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Dangote Petroleum Refinery Reorganisation: Commitment To Safety, Integrity , Workers’ Rights

Dangote Refinery Reorganisation: Commitment to Safety, Integrity

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery have clarify on the recent reports concerning the ongoing reorganisation within its facility.

In a press statement from the company said that this exercise is not arbitrary. “It has become necessary to safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency”.

“The foregoing decision was taken in the best interest of the Refinery as result of intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the Refinery with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns”.

“We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset. It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it”.

“Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively in our Petroleum Refinery, at present. Only a very small number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process”.

“We recognise and uphold internationally accepted labour principles, including the right of every worker to freely decide whether or not to join a union. Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering”.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery exists to serve Nigerians, to strengthen Africa’s energy independence, and to create decent, sustainable jobs. We will continue to work in partnership with our employees, regulators, and stakeholders to uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency, and accountability, it stated.

by Online Poster — September 27, 2025 in Energy

Tax Stamp Plan Will Hurt Consumers, Says MAN

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has cautioned the Federal Government against the proposed introduction of a Tax Stamp System for excisable products, warning that the policy would increase production costs, harm consumers, and contravene the Nigeria Tax Act 2025.

In a statement by the Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said the association appreciated the government’s drive to modernise tax administration, but the proposed measure “risks clawing back the reliefs granted under the 2025 Tax Act.”

Ajayi-Kadir said, “The introduction of a tax stamp system amounts to giving with one hand and taking back with the other. It would impose a hidden tax on industries under the guise of compliance, with small and medium-sized industries bearing disproportionate burdens.”

He stated that the measure would increase compliance costs that producers and importers would ultimately pass on to consumers, thereby worsening inflationary pressures.

Ajayi-Kadir observed that introducing a Tax Stamp System for excisable products could push households toward cheaper illicit products and erode the competitiveness of Nigerian manufacturers under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

DG noted that international experience had shown that tax stamps deliver limited revenue gains while creating heavy compliance and operational bottlenecks. He pointed to studies in Ghana and Uganda which found that stamp systems imposed significant cost burdens without curbing illicit trade.

Ajayi-Kadir stressed, “Paper-based tax stamps are prone to falsification, making it difficult for consumers and retailers to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit goods. Digital stamps, on the other hand, cut productivity by up to 40 per cent and have not reduced illicit trade.

He also argued that Nigeria already had home-grown digital tools such as the Customs’ B’Odogwu Automated Excise Register System and the Federal Inland Revenue Service’s e-invoicing platform, which provide real-time visibility of excise operations. “These tools already give the government the visibility that tax stamps claim to provide, without adding redundant layers,” he said.

MAN warned that introducing tax stamps would undermine the government’s efforts to promote local manufacturing and job creation. The association listed risks including increased circulation of counterfeit goods, reduced consumer demand, potential job losses, and deterrence of new investment in the sector.

Ajayi-Kadir added, “At a time when operators are grappling with rising excise rates, high energy prices, inadequate power supply, and high inflation, the additional burden of implementing tax stamps is a serious threat to industrial sustainability.”

He urged the government to reject any persuasion to roll out the system “in whatever guise or form” until a comprehensive stakeholder engagement and impact assessment were conducted.

Instead, MAN called on the government to strengthen existing digital fiscal tools and border enforcement, while adopting smarter, cost-effective alternatives such as targeted audits and risk-based compliance checks.

Ajayi-Kadir concluded, “Tax stamps often hinder local industry, erode gains in tax simplification, and yield limited revenue impact. The government should strengthen existing systems rather than impose undue burdens on manufacturers and consumers

by Online Poster — September 27, 2025 in Industry

MAN Visits Customs to Partner And Strengthen Engagement For Economic Growth

By Fidelia Okafor

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has emphasised the need for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) to build a lasting friendship and partnership through a deeper understanding of their respective challenges.

The CGC, who made this known on Thursday, 18 September 2025, when the Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, paid him a courtesy visit at the Customs House in Maitama, Abuja. He also expressed the need to set a new agenda that extends beyond immediate concerns.

CGC Adeniyi explained that enduring collaboration could only be achieved when both parties approach issues with clarity and commitment, stressing that broader stakeholder buy-in remains central to sustainable solutions.

He acknowledged MAN’s structured internal processes, where issues are debated across its ten sectors and more than sixty sub-sectors before policy positions are harmonised by its Economic Policy Committee.

“I have always said that the only way for you to appreciate what can bring lasting friendship, collaboration and partnership is when we understand from both sides what the issues are. When you are challenged, you become quite sensitive to everything that will get you out of the situation you find yourself in.” CGC Adeniyi explained.

He highlighted several initiatives that the Service has rolled out to improve trade facilitation, including the Authorised Economic Operator programme, Advanced Ruling, Corporate Social Responsibility framework, the indigenous B’Odogwu platform, and the creation of dedicated special desks.

The Customs Boss also disclosed that preparations were underway for a conference later in November to bring Customs and critical stakeholders to chart a way forward towards the effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to him, “We are looking forward to a situation where we will set an agenda that goes beyond the issues on the ground. There are a number of initiatives already on course, and we would like MAN to be part of them.”

He added, “After your consultations, you can get back to us so that we can fix a date and venue for a wider meeting. If it would make it easier, we are ready to travel to Lagos to meet with manufacturers at their base. We need to keep this conversation going without delay.”

He noted that such a forum would provide an opportunity for robust discussion with all stakeholders across MAN’s diverse sectors.

On his part, the Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, said there should be no gap or roadblock between the two institutions, describing Customs as an indispensable partner in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges.

“I am happy that once again we are reigniting what we used to have. Many developments in the economy require us to accelerate this engagement, expand it and make it work.” Ajayi-Kadiri said.

He commended the CGC for his openness to ideas and stressed that MAN’s structured approach to policy ensures that every decision reflects the realities manufacturers face across the country.

He added that the association’s concern was to strengthen engagement, not confrontation, especially on issues that affect industries under pressure.

by Online Poster — September 23, 2025 in Industry

Leading Industry Thought Leaders Chart Growth Path For Insurance Industry At IMT 4.0

The Insurance Meets Tech (IMT) 4.0 Conference, one of West Africa’s largest insurance and technology convergence platforms, held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, in Lagos, themed “Innovating for the New Trybe” and highlighted the role of technology in transforming the Nigerian insurance sector.

Discussions at the conference also centred, among other things, on how to bridge traditional insurance structures with emerging, technology-driven solutions, emphasising digital adoption, innovation, and client-centred experiences.
Leading an Executive Dialogue to discuss the Nigeria Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, recently signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was the Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of NAICOM, Mr Olusegun Omosehin, who was represented at the event by the Deputy Commissioner for Insurance (Finance & Administration), Mr Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon.

Omosehin stated that the NIIRA 2025, signed into law in July 2025, will foster economic growth by transforming the sector through increased capital, stronger policyholder protection via a Policyholder Protection Fund, digitalisation, microinsurance promotion, and alignment with global best practices.

“The Act is a warm piece of legislation that provides the blueprint to reset the industry”, he said. “This Act bridges the gap between what family and friends traditionally provide and what insurance should guarantee. Nigerians can now be confident that when something goes wrong, insurance will deliver,” he explained.

Omosehin highlighted that NIIRA’s recapitalisation will increase insurers’ capacity to handle risks and retain local businesses, contributing to the nation’s vision of a one trillion dollar economy.

The Chairman, Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Mr. Kunle Ahmed, who is also the MD/CEO of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, said, “NIIRA 2025 represents a bold step toward strengthening the regulatory framework, enhancing public trust, improving market penetration, and modernising operations within the industry. It reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening financial inclusion and ensuring that insurance becomes a robust pillar in Nigeria’s economic framework, in line with the President’s vision for achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

“This is not just a legislative victory; it is a shared mission. NIA stands ready to champion a more resilient and customer-centric insurance sector that contributes meaningfully to national development.”
In her contribution to the discourse on NIIRA 2025, the President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), Mrs Yetunde Ilori, said, “The insurance industry is set for unprecedented transformation following the signing of the Act.

“It introduced critical measures such as stringent capital requirements to ensure the financial soundness of operators, enforcement of compulsory insurance policies to enhance consumer protection, digitisation of the insurance market to improve access and efficiency, zero tolerance for delays in claims settlement, creation of dedicated policyholder protection funds, especially in cases of insolvency, and expanded participation in regional insurance schemes, including the ECOWAS Brown Card System.

The President of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, Prince Babatunde Oguntade, who was represented at the conference by Mr. Peter Offiong, Assistant General Manager at Scib Nigeria & Co. Ltd, while stressing the need for immediate implementation of the Act, highlighted NIIRA’s provisions on compulsory insurance, emphasising that digital platforms and collaboration with state agencies will support enforcement.

He emphasised that brokers remain central to the ecosystem. “Brokers will evolve into digitally empowered advisers who offer customised, transparent services. The Act safeguards their relevance while ensuring consumer adoption of compulsory insurance,” he said.

Tunde Mimiko, Managing Director, SanlamAllianz Life Insurance, whose organisation was IMT 4.0’s Official Insurer, stressed the need for the industry to build systems that move beyond legacy bottlenecks, strengthen compliance, and foster greater trust with policyholders. He emphasised that such developments are crucial for safeguarding customers and positioning insurance as a key driver of financial security and sustainable growth in Nigeria.

The Managing Director, Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Stephen Alangbo, emphasised the company’s role as an Innovation Partner, focusing on digital transformation, customer-centric solutions, and the use of Insurtech to shape the future of inclusive coverage in Africa.

He highlighted Cornerstone’s commitment to leveraging technology and developing innovative products to meet dynamic market needs, as outlined in their strategy for leading the African insurance industry.

The event also featured global thought leadership and the conference’s Headline Speaker, Per Lagerström, a former McKinsey partner and the CEO of Yellowspot. He challenged Nigerian insurers to rethink their models, emphasising the human element in innovation. “Insurance is not built on products alone; it is built on behaviour. If we do not understand how people earn, live, and dream, we cannot design solutions they will embrace. Technology gives us the tools, but human insight gives us the answers.”
In his opening remarks, the convener of the IMT Conference and the Managing Director/CEO of Modion Communications, Mr. Odion Aleobua, called on insurance innovators to build distribution that meets people where they are: online, on mobile, at work, and in communities, while conforming to evolving lifestyles. He called on regulators to adopt regulations that protect consumers without stifling industry innovation.

He also noted that the high calibre of sponsors, participants, and partners, including the Commissioner for Insurance, regulators, and industry leaders, reflected a collective commitment to shaping a future of innovation and digital adoption within the Nigerian insurance industry.

Others who spoke at the conference included Mrs Abimbola Anakomaiya, President, Professional Insurance Ladies Association (PILA); Mr Bode Pedro, MD/CEO, Casava Inc; Mr. Olalekan Oyinlade, MD/CEO, emPLE General Insurance; Mr. Deji Macaulay, CEO and Co-founder, CubeCover; Mr. Nelson Ekerele, MD/CEO, Enterprise Life Assurance Limited; Ms Adetola Adegbayi, Founder, Mutual Specialists; Uche Ayodele, Founder and CEO, FastClaim Solutions Limited; Nkiruka Okere, General Manager of aYo, Nigeria; Ayo-Bankole Akintujoye, CEO of Caladium Consulting and Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, Founder and CEO of Nairamatrics among other who participated in the Redefined 2.0, the youth segment.

by Online Poster — September 20, 2025 in Industry

MAN Mourns Former President Muhammadu Buhari, Calls it a Great Loss to the Nation

World leaders mourn former President Muhammadu Buhari | Premium Times Nigeria

By Fidelia Okafor

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) joins the nation in mourning the passing of former President Buhari GCFR.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR served the nation, first as a military leader, and more recently as a civilian President from 2015 to 2023, during which he implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth, improving infrastructure, and enhancing Nigeria’s industrial development.

His tenure brought attention to the importance of manufacturing as a driver of economic development and job creation. Though the economy experienced difficulties during his tenure, President Buhari granted the Association audience to proffer solutions to mitigate the binding constraints that limited the performance of the manufacturing sector. He also provided solutions to some of the challenges confronting manufacturers.

According to Otunba Francis Meshioye OFR, President of the Association, “we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, associates, and all Nigerians during this solemn time”.

As the nation reflects over the life and career of President Muhammadu Buhari, MAN calls upon all Nigerians to honour his memory. We should also reflect on his achievements and continue to work toward the advancements of manufacturing. Government should reflect over his policies and recommit to the creation of a conducive atmosphere for sustainable economic development and the upliftment of the overall wellbeing of the citizenry.

by Online Poster — July 16, 2025 in Industry 0

FirstBank, NLNG, Shell Back QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit

By Winifred Bosa

Nigeria’s leading commercial bank, First Bank of Nigeria, has joined forces with Mighty Media Plus Network Limited for the maiden edition of the QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit.

Also supporting the event are Nigeria LNG (NLNG) and Shell Nigeria, two major players in the country’s energy and development sectors.

Chief Executive Officer of Mighty Media Plus Network Limited, Olumide Iyanda, announced the partnerships in a statement on Monday.

Mr Iyanda described FirstBank’s involvement as a strong statement of the bank’s belief in the power of Nigeria’s creative sector.

“FirstBank’s support is a reaffirmation of its long-standing commitment to promoting the creative economy,” he said. “Through First@arts, the bank has become a reliable partner to talents, institutions, and organisations working to grow Nigeria’s cultural assets.”

First@arts is FirstBank’s platform for supporting the arts. It provides financing, advisory services, and exposure for creatives across the value chain. The bank has backed major cultural events and partnered with institutions such as British Council, Duke of Shomolu Productions, Live Theatre Lagos, Freedom Park and Terra Kulture.

Among the projects FirstBank has supported are The Headies Awards, Lagos International Theatre Festival, The Oxymoron of Kenny Blaq, Kurunmi, Eni Ogun, and Oke Langbodo.

Iyanda also praised NLNG for its role in promoting excellence in literature and science through The Nigeria Prize for Literature, The Nigeria Prize for Science, and The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism.

“NLNG has shown leadership by rewarding creativity and innovation in ways that impact both the literary and scientific communities,” he said.

The prizes, worth up to USD100,000, are among the most prestigious on the continent. They celebrate Nigerian authors, critics, and scientists whose work makes a real difference.

Shell’s support for the summit reflects its ongoing commitment to education and social development. The company focuses on sustainable, community-driven educational projects, ranging from scholarships to infrastructure development and ICT donations.

“Shell’s belief in education as a foundation for long-term progress aligns with our vision for the summit,” Iyanda added.

He further noted that more sponsors will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

The QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit, themed “Financing as Catalyst for a Thriving Creative Economy,” will take place on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The venue is the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel, Isaac John Street, Ikeja GRA, Lagos.

The summit will bring together creatives, investors, policymakers, and business leaders to explore solutions to the funding challenges facing Nigeria’s creative industries.

by Online Poster — July 15, 2025 in Industry 0

Airtel AI Spam Alert Tackles An Urgent Telecom Problem

In Nigeria today, unwanted messages have evolved from a mere annoyance into a serious security risk. From deceptive investment opportunities to phony bank notifications, spam communications have transformed into complex frauds that target unsuspecting victims.

For numerous Nigerians, starting the day with several spam messages has turned into a regular occurrence. Telemarketing offers, questionable lottery prizes, and phishing schemes inundate mobile inboxes, frequently inundating users with unsolicited messages. Although some communications are simply annoying, others are designed to mislead and take advantage.

In recent years, there has been a rise in fraudulent SMS messages, where scammers mimic banks, government bodies, and reputable companies to obtain sensitive information from people. A report by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) indicates that financial fraud via mobile channels has resulted in substantial monetary losses, causing unsuspecting victims to lose millions of naira.

Consider the scenario of Adebola, a civil servant in Lagos, who got an SMS purporting to be from her bank, urging her to click a link and refresh her account information. Just moments after complying, she noticed that her account had been breached, resulting in thousands of naira being withdrawn before she could respond. Tales such as Adebola’s emphasize the necessity for a strong approach to tackle SMS fraud and unwanted spam messages.

Airtel’s Spam Alert Service: A Historic Innovation

Acknowledging the critical necessity to tackle this problem, Airtel Nigeria, in March 2025, launched its Spam Alert Service, a creative system intended to screen spam messages before they reach users. The service utilizes Artificial Intelligence built by Airtel to examine incoming SMS, detect suspicious patterns, and alert users accordingly.

Airtel’s Spam Alert Service Works in Three Key Ways

Quick Identification: The system automatically identifies suspected spam messages.

User Alerts: When a suspected fraudulent message is detected, users receive an alert notifying them of the potential spam.

User Reporting Feature: Customers can report spam messages by forwarding them to a dedicated short code, helping Airtel enhance its spam alert mechanisms.

With the launch of the Spam Alert Service, Airtel is not only protecting its customers but also strengthening trust in mobile communication. By helping to curb SMS fraud, Airtel ensures that users can engage with their mobile devices with a much-reduced risk of falling victim to SMS scams.

According to Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Dinesh Balsingh, the AI Spam Alert Service demonstrates the priority the company places on user security. “We understand that spam messages are more than just an annoyance, they pose real threats to individuals and businesses. So, our Spam Alert Service is part of a broader effort to ensure a safer and more secure digital experience for our customers,” Mr Balsingh said.

An Urgent Call to Action

As Airtel takes the lead in the fight against spam and SMS fraud, mobile users must remain vigilant. Customers are encouraged to report suspicious messages and avoid clicking on links from unknown sources.

Additionally, businesses must adopt best practices in digital communication to ensure their messaging systems are not exploited by fraudsters.

With initiatives like the Spam Alert Service, Airtel is setting a new standard for mobile security in Nigeria. In a world where digital threats continue to evolve, proactive measures like this ensure that users can communicate safely, free from the fear of falling victim to SMS scams.

The battle against spam and fraud is far from over, but with Airtel’s Spam Alert Service, Nigerian mobile users now have a powerful ally in safeguarding their communication channels.

Faedat Temideni

by Online Poster — July 14, 2025 in Industry 0

Nestlé Nigeria Collaborates With The Government To Drive Nationwide Water Quality Campaign

Amaka Obiefuna

As part of ongoing efforts to ensure safer water for all Nigerians, Nestlé Nigeria is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to launch a National Water Quality Advocacy Campaign aimed at raising awareness, educating communities, and mobilizing multi-stakeholder action around water safety and sustainable water practices.

The collaboration, announced in Abuja during a courtesy visit by Nestlé and members of the Organized Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), reinforces the government’s commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through improved access to clean water and sanitation.

At the meeting, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, welcomed the partnership, noting its importance in tackling persistent public health threats such as cholera and diarrhea while also addressing challenges related to flooding and climate resilience.

He assured the Ministry’s full support for Nestlé’s campaign and pledged timely collaboration to deliver impactful results. “The Ministry is committed to working with Nestlé Nigeria to improve water quality across the country. This partnership is in line with our mission to ensure safe water access and support the health and wellbeing of all Nigerians.”

Speaking on the company’s role, Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, said:

“Water is essential to life, yet millions of Nigerians remain at risk due to unsafe water sources. Our campaign is not just about raising awareness, it’s about shifting behaviors and building partnerships that deliver lasting impact. We’re working across communities, industries, and institutions to help close the knowledge gap, improve water safety, and support national health outcomes.”

She emphasized that the campaign rests on three pillars: building awareness and knowledge, engaging stakeholders at all levels, and driving long-term, sustainable action.

Providing additional perspective, Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, shared details of the initiative’s community reach:

“We are taking a long-term, impact-led approach. In Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, 16 communities will benefit from water quality interventions, while 8 communities in Agbara, Ogun State, are also included. In addition, two agricultural communities will receive water harvesting systems to support irrigation and food production.”

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Ministry and OPS-WASH, reaffirming cross-sector commitment to accelerating access to clean, safe water for all Nigerians.

by Online Poster — July 10, 2025 in Industry 0

MAN Applaud Ogun State Government’s Sustainable Approach On Plastic Waste Management

By Fidelia Okafor

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the advocacy voice of manufacturers in Nigeria has applauded the Ogun State Government on its proactive and sustainable approach to managing plastic waste, especially single use plastics in the state.

This was contained in a press statement issued by the Association and signed by its Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni on Thursday 3rd July, 2025. Ajayi-Kadir is appreciative of the government’s initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste, promoting recycling, and ensuring a cleaner environment. He particularly noted the resolve of the Ministry to partner with manufacturers and other operators in the plastic value chain to advance its waste to wealth initiative.

These efforts align with MAN’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices. The Ogun State Government’s approach was presented by the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya recently in Abeokuta during this year’s commemoration of World Environment Day, themed: Beating Plastics.

In his remarks, the Ogun State Commissioner for Environment highlighted “plastics for cash” and “blue box” initiatives as subsets of their sustainable approach to manage waste and convert same to wealth in the state. While the Plastics for Cash program enables residents to exchange sorted plastic waste for monetary value or goods, creating income opportunities for youth, women, and informal waste collectors; the Blue Box initiative promotes structured house-to-house waste separation and collection, driven by the Ogun State Waste Management Authority.

To strengthen these initiatives, Ogun State has constituted a Plastic Management Committee made up of regulatory agencies, manufacturers, and academic institutions.

This Committee is responsible for promoting the implementation of EPR guidelines as defined by the National framework to support plastic buy-back programmes and job creation along the recycling value chain. This is coming against the backdrop of recent developments in Lagos State with the disingenuous ban of production and use of single use plastics. Rather than sudden and outright ban, progressive strategies that balance environmental sustainability with economic stability should be adopted.

In Egypt, collaborative efforts between the government and social enterprises like Banlastic focus on education, community clean-ups, and recycling plastic waste.

Ghana has embraced plastic-to-construction innovation, with companies like Nelplast transforming waste into affordable building materials. Similarly, the United States is pursuing a national recycling plan and innovation challenge to improve plastic recovery, design, and energy efficiency.

These models focus on circularity and not prohibition. As an advocacy organisation, MAN has cautioned against the ban and called for a more sustainable and beneficial approach to manage waste, similar to the one Ogun State has adopted. To this end, we urge all stakeholders in the management of waste and the protection of the environment to leverage the commendable initiative of the Ministry of Environment in Ogun State. Ajayi-Kadir reiterates that Lagos State should redirect its focus towards building an inclusive, data-backed, and economically viable waste management system rather than imposing a blanket ban that risks widespread job losses, especially among SMEs, informal waste workers, and women-led businesses. Just as the State already has several commendable frameworks and pilot programmes such as the smart bins initiative, and the Blue box, it should revive and fully implement them and contribute meaningfully to addressing plastic waste.

Sustainable solutions must be rooted in stakeholder engagement, scalable alternatives, and enabling infrastructure. The approach should not punish productivity but guide it towards circularity.

MAN remains committed to supporting collaborative, inclusive environmental policies that protect both people and the planet Ajayi-Kadir states that the Association believes that effective waste management is crucial for public health, environmental protection, and economic development.

The Association looks forward to continued collaboration with the Ogun State Government to promote sustainable practices and address environmental challenges. We are convinced that the plastic pollution crisis is primarily a result of poor waste management infrastructure and enforcement and not the material itself.

We should aspire to achieve progressive waste management that leads to wealth and job creation, and not adopt simplistic waste management measures that drag industrialization and lead to needless impoverishment.

by Online Poster — July 7, 2025 in Industry 0

Unity Bank Empowers Young Entrepreneurs With ₦16M Business Grant

No fewer than 30 young entrepreneurs have been awarded a ₦16 million business grant by Unity Bank Plc during the latest edition of its flagship entrepreneurship development initiative, the Corpreneurship Challenge.

The winners, budding entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions across various business value chains including fashion design, bag making, pastry making, event management, beauty, vegetable farming, and more, emerged tops after participating in a business pitch competition held recently for Batch A Stream 2 across 10 NYSC Orientation Camps in Cross River, Niger, Abuja, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Plateau, Jigawa, Anambra, and Lagos States.

At the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ipaja, Lagos State, corps member Adeniyi Stephen Gbemininyi, who pitched a fashion design business, emerged as the overall winner, clinching the ₦800,000 grand prize. Kolawole Opeoluwa Darasimi, a budding bag maker, won a ₦500,000 grant, while Johnson Elizabeth Ene received a ₦300,000 grant to support her cake and pastry business.

Across the remaining nine states, 27 other winners also emerged after pitching business plans in diverse sectors such as fish production, poultry farming, fashion, soap and cake making, printing, piggery, beverage production, and more.

Over the past six years, the Unity Bank Corpreneurship Challenge has become an integral part of the NYSC programme, aligning with the Federal Government’s commitment to upskilling fresh graduates amid the growing dearth of white-collar jobs. The programme attracts thousands of applications from serving NYSC corps members, whose business plans are evaluated for originality, marketability, employability potential, and overall business acumen.

Speaking during the grand finale in Lagos, Unity Bank’s Divisional Head, Retail & SME, Mrs. Adenike Abimbola, said: “At Unity Bank, we believe that empowering young people to shape Nigeria’s economic future must be supported to provide longer-term sustainability. Through the Corpreneurship Challenge, we are not just providing funding, but nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs equipped with the skills, resources, and confidence to create jobs and transform communities. The success stories we see year after year reaffirm our commitment to youth empowerment and SME development.”

She added: “The overwhelming interest and high quality of business ideas we receive in every edition demonstrate the incredible potential among Nigeria’s youth. We are proud to partner with the NYSC SAED to make these dreams a reality.”

The Corpreneurship Challenge has earned Unity Bank national recognition for its contribution to youth empowerment and job creation, attracting over 2,000 applicants per edition.

In partnership with the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, the initiative features a business pitch competition that allows participants to present their business plans and win grants of up to ₦800,000.

So far, Unity Bank has invested over ₦100 million in the initiative, producing over 160 winners since its launch in 2019.

by Online Poster — July 3, 2025 in Industry 0