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Airtel Reveals Mechanism Of Spam Alert Service 

 As the revolutionary Airtel Spam AI Alert Service rolls out across Airtel Africa’s 14 operating countries, Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, has elaborated on the unprecedented benefits and operating principles guiding the Spam Alert Service. Designed to enhance user safety, this pioneering AI-driven product provides real-time defense against spam and fraudulent SMS messages, making it a gamechanger for mobile security across the continent.
The Airtel AI Spam Alert Service, which is engineered to automatically detect and label suspicious SMS messages as “Suspected SPAM” without requiring any user action or additional apps, leverages a robust AI algorithm that analyzes over 250 parameters.
 These parameters includee sender behavior, message frequency, message geographical distribution, and unusual activity patterns. Impressively, the service completes this process under just two milliseconds, offering near-instantaneous alerts while maintaining the privacy of user data by not reading message content.
Commenting on the breakthrough service, Dinesh Balsingh, CEO of Airtel Nigeria, stated: “Nigeria is not just a critical market for us—it’s a leader in digital adoption within the continent.
Our AI Spam Alert Service reflects our dedication to safeguarding our customers from the growing threat of SMS fraud. As the first of its kind in Africa, it addresses a fundamental issue of trust and security, which is paramount to our digital ecosystem. We’re proud to offer this service to Nigerians and extend it across our African footprint.”
Following its successful deployment in Nigeria, the Spam Alert Service has now launched in Tanzania and Kenya and is set to cover Airtel’s entire African operations. The service’s automatic activation for all Airtel customers, across both smartphones and feature phones, ensures maximum reach and accessibility.
Early feedback from subscribers has been overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the AI’s efficiency in flagging potentially harmful messages without interfering with their everyday communication.
By pioneering this AI-based spam detection technology, Airtel Africa demonstrates its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge innovation to resolve critical issues facing its subscribers. The AI Spam Alert Service not only protects users but also sets a new benchmark for mobile security standards in the region.
“Our goal is to build a safer digital environment for our users,” added Balsingh. “This innovation is part of our broader strategy to incorporate advanced technologies that address real challenges while enhancing the overall customer experience.”
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 Invests N3.5bn In Social Investment Initiatives

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.

 

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.”

 

 

Airtel Helps Rescued Women Reconnect With Family

Leading telecommunications service provider, Airtel Nigeria, has stepped in to support 31 Nigerian women recently rescued from Ghana, helping them reconnect with their loved ones and begin the journey to rebuilding their lives.
The women, who returned to Nigeria through the intervention of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), were officially received on Friday, 25th of April at the NiDCOM office in Agidingbi, Lagos.
As part of efforts to support the returnees in reconnecting with their families, Airtel Nigeria donated SIM cards, each preloaded with airtime and data.
 This initiative is to enable the beneficiaries to re-establish contact with their families and loved ones while accessing vital information and support services.
Speaking on the intervention, Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran, reaffirmed Airtel`s commitment to giving back to the community.
“We are humbled to contribute to this safe reintegration effort by providing SIMs, airtime, and data to help them reconnect with their loved ones and rebuild. We commend NiDCOM for its commitment to the welfare of Nigerians everywhere, and we are proud to play a small part in this noble effort.” He said.
Receiving the returnees, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), commended Airtel Nigeria and other key stakeholders for supporting the rescued victims.
“You are being received on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. The President cares about you and every Nigerian, regardless of where you reside. Hold your heads high. For those who want to return to school or learn a trade, support will be provided through your state governments,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
She further thanked Airtel Nigeria for providing starter packs to the returnees, emphasizing that collaborative efforts like these are crucial in giving rescued victims a fresh start and a chance to rebuild their lives.
The returnees, many of whom faced traumatic experiences while in Ghana, were welcomed with preliminary orientation and offered crucial assistance to begin their reintegration into Nigerian society.
Recall that NIDCOM had earlier in the month stated that the number of girls rescued from Ghana was about 200
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.

 

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.