa’s leading martech and e-commerce knowledge hub.

While disclosing why AMTEC 2025 matters, Victor Ojeakhena hinted that the event has a focus on transformation, insights, and inclusion, thereby aiming to: empower brands and marketers with cutting-edge digital marketing strategies, showcase the role of data and emerging technologies in achieving scalable growth, provide a networking platform for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors, and drive partnerships and collaborations for sustainable innovation across Africa.

AMTEC 2025 is scheduled to take place on the 24th day of May, 2025, at Landmark Events & Conference Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, by 9:00 AM prompt.

Marketing Analytics Africa is calling on all marketing leaders, top executives and professionals, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises who are in search of fresh marketing ideas and innovations, to be part of AMTEC 2025.

FirstBank, the West African premier bank and financial inclusion service provider, is proud to announce a strategic collaboration with EStars Education Africa Limited (EStars), a global leader in educational esports.

 

Empowering the Next Generation of Esports Professionals

The partnership provides a platform for FirstBank to support the rollout of EStars’ comprehensive esports qualifications, including entry-level Certificates and BTEC courses in esports. These programmes are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the burgeoning esports industry.

 

Innovative Financial Solutions for Gamers

In addition to educational initiatives, FirstBank and EStars are exploring the development of a co-branded gaming credit card, with the goal of enhancing customer experience and offering them a unique blend of exclusive benefits, rewards, and gaming-centric features.

 

A Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

As a leading financial services provider in Africa, with a vast network of over 820 business locations and 39 million+ customer accounts, FirstBank is uniquely positioned to drive economic growth and empowerment. The collaboration with EStars embodies FirstBank’s commitment to innovation, youth development, and supporting emerging sectors like esports, ultimately ensuring a stable economic future for generations to come

 

Mags Byrne, EStars CEO stated: “We are thrilled to be partnering with FirstBank, Nigeria’s oldest bank, to introduce our educational products to their customers.  Our aim is to bring educational esports to all of Africa, and innovative partnerships like this make this possible”. 

 

Joel Popoola, EStars’ Africa Advisor added: “This partnership between EStars and FirstBank marks a significant milestone in advancing esports education in Nigeria. By integrating structured learning pathways into the rapidly expanding esports industry, we are providing Nigerian students with the opportunity to develop essential digital, entrepreneurial, and technical skills that are critical for the future workforce. This collaboration is about more than just gaming—it’s about equipping young people with the knowledge and competencies they need to thrive in a digital economy, opening doors to new career opportunities in technology, manufacturing, and beyond.”

 

Expressing enthusiasm about the partnership, Chukwuma Ezirim Group Executive, E-Business and Retail Products Division, FirstBank, said “We are excited to collaborate with EStars in pioneering esports education for the youths. Esports present a new frontier of creativity, innovation and career opportunities. We recognize the vast potential of esports in shaping the future of our youth and we are ready to harness it for their benefits. By investing in esports education, we are not only opening up exciting career paths for the youths but also contributing to the growth and development of the African esports ecosystem. FirstBank is proud to be at the forefront of this innovative endeavour”

 

 

Airtel Announces Agreement With SpaceX To Bring Starlink’s Connectivity Solutions

Airtel Africa announced today an agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s high-speed internet services to its customers in Africa. Currently, SpaceX has acquired requisite licenses in 9 out of 14 countries within Airtel Africa’s footprint. Operating licenses for the other 5 countries are under process.

 

With this collaboration, Airtel Africa will further enhance its next-generation satellite connectivity offerings and augment connectivity for enterprises, businesses, and socio-economic communities like schools, health centres in even the most rural parts of Africa. Airtel Africa will also explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhauling.

 

Airtel Africa and SpaceX will continue to explore other areas to promote digital inclusion in the continent as well as SpaceX’s ability to utilize and benefit from Airtel’s ground network infrastructure and other capabilities in Africa.

 

Airtel Africa MD and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said: “We remain deeply committed to our vision to enrich the lives of people of Africa. This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships. Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure that every individual, business, and community have reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity even in the most remote and currently under-served parts of Africa.”

 

SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Business Operations Chad Gibbs said: “We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways.

 

Starlink is available in more than 20 African markets and this agreement with Airtel highlights how, once licensed, Starlink welcomes the opportunity to join forces with important industry leaders to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from Starlink’s presence.

 

 

The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in Africa’s telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering across Africa makes great sense for our business.”

 

 

Gen Christopher Musa — A Beacon of Renewed Hope in Nigeria’s Defence

In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda lies a national call to action — to restore trust in public institutions, secure the country’s territorial integrity, and realign Nigeria’s governance with the expectations of a forward-looking people.

While this vision spans multiple sectors, from economic revitalization to social inclusion, none is more urgent or foundational than national security.

In this regard, the leadership of General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Nigeria’s 18th Chief of Defence Staff, offers a clear and compelling demonstration of how competent, visionary leadership can transform not only institutions but public confidence itself.

Born on December 25, 1967, in Sokoto, General Musa’s military journey spans over three decades of distinguished service.

 

A product of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he has augmented his professional training with a Bachelor of Science degree, an Advanced Diploma in Security Management from the University of Lagos, and a Master’s in Military Science from the International College of Defence Studies in China.

 

This blend of local grounding and international exposure reflects the intellectual preparedness that today’s military leadership demands.

General Musa’s career, defined by key command postings across conflict zones, is not just a chronicle of personal accomplishment—it is a mirror of Nigeria’s broader fight for stability, unity, and peace. From his leadership roles in Operation Lafiya Dole to his command of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps, his operational legacy is one of courage under pressure and a rare ability to balance tactical decision-making with strategic foresight.

Under his stewardship, Nigeria’s military has seen a decisive shift in posture. General Musa has championed a transition from reactive defence mechanisms to proactive and offensive strategic doctrines. Operations have become more intelligence-driven, more technologically enabled, and more people-focused. One example stands tall in national memory: the successful rescue of 330 Chibok schoolgirls from the clutches of Boko Haram insurgents in the dense terrain of Sambisa Forest.

 

This operation — meticulously planned and effectively executed — did more than return daughters to their families; it restored belief in the Nigerian military’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.

This renewed efficiency has not come by chance. General Musa has prioritized the modernization of military hardware and the integration of new technologies, including drone surveillance, cyber defence capabilities, and encrypted communications.

 

These upgrades, while often discussed in policy circles, have been implemented under his watch with speed and precision. The result is a military better equipped to confront asymmetric threats, whether from insurgents, bandits, or cyber terrorists.

Yet, perhaps one of the most commendable aspects of General Musa’s leadership is his commitment to ethical warfare and human rights. He has consistently advocated for adherence to international humanitarian laws, and under his watch, the Armed Forces have adopted codes of conduct that emphasize the protection of civilians, accountability in combat operations, and zero tolerance for abuse. In a region where accusations of military excesses have often marred counter-insurgency efforts, this emphasis on professionalism has helped rebuild the credibility of Nigeria’s Armed Forces both at home and abroad.

Crucially, he has also invested in military-civilian relations. Recognizing that local intelligence is the lifeblood of successful operations, General Musa has fostered partnerships with community leaders, civil society organizations, and traditional institutions. These engagements have not only improved information flow but have also cultivated a spirit of mutual trust between the Armed Forces and the citizens they protect — an often-overlooked but essential component of sustainable peace.

On the structural front, General Musa has introduced and expanded the concept of “Super Camps” — fortified military hubs strategically located to ensure rapid response and sustained pressure on insurgent groups. These camps have proven effective in launching agile operations, disrupting terrorist enclaves, and reclaiming lost territories. Complementing these efforts is a renewed focus on troop welfare: improved barracks conditions, timely payment of allowances, enhanced healthcare access, and mental health support systems have all contributed to higher morale and better performance in the field.

Moreover, General Musa has been instrumental in deepening Nigeria’s defence diplomacy. Through military exchanges, joint training programs, and intelligence-sharing partnerships with allied nations, Nigeria’s Armed Forces are now benefiting from global best practices. His approach reflects a clear understanding that security in the 21st century is a collaborative endeavor that transcends borders.

His leadership of “Operation Hadin Kai,” in particular, exemplifies this shift in mindset. Moving beyond containment, the operation now targets the roots of insurgency through psychological operations, rehabilitation of defectors, and reintegration programs — all strategies that speak to a broader and more humane understanding of security as both physical and psychological.

As Nigeria confronts its many security challenges — from terrorism in the northeast to separatist agitations and transnational crime — General Musa’s leadership has brought a sense of stability and strategic continuity to a volatile landscape. He has not only fought battles on the field but also restored the internal architecture of military command with discipline, foresight, and integrity.

In the context of President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” vision, General Christopher Musa is a crucial asset. His leadership represents the fusion of strength and strategy, of force and foresight. As the country looks to rebuild trust in its institutions and strengthen the social contract between the state and its people, the military — under Musa’s guidance — is emerging not just as a fighting force, but as a unifying institution capable of upholding the values of democracy, rule of law, and national pride.

In a time of great uncertainty, Nigeria must hold on to its exemplars. General Musa is one such figure — steady, focused, and aligned with the ideals of national rebirth. His story is not just that of a soldier. It is the story of Nigeria’s capacity to evolve, defend itself with dignity, and lead with purpose.

Kennedy Elaigwu Awodi writes from.North Carolina (USA)

2025 Industry Summit: Experts Call On CEOs , Marketers To Align With Consumer Preferences

 

L-R: Managing Director, Nitro 121 Marketing And Advertising, Lampe Omoleye; Convener, The Industry Summit 6.0, Goddie Ofose; Marketing Consultant, Toyin Nnodi; and Co-founder/CEO, Innova Hive Integrated Ltd, Stanley Oni; during The Industry Summit 2025 held in Lagos recently.
L-R: Group CEO, Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun, Managing Director, mediaReach OMD, Mr. Stephen Onaivi, Publisher, The Industry Newspaper, Mr. Goddie Ofose, Chairperson, Lagos Chapter of NIPR, Mrs. Comfort Nwankwo and MD/CEO, Nitro 121, Mr. Lampe Omoyele at the 6th edition of The Industry Summit organised by Industry Newspaper in Lagos recently.

Brand owners and players in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) space were on Friday charged to be dynamic to be able to meet the present-day consumer needs which are constantly evolving.

 

The socio-economic realities have made this to be so, as consumers, faced with decreasing purchasing power, continue to challenge their loyalty to any particular brand, with many opting for brands that meet their needs at any particular time.

 

To be able to get consumers’ attention, seasoned experts and industry stakeholders said FMCG players and brand owners must know their consumers and be ready to evolve along with their preference.

 

Experts said this at the 6th Industry Summit, held at the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIBN) House, Adeola Hopewell, Victoria Island, with the theme: “Understanding Changing Consumers Preference in Troubled FMCG Space”.

 

Delivering the keynote address, Lampe Omoyele, Managing Director/CEO of Nitro 121, said consumers are modifying their purchasing behaviours by focusing more on essential goods while reducing discretionary spending. As such, to succeed, brand owners/businesses need to put themselves in the shoes of the consumers – by giving them what they want, to win them over.

 

Focusing on a recent survey conducted by his company, Omoyele said price sensitivity, availability, and perceived value are some of the factors that necessitate people to switch brands, especially in product categories such as food & groceries, household items, and personal care. The majority reported buying in bulk, comparing prices, and switching brands to save cost.

 

“From our study, respondents between the ages of 35 and 54 with monthly earnings of N250,000 and above said that they have made adjustments to their shopping habits in the past one year,” he noted.

 

“The Nigerian FMCG sector is evolving with trends like digital payments, e-commerce expansion, and sustainability driven packaging. Consumers are seeking healthier product options, while brands invest in direct to-consumer (DTC) models, influencer marketing, and loyalty programs to drive engagement and retain customers in a competitive landscape.

 

To, therefore, stay ahead, he advised that FMCG brands must adopt data-driven marketing, omni-channel distribution, and direct-to-consumer models. Leveraging AI for consumer insights, optimising supply chains, and creating engaging brand experiences through social media and influencer collaborations can help businesses effectively navigate these market shifts.

 

He added that, “Brands that quickly respond to emerging trends, experiment with new product formulations, embrace digital commerce, and invest in technology driven solutions will maintain a competitive edge and sustain long-term customer loyalty”.

 

Despite the growing focus on cost-consciousness driven by economic challenges, he pointed out that quality remains a fundamental consideration for consumers in their purchasing decisions.

 

“While consumers may opt for more affordable alternatives in certain categories, they continue to prioritise products that offer high performance, reliability, and long-term value,” he said adding that:  High-quality products foster trust and customer satisfaction, often leading to stronger brand loyalty. In this context, while price sensitivity is increasing, quality remains the key differentiator in consumer choice, particularly for essential or long-term use products”.

 

“If consumer demands are evolving this rapidly, can Nigerian businesses afford to stay stagnant? Asked Toyin Nnodi, a marketing consultant, while delivering her paper.

 

Speaking on the theme; “Adapting FMCG Business Models to Meet Shifting Consumer Demands,” she averred that Nigerian FMCG companies must find a way to adapt or die.

 

Judging from the evolution of consumer trends, from expansion of ecommerce platforms offering convenience and variety in 2018 through to the Declining inflation, stabilizing economy, and stable FX expected to drive real spending growth in 2025, Nnodi said Brands servicing consumers must constantly evolve to remain relevant to the consumers.

 

She listed collaboration and partnership, omni-channel marketing, agility and production innovation as some of the actionable strategies for successful FMCG operation.

 

On his part, Stanley Obi, Co-Founder/CEO Innova Hive Integrated Ltd, called on brands to position themselves strategically.

 

Speaking on the theme; Strategic Positioning for FMCG Companies amidst evolving economic challenges, he said strategic positioning will give any brand the competitive advantage, adding that, it will ensure that “they don’t just sell products or services but offer an experience that no one else provides in the same way”.

 

In the panel discussion moderated by Gift Uche-Ewule, Assistant Brand Manager, Indomie; Nana Milagrosa, CXO- Chief Experience Officer, MPXM, said consumers are no longer throwing away money in every campaign/experiential activity they attend as they now seek value.

 

She advised that rather than seeking Return on Investment, organizations should also consider Return on Emotion.

 

Celestine Umehi, CEO, Arewa24 charged agencies handling brands to have a deep knowledge of the various brands they are working with to ensure value addition.

 

According to him, a lot of people are by-passing agencies now because many of the agencies are not adding value to the brands.

 

“Many agencies want to market for brands that are doing well so, but, when they run into problems it becomes difficult to proffer solutions especially when they don’t have much knowledge about the brand”.

 

He listed skillset, data analytics, agility & adaptability and trust as some of the factors that will make any brand relevant in the present economy.

 

In his opening remarks, Convener of The Industry Summit, Goddie Ofose said, the event was aimed to celebrate innovation, resilience, and excellence in the FMCG sector, particularly in the face of changing consumer preferences.

 

According to him, the theme, “Understanding Changing Consumer Preferences in Troubled FMCG Space, is a timely reflection of the challenges and opportunities that the industry, and by extension, the Nigerian economy, faces at the moment. As consumer behaviours and expectations continue to evolve, it is crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to these changes” he said.

 

AXA Mansard Investments Renews Commitment At Webinar Series To Empower Women 

AXA Mansard Investments Renews Commitment to Women Empowerment | Tech |  Business | Economy

In celebration of Women’s Month, AXA Mansard Investments Limited, a leading asset management firm has expressed its commitment to continue empower women financially in the country.

 

The company said this at its third edition of its flagship webinar series, ‘Achieve Much More, held virtually.

This special Women’s Day edition, themed “Women’s Wealth: How to Start from Where You Are”, was designed to equip Nigerian women with practical knowledge and tools for achieving financial security regardless of their life stage or income level.

 

The virtual session featured seasoned financial advisor and Chief Executive Officer of MoneyStart, Mrs. Ibi Ibru, as the guest speaker. A respected content creator and influencer in the personal finance space, shared actionable strategies for saving, diversifying income, and getting started with investing—even with minimal capital.

Throughout the session, participants learned how to plan and adjust their finances across different life phases – singlehood, relationships, marriage, and parenting. The session demystified a range of investment vehicles, from traditional savings to beginner-friendly options in the Nigerian financial landscape, helping women identify how to take control of their journeys towards financial freedom.

 

Speaking about the initiative, Mrs. Adebola Surakat, Chief Marketing Officer of AXA Mansard Investments, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering a financially literate population. She stated that “At AXA Mansard Investments, we strongly believe that financial education is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Empowering women with financial knowledge not only transforms individual lives, but strengthens families, communities, and the broader economy. This webinar reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring all Nigerians—regardless of gender, income, or background, have access to the tools they need to make informed financial decisions.”

 

The ‘Achieve Much More’ webinar series is part of AXA Mansard Investments’ broader efforts to provide accessible financial education through interactive sessions, expert-led discussions, and simplified investment tools tailored to everyday Nigerians.

 

‘As 2025 progresses, AXA Mansard Investments remains dedicated to its mission of advancing financial literacy and supporting Nigerians on their journey to financial independence. By placing even greater emphasis on educating the public about smart money habits, we aim to empower more Nigerians to take charge of their financial future.’ Concluded Mrs. Surakat.

 

 

Umo Eno, Rabiu, Ufot, Ogra, Others Win 2024 Industry Awards


The Industry Newspaper, organisers of The Industry Summit/Awards has named the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno as the Industry Governor of the Year for his policies and programmes designed to promote and improve startups and entrepreneurship in the state.

In the year under review, Pastor Eno has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the State, driving development and progress through innovative policies and initiatives.

His commitment to improving the lives of Akwa Ibom citizens is truly commendable.

The 6th edition of the awards which precedes the industry summit 2025 is scheduled to be held in Lagos on Saturday, May 3rd.

In a statement made available to the media, the organisers also listed the Chairman/CEO of BUA Group, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu as the Business Personality of the Year, GMD/CEO, SO&U, Udeme Ufot as Doyen of Advertising, Senior Special Assistant to President of Nigeria, O’tega Ogra as the Spokesperson of the Year, CEO of Simba Group, Chief Vinay Grover as Green Energy champion and Chief Commercial Officer of TGI Group, Probal Bhattacharya as CMO of the year.

Other notable personalities who also the 2024 Industry Awards include Founder & CEO, AAJ Express, Ambassador Adekunle Adeyemo- Logistics Champion, CEO, NigerBev Limited, Dr. Obinna Ike- CEO of the Year, GMD/CEO, Verdant Zeal Advertising, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi- Industry Pathfinder, CEO, Chain Reactions Africa, Israel Opayemi Industry Pathfinder, COO, Leo Burnett Lagos, Mrs. Seyi Layade- Industry Pathfinder, CEO, Integrated Indigo, Bolaji Abimbola- PR Man of the Year, CEO, Abelinis, Abiodun Oshinibosi- Industry Pathfinder and CEO, FPL Media, Lanre Ashaolu as OOH player of the year.

According to the convener of the project, Goddie Ofose, “Pastor Umo Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has significantly impacted entrepreneurship development through his ARISE Agenda, a comprehensive initiative that includes providing financial and material support, training, and partnerships with institutions like the Bank of Industry.

“He has also focused on empowering women and youth through specific programs like the Ibom-LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme. Providing equipment to small businesses, covering a wide range of trades like tailoring, barbing, shoemaking, and more.

Through these programmes, Eno’s government has offered grants and partnerships with financial institutions like the Bank of Industry to provide low-interest loans to SMEs,” he added.
Speaking on the importance of Industry Awards, Ofose said, “Industry Awards is a validation of excellence. The awards recognize and validate outstanding achievements, innovations, and contributions to the integrated marketing communications, banking, energy, pension funds, insurance, governance and other allied industries.
He said, “Winning an award can boost an organization’s reputation and credibility within the industry and this can translate to increased visibility and exposure for organizations, helping to attract new customers, investors, and talent.

“Industry Awards can differentiate winners from competitors and provide a competitive edge and these have been proven in our previous winners.”
Previous winners of this coveted trophies include, Lagos State Governor, H.E. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Emmanuel Udom, Sir Biodun Shobanjo, Sir Steve Omojafor, Mr. Funmi Onabolu, Mr. Steve Babaeko and others.

Aikhoje Presents 2023/24 NPFL Sponsorship And Brand Report To GTI

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, MatchRoom Sports and Media Limited, Ojeikere Aikhoje, has presented the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Sponsorship and Brand report, a research conducted by his firm to Group Managing Director of GTI Group, Mr. Abubakar Lawal.

 

The presentation was at GTI’s Corporate Head Office in Marina, Lagos.

 

Over the years, GTI has played a significant role in the development of the NPFL brand as strategic partner.

 

Aikhoje stated that the research is done annually to enhance brand development of the NPFL.

“MatchRoom believes in football research to enable NPFL brand managers find the right direction for the brand.

 

“Recommendations were also made to GTI to take the NPFL to the next level”, he said.

 

Lawal expressed gratitude to MatchRoom for the initiative.

 

“This is a good development. We will look at areas of collaboration”, he stated.

 

With Aikhoje’s robust experience in the industry, MatchRoom provides expert research, strategic insights & practical solutions to help sports organizations, clubs, federations & brands tackle complex managerial & organizational challenges.