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INDIMI, KOLAWOLE NOW DIRECTORS ON THE BOARD OF JAIZ BANK

Jaiz Bank Plc. Nigeria’s pioneer Non-Interest Bank has announced the appointments of Ahmed Mohammed Indimi as a Non-Executive Director, and Nike Kolawole as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board.

In a statement issued by the Bank yesterday in Abuja, the Bank said the appointments were made to enhancing its leadership with professionals; experienced individuals with track record of ethical and strategic engagement.

Ahmed Indimi, a respected entrepreneur and business executive in Nigeria’s energy sector, currently serves as the Director and Head of Crude Marketing at Oriental Energy Resources, where he leads commercial operations; oversees crude sales strategy; negotiates pricing frameworks; and fosters client relationships. His leadership in the sector reflects a strong blend of technical understanding, commercial insight, and stakeholder engagement.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology (Internet Security) and an MBA from the American InterContinental University, Atlanta, after completing his foundational studies at Global International College, Lagos.

Ahmed brings on the Board of Jaiz Bank a unique perspective shaped by hands-on experience in one of Nigeria’s most strategic sectors. His appointment supports the Bank’s ambition to deepen industry expertise on the Board and broaden its vision of ethical banking in alignment with national development objectives.

Meanwhile, the Bank has also announced the appointment of Nike Kolawole, as Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board. Kolawole’s appointment, duly approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to strengthening its governance, enhancing expertise in ethical finance, and accelerating its growth trajectory. Her experience includes successful tenures at leading international institutions such as Merrill Lynch, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and Credit Suisse, where she served as Vice President, overseeing asset management, credit risk, and Eurobond issuances across global markets.

In 2007, she joined the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), where she rose through key finance roles to become Group General Manager, LNG Investment Management Services. Over her tenure, she led critical project financing efforts and helped reposition Nigeria in the global LNG market, including landmark transactions such as the award-winning 2012 RDP Funding deal.

Kolawole holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Suffolk University, Boston, and an MBA from Durham University Business School, UK. She is also a registered member of the UK’s Securities and Futures Authority (now FCA). Her appointment brings to Jaiz Bank a rare combination of investment banking acumen, deep sectoral knowledge in project and infrastructure finance, and a proven track record of capital mobilization and stakeholder engagement at the highest levels of industry.

Speaking on the appointments, the Chairman of the Board, Mohammed Mustapha Bintube, stated that, “We are delighted to welcome Ahmed Indimi to the Board of Jaiz Bank. His commercial acumen, sectoral knowledge, and long-term view on investment and governance will be a great asset as we continue our mission to lead in non-interest banking and value-based financial services in Nigeria.”

The Chairman further said: “We are honoured to welcome Nike Kolawole to the Board of Jaiz Bank. Her exceptional expertise, integrity, and strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to drive our mission of providing ethical, inclusive, and value-based banking in Nigeria and beyond.” The appointments of the duo of Indimi and Kolawole is in line with regulatory guidelines and reflects the Bank’s vision to continually attract top-tier talent committed to advancing financial innovation and corporate excellence.

by Online Poster — July 7, 2025 in News 0

OPSN Commend Tinubu’s Decision on some provisions of FRC Act

By Fidelia Okafor

The Organized Private Sector of Nigeria ( OPSN), comprising NACCIMA, MAN, NECA, NASSI and NASME has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the recent decision to halt the implementation of certain provisions of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC ) Act which imposed financial caps and additional compliance dues on private companies.

This action comes as a timely relief to the organized private sector members including the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), many of whom had expressed deep concerns about the financial and administrative burden posed by the mandatory levies and reporting obligations under the current FRC framework.

The OPSN and its stakeholders have been in active dialogue with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and other critical agencies, advocating for business-friendly policies that foster enterprise growth, protect jobs, and enhance national productivity.

We therefore commend the efforts of the Government for this timely decision, which is a proactive and responsive measure that supports the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the ease of doing business and sustaining investor confidence.

The suspension provides a critical window for stakeholders to revisit the framework and ensure that future implementations of financial reporting obligations are transparent, equitable, and sensitive to the realities and legitimate concerns of Nigerian businesses.

The OPSN urges continued engagement between regulatory institutions and the private sector to co-create regulatory policies that drive economic growth without stifling entrepreneurship. We remain committed to constructive dialogue and collaboration that will advance Nigeria’s economic transformation agenda.

by Online Poster — July 7, 2025 in News 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

FG Commissions Rebuilt Kano Digital Industrial Park With Support From IHS Nigeria

By Winifred Bosa

L–R: Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, at the commissioning of the restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, refurbished in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

L–R: Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo; Executive Vice Chairman, Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida; Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Services Officer of IHS Nigeria, Dapo Otunla at the commissioning of the restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, refurbished in collaboration with IHS Nigeria, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

The Federal Government has commissioned the fully refurbished and restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive digital growth, youth empowerment, and strong private sector collaboration. The facility, which suffered significant damage during the August 2024 protests, has now been fully restored through a generous intervention by IHS Nigeria.

The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, was led by the President of Nigeria, ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Kano State (representing the Governor) Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; the Emir of Kano, represented by His Highness, Jarman Kano, Amb. Ahmed Umar OON; the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission Dr Aminu Maida; the Minister of State for Youth Development; representatives from IHS Nigeria; and other senior government officials.

Delivering his opening remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the strategic importance of the park and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enabling Nigeria’s digital future.

“The recommissioning of the NCC Digital Industrial Park in Kano is a landmark moment in our journey to accelerate ICT innovation and empower the next generation of digital pioneers. This facility will serve as a catalyst for digital inclusion, economic transformation, and youth empowerment not just in Kano, but across the entire Northwest region. We remain committed to creating a thriving digital ecosystem where innovation can flourish and no one is left behind in Nigeria’s digital revolution.” He said.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Governor of Kano State, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, reaffirmed the state’s digital ambition and expressed deep appreciation for the partnership that made the park’s restoration possible.

“This commissioning marks more than the unveiling of a refurbished structure, it represents Kano’s bold vision to lead Northern Nigeria’s digital transformation. “We are grateful to IHS Nigeria for their swift response and unwavering support following the vandalization of this facility. Their commitment goes beyond corporate responsibility, it reflects a shared vision for a digitally inclusive Nigeria. He said

Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, who represented the CEO of IHS Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future.

“Our decision to sponsor the refurbishment of the Kano Digital Park is rooted in our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in the digital age,” he said.

“This partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is a clear demonstration of the power of public-private collaboration in addressing national challenges. We are proud to contribute to the 3MTT program and help restore this park as a hub of innovation and opportunity for the Kano community. Supporting initiatives like this and others such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub is how we aim to foster long-term digital growth, create jobs, and drive inclusive development across Nigeria.” He added.

Capping off the event, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted the significance of public-private collaboration in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

“The recommissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park is a powerful demonstration of what is possible when public and private sector actors unite behind a shared vision. This facility is more than just infrastructure, it is a beacon of innovation, resilience, and opportunity for Northern Nigeria. IHS Nigeria’s swift intervention following the vandalism of this park reflects true partnership and corporate citizenship. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where young Nigerians, especially those in underserved communities, have the tools and training to thrive in a digital economy.” He highlighted.

The Kano Digital Industrial Park forms a key part of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, a flagship government program aimed at equipping Nigerians with globally competitive digital skills. The renovation includes fully equipped training labs, power and connectivity infrastructure, upgraded learning spaces, and restored digital equipment to support thousands of learners across Northern Nigeria.

The commissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park comes just weeks after Ilorin Innovation Hub, the largest innovation hub of its kind in West Africa, which is also sponsored by IHS Nigeria, kicked off its incubation and acceleration programs. These interventions highlight IHS Nigeria’s continued commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy. By bringing the Kano Digital Industrial Park back on stream, IHS is reinforcing its pledge to support impactful initiatives at both the federal and sub-national levels, particularly those that provide opportunities for young Nigerians, who represent the future of the nation.

by Winifred Bosa — July 5, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0

How Nigeria Can Accelerate Gas Development – Shell

By Amaka Obiefuna

Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Gas, Ralph Gbobo…during a panel session at the 24th NOG Energy Week Conference & Exhibition in Abuja.

Nigeria’s premier gas distribution company, Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG) has identified development of infrastructure and regulatory and fiscal stability as key drivers for the development of Nigeria’s gas resources.

“Major investments are required to develop large scale infrastructure along the gas value chain (pipelines, gas processing plants, gas distribution networks) as well as human capacity development,” SNG Managing Director Ralph Gbobo said on Tuesday (July 1) at a panel session on “Accelerating gas development for domestic and global energy needs” at the Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Conference in Abuja.

A stable and transparent regulatory and fiscal regime is also essential to creating a predictable and secure operating environment which enhances investor confidence. Ralph stressed the need for deployment of technology to enhance “the efficiency, sustainability and growth of the domestic gas sector.”

He said: “Technology-driven advancements such as remote data gathering systems, remote monitoring, real-time data analytics, digital solutions, autonomous Operations systems, smart metering and monitoring, predictive analytics systems will play a significant role in improving the efficiency, sustainability and growth of the domestic gas sector, and enhancing its attractiveness to investors.”

Commenting on the operations of SNG, Ralph said the company, which was established in 1998, is developing new gas distribution networks in Oyo and Bayelsa states, while also expanding its systems to cater for more industries in Ogun, Rivers and Abia states.

He said the milestones recorded by Shell proved the value of partnerships and collaboration towards the development of Nigeria’s gas resources, as this can “aggregate investment capital, facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building, enhance skills and build expertise, significantly enhancing Nigeria’s domestic gas sector.”

In a related development, Shell sponsored a dinner at Nigeria Oil and Gas as part of its support for the event. In remarks read by the Vice President Gas and Commercial, Rohan D’ Souza: Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Shell Nigeria, Marno de Jong, described the annual conference “as a notable meeting point for policy makers, industry leaders and other stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to share ideas on critical issues facing the oil industry.”

Marno said: “Shell has been part of the NOG story and is Diamond sponsor of this year’s event in line with our commitment to the development of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria, dating back to our presence in the country some 60 years ago.”

by Online Poster — July 5, 2025 in Energy 0

Anambra State Government Investigating The SASA Clash In Obosi And Will Take Decisive Action

The Anambra State Government is actively investigating the recent clash between Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA) operatives and individuals in Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area, which led to property damage.

In a press release by Dr. Law Mefor, Information Commissioner, Anambra State, stated, “We assure the people of Obosi and the general public that we will take decisive action to prevent similar incidents in the future.”

“To enhance professionalism and efficiency, SASA is undergoing reorganisation. This step aims to ensure the squad operates effectively and responsibly.”

The government urges calm and cooperation from residents as we work to resolve this matter, he said.

by Online Poster — July 5, 2025 in News 0

Father O’Connell Science College , GSS Karu Crowned Champions At 25th MILO Basketball National Finals

By Winifred Bosa

The 25th anniversary edition of the MILO Basketball Championship came to an exciting close at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, with Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State, and Government Secondary School (GSS) Karu, FCT, emerging as national champions in the male and female categories, respectively.

The national finals brought together the best secondary school basketball teams from across Nigeria in a thrilling celebration of sporting excellence and youth empowerment. This milestone edition highlighted the impact of the championship, which has helped shape the lives of students in over 13,000 schools this year.

In a hard-fought match in the male category, Father O’Connell Science College clinched their third championship title, defeating Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa, with a final score of 66–64. This latest victory cements their position as one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history.

In the female category, Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT, delivered a commanding performance, defeating Lanreleke Sports Academy, Ile-Ogbo, Osun State, with a 55–42 win to claim their first-ever national championship title. The victory is especially significant, as the team had previously finished in second place on three separate occasions, making this long-awaited triumph a defining milestone in their journey.

Speaking on behalf of Wassim El-Husseini, Managing Director and CEO of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Boladale Odunlami, Commercial Manager, commended the athletes and applauded the coaches for their dedication to nurturing young talent. He also reaffirmed Nestlé’s purpose behind the MILO Basketball Championship.

“For 25 years, we’ve stayed true to our belief in growing champions through sport.
The MILO Basketball Championship has supported hundreds of thousands of young athletes, some of whom have gone on to play on the international stage and earn scholarships.

Take Rueben Abuchi, now at the University of Florida, an NCAA National Champion with the Florida Gators, or Murjanatu Musa, recently drafted into the WNBA and currently playing for the Phoenix Mercury. They started with MILO, and they soared. But this isn’t just about creating stars on the court, it’s about building champions in life. That’s why we remain committed, not just as sponsors, but as partners in purpose,” he said.

Ifeanyichukwu Orabuche, Category Manager, Beverages, added “This championship has become a powerful symbol of the MILO basketball championship empowering boys and girls across Nigeria to discover their strength, showcase their talent, and unlock their full potential. We’re not just crowning new champions; we’re marking 25 years of transformation, purpose, and impact. Because every child who steps onto a MILO basketball court isn’t just playing a game, they are building the mindset, discipline, and resilience to win in life”

This year’s tournament included an inclusive match for young individuals with disabilities, highlighting the championship’s commitment to inclusivity and Nestlé’s dedication to ensuring that everyone can participate and thrive.

Both winning teams received trophies, cash prizes, full basketball kits, and MILO products. Their victory at this landmark 25th edition makes them part of the long history of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots youth basketball platform.

Now celebrating 25 years of impact, the MILO Basketball Championship continues to be a key youth program, showing Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to building talent, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and developing future champions, both on and off the court.

by Online Poster — July 4, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0

SO&U Group CEO Udeme Ufot To Chair Brand Handlers Summit 2025

By Winifred Bosa

The organisers of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards are proud to announce that Mr. Udeme Ufot, MFR, Group Chief Executive Officer of SO&U Limited, will serve as Chairman of the 2025 edition of the highly anticipated summit and awards ceremony.

The event is scheduled to take place on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Regency Hall, 1 Otunba Jobi-Fele Way, Central Business District, Alausa-Ikeja, Lagos. The theme for the event is, “Advancing Nigeria’s Marketing Ecosystem to Drive Brand Growth.”

With a legacy spanning over three decades, Mr. Ufot is one of the most revered figures in Africa’s advertising and branding landscape. He has led numerous groundbreaking campaigns and helped shape industry standards through visionary leadership and purpose-driven innovation. His role as Chairman further underscores the summit’s dedication to advancing thought leadership and brand excellence in Nigeria and across the continent.

Speaking on the appointment, Lukman Ishau, Publisher of Marketing Space Magazine and Convener of the Brand Handlers Summit, highlighted the deep symbolic and strategic significance of Mr. Ufot’s leadership.

“When we envisioned that the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards has to be steered by someone whose journey reflects the core of what branding truly is; values, vision, and voice, Mr. Udeme Ufot immediately came to mind. He is not only a leader; he is a legacy. His works have shaped how brands are perceived, how stories are told, and how agencies align with purpose. He represents the gold standard, and having him as Chair for the event is both an honour and a symbol of what this platform stands for.”

“Bringing Mr. Udeme Ufot on board as Chairman for the 2025 Summit was not just a strategic decision, but a statement. A statement about excellence, depth, and industry evolution. Mr. Ufot’s career is a textbook of leadership, innovation, and commitment to African excellence in branding,” Ishau added.

He noted that, ‘’The summit will spotlight the urgent need to strengthen Nigeria’s marketing value chain, from education to execution, from strategy to storytelling. The focus will be on empowering professionals, inspiring fresh thinking, and bridging the gap between global trends and local relevance.’’

The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards is designed to be one of Nigeria’s foremost gatherings of marketing minds and brand custodians, offering networking opportunities, knowledge exchange, and a platform for spotlighting excellence in the marketing and communications industry.

As the countdown to August 29 begins, anticipation is building across the marketing, media, and creative landscapes. The Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2025 promises to be more than an event, it will be a transformational experience that sets the tone for the future of brand development in Nigeria.

The organisers have extended a warm invitation to brand custodians, agency leaders, marketing professionals, aspiring students, policymakers, and visionary entrepreneurs to participate in this landmark event. It will be a dynamic gathering where industry players unite to ignite bold conversations, unlock new opportunities, and collectively shape a marketing ecosystem that drives lasting brand growth and national impact.

by Winifred Bosa — July 4, 2025 in brands and Marketing 0

I’ll Save Anambra From Calamity – Ukachukwu

The All Progressive Congress ( APC) flag bearer, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu has promised to save Anambra State from calamity when voted into office come November 8 election.

He made the promise during his campaign tour to Enugwu-Ukwu in Njikoka LGA and Nri in Anaocha LGA of the state.

He mentioned killings, and insecurity as a cankerworm eating the state deeply, and said he would secure lives of Ndị Anambra and their properties.

He advised Ndi Anambra who have not gotten their voter’s cards to register to enable them come out en masse and vote for good governance.

According to him: “We want to change Anambra for the betterment of the state. There will be job creation, industrialization, youth empowerment. We need to strengthen these parts; it is me and you, we will bring governance close to you,” he concluded.”

His running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife, advised people not to be deceived that political parties are the same, adding that all they need is somebody that will change the state for good in terms of good roads, empowerment of the youths, job creation, security and God fearing person like Nicholas Ukachukwu.

The Chairman, APC Anambra State, Basil Ejidike, said the purpose of coming was to thank APC members for choosing Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, saying that campaingns are yet to start.

“We will make sure our flag gets to the light,” he said.

by Online Poster — July 4, 2025 in News 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