COVER

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Expert Urges Journalists To Prioritize Regular Health Checks

Seating from left: Boluwatife Ibrahim (Digital Marketing Officer), AIICO Insurance Plc; Dr. Monday Ashibogwu; Mrs. Nkechi Naeche-Esezobor (Chairperson), Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE); Ademola Adenekan (Senior Manager, Marketing Communication), AIICO Insurance Plc; and Mrs. Ebere Nwoji, (Editor, Insurance and Pension), ThisDay Newspapers; and other members of NAIPE, during a one day training workshop organised by AIICO Insurance for NAIPE members in Lagos recently.

Amaka Obiefuna

Media professionals have been advised to adopt regular medical checkups as a proactive measure to safeguard their health and ensure early detection and management of potential health issues.

Speaking during a health talk session at a training organized by AIICO Insurance Plc for members of the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE) recently in Lagos, Dr. Ademola Osokoya, Assistant Manager at AIICO Multishield Limited, emphasized the importance of routine health assessments.

“Regular medical checks help individuals understand their health status, which is crucial for timely intervention and effective management of any health condition,” Dr. Osokoya noted.

He encouraged journalists and other professionals to leverage available health insurance options to access quality healthcare services.

Introducing the AIICO Multishield Health Insurance Plan, Dr. Osokoya described it as a comprehensive and accessible solution tailored to meet the diverse healthcare needs of individuals, families, small businesses, and corporate organizations.

He said the Multishield Plan offers flexible coverage tiers that include in-patient and out-patient services, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, maternity care, and emergency treatment, all at affordable premiums.

He noted that a standout feature of the plan is its broad network of accredited healthcare providers across Nigeria, enabling enrollees to access top-quality medical facilities nationwide.

In line with efforts to expand healthcare access for Nigerians, he added that AIICO has extended the plan’s benefits to informal sector workers and underserved populations.

“By collaborating with cooperatives, trade unions, and grassroots organizations, the company is contributing to the national push for Universal Health Coverage and supporting more Nigerians in securing reliable healthcare.

“Technology plays a central role in the Multishield offering, with digital platforms enabling seamless enrollment, claims tracking, and policy management. This integration enhances customer experience by providing transparency, reducing administrative delays, and building trust.

The Multishield Plan is fully compliant with the standards set by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), underscoring AIICO’s commitment to regulatory standards, service excellence, and integrity. Beyond medical coverage, the plan aims to deliver peace of mind by shielding individuals and families from the financial impact of unforeseen health emergencies.

With this initiative, AIICO Insurance Plc reinforces its dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and affordability for all Nigerians, while encouraging professionals—especially in the media—to take charge of their health through preventive care and insurance coverage.

by Online Poster — October 8, 2025 in News

OADDA Proffers Solutions to Devastating Flood in Omabala Region.

By Ebele Ofodile

The Old Anambra District

Development Association (OADDA) has proposed several solutions to mitigate the annual flooding in the Omabala region of Anambra State.

It includes, the dredging of River Niger and Omabala River to increase their capacity and prevent overflow.

This would help contain more water during flood seasons and reduce the risk of flooding in surrounding communities.

Constructing a dam on the River Niger to regulate water flow and prevent flooding.

This dam could also be used for hydroelectric power generation, providing energy for the region and creating jobs for youths.

Improving physical infrastructure, such as roads, to enhance connectivity and facilitate economic development in the region. Specifically, OADDA highlighted the need for urgent attention on the Onitsha-Anaku-Omasi road and the Otuocha-Umueze Anam-Nzam-Oroma Etiti-Inoma road.

OADDA is ensuring that the local community benefits from oil and gas activities in the area, including employment opportunities for youths.

The OADDA’s efforts align with previous initiatives by the Anambra State Government to mitigate flooding. In 2024, the state government collaborated with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to develop a flood-resilient plan for the state.

Additionally, UNICEF has provided life-saving assistance to flood-affected families in Anambra State, highlighting the need for sustained support and intervention in the region.

by Online Poster — October 8, 2025 in News

Tinubu Appoints Thompson Sunday As NDIC Chief

By Fidelia Okafor

Dr. Thompson Oludare Sunday.In a move that underscores his administration’s resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s financial stability architecture, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Dr. Thompson Oludare Sunday as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC). The Senate confirmed his appointment on 25th July 2025, marking the beginning of a new phase for the nation’s foremost deposit protection institution.

A distinguished financial strategist and regulatory expert, Dr. Sunday brings over three decades of robust experience in banking supervision, financial sector reforms, and policy development. His professional journey began in 1989 at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), where he dedicated 24 uninterrupted years to banking supervision – a feat that underscores his consistency, discipline, and institutional loyalty.

Throughout his career, Dr. Sunday demonstrated uncommon leadership in the formulation of key financial policies that have shaped Nigeria’s banking landscape. He chaired the Bank-wide Committee for the Review and Drafting of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020 and contributed to the development of landmark frameworks, including the Code of Corporate Governance and the regulatory blueprint for Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs).

He was also a pivotal member of the CBN/NDIC Technical Committee on Problem Banks, the 2004-2005 Banking Sector Consolidation Committee, and the 2009 Banking Sector Reform team. His influence extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, serving on the Expert Committee for the Harmonisation of Risk-Based Supervision Frameworks within the West African Monetary Zone.

Between February 2023 and January 2024, he represented the CBN as Independent External Examiner at Heritage Bank, participating at both board and executive levels – an assignment that further cemented his reputation for regulatory depth and strategic insight.

Dr. Sunday’s exemplary service earned him several recognitions, including the CBN Board’s Commendation in 2009 for Outstanding Performance and Integrity during the critical Banking Sector Reforms. Earlier in his career, he was named Best Staff of the Banking Supervision Department in 2001.

His academic laurels mirror his professional excellence. A First-Class graduate of Business Administration (Finance) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1985), he also earned an MBA from the same institution in 1988 and a Doctorate in Management from St. Clements University in 2009. His brilliance was recognised early with the Federal Government Merit Award for Academic Excellence and the prize for Best Graduating Student in his department.

A member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and a Doctoral Fellow of the Institute of Professional Financial Managers, Dr. Sunday is widely regarded as an advocate of sound corporate governance, financial prudence, and institutional capacity building.

With his appointment, industry observers anticipate a renewed emphasis on depositor protection, financial inclusion, and risk-based supervision within the NDIC. Analysts note that his extensive background in regulatory policy positions him to steer the corporation toward global best practices while strengthening public trust in Nigeria’s banking system.

by Online Poster — October 8, 2025 in Insurance and Pension

With Valuation Of Over N1.6tn, SEC, Stakeholders Eye More Investments In Non-Interest Capital Market

…Plans Conference To Unlock Ethical Financing For Nigeria’s Prosperity

Amaka Obiefuna

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has disclosed that Nigeria’s non-interest capital market has grown significantly, reaching a valuation of over ₦1.6tn, a milestone it says signals growing investor confidence and deepening participation in ethical finance.

The Director-General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, announced this on Monday during a joint press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 7th African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF), scheduled to hold in Lagos on November 4 and 5, 2025.

The conference, jointly organized by the SEC, the Metropolitan Law Firm, and Metropolitan Skills Ltd., is themed “Africa Emerging: A Prosperous and Inclusive Outlook.”

It aims to promote ethical financing as a viable tool for building a resilient and inclusive African economy.

Agama described the upcoming conference as “strategically positioned” to coincide with the conclusion of the Revised Nigerian Capital Market Masterplan (2021–2025), adding that it would serve as a platform for charting the next phase of sustainable financial development across the continent.

“This year’s theme is a call to action, it’s about harnessing ethical finance as a tool to build a more prosperous and equitable Africa,” he said.

According to him, the Nigerian non-interest market has shown remarkable momentum, with Sukuk dominating the sector.

He revealed that the last Sukuk issuance was oversubscribed by over 700 percent, underscoring the growing investor appetite for non-interest products and confidence in the regulatory framework.

“The non-interest capital market has attained a valuation of ₦1.6tn. The overwhelming subscription to our Sukuk issuances demonstrates strong investor confidence and an expanding demand for ethical financial instruments,” Agama said.

He explained that the enactment of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 provides a strengthened legal foundation for non-interest financial products, empowering the SEC to register non-interest collective investment schemes and broaden the range of instruments available to investors.

“The new Act is a game-changer,” he noted. “It modernizes our regulatory framework, enhances transparency, and gives investors the confidence needed to engage more deeply with ethical finance.”

Agama stated that the AICIF will feature high-level discussions on unlocking capital for Africa’s infrastructure, green and ethical investments, agricultural financing, and the role of fintech in transforming Islamic finance.

The sessions, he said, are designed to produce practical solutions to some of the continent’s most pressing development challenges.

“This is not just another conference. It is a problem-solving platform that will deliver actionable strategies to drive new investment flows and inform future regulatory policy,” he emphasized.

The SEC boss added that the conference will bring together regulators, senior financial executives, scholars, and representatives of development finance institutions to collaborate on innovative policy frameworks.

According to him, promoting financial inclusion will be a key focus area, ensuring that ethical finance becomes a driver of prosperity for individuals and businesses alike.

“The insights generated will help shape the next phase of our capital market’s growth, ensuring it remains a strong engine for Nigeria’s economic development,” he said.

Agama underscored that the AICIF aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting sustainability, inclusivity, and transparency in the financial system.

He described ethical finance as a critical component of Nigeria’s long-term economic transformation plan, capable of funding infrastructure, empowering communities, and stimulating small and medium-scale enterprises.

“The 7th AICIF is a premier forum dedicated to advancing non-interest and ethical finance across Africa. It represents a shared commitment to building a financial ecosystem that is prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable,” he said.

He urged stakeholders and the media to actively participate in the Lagos conference, describing it as “a defining moment for Nigeria’s financial sector and a blueprint for Africa’s economic rebirth.”

Also speaking, Ummahani Amin, Managing Partner, Metropolitan Law Firm & Chairman, AICIF 2025 Planning Committee said that AICIF has grown into one of the most important gatherings for policymakers, regulators, investors, scholars, and innovators who share a common goal to advance ethical, inclusive, and sustainable finance in Africa.

She said, “This year, we are especially proud of our strategic partnership with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigeria’s highest regulator in the capital market. This collaboration underscores our shared vision to strengthen the Islamic finance ecosystem, deepen investor confidence, and support innovation that aligns with integrity and shared prosperity.

“This year’s conference comes at a critical time — as Africa continues to explore innovative, ethical, and sustainable pathways to finance development.”

She said Islamic finance has proven to be one of the fastest-growing segments of the global financial system, and AICIF provides a unique platform to bring together policymakers, regulators, scholars, investors, and practitioners to shape that future here on the continent.

Beyond the conference sessions, Amin said the partners will also be celebrating excellence and innovation through its Awards Night, as well as unveiling the winners of the AICIF Pitch Competition, a platform designed to spotlight young entrepreneurs and innovative ideas that can shape the future of Islamic finance in Africa.

by Online Poster — October 7, 2025 in Capital Market

Forgery Scandal: Carry Your Cross, Enugu Govt Tells Minister Uche Nnaji

LarryBravo Nwaiwu

The Enugu State Government has denied sponsoring allegations of certificate forgery against the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, urging him to “carry his cross” and clear his name before Nigerians.

The government, in a press statement issued in Enugu on Monday by the Director of Information in the Ministry of Information and Communication, Mr. Chukwuemeka Nebo, said it had no hand whatsoever in the controversies surrounding the Minister’s academic records.

“The Enugu State Government dissociates itself completely from these allegations. The Honourable Minister must carry his own cross and clear his name before Nigerians, instead of dragging the government into issues that are entirely personal to him,” Mr. Nebo declared.

The Director of Information recalled that Chief Nnaji had invited journalists to a world press conference scheduled for Monday at 2:00 pm to address the matter, but failed to show up.

“A large number of Nigerian and international journalists reportedly gathered on the Minister’s invitation to hear directly from him. But rather than appear before them to answer questions and establish his innocence, the Minister absconded, leaving behind proxies who could not withstand the barrage of legitimate questions from journalists.

“Who can narrate Chief Nnaji’s UNN story better than him? Why invite the media, only to outsource the conference? Why send third parties, who lack the answers to critical questions, if he truly has nothing to hide?” Mr. Nebo queried.

“Did he, for his screening, present a purported degree certificate to the Senate showing that he graduated from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), in July 1985?

“Is it true that he deposed in a Federal High Court filing in Abuja that he was not issued any degree certificate by UNN and, if so, how did he come about the degree certificate he presented to the Senate?

“Is it also true that while he claims to have graduated in July 1985, he applied to the university to retake Virology (Course code: MCB 431) in the September 1985 Supplementary Examination, having failed the course?

“Is it also true that the university, in a November 8, 1985 letter, informed Uche Nnaji that he again failed Virology (Course code: MCB 431) in the Supplementary Examinations, but could register to retake the course in the June 1986 examinations, provided he paid an examination fee of N4.00 (Four naira)?

“Is it true that on January 3, 1986, he again applied to retake the Virology (Course code: MCB 431) examination in June 1986, stating in his letter that the receipt for the payment of the N4.00 (Four Naira) resit fee had been attached?

“Is it true that while he claims to be in possession of a university degree, he only submitted his Secondary School WASC Certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for his participation in the 2023 governorship election?

“Why did Uche Nnaji’s proxy state at the Abuja press conference that the Minister “graduated”, while avoiding stating categorically that he was issued a degree certificate?

“Did he also present a purported NYSC discharge certificate showing that he commenced his national service in April 1985, three months before his supposed graduation, and served until July 1986 — an unusual duration of 13 months instead of the usual 12 months of national service?

“Whereas the CEO of the NYSC at the time he claimed to have undergone the national service was Col. Edet Akpan (January 1984 to December 1987), Uche Nnaji’s NYSC discharge certificate was signed by Col. Animashaun Braimoh, who was NYSC CEO from January 1988 to December 1990.

“Is it true that NYSC certificates issued up till October 1990 had six-digit numbering devoid of alphabetic characters, but Uche Nnaji’s discharge certificate, supposedly issued in 1986, was numbered A231309, which includes the alphabet ‘A’?

“And above all, is it a fact that he deposed to an affidavit in the suit he filed in court that UNN did not issue him any certificate? And if that is the case, Nigerians want to know how he came about the certificate he submitted to the Senate of his own free will in 2023.

“These are the clarifications Nigerians earnestly yearn for, and Chief Uche Nnaji is urged to brave up to clear his name, if he is truly innocent, rather than trading blames,” Nebo stressed.

by Online Poster — October 7, 2025 in News

Vice President Kashim Shettima Commends Shell Investments At Nigeria Economic Summit

Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Ministers and other distinguished dignitaries at Shell’s exhibition booth during the Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja… on Monday

L-R: Business Value Manager, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, Chidi Nkazi; Vice President, Kashim Shettima and Shell’s General Manager, Corporate Relations, Abukakar Ahmed visiting Shell’s exhibition booth during the Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja… on Monday

Amaka Obiefuna

Vice President Kashim Shettima today commended the investments of Shell in Nigeria as he visited the company’s exhibition stand at the opening of the 31^stNigerian Economic Summit (NES) in Abuja.

The exhibition complements the participation of Shell in the summit and features the operations of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd (SNEPCo), Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG), All On and Daystar Power.

Vice President Shettima who had earlier declared the summit open on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,was briefed on the contributions of the companies to the economic development of Nigeria, especially the energy sector.

Accompanied by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the Minister of Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole and the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Vice President Shettima said he was impressed with the investments of Shell in deep-water including the $5-billion Bonga North development. Work on the project is in progress following the FID which was taken early last year.

Business Value Manager Chidi Nkazi, who conducted the VIPs round the exhibition stand, also highlighted the impact of Shell’s social investments in health, education and employment generation. “Every year our operations generate revenues which are used to finance development,” Chidi said, adding; “In 2024 alone, Shell Companies in Nigeria paid $1.209 billion in taxes and royalties to the Federal Government.”

by Online Poster — October 7, 2025 in News

Collecting Now Exhibition : Yemisi Shyllon Museum Of Art Presents Its Second Edition

Participating Collectors and Exhibition Insurance Partner at the Opening Event of Collecting Now 1. L-R Mr Adeniyi Adenubi, Mrs. Eyamba Dafinone, Mr. Stanley Evans, Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman, Dr. Jess Castellote

Works on Display at the Olori Funmilayo Exhibition Gallery of the YSMA

By Winifred Bosa

The Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University, is proud to announce the public unveiling of the second edition of its landmark exhibition, Collecting Now.

Opening on October 11, 2025, the exhibition presents 90 significant works on loan from six distinguished Nigerian collectors – Olufemi Akinsanya, Ifeyinwa Momah, Tayo Odunsi, Nonso Okpala, Bimpe Nkontchou and Yemi Ogunbiyi – offering audiences privileged access to a diverse range of traditional, modern and contemporary art rarely seen outside private collections.

Following the success of its maiden edition in 2024, Collecting Now has become an important platform for highlighting the practice of art collecting in Nigeria and its role in sustaining the country’s cultural and creative economy. Featuring works across painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media, the exhibition illuminates the interplay between individual taste and collective heritage.

This year’s showcase is particularly notable for spotlighting two women collectors whose perspectives illustrate the multifaceted power of collecting—as a way of living and as an act of advocacy.

“The Collecting Now series reinforces YSMA’s role as a pioneering institution that brings private visions into public spaces,” said Dr. Jess Castellote, Director of the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art. “We are not only presenting exceptional works of art but also shaping a critical conversation about collecting as a cultural practice that ensures continuity, strengthens our art ecosystem, and connects Nigeria’s artistic legacy with future generations.”

Reflecting on her participation in the exhibition, one of the featured collectors, Ifeyinwa Momah, shared: “For me, art is everyday living—it fills my spaces, shapes my memories, and inspires how I see the world. This exhibition is deeply meaningful because it allows these personal experiences to be encountered publicly, sparking conversations that affirm the value of art in our daily lives. I am proud to stand alongside fellow collectors in sharing our journeys through this platform at YSMA.”

The exhibition enjoys the continued support of Ark Insurance Brokers, who, for the second time, are sponsoring the insurance of the entirety of works on display.

Their renewed partnership underscores their position as a leading brokerage provider for the arts in Nigeria, with a longstanding commitment to supporting culture and creativity alongside their broader insurance expertise.

“Our partnership with YSMA for Collecting Now reflects our enduring belief that Nigerian art is a national treasure worthy of world-class protection,” remarked Kayode Awogboro, Managing Director of Ark Insurance Group. “As a trusted name in insurance, we take pride in safeguarding collections of immense cultural value, while affirming our commitment to the arts as part of the fabric of society.”

Through this initiative, YSMA affirms its position as a pioneering institution dedicated to advancing cultural scholarship, deepening public access to art, and celebrating the vision of Nigerian collectors as curators and preservers of history and heritage.

The general public is invited to see Collecting Now II between October 11, 2025 to February 9, 2026 at the Olori Funmilayo Shyllon Exhibition Gallery of the YSMA at Pan-Atlantic University.

by Online Poster — October 7, 2025 in Education

Court Strikes Out Ismaila Isa Funtua’s Suit Against 9mobile

The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a suit filed by businessman Abubakar Ismaila Isa Funtua, who alleged that his 43 million shares were transferred without his consent to Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Limited (EMTS), operators of 9mobile.

Delivering judgment in the case marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1971/2024 on September 24, 2025, Justice Mohammed Umar held that Isa, the lone plaintiff, lacked the locus standi (legal capacity) to institute the action against the nine defendants.

The defendants in the case were: Seltrix Limited, Hayatu Hassan Hadejia, Teleology Nigeria Limited, Mohammed Edewor, EMTS, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), LH Telecommunication Limited, and General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma.

Isa, through his counsel Femi Atteh, SAN, had commenced the suit on December 27, 2024, seeking 11 reliefs, including a declaration that he was the beneficial owner of the disputed shares allegedly held in trust for him by Seltrix Ltd in Teleology Nigeria Ltd.

However, the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 8th, and 9th defendants, represented by Michael Aondakaa, SAN, C.I. Okpoko, SAN, R.O. Atabo, SAN, A.T. Kohol, Esq., and C.C. Ogbonna, Esq., filed a joint preliminary objection dated February 5, 2025, urging the court to dismiss the case for want of jurisdiction and as an abuse of court process.

After reviewing arguments from all parties, Justice Umar upheld the objection, ruling that Isa failed to show any legal interest in the subject matter.

Justice Umar held: “I carefully perused the said exhibit to see if the allegation of the Plaintiff is substantiated, I did not find any. Nowhere was there any figure of the 43,000,000 million ordinary shares held in trust for the Plaintiff by the 1st Defendant mentioned.

“In fact, the 2nd Defendant denied any business dealings with the Plaintiff and these facts were not controverted by the Plaintiff. The said exhibits cannot by any imagination constitute a trust to confer locus standi on the Plaintiff. The said exhibits were tendered by the Plaintiff, but nowhere did it link the Plaintiff to his claims to enable him to institute an action on the facts alleged therein.”

Furthermore, the court held that the plaintiff failed to establish the facts he asserted and to link his claims to the exhibits he himself tendered by virtue of averment in this suit.

“I find that the Objectors have adequately countered the said exhibits in their reply on points of law in tandem with the law that failure to respond to a counter affidavit is deemed to be an admission,” Justice Umar held.

In the final analysis, the judge added: “I resolve the issue of locus standi against the Plaintiff, and the law is that where a Plaintiff has been adjudged to lack locus standi, it does not matter what other issues have been raised for determination in the suit.”

The court noted that since the Plaintiff lacked the capacity to institute the action, there was no need to make a pronouncement on grounds two to nine (2-9) of the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 8th and 9th Defendants’ Notice of Preliminary Objections, which included claims that the suit was statute-barred, incompetent, and that Isa was a “meddlesome interloper” seeking to frustrate the operations of EMTS.

“I therefore make an Order striking out this action for lack of locus standi of the Plaintiff. This is the Order of this Court,” the judge added.

The case was marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1971/2024.

by Online Poster — October 7, 2025 in News

Fidelity Bank Commences Disbursement Of FGN MSME Intervention Funds: Reaffirms Support For Women Entrepreneurs

Amaka Obiefuna

Tier One Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has commenced the disbursement of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s (FGN) MSME Intervention Funds, administered by the Bank of Industry (BOI), to qualified SMES with a strategic focus on empowering women-owned businesses across the country.

The FGN MSME Intervention Fund is designed to provide accessible financing to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across all 36 states of the federation.

The intervention aligns with Fidelity Bank’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and its long-standing support for Nigeria’s SME sector. In this phase of the disbursement, the bank is prioritizing women entrepreneurs, reinforcing its belief in the catalytic role of women-led enterprises in driving sustainable development and job creation.

Speaking on the development, Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank Plc, said, “As a bank deeply committed to the growth of SMEs, we are proud to partner with the Federal Government and the Bank of Industry on this critical intervention. For this phase, we are placing women at the forefront because we recognize their resilience, innovation, and pivotal contributions to wealth creation and employment generation in Nigeria.”

Fidelity Bank has also put in place a robust structure to ensure seamless onboarding and fund disbursement. Leveraging its nationwide branch network, digital banking platforms, and experienced relationship managers, the bank is poised to reach and support entrepreneurs across urban and rural communities.

The bank’s emergence as a critical player in the disbursement of the FGN MSME intervention Fund strongly aligns with its ongoing initiatives as the leading supporter of SMEs in Nigeria. Recently, the Fidelity SME Empowerment Programme (FSEP) was launched at its Gbagada SME Hub in Lagos.

This flagship initiative provided 100 growth-ready SMEs with ERPRev-enabled POS systems, business software, receipt printers, barcode scanners, inventory support, bookkeeping and branding training, three-day masterclasses, and six months of post-installation monitoring—all at no cost.
Earlier in May 2025, Fidelity Bank also signed an MoU with SMEDAN, Nigeria’s Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency, to deliver SME-friendly low-interest financing, capacity-building support, and market access for SMEs referred under the agreement.

“Our vision goes beyond financing. We are building an ecosystem of support for SMEs by offering capacity-building programs, mentorship opportunities, and market access. Women entrepreneurs, in particular, will benefit from a larger share of the fund as part of our broader strategy to promote gender inclusion,”Ede added.

The FGN MSME Intervention Fund will further advance the bank’s commitment to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises by expanding access to affordable financing and strategic support. Through this fund, Fidelity Bank aims to deepen its impact on Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem, fostering sustainable growth, job creation, and economic resilience across the country.

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 the 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

by Online Poster — October 7, 2025 in Capital Market

Polaris Bank Reaffirms Commitment To Service Excellence As Customer Service Week Kicks Off

Amaka Obiefuna

Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to deepen delivery of exceptional customer experiences as it joins institutions across the world to celebrate 2025 Customer Service Week, themed “Mission: Possible.”

The annual global event, which runs from today Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 10, is dedicated to recognising the vital role of customer service professionals and the value they bring to customers and businesses alike.

Speaking to customers and staff, the Managing Director/CEO of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, emphasised that excellent service remains central to the Bank’s culture and success. He noted that while great service can sometimes seem like a challenge, it is always worth the effort.

According to him, Polaris Bank’s approach to service is anchored on consistency, thoughtfulness, and excellence, ensuring that customers experience genuine care and responsiveness in every interaction. Lawal expressed appreciation to customers for their trust and feedback, describing them as the reason Polaris Bank continues to push boundaries and innovate.

He reaffirmed Polaris Bank’s commitment to stand by its customers and deliver the kind of service they truly deserve every step of the way.

Throughout the week, Polaris Bank will host a variety of engaging activities across its branches and digital platforms to appreciate customers and recognise service champions within the Bank. These will include staff recognition events, customer appreciation sessions, and internal learning engagements aimed at deepening service excellence.

Customer Service Week is celebrated globally in the first full week of October to honour the importance of service excellence and the professionals who make it possible. For Polaris Bank, it represents yet another opportunity to celebrate its people and customers, while reinforcing that with dedication and teamwork, great service is always a Mission Possible.

by Online Poster — October 6, 2025 in Capital Market