CBN Advert

By Winifred Bosa

FirstBank, the West Africa premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider has launched an advanced facial biometric technology on its mobile banking application- FirstMobile, along with other exciting features that includes:

• Facial recognition sign-up and activation

• Virtual credit cards for secure online shopping

• Instant credit card activation

• Flexible salary advances with 3-month repayment options

• General improvements, bug fixes,

These upgrades all aim to provide customers with a seamless, secure, and efficient digital banking experience.

The new facial biometric feature enables users to activate or register on FirstBank’s mobile app- FirstMobile securely, using facial verification. This feature also includes an advanced anti-spoof detection, to enhance customer account protection and ensure robust security.

This innovative solution effectively addresses the diverse needs of customers, including new customers, diaspora customers without cards, individuals with lost or expired cards, those who have opted out of card use, as well as customers facing card verification failures or lacking convenient access to card details.

This feature will provide seamless access to essential banking services, such as fund transfers and bill payments ensuring swift, reliable, and convenient transaction processing for all users.

The newly enhanced FirstBank mobile banking platform, FirstMobile, offers a comprehensive array of features and services designed to provide our customers with a seamless and innovative digital banking experience, no matter where they are in the world. With these substantial improvements, users can easily sign up and activate the app using just their face.

They can shop online securely with a virtual credit card that is instantly issued and always accessible within the app. Additionally, customers can activate their new credit card directly from the app to start spending immediately. They also have the option to access salary advances with a convenient 3-month repayment plan.

“With these new services now live on FirstMobile, we are confident we will undoubtedly enhance our customers’ digital experience.” remarked Chukwuma Ezirim, Group Executive, E-Business and Retail Products Division, FirstBank. “FirstBank is committed to innovative ways of delighting our customers so that they can carry out their transactions with no stress and with utmost convenience.

We understand the importance of keeping up with the evolving digital landscape, and we are dedicated to providing our customers with cutting-edge solutions that make banking simpler, faster, and more accessible. Our goal is to ensure that every interaction with FirstBank enhances customer satisfaction and builds long-lasting relationships”

 

To deliver on its promise of gold-standard banking services, FirstBank remains committed to advanced innovative solutions and robust secure security measures, to protect customer data and empower them to transact effortlessly and manage their finances effectively.

Fidelity Bank Extends Relief Efforts To Eti-Osa Community With Food Bank Initiative

As part of its unwavering commitment to reducing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities, Fidelity Bank Plc, a leading financial institution, has distributed food packs to residents of Victoria Island in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos as part of its nationwide Fidelity Food Bank initiative.
This initiative, which attracted beneficiaries from diverse backgrounds, forms a key pillar of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy and reinforces its dedication to driving meaningful impact across Nigerian communities.
Speaking during the distribution event, Mr. Adebayo Adeyinka, Executive Technical Assistant to the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasized the long-term impact of the initiative. “The Fidelity Food Bank was established to address the pressing challenges of poverty, hunger, malnutrition, and infant and maternal mortality within our communities,” he said.
“It aligns with Goal No. 2 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – Zero Hunger – and reflects our long-term commitment to improving lives across the country. From IDP camps to flood-affected regions like Niger State, this is a nationwide outreach that we are proud to continue,” Adeyinka added.
Also present at the event was the Divisional Head, Operations, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Henry Asiegbu, who highlighted the growing support and impact of the program.
“This intervention has been positively received at all levels – from community members to government and partner organizations,” he noted. “The support has been overwhelming, and it encourages us to sustain and expand the initiative further.”
For many of the community members, the gesture offered more than just nourishment – it restored dignity and hope. Victoria Olubiyo, resident and representative of the members of the community, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Fidelity Bank has brought joy to our lives. Even during the no-cash crisis, their ATMs were always working. They’ve provided boreholes, fulfilled their promises, and shown genuine care. Today, people – men, women, children, even those living with disabilities – are supported. I urge other banks to follow their example.”
Another beneficiary, Jerome Igbe, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This means so much to struggling families. I honestly didn’t expect this kind of support. May God bless them and replenish their resources.”
Through initiatives like the Fidelity Food Bank, the bank continues to demonstrate its role as a socially responsible corporate organisation committed to impacting Nigerians positively.
Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.
The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
Shell Companies In Nigeria Commended For Elaborate Exhibition At Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference

 

Dignitaries at Shell Booth during the 24th NOG Energy Week Conference & Exhibition…in Abuja

Shell Companies in Nigeria (SCiN) today kicked off their participation at the 24th Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition in Abuja with an elaborate exhibition on their operations which drew commendation from top government functionaries and other conference participants.

 

Among the visitors to the stand were the Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Bayo Ojulari, who were conducted round by Business Value Manager, Chidi Nkazi.

 

SCiN are Diamond sponsors of the conference and are among many exhibiting companies from 85 countries. The exhibition features the positive impact of the Shell presence on the development of the country through the businesses run by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company of Nigeria Ltd (SNEPCo), Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG), All On and Daystar Power. These companies have achieved many milestones in deep-water production, gas supply to industries as well as provision of off-grid energy and renewables.

 

Highlighting some milestones, Chidi said SNEPCo and SNG paid combined royalties of $1.208 billion dollars to the Nigerian government last year. Shell is also investing in the future of Nigeria with the Final Investment Decision on the $5 billion Bonga North deep-water project, and SNEPCo increasing its interest in the OML 118, which includes the Bonga field, from 55% to 67.5%, through the acquisition of the 12.5% stake of TotalEnergies.

 

On its part, SNG serves more than 140 industrial and commercial customers in Ogun, Abia, and Rivers states while All On now has a total portfolio of 51 renewable energy companies, which have delivered more than 210,000 energy connections across the country. Daystar Power is offering integrated solar power to businesses in five countries in Africa, including Nigeria.

 

Chidi added: “A robust social investment portfolio by SCiN has also led to the implementation of programmes in education, health, employment generation as well as infrastructural development across communities in Nigeria.”

 

The participation of SCiN at NOG continues with Shell leaders making presentations and participating in key panel sessions.

Zedcrest Joins Lagos Govt, MacTay to Empower ICT Graduate Trainees with Jobs, Internships

 

By Fidelia Okafor

Leading financial services firm, Zedcrest Group has entered a strategic partnership with the Lagos State Government and MacTay, to offer internships and entry-level jobs to top graduate trainees from the recently concluded, state-sponsored specialized ICT skill acquisition program.

The Head of Brands and Communications, Zedcrest Group, Oyinkansola Adeboye made this announcement at the graduation ceremony for the 2024 cohort, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Ikeja, Lagos State.

 

Adeboye explained that the program aligns closely with Zedcrest’s commitment to capacity building, not only in finance but across all sectors of the economy, highlighting the company’s continued investment in programs and initiatives that empower young Nigerians with the skills required for success.

Head of Brands and Communications, Zedcrest Group, Oyinkansola Adeboye

 

She then commended the Lagos State Government and MacTay for initiating the program which she described as critical to closing the digital skills gap among youths in Lagos and across Nigeria, assuring that every talent placed at Zedcrest Group will receive all the support they need to thrive in their chosen careers.

Commenting on the initiative, Director of MacTay, Tunde Rotimi, disclosed that the training was created in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment as part of a broader mission to transform the future of work in Lagos by equipping young Lagosians with cutting-edge digital skills necessary to excel in a technology-driven world.

Director, MacTay, Tunde Rotimi

Rotimi further revealed that MacTay meticulously designed the program’s curriculum to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy and urged the graduate trainees to leverage their newly acquired skills to build successful careers.

In his address, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu underscored the importance of the training program and existing partnerships with MacTay and Zedcrest Group, stating that the initiative aims to empower youths to become innovators and job creators who will seize global opportunities, transform local businesses, and contribute to economic development.

 

Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe

 

Speaking through the State Commissioner, Ministry for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the program attracted over 3,000 applicants when it launched in 2024, with only 200 candidates selected after a rigorous screening process. He added that the graduates were trained as full stack software engineers and data analysts, earning globally recognized certifications that give them an edge in the job market.

Governor Sanwo-Olu then congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the program and encouraged them to remain exemplary ambassadors of Lagos State by upholding the values of resilience, innovation, and ambition in their future endeavors.

Leadway Health HMO Reinforces Industry Leadership With Third Straight HMO Of The Year Award

By Amaka Obiefuna

Leadway Health HMO, one of Nigeria’s premier health insurers, has been honoured with the Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) of the Year award at the Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards (NHEA) for an unprecedented third consecutive year.

 

This unparalleled three-peat achievement affirms Leadway Health HMO’s position as a consistent leader in delivering innovative, accessible, and customer-focused healthcare solutions across Nigeria.

Leadway Health HMO set a new record, one that has never been achieved in the 15-year history of the NHEAwards. The award, presented at a ceremony in Lagos on Friday, June 27, 2025, celebrates the organisation’s excellence in service delivery, technology integration, unmatched service delivery, and its expanding provider network.

 

Speaking on this achievement on a three-year streak, Chief Executive Officer, Leadway Health HMO, Dr. Tokunbo Alli, stated, “Receiving the HMO of the Year award for the third consecutive year is a deeply meaningful milestone for us at Leadway Health HMO. It is more than an accolade; it is a resounding validation of our commitment to transforming healthcare delivery in Nigeria, Africa, and the world at large.

 

“In a country where fewer than one in ten people have access to health insurance, we recognise the immense responsibility we carry. Through our investment in digital innovation, operational efficiency, and inclusive health plans, we are not only improving access to quality care but also setting new benchmarks for service excellence within the industry. This recognition reflects the trust our customers place in us and the unwavering dedication of our team and partners who make our vision a reality every day.”

 

Dr Alli added, “We will continue to scale our hospital partnerships, enhance claims transparency, and leverage technology to deliver even more accessible, affordable, and customer-centric healthcare solutions. This award strengthens our resolve to be at the forefront of Nigeria’s health transformation journey—driving meaningful change, one life at a time.”

 

Leadway Health HMO’s triple win comes at a time when trust and performance in the HMO sector are under scrutiny. With a growing population, rising healthcare costs, and a national goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, the company’s performance positions it as a crucial stakeholder in driving Nigeria’s health transformation agenda.

 

The Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards, founded in 2014 by Global Health Project and Resources in collaboration with Anadach Group USA, is the industry’s most respected recognition platform. This year’s edition was themed “Collaborating for Impact: Strengthening Health Systems through the SWAP Approach”, emphasising unified efforts to drive change.

 

 

About Leadway Health HMO

 

Leadway Health HMO is a leading Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in Nigeria, dedicated to providing comprehensive and innovative healthcare solutions. Established with a mission to improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes, Leadway Health HMO offers a range of health plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals, families, and organisations.

 Seplat Energy Drives Media Entrepreneurship, Empowers 50 Journalists In Lagos

Manager, Corporate Communications, Seplat Energy Plc, Stanley Opara; CEO, DFD Smart & Standard Concept; officials of ELOH Consulting Ltd, and Capital Market, Judiciary and Business Journalists during the Seplat Energy Media Entrepreneurship Programmes organized in partnership with ELOH Consulting Ltd, where 50 media practitioners were trained in Lagos.

Seplat Energy Plc, foremost Nigerian independent energy Company, on the 25th and 26th June 2025, successfully trained 50 journalists covering the Capital Market, Judiciary, Finance and Business on Media Entrepreneurship.

The training, which was organized by the Company in conjunction with ELOH Consulting Limited, brought together 50 journalists covering Capital Market, Judiciary, Finance and Business across print, online and electronic media platforms.

The programme equipped participants with essential business acumen and  skills to thrive as entrepreneurs and future business leaders. The training helped participants deepen their understanding of strategic business principles, enhanced their management and leadership capabilities, and empowered them to build sustainable businesses that deliver impactful results.

The media training opened with a keynote address from the Manager, Corporate Communications, Seplat Energy Plc, Mr. Stanley Opara, who represented the Director, External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Mrs. Chioma Afe. According to him, apart from developing participants’ leadership and management capabilities, enabling them to create sustainable businesses and take on greater responsibilities in the evolving business landscape, the initiative also aims to nurture a new generation of media professionals who can drive enterprises and achieve significant business results.

Additionally, the programme fostered interaction between journalists and key anti-corruption and security agency stakeholders to broaden understanding of governance and operational frameworks.

The training featured a stellar lineup of facilitators and guest speakers including: Professor Pat Utomi: A renowned academic and thought leader delivered a session titled “Can Managers or Professionals (like Journalists) Make Good Entrepreneurs?” He explored the transition from professional roles to entrepreneurial success; Dr. Solomon Avbioroko: Former director at Coca-Cola International and a lecturer at the Lagos Business School shared insights on business management and entrepreneurship; and Mr. Olu Onakoya, a former Managing Director of Mobil Nigeria, provided valuable leadership and corporate governance perspectives.

Other facilitators include Nnamdi Uwaemelulam, who focused on Media Technology while Uloma Okoro, dwelt on “Developing a Business Model & Writing Winning Business Plans”.

In addition to business experts, the programme hosted key figures from Nigeria’s anti-corruption and security agencies. This segment was intended to foster critical dialogue on security and governance challenges in Nigeria.

Facilitators for this session included:Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC); Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), Chairman Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC); and Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS).

These officials engaged participants on topics including the fight against insecurity and corruption, intelligence gathering, and the legal frameworks supporting their operations.

Participants deeply appreciated Seplat Energy for organising a well-structured and impactful programme. They highlighted the training’s relevance in equipping them with skills to navigate the evolving media landscape and explore entrepreneurial opportunities.

Seplat Energy’s commitment to fostering professional development and entrepreneurship among journalists was evident, and the event set a new standard for future initiatives.

NLNG Commissions Medical Laboratory Complex In Bauchi

By Winifred Bosa

L–R: Engr. Dagogo Bouwari, Manager, Nigerian Content Development, NLNG; Dr. Yusuf Abdullahi, CMD, Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe; Sophia Horsfall, GM, External Relations & Sustainable Development, NLNG; Prof. Yusuf Bara Jibrin, CMD, ATBUTH; Prof. Y. M. Bashir, Tafida of Bauchi; and Iwokiri Aprioku, Head, Public Relations, NLNG, during the official handover of the newly commissioned laboratory complex donated through NLNG Hospital Support Programme (HSP) to the ATBUTH in Bauchi… on Thursday.

NLNG, recently commissioned a state-of-the-art modern laboratory complex at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), reaffirming its commitment to improving access to quality healthcare across the country.

The milestone is part of the company’s flagship Hospital Support Programme (HSP), an ongoing initiative aimed at improving Nigeria’s medical infrastructure and enhancing healthcare delivery nationwide.The commissioning is coming after a recent opening of a neonatal ward and intensive care unit at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba by the Company.

The new facility, the tenth in the list of completed projects, is outfitted with advanced diagnostic technology, significantly boosting the hospital’s capacity for accurate and timely diagnosis.
 The laboratory complex harbours an Automated Tissue Processing Machine, Cryostat, Immunoassay Analyser, ELISA Washer, haematology systems, vein finders, and specialised microscopes.
The facility also features purpose-built workspaces for sample preparation and storage, solar-powered electrical systems for uninterrupted operations, automated access controls, and modern reception and waiting areas, all designed for safety, efficiency, and comfort.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, represented by Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, emphasised that the Hospital Support Programme offered Bauchi State a vital partnership and gave NLNG the opportunity to actualise its vision of improving lives sustainably through the provision of healthcare infrastructure.
 He noted that the programme reinforces NLNG’s belief in what is possible when private enterprise and public good align with purpose.
He stressed that the project was informed by a detailed needs assessment, resulting in a facility that would significantly enhance diagnostic capacity and provide better support to both clinicians and patients.
Mshelbila further remarked that NLNG was building a network of care across the country through HSP. He noted that the HSP has transformed medical services in all the beneficiary institutions, boosting the confidence of medical practitioners and raising public hope for improved healthcare.
Highlighting the pressing need for advanced diagnostic capabilities in Nigeria, especially in light of rising incidences of Lassa fever, antibiotic resistance, and cancer, Professor Yusuf Bara Jibrin, Chief Medical Director of ATBUTH, emphasised that the laboratory stands as “a fortress of response, equipped with the tools, technologies, and manpower to detect, analyse, and inform timely medical interventions.”
The CMD lauded NLNG for going beyond the bounds of corporate social responsibility, adding that ATBUTH had instituted a maintenance and operations framework to ensure the facility’s long-term sustainability.
The HSP has impacted ten health institutions across Nigeria, providing healthcare infrastructure for obstetrics, neonatal intensive care, occupational therapy, and neuromodulation rehabilitation, among others.
NLNG remains at the forefront of private sector contributions to healthcare delivery in Nigeria, investing not just in energy, but also in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Corridors To Trade Can Support Nigeria’s Protein Needs

By Fidelia Okafor

Keynote panel discussion analysing the food and nutrition security landscape of Nigeria. The panel was moderated by Foluso Alabi, Country Team Lead – Nigeria, USSEC

The U.S. Soybean Export Council hosted its signature “Nigeria: NOW” conference in Lagos this week, bringing together stakeholders across the government and private sectors, including poultry producers, nutritionists and more.

Participants dove into discussions about addressing Nigeria’s protein gap, trade and economic growth.

Speaking at the event, Acting U.S. Consul General, Lagos, Nigeria, JoEllen Gorg emphasized, “The U.S. Soybean Export Council’s Nigeria: NOW conference marks a pivotal milestone in creating a pathway for mutual prosperity and shared economic success. By addressing Nigeria’s protein gap, fostering innovation, and promoting best practices, the U.S. Soy industry is helping to build a resilient agricultural sector in Nigeria, ensuring long-term food security and economic stability.”

She added, “We are enthusiastic about the opportunities arising from the collaboration between USSEC and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria. This partnership is crucial in helping export-ready U.S. companies build business relationships with Nigerian agribusinesses, training Nigerians in new agricultural practices, and promoting the use of U.S. soy in Nigeria’s feed and food industries.”

Participation by high-level Nigerian stakeholders, including former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic; Engr. Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State; and Abisola Olusanya, Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture & Food System, Lagos State, emphasized the opportunity for greater collaboration between U.S. Soy and Nigeria.

With a population of over 236 million and growing, Nigeria’s protein consumption per capita remains low at only 45.4 grams per person per day compared to the FAO’s minimum recommended intake of 60 grams.  The global average is around 64 grams. While Nigeria grows soybeans domestically, demand significantly outpaces supply. The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service estimated Nigeria’s local production at around 1.15 million metric tons for the marketing year (MY) 2023/24, with the animal feed sector accounting for the majority of its use.

As a result of the demand-supply mismatch this year, Nigeria imported 62,100 metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. after a pause of six years.  This renewed access offers a promising opportunity for deeper collaboration between U.S. Soy and Nigeria.

“Trade is vital to the global economy and, more importantly, to local economies,” added Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO. “U.S. Soy is at the forefront of collaborating with its partners as a reliable supplier.”

Robert Alpers, a generational U.S. Soy farmer and United Soybean Director, echoed this, “I’m proud to be playing my role in helping to feed the world sustainably. As U.S. Soy farmers, we are committed to ensuring we produce more using fewer resources and reducing our environmental footprint.”

By strengthening relationships, building trust, and leveraging comparative advantage, Nigeria and U.S. Soy can achieve mutually beneficial economic growth and a protein-secure future.

The Repression Of Widowhood: CBA Foundation Shines At Pitcher Awards 2025 With Two Awards

When we began the Repression of Widowhood campaign, it wasn’t about awards, it was about dignity. About restoring voices that have been silenced, about standing for widows in society, often forgotten, and left behind.

 

In Nigeria, over 15 million women are widows, with a huge proportion classified as underprivileged / disadvantaged widows. Many face abuse, exclusion, neglected or accused of killing their husbands. Some are thrown out of their homes, whereas most are left to survive alone with children to care for and no one to care for them.

 

That’s where we stepped in.

 

What started as a podcast to educate widows on their legal rights became a national movement. From online awareness to real-life action, we mobilized a Walkathon that inspired everyday Nigerians to walk in solidarity. We weren’t just raising voices—we were raising support to echo the pain of disadvantaged widows.

 

But awareness was never enough. We listened to the cries behind the silence. And we acted.

 

With the help of five FMCG brands, we delivered:

 

Food relief and healthcare to 412 widows across Lagos, Ogun, and Anambra

Seed funding and financial empowerment for over 20 women to start their own businesses

Free healthcare for 202 widows

169 children back in school

Seven impactful podcast episodes reaching over 51,000 listeners

A sustainable skill-building initiative, Art Piece of Hope, teaching widows tie & dye fabric making for long-term income

 

These are not just numbers, they are stories of resilience

 

This campaign gave them more than resources gave them back hope, dignity, and a future.

 

And then came the win.

 

At the Pitcher Awards 2025, The Repression of Widowhood was honored with:

 

🏆 Silver for Societal Impact in Effectiveness Category – This category celebrates the measurable impact of creative work. Entries in the Societal Impact subcategory demonstrate how the campaign drove tangible results, was instrumental to cultural change, social change, environmental change or was integral to achieving a brand’s purpose.

 

🏆 Bronze for Non-Profit Organizations in Pitcher for Good Category – This subcategory recognizes communication or initiative that addresses social or environmental issues created by non-profit organizations or a partnership between a for-profit organization and non-profit organization.

 

A proud moment for the CBA Foundation, digitXplus, and for every widow whose life was touched.

“This recognition is for every woman who thought her story had ended. It’s a reminder that we see you, we hear you, and we will keep fighting for you.”

Chinwe Bode Akinwande, Founder – CBA Foundation

 

“It’s not every day you get to be in the forefront of a vision that truly changes lives. We’re proud of this win, but even prouder of the impact.”

Damilola Popoola, Head of Strategy – digitXplus

This wasn’t just a campaign, it was a commitment to justice. to humanity. to lasting change. And we’re not stopping here. We’re walking for hope—until every widow stands tall again.