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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
Smartcash Redefines Digital Banking In Nigeria With Zero-Charges In Transfers, Bills, SMS Alerts

By Winifred Bosa
In a bold and unprecedented move, Smartcash Payment Service Bank (Smartcash PSB), a subsidiary of Airtel Nigeria, has announced Zero-Charges, a total removal of transaction fees across all interbank transfers, bill payments, and SMS notifications.
The Zer0-Charges innovation from Smartcash is designed to break down financial barriers and reduce costs for millions of Nigerians. It aims to drive the adoption of digital banking services, creating a more inclusive and affordable financial ecosystem that benefits both existing customers and new users, including those without a bank account.
At the unveiling of the service, Tunde Kuponiyi, CEO of Smartcash PSB, emphasized that the innovation will ease financial pressure on households and small businesses while accelerating broader financial inclusion across Nigeria.
He said, “This is more than just a pricing adjustment; it is a revolution in how Nigerians experience digital banking. By removing fees across transfers, bill payments, and even SMS alerts, we are putting the customers at the center of financial innovation and inclusiveness. This initiative not only reduces costs for families and businesses but also opens the door for millions of unbanked Nigerians to confidently embrace digital finance without the fear of hidden charges.”
Kuponiyi further reiterated how millions of Nigerians depend on mobile and digital platforms for their daily transactions, and with the removal of fees, Smartcash PSB is set to reinforce its position as a truly customer-first organization, one that prioritizes affordability and drives financial inclusion and accessibility, while aligning with Airtel’s broader commitment to transforming lives through innovation and connectivity.
The Smartcash Zero-Charges model is designed to foster a more inclusive financial ecosystem. It is expected to set a benchmark in Nigeria’s financial services industry, with a potential to reshape customer expectations and industry standards.
“At Smartcash, we believe technology and financial services should empower, not limit. The launch of Zero-Charges underscores our commitment to enabling a more inclusive, accessible, and affordable financial ecosystem for Nigerians. This is about more than convenience; it’s about empowerment, giving every customer, from urban centers to rural communities, the opportunity to transact seamlessly without worrying about cost,” Kuponiyi added.
By removing charges, Smartcash is demonstrating its commitment to trust, transparency, and customer-first innovation.
Online Poster by — October 24, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Consumer Voice Takes Center Stage At December 4, 2025 Consumers Experience Summit

By Winifred Bosa
Consumers Assembly, an online news platform committed to consumer rights and enlightenment, has officially announced the return of a key event for consumer advocacy: the Consumers Experience Summit. The second edition is scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, 2025, and will be hosted at the Lagos State Chambers of Commerce (LCCI).
This year’s summit theme is: “Consumer Voice: Building the Feedback Loop — Listen, Learn, Innovate.”
The Consumers Experience Summit is specifically designed to facilitate a critical conversation on how businesses can—and must—integrate consumer feedback directly into their core strategy to foster innovation and develop stronger, more responsive market practices. It aims to serve as the premier platform for businesses, regulators, and consumers to collaborate on significantly improving service delivery and customer satisfaction across all sectors.
According to Godwin Anyebe, the event’s Convener, the upcoming summit will feature a focused, high-level format to maximize actionable insights.
“We are curating a highly focused session where an expert in Consumerism will deliver a keynote paper. This paper will then serve as the central topic for a deep-dive discussion by a distinguished panel of industry experts and discussants, ensuring a comprehensive and actionable exploration of the theme,” Anyebe explained.
Consumers Assembly is an online news platform committed to informing, educating, and advocating for consumer rights and enlightenment across Nigeria and beyond.
Online Poster by — October 21, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Trace In The City 2025 : Malta Guinness Brings Goodness To Campuses

By Winifred Bosa
 Malta Guinness, Nigeria’s premium malt drink renowned for fueling the greatness and positive energy of Nigerians, is bringing unstoppable energy to campuses across the country as a major sponsor of Trace In The City 2025, an electrifying campus tour that blends entertainment, education, and wellness in five Nigerian cities.
From Ibadan to Abuja, Calabar to Uyo, and Lagos, Trace In The City will light up campuses with unforgettable experiences designed to nourish the moment and empower students to live with vitality and purpose.
The tour kicked off at the University of Ibadan on October 14 and will be followed by stops at the University of Abuja on October 21, the University of Calabar on October 24, and the University of Uyo on October 28. The tour wraps up with the grand finale at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, on October 31.
As part of its commitment to energizing Nigerian youth, Malta Guinness will bring its signature burst of positivity to each campus through the Malta Guinness booths where students can relax, play fun games like ludo, ayo, and enjoy ice-cold cans of Malta Guinness.
Students in the schools are in for a surprise as Malta Guinness is set to reward the best dancer on each campus with the Malta Guinness Steppers Challenge!
The brand is on a mission to find the school with the most goodness spirit with the Malta Guinness Goodness Challenge as students get a chance to rack points for their school with every interaction at Malta Guinness’ World of Goodness area.
Each stop will be brought to life with high-energy music, comedy, and campus talent showcases in collaboration with Trace, celebrating creativity and the unbreakable spirit of Nigerian youth.
Speaking on the partnership, Jerry Nwankwo, Brand Manager, Malta Guinness, said, “Malta Guinness has always been about driving the can-do spirit of Nigerians, especially young people. Through Trace In City, we’re connecting with students where they are, in an exciting, high-energy environment that inspires them to live well, learn, and have fun.”
He reiterated Malta Guinness’ commitment to always stand as a beacon of goodness and vitality, encouraging everyone to stay refreshed and energized in body, mind, and spirit.
Trace In The City is a campus tour and music programme by TRACE Naija that partners with unique brands like Malta Guinness to bring music, entertainment, and opportunities to university students in Nigeria.
 The programme features live performances by artists, games, and sometimes talent hunts, with the goal of connecting with young people and supporting emerging music creatives.
Online Poster by — October 17, 2025 in brands and Marketing
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
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
Customer Service Week/ Mission Possible – Unity Bank MD Celebrates Resilient Frontline Staff

By Winifred Bosa
Unity Bank staff bring ‘Mission: Possible’ to life with roleplays on Day-One of CSW 2025
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank Plc, Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, has said that a service culture built on responsiveness and innovation will differentiate the impact that customer service can make in any organisation.
Making the remarks at the flag off of the Customer Service Week 2025 in Unity Bank, Mr. Kolawole stated that “apart from constantly improving the way in which better customer support can be achieved, the increasing sophistication of our customers have made the Bank to also begin to focus more on customer experience innovation with investment being made in technology, systems, and people which enable us redefine our customer journey altogether”. 
A cross section of teams from Human Capital Development celebrate the Customer Service Week, 2025
While extolling the Bank for always rising to any occasion, the Managing Director celebrated the resilient frontline staff for their unwavering dedication and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering exceptional customer service across all touch points, stating that this year’s celebration, themed “Mission: Possible,” underscores the Bank’s unwavering belief that every customer needs can be met through innovation, teamwork, and with service culture.
“The Bank’s customer service teams are well acclaimed for their passion, professionalism, and resilience in fulfilling the institution’s mission to provide exceptional service to its growing customer base”, the Unity Bank MD further stated.
In further acknowledgement, Mr. Kolawole stated: “At Unity Bank, our mission is clear — to make banking simple, accessible, and rewarding for every customer. ‘Mission Possible’ captures the spirit with which we approach every challenge and opportunity to serve; whether through our digital platforms, branch interactions, or customer support channels”.
Additionally, the Bank’s Chief Customer Service Officer, Elfrida Igebu, emphasised the
significance of recognising and celebrating staff who consistently go above and beyond to serve customers.
“This year’s theme reminds us that what may seem challenging is always achievable with the right attitude, teamwork, and customer-first mindset. Our frontline teams embody this every day by demonstrating that at Unity Bank, service excellence is not just a goal, it is our mission,” Igebu said.
Throughout the week, Unity Bank organised activities across its branches and offices
nationwide to reflect the Customer Service Week 2025, from customer appreciation
engagements, Award of recognition for Staff, setting up festive ambience and decor,
flamboyant service and cultural costumes donned by members to digital media activations.
In time past, Unity Bank was among the first financial institutions to introduce a multilingual USSD platform, *7799#, and from then onwards, the Bank continues to upgrade features of its mobile banking platform, Unifi app, for optimisation, reinforcing customer experience innovation and convenience.
Winifred Bosa by — October 11, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Redefining Power Solutions : Luminous Unveils Advanced Lithium , Solar System 

By Winifred Bosa

L-R: Movie Producer & Actor/Simba Group Featured Personality, Ramsey Nouah; Group Managing Director, Simba Group, Vinay Grover; Executive Director, Simba Group, Sohan Sharma; and Executive Director, Simba Group, Pradeep Balakrishnan, during the launch of Luminous Solar, Inverter and Batteries at Radisson Blu Ikeja GRA Lagos recently.

Simba Group, in partnership with Luminous Power Technologies, today hosted a landmark event at the Radisson Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, to unveil the new range of Luminous solar inverters and lithium batteries. The gathering brought together the top 50 of Simba’s channel partners from across the country, underscoring the strong bonds that have defined the journey of Simba and Luminous in Nigeria.

The event was met with resounding success, as channel partners and industry stakeholders welcomed the new products with enthusiasm. Attendees highlighted Luminous’s pioneering role in shaping Nigeria’s inverter industry, alongside Simba Group’s unmatched strength in nationwide distribution and after-sales service infrastructure, as the foundation on which this next chapter is being built.

L-R: Product Manager, Luminous, Kulpreet Singh; Head of Marketing, Simba Group, Maureen Humphrey-Izzi; Group Managing Director, Simba Group, Vinay Grover; Retail Head, Simba Group, Bimpe Adebisi; and Simba Nigeria Business Manager for Luminous, Wasi Mohammed, during the launch of Luminous Solar, Inverter and Batteries at Radisson Blu Ikeja GRA Lagos recently.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Vinay Grover, Group Managing Director of Simba Group in Nigeria, emphasized the changing energy needs of Nigerian households and businesses: “Nigerians need power solutions that are not just reliable, but also intelligent – capable of supporting modern lifestyles, from home offices to family entertainment. Our new lithium and inverter systems are designed precisely for this. They represent a smarter investment in uninterrupted living and peace of mind.”

Simba Group executives also underlined how solar and lithium technologies are reshaping the global energy landscape and opening new opportunities in Nigeria for energy independence, reliability, and cost efficiency.

The newly launched products reflect Luminous’s continued focus on innovation and tailoring solutions for regional requirements, while leveraging Simba’s longstanding reputation for trust, reach, and dependable service. Together, the companies reaffirm their commitment to delivering sustainable, high-quality, and future-ready energy solutions for Nigerian homes and businesses.

Simba Group is a leading Nigerian conglomerate with interests across diverse sectors, including mobility, power, communications, and customer experience. With a commitment to innovation, service, and trust, Simba has built a reputation for bringing world-class products and solutions to the Nigerian market.

Luminous Power Technologies is a global leader in power backup, storage, and solar solutions. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, the company delivers cutting-edge products – from inverters and batteries to solar applications – that meet the evolving energy needs of millions of homes and businesses across emerging and developed markets.

Winifred Bosa by — October 9, 2025 in brands and Marketing
Edge Awards Honour Sucre House As Industry Leader In Influencer Marketing

Sucre House of Entertainment has been named the Outstanding Influencing Marketing Agency of the Year at the prestigious Edge Awards 2025, held on 26 September 2025 at the Balmoral Event Hall, Sheraton Hotels, Ikeja. The annual awards, organised by Marketing Edge Magazine, celebrate excellence and innovation in Nigeria’s marketing and communications industry.

Founded by visionary entrepreneur Olatunji Emmanuel .O., Sucre House has quickly become a trailblazer in the entertainment and influencer marketing space. The agency is widely respected for its creative campaigns, precision-driven execution, and commitment to helping brands and talents achieve global visibility.

Speaking after receiving the award, Olatunji said: “This honour is a reflection of our discipline, creativity, and the trust our clients place in us. At Sucre House, we don’t just deliver campaigns — we elevate experiences and set new standards.”

In just a few years, Sucre House has built an impressive portfolio, managing projects for top brands such as the European Union, Crocs, MAC Cosmetics, Tecno, Infinix, and Bet9ja. It is also known for nurturing leading influencer talents, including social media sensation Enioluwa, popularly called the lip gloss boy.

Marketing Edge CEO, John Ajayi, praised the agency’s rapid rise, describing it as “proof that with vision and excellence, Nigerian agencies can lead the future of influencer marketing.”

With this milestone, Sucre House is cementing its place as a powerhouse shaping the future of influencer marketing in Africa.

Winifred Bosa by — October 9, 2025 in brands and Marketing
NLNG Calls For Africa-Centric Strategies To Safeguard Energy Security

By Winifred Bosa

Olakunle Osobu, NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, delivering a keynote address titled “The Role of African LNG in a Dynamic Export Market” at the Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025 in South Africa.

NLNG has urged Africans to move beyond the role of raw material suppliers and take their place as key players in the global LNG market.

According to a press release by NLNG , speaking during a keynote address titled “The Role of African LNG in a Dynamic Export Market” at the Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025 in South Africa, the Company’s Deputy Managing Director, Olakunle Osobu, stated that Africa was not a bystander in this conversation on energy security, affordability, and sustainability.

He also said  Africa was a rising pillar of global supply, and that Nigeria has a duty to lead.
He stressed that with more than 850 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, about six percent of the total global reserves, Africa has the resources, the position and the ambition to double its share of the global LNG market within the next decade.

Osobu highlighted Nigeria’s role as the continent’s LNG pioneer, pointing to the NLNG Train 7 expansion project, which will grow the company’s capacity from 22 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 30 MTPA, as a demonstration of sustained leadership.
“Our investment in expansion shows that Nigeria is driving LNG growth not only for exports but also for domestic industries and energy access. We must prove that Africa can deliver LNG that is secure, competitive, and sustainable,” he added.

Osobu noted that emerging LNG frontiers across the continent collectively represent more than 45 MTPA of potential new supply. With these additions, Africa’s LNG output could rise from about 70 MTPA today to 120 MTPA by 2035, further consolidating the continent’s standing as a global LNG hub, he added.

While noting Africa’s strategic advantage, shorter shipping routes to both Europe and Asia, Osobu warned that competitiveness, financing, and domestic responsibility remain Africa’s biggest hurdles.

He pointed out that the U.S. and Qatar are rapidly expanding LNG capacities, while financiers increasingly demand low-carbon and decarbonised LNG projects.

He stressed that Africa’s LNG journey must strike a balance by supplying the world reliably, catalyse African industrialisation, and demonstrate sustainability in line with global decarbonisation goals.

Organised by the African Energy Chamber, Africa Energy Week 2025 brought together policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to shape Africa’s energy future.

Winifred Bosa by — October 6, 2025 in brands and Marketing