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Finance Minister to give Keynote Address at FiBOP National Annual Conference 2025

By Fidelia Okafor 
The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Nigerian Economy, Mr.Wale Edun will lead robust discussions on how to transform and grow the nation’s  economy to one trillion dollars at the 2025 Finance and Business Online Publishers (FiBOP) national annual conference.
The theme of the conference is : ” Achieving $1 Trillion Economy : Leveraging Technology Innovations, Tax Reforms, and Opportunities in Renewable Energy, Agriculture  and Financial services.
The FiBOP Conference  is bringing together technocrats, leaders of thought, captains of industries, the academia, and key players from across all sectors of the economy to discuss the ways to put the country on the path of accelerated economic growth and development.
The  FiBOP 2025 National Annual Conference will hold on October 18th to 19th, 2025 at Orchid Hotels, Lekki, Lagos State.
The 2025  conference which has continued to garner support and sponsorship from some of the  most reputable organisations and institutions in the nation’s economy has gotten firm commitments from the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), emPLE Insurance Limited, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Polaris Bank, Zenith Bank, Fidelity Bank , Universal Insurance, and Nestle Nigeria Plc. These organizations alongside others will be joining forces to fast track the process towards achieving the one trillion dollars economy by year 2030.
 This conference is pointedly , an integral part of the renewed hope agenda of the President Bola Ahmed administration designed to chart  a clear plan for securing successful mutual accountability and investment strategies, crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth and development, particularly in areas of technology innovations, tax reforms, renewable energy, and agriculture .
Specifically,technocrats and speakers from different sectors of the economy, will also identify innovative strategies for  diversifying from dependence on oil, adapting technology, fostering innovation, investing in renewable energy, insurance, agriculture, and services.
The conference organizers have expressed optimism that more institutions will join the train to attain the $1 trillion economy by 2030, as a means of ensuring improved living conditions for the citizens of the country.
Edun  believes that domestic savings are the engine of sustainable investment. “A trusted and stable financial system, anchored by strong  institutions is essential to lifting millions out of poverty and driving Nigeria’s transition to a $1 trillion economy”
Meanwhile, President, Finance and Business Online Publishers FiBOP, Mr. Charles Onwuatogwu has called on more companies and organizations to partner with the association in alignment with federal government’s objective of wealth creation and advancing the dividends of democracy for the betterment of the people
He also assured that  partners and sponsors will gain a wide range of benefits including well articulated media hype via press interviews, media publicity promotions, display of their organization’s backdrops and similar publicity initiatives to mention but a few.
FiBOP is a registered body by the Corporate Affairs Commission made up of seasoned online publishers and editors, with wealth of experience in the print and electronic media, who are dedicated to promoting informed and balanced reporting of economic events and activities, wealth creation, and contributing to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy and the continent of Africa.
The association’s annual conference provides the needed platform for experts and stakeholders to contribute to issues of great national importance aimed at fostering inclusive growth, unity, and national prosperity.
Ukachukwu Visit CMO Ekwulobia Promise To Partner With Them

By Nnedinma Chukwuleta
 
Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu  All Progressive Congress ( APC)  governorship candidate of the forthcoming election in Anambra State, has assured of bringing good governance  to the people of Ekwulobia in Aguata local Government Area of Anambra State.
He made the statement during  2025 maiden  Diocesan Convention  of the Catholic Men Organization ( CMO) on the lunching of  CMO – CADEK Integrated Farm Project held at saint Joseph Catholic Church Ekwulobia.
Ukachukwu  disclosed his plans for better Anambra, on how to secure the lives and properties  of the people, creating avenue of leveraging of poverty in the state.
The APC flag bearer ensures of leveraging  artificial  intelligence to boast agriculture productivity values chain, involving  farmers, seed companies, infrastructure providers, funding agencies to enable  productivity and support farmers.
He mentioned of having 12 industries  in the state that is under lock and key due to insecurity. “That is why a I made insecurity my priority, many don’t visit home any longer due to insecurity in the state, but I will ensure that insecurity will stop drastically in the state to enable investors partner with the state.
” We need to stop kidnapping, sales of human parts, and make Anambra  a liveable place, he concluded “.
In their separate speeches, Diocesan chaplain Rev Father Peter Nwankwo, President  CMO Hon. Mathew Ezeilo, said the idea of establishing  an integrated farm project is a decision in the right direction, noting that it is planned that garri processing factory, palm kernel processing factory and other processing industrials shall be established  in the farm.
He stated that the farm is aimed at having a mechanised poultry farming Fishing, piggery, snail rearing, grasscutter farm and farming section in different cash crops like cassava, maize, yam, cocoyam, adding that CMO- CADEK wants to be part of the bascket of the nation in the nearest future.
In his response, the Catholic Bishop  of Ekwulobia  Diocese, His Eminence, Cardinal, Peter Ebele Okapaleke thanked Ukachukwu for making out time to visit the church on their programme
2025: Northern Women in Anambra support APC,  Ukachukwu 

By Ebele Ofodile 
Northern Women resident in Anambra State have pledged their support for the governorship candidate of All Progressive Congress (APC) in the November 8, 2025 election, Evangelist Prince Ukachukwu who they reckon regard them as one of his own.
The Northern women who made this known yesterday when they paid him a solidarity support at his campaign in Awka, Anambra State, lamented that their lives have not been touched efficiently by the successive governments in the State.
The Women Leader of Northern Women Support Group for Ikukuoma and Iyom, Hajia Teni Yusuf regretted that most of Northern women resident in the State are jobless, poor and marginalized to the point that they  don’t  benefit from most of the programmes of the State government’.
Yusuf disclosed  that Ukachukwu lived most  of his life in the North and has sizeable investments in the North, noting that he would understand their plight better than other contestants.
She described him as a detribalized Nigerian who stands between making Anambra State benefit more from the Federal Government than any other candidate.
She revealed that she has spent over 35 years in Anambra State stand to explain the plight of her fellow women more..  According  to her, most women in the group are not educated and don’t have jobs, as a result  of which make them to stay at home.
                                                                 Going further, she said those who are educated don’t have jobs, calling on Ukachukwu  to address their plight by providing credible and job opportunities for those educated and non -educated members, among others.
She  said those who paid the solidarity  visit are Northern  Moslem and Christina   women who are living in Anambra State.
Yusuf said: ”We came to pay solidarity support to Ikukuoma (Ukachukwu) campaign   and  Iyom because of his good nature. .”We would go from house to house and church/mosque to mobilize support for APC to  win and meet our needs.   We are both Christian and Moslems. We will mobilize support for him,” she concluded.”
                                                                 Responding, Ukachukwu  welcomed the Northern Women Support Group,  describing them as being part of him and vice versa. The APC candidate  observed that most of them were born  in Anambra State and would ensure he carries them along and do more for them., if elected.
Nigerian Insurers Shine With N83 Billion Claim Settlement For Britannia-U Nigeria


The Nigerian insurance industry has paid a staggering N83 billion claim to Britannia-U Nigeria Limited following a massive fire incident on one of the company’s exploration platforms.
The payment was made by a consortium of underwriters after the claim was adjusted from an initial estimate of $72 million to $55 million.
The Commissioner for Insurance/CEO of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, speaking at a seminar organised by National Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE) in Abeokuta,  Ogun State, commended the industry players for prioritising prompt settlement of genuine claims. He expressed pride in the industry’s ability to pay the claim, noting that it demonstrates the industry’s strength and credibility.
The fire incident occurred on the 4,000 barrels of crude oil per day capacity Britannia-U1 FPSO operated by Britannia-U Nigeria Limited, offshore Forcados in Delta State. Despite initial doubts about the industry’s capacity to pay the claim, NAICOM intervened, and the claim was settled in full.
The NAICOM boss emphasised the need for industry players to publicise claims paid to change the negative perception of the sector. He noted that billions are being paid in claims annually, but these payments are not being publicised, contributing to the negative perception.
The settlement of the Britannia-U claim is part of nearly N180 billion in large claims settled by the industry for corporate clients this year, aside from numerous smaller claims. The NAICOM boss commended the industry’s responsiveness and reliability in settling valid claims, highlighting the importance of trust and confidence in the sector.
The premium for the risk was $170,000, while the claim paid was $55 million (N83 billion), highlighting the significant impact of the settlement on the industry’s reputation.
NAICOM has been working to ensure that the industry provides more oversight functions and makes informed decisions, leveraging data and encouraging collaborations across institutions.
AIICO Crowned “Outstanding Insurance Company Of The Year” At The 2025 Marketing Edge Awards

AIICO Insurance Plc, a trailblazer in Nigeria’s insurance industry, has once again earned top honours as it clinched the coveted “Outstanding Insurance Company of the Year” award at the 2025 MARKETING EDGE Brands & Advertising Excellence Awards held in Lagos.

This recognition marks the third consecutive year that AIICO has been celebrated at the prestigious event, reinforcing its stature as a leading composite insurer that continues to define excellence in the marketplace. In 2023, AIICO was named “Insurance Company of the Decade”, followed by another top industry honour in 2024, before emerging this year’s Outstanding Insurance Company of the Year.

The organizers of the award noted that AIICO’s selection was based on its sterling performance and the remarkable positive impact it continues to make on the Nigerian financial services industry. The company’s consistency in delivering value to customers, while driving innovation and service excellence, has positioned it as a brand of choice across generations.

Speaking on the recognition, Mr. Segun Olalandu, Head of Marketing and Communications at AIICO Insurance Plc, expressed the company’s appreciation: “We sincerely thank the organizers of the MARKETING EDGE Awards for consistently recognizing and honouring the AIICO brand over the years. This recognition affirms our strength and relevance in the marketplace. At AIICO, we will not rest on our oars. We remain intentional about delighting our customers, meeting their needs, and surpassing their expectations with innovative solutions and superior service.”

This latest award further strengthens AIICO’s long-standing reputation as a trusted brand and a consistent leader in Nigeria’s insurance sector.

About AIICO Insurance Plc

AIICO Insurance is a leading composite insurer in Nigeria, with a 60-year record of accomplishment in delivering quality service to its clients. Founded in 1963, AIICO provides life and general insurance, health insurance, and investment management services to create and protect wealth for individuals, families, and corporate customers.

Nigerian Insurers Shine With N83 Billion Claim Settlement For Britannia-U Nigeria

The Nigerian insurance industry has paid a staggering N83 billion claim to Britannia-U Nigeria Limited following a massive fire incident on one of the company’s exploration platforms.
The payment was made by a consortium of underwriters after the claim was adjusted from an initial estimate of $72 million to $55 million.
The Commissioner for Insurance of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, commended the industry players for prioritising prompt settlement of genuine claims. He expressed pride in the industry’s ability to pay the claim, noting that it demonstrates the industry’s strength and credibility.
The fire incident occurred on the 4,000 barrels of crude oil per day capacity Britannia-U1 FPSO operated by Britannia-U Nigeria Limited, offshore Forcados in Delta State. Despite initial doubts about the industry’s capacity to pay the claim, NAICOM intervened, and the claim was settled in full.
The NAICOM boss emphasised the need for industry players to publicise claims paid to change the negative perception of the sector. He noted that billions are being paid in claims annually, but these payments are not being publicised, contributing to the negative perception.
The settlement of the Britannia-U claim is part of nearly N180 billion in large claims settled by the industry for corporate clients this year, aside from numerous smaller claims. The NAICOM boss commended the industry’s responsiveness and reliability in settling valid claims, highlighting the importance of trust and confidence in the sector.
The premium for the risk was $170,000, while the claim paid was $55 million (N83 billion), highlighting the significant impact of the settlement on the industry’s reputation.
NAICOM has been working to ensure that the industry provides more oversight functions and makes informed decisions, leveraging data and encouraging collaborations across institutions.
PenCom DG Visits The Nigerian Union Of Pensioners, Assures Pensioners Of Improved Welfare

From Left: The Director General of the National Pension Commission, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran and The President Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Comrade Godwin Ikechukwu Abumisi during a recent visit to NUP Headquarters in Abuja

The Director General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) to enhance the welfare of retirees in Nigeria.

 

Ms. Oloworaran made this pledge on Thursday, September 25, 2025, when she led a PenCom delegation on a courtesy visit to the NUP headquarters in Abuja. The team included the Acting Commissioner, Inspectorate, Mr. Samuel Chigozie Uwandu, and other senior management staff.
Speaking during the visit, the PenCom DG lauded the NUP for its unwavering advocacy on behalf of pensioners. She noted that the Union’s representation on PenCom’s Governing Board has been instrumental to the effective implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

 

She assured the Union that PenCom remained resolute in its mandate to safeguard the retirement benefits of Nigerian workers. The PenCom DG said all outstanding pension increases approved by the Federal Government would be implemented this year, backed by the N758 billion bond approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She added that the funds would soon be made available for payments to commence.

 

Furthermore, she said PenCom and NUP share a common mission — the protection and welfare of pensioners. She tasked the Union to continue to collaborate with PenCom to ensure that retirees enjoy the dignity and security they deserve after years of service to the nation.

 

In his response, the President of NUP, Comrade Godwin Ikechukwu Abumisi, hailed the visit as historic, describing Ms. Oloworaran as the first PenCom DG to visit the Union’s Headquarters in Abuja.
He praised PenCom as a “star performer” in prioritising pensioners’ welfare and urged the DG to convey the Union’s appreciation to President Tinubu for placing retirees’ wellbeing at the heart of government policy. He added that the pensioners will reciprocate President Tinubu’s actions at the appropriate time.

 

Comrade Abumisi further tasked PenCom to ensure the full implementation of all past pension increases under the CPS — a request the DG reiterated would be achieved before the year runs out.

 

The visit concluded with the PenCom delegation touring the ongoing NUP building project located within the environs of its national headquarters. Both institutions pledged to sustain and deepen their partnership in the collective interest of pensioners nationwide.

Abia State, EU, UNICEF , ILO Collaborate To Bolster Social Protection For Vulnerable Families

L-R: Vanessa Phala, Director of the ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone and Liaison Office for ECOWAS; Judith Leveillee, Chief of Field Services, UNICEF Nigeria; H.E. Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS; His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, Executive Governor of Abia State; Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, Abia State Honourable Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection; and Mr Kingsley Anosike, Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Planning Abia State, at the launch of the European Union (EU)-funded project, Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI), by Abia State Government in collaboration with UNICEF, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and other partners in Umuahia.

 

The Government of Abia State has launched the European Union (EU)-funded project, Supporting Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (SUSI), in collaboration with UNICEF, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and other partners.
Despite its importance, social protection coverage in Nigeria remains limited. According to the International Labour Organization 2024 World Social Protection report, only 14.8 per cent of Nigerians currently have access to effective social protection.
To close this gap, the project, which is also being implemented in Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto States, is designed to strengthen inclusive, shock-responsive, and sustainable social protection systems.
 It aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Eight-Point Agenda, aiming to reduce poverty, protect the most vulnerable, and promote resilient livelihoods.
Speaking at the event, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, Executive Governor of Abia State, reaffirmed the State’s commitment: “I am also glad that the EU, ILO and UNICEF will be partnering with the State Government towards the successful delivery of the SUSI Project. We are encouraged to think of our children and the world we want to bequeath to them. Individually and collectively, we are called to remember that every decision counts, that we do not own anything but are merely custodians who would one day be required to look back, either in regret or fulfilment.”
H.E. Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, underlined the import of the EU’s support: “Social protection is central to building equitable societies. This partnership demonstrates our continued commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly in states like Abia, by strengthening systems that can provide support when it is needed most.”
Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, highlighted the transformative impact of inclusive systems:
“Social protection is not just a safety net, it is a springboard for inclusive development. Through this project, we aim to ensure that every child and family, particularly the most vulnerable, is protected from the shocks that can derail their well-being and opportunities for a better future.”
Vanessa Phala, Director of the ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone and Liaison Office for ECOWAS stressed the importance of long-term sustainability: “A well-designed and inclusive social protection system is fundamental to decent work, economic stability, and social cohesion. With this project, we are working together to ensure that social protection becomes a reality for more Nigerians.”
The implementation of the SUSI project will support development of social protection policy, expansion of the social register, capacity building, strengthening the database system and make it interoperable with other related databases, and ensuring that social protection programmes are well budgeted for, at both federal and state levels.
AMCON Transfers 34% Stake In Unity Bank To Providus, Strengthening Merger Deal

The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has offloaded 34 per cent of its stake in Unity Bank Plc to Providus Bank.

This has strengthened the business combination deal between Providus and Unity Bank.
The 34 per cent total equity stake in Unity Bank was transacted through a crossed deal on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to the preferred bidder, 24 hours ahead of their Court-Ordered Meeting to approve the scheme of merger.
The transaction was completed involving four billion Unity Bank shares at N1.66 per share, amounting to over N6.5 billion in value.
A total of three deals was carried out on Unity Bank shares on the Exchange on September 25, 2025.
The ongoing business combination arrangement is a milestone for Providus Bank as it puts it in a comfortable position to beat the March 31, 2026, recapitalisation deadline that was placed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Providus Bank began operations in June 2017. It is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria to provide banking services to individuals and businesses. The bank has a strong IT infrastructure and digital channels which it deploys to provide exceptional service to our customers so they can achieve their objectives.
Providus Bank is an innovative financial institution that provides personal, private, corporate, commercial and digital banking products and solutions.
Its tailored financial services delivery includes: Business Advisory, Portfolio Management, Personalised Relationship Management, Fast-tracked Service delivery and Self-service solutions. Providus Bank competitive advantage in Private, Institutional, Business and Personal Banking is driven by the philosophy to create support and value for Institutions, Agencies, SMEs and HNIs.
Its business development strategy also focuses on developing expertise and collaborating to improve the non-oil (emerging) sector of the Nigerian Economy, which includes but not limited to Agriculture, Mining, Hospitality, E-commerce, and Art & Entertainment.
Providus Bank believes that the New World of Fast, Smart, Personal, and Borderless banking relationship is here. We are therefore inspired by our Future Forward Banking ethos to make life (at work and leisure) more exciting for our partners with the use of cutting-edge technology that delivers best-in-class customer satisfaction.
In less than 10 years, Providus Bank has emerged as one of the fastest growing financial institutions in the country.
Through this merger, Providus aims to transform from a niche player into a national bank, leveraging Unity Bank’s over 211-branch network spread across all 36 states and the FCT.
The move aligns with Providus’ broader strategy to deepen its retail presence and diversify its customer base.
Additionally, Providus Bank would significantly benefit from scale in retail banking as it would expand its footprint from a largely digital operation to a full-fledged national player.
It also brings in a strong SME lending pipeline, especially in agriculture, mining, ecommerce, hospitality, and entertainment sectors, which both banks already support.
Providus plans to integrate its technology stack into Unity Bank’s branch network, enhancing service delivery and cost efficiency.
The bank believes the combined entity will unlock new value across its retail, SME, and digital channels.
At the court order meeting, Unity Bank shareholders will decide whether to approve a cash consideration of N3.18 per share or opt for a share swap under which every 17 Unity Bank shares convert into 18 shares in the enlarged Providus Bank.
If approved, Unity Bank’s assets, liabilities, intellectual property, and ongoing legal matters will be transferred to Providus. Unity Bank will be dissolved, with Providus continuing as the surviving entity.
The meeting is expected to pave the way for regulatory sign-offs from the CBN and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), both of which had already approved the merger in August 2024.
NLNG, NCDMB Mark Graduation Of 122 Beneficiaries From Train 7 HCD Programme

By Winifred Bosa

(L-R) Engr. Joshua Anemeje, Train 7 Project Corporate Liaison Manager; one of the six candidates retained by AOS ORWELL; Barr. Esueme Dan Kikile, NCDMB’s General Manager Human Capital Development (HCD); Engr. Omochi Adekwu,Manager, Maintenance, NLNG; Favour Ugochukwu, Contract Manager AOS ORWELL and Obe Akinkunmi, Co-ordinator of the AOS ORWELL OJT Training at the close out ceremony of NLNG T7 Project HCD Advanced Training Programme In Bonny….on Friday

NLNG, in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), recently achieved a major milestone in the Nigerian Content development commitment, with the close-out of Train 7 Project Human Capital Development (HCD) Advanced Training Programme, at the plant complex in Finima, Bonny Island.

The training ends officially on 30th September 2025 with the departure of the trainees from its plant facility in Bonny Island. The HCD programme, run under the guidance of the NCDMB, is a Federal Government initiative to build capacity for the oil and gas industry and fulfil the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act’s requirement on human capital development.

A total of 122 trainees, having completed prior HCD Basic Training Programmes, were approved by the NCDMB, to participate in the rigorous three month On the Job Training (OJT) within NLNG facilities, covering both graduate and vocational categories. The training programme focused on development of technical expertise in plant and facility management, amongst other competencies, and has positioned the trainees to take advantage of future opportunities within the oil and gas industry.

Speaking at the ceremony, NLNG’s Train 7 Project Director Engr. Ali Uwais, represented by Engr. Joshua Anemeje, Train 7 Project Corporate Liaison Manager, described the advanced training programme as a testament of the resilience, discipline, and growth of the trainees.

He congratulated the trainees for their commitment to excellence and urged them to take advantage of future opportunities within the oil and gas industry.

“This programme is about building a new generation of Nigerian professionals who will shape the oil and gas sector for decades to come. Its successful completion with a zero-incident safety record reflects not only your dedication but also NLNG’s uncompromising culture of ‘Safety First and Always’, and its operational excellence”, Engr. Anemeje said.

He further commended NCDMB, for its role as a strategic partner in driving Nigerian Content targets and capacity development in the industry, and the training partners, Candix Engineering Nigeria Limited, AOS Orwell, Arco Marine and Engineering Limited, Dover Engineering and Amaiden Energy Nigeria Limited, for ensuring a world class OJT experience and HR management.

In his comments, the NCDMB’s General Manager Human Capital Development (HCD), Esueme Dan Kikile, Esq, expressed delight on the conclusion of the training programme, which produced a pool of skilled and globally competitive workforce, knowledgeable in key areas such as instrumentation, electrical, mechanical, lifting and rigging activities, and fabrication, preventive and corrective maintenance, and can compete globally in the oil and gas industry and its linkage sectors.

Kikile described Train 7 Project as one of the largest gas infrastructure developments in Africa, noting that it not only created jobs but also provided a platform to groom young Nigerians with advanced technical and managerial competencies.

“This training provided hands-on experience on a live LNG project that complimented your academic and theoretical knowledge. This training further exposed trainees to specialised advanced technical disciplines, project management, health and safety, and emerging technologies critical to the future of the industry,” he added.

‘It is my delight to note that twenty-seven (27) of the trainees have received special recognition awards for their aptitude during the programme, out of which six (6) who were very exceptional have been offered automatic employment by AOS Orwell, one of the training partners,” he revealed.

He lauded NLNG and all other partner companies for their unwavering commitment to Nigerian Content development, referencing several other initiatives on which the Board is partnering with NLNG to deepen local content implementation in the Nigerian oil and gas industry.