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NNPCL Alleges Co-ordinated Sabotage Campaign Against its Leadership

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has uncovered an emerging co-ordinated sabotage campaign being waged by a syndicate of known and faceless actors, both outside and within various levels of the organisation.

This group is actively spreading lies and misinformation simply to discredit NNPC Ltd’s leadership and derail the organisation’s ongoing transformation into a corruption-free, performance-driven energy company, in line with the mandate of His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Their tactics include planting scandalous and fabricated reports, curated to distract leadership, mislead the public, and undermine the commitment of our dedicated workforce and reform-minded Nigerians.

These are calculated efforts by those who feel threatened by reform, transparency, accountability, and change—clear evidence of the lengths to which they will go to obstruct the transformation of Nigeria’s foremost energy institution.

We expect a surge of defamatory content in the days and weeks ahead. NNPC Ltd. remains undeterred. The transformation is underway, and no amount of sabotage will stop it.

We urge our dedicated staff, stakeholders, and all patriotic Nigerians to stay focused, ignore the noise and not be discouraged. We remain on mission.

 

 

 

NNPCL Alleges Co-ordinated Sabotage Campaign Against its Leadership

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has uncovered an emerging co-ordinated sabotage campaign being waged by a syndicate of known and faceless actors, both outside and within various levels of the organisation.

This group is actively spreading lies and misinformation simply to discredit NNPC Ltd’s leadership and derail the organisation’s ongoing transformation into a corruption-free, performance-driven energy company, in line with the mandate of His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Their tactics include planting scandalous and fabricated reports, curated to distract leadership, mislead the public, and undermine the commitment of our dedicated workforce and reform-minded Nigerians.

These are calculated efforts by those who feel threatened by reform, transparency, accountability, and change—clear evidence of the lengths to which they will go to obstruct the transformation of Nigeria’s foremost energy institution.

We expect a surge of defamatory content in the days and weeks ahead. NNPC Ltd. remains undeterred. The transformation is underway, and no amount of sabotage will stop it.

We urge our dedicated staff, stakeholders, and all patriotic Nigerians to stay focused, ignore the noise and not be discouraged. We remain on mission.

Fidelity Bank Promotes 12% of Workforce, Increases Salaries by 20%

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Fidelity Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s top-tier financial institutions, has promoted 376 employees following its recently concluded annual performance review exercise.

This represents approximately 12% of the bank’s workforce, underscoring its management’s deep appreciation for the pivotal role played by staff in recoding the highest growth by percentage volumes in the banking industry with 210% increase in its Profit Before Tax (PBT) which grew from N124.3 billion in 2023 to N385.2 billion in 2024.

The announcement, which was recently communicated internally, comes on the heels of a 20% across-the-board salary increase implemented in June 2025—a gesture that reflects the bank’s commitment to staff welfare. It is worth noting that this follows a similar salary adjustment carried out in November 2024.

Under the leadership of Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Fidelity Bank has consistently outperformed market expectations. In 2024, the bank recorded the highest share price growth of 116% in the industry following the completion of its Public Offer which was over-subscribed by 238%.

In recognition of the banks stellar performance, global rating agency, Fitch Ratings recently upgraded Fidelity Bank’s National Long-Term Rating from ‘A(nga)’ to ‘A+(nga)’ in a further endorsement of the bank’s financial strength and prudent management.

The upgraded rating reflects improved profitability metrics and robust capital buffers, reinforcing the bank’s sustained upward trajectory.

Fidelity Bank MD Not Part of Woobs Case

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Reports published by Sahara Reporters on June 25 claimed that Fidelity Bank’s MD, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe was a party to an ongoing case involving fraud on Woobs Resources account with the bank.

This is however not true. The charge sheet dated 12 May 2025 (sighted by this reporter) stated that the Defendants in the suit were Victor Ukutt, Esq, Fidelity Bank Plc, Whoba Ugwunna Ogo and Safiya Whoba.

It will be recalled that the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice issued a press release on 9 June 2025 explaining that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s name was struck off the charge as she was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director of the Bank when the account used in the alleged scheme of fraud was opened.

 

NCDMB, Dangote Refinery Inaugurate Joint Committee to Deepen Local Content

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The Executive Secretary NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe presenting the certificate of the Nigerian Content Downstream Operator of the Year Award won by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical Company at the inaugural Champions of Nigerian Content Awards to President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote on Tuesday.

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical Company on Tuesday inaugurated a Joint Technical Committee (JTC) aimed at advancing local content implementation during the operational phase of the 650,000 barrels per day refinery plant.

The inauguration ceremony which took place on Tuesday at the Dangote Free Trade Zone, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State marks a pivotal moment in fostering strategic collaboration between both institutions and is a significant move to reinforce local content development in the oil and gas sector.

The ceremony presided over by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, and the Group Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Group, Chief Edwin Devakumar featured the formal sign-off of the Committee’s Terms of Reference (ToR), a guided tour of the refinery, other critical facilities, and the official commencement of the JTC’s responsibilities.

The visit also featured the presentation of the certificate of the Nigerian Content Downstream Operator of the Year Award won by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical Company at the inaugural Champions of Nigerian Content Awards held recently in May.

The Executive Secretary NCDMB made the presentation to the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who expressed delight at the recognition, noting that he would display the certificate proudly at his office.

Engr. Ogbe congratulated the Dangote Group on the successful development and commissioning of the largest single train refinery in the world, as well as petrochemical and fertiliser plants, describing the projects as a “historic milestone” not only for Nigeria but for the entire continent.

He emphasised that the Dangote Refinery stands as a testament to the success of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act of 2010 and the transformative potential of Nigerian-led industrial projects.

“At an optimal daily production capacity of 650,000 barrels, this refinery will significantly enhance Nigeria’s energy security and contribute to the supply of refined petroleum products across West Africa,” the Executive Secretary stated. “Nigerians, have to own the plant, we have to make sure that the plant works well. We have to secure it, we have to maintain it,” he said.

NCDMB, he said, would continue to collaborate with Dangote Petroleum Refinery, while highlighting the need to ensure more value retention in the sector, as mandated by the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (NOGICD) 2010.

He demanded compliance with Sections 32 and 33 of the NOGICD Act, with particular reference to local manpower utilisation and requirements for NCDMB’s approval prior to the engagement of expatriates.

“The NOGICD Act stipulates that no expatriate can be employed in any organization in the oil and gas industry without the prior approval of the NCDMB. We will work with you. We have to protect jobs for Nigerians,” he said, while commending the company for training and employing Nigerian engineers.

“This collaboration must ensure qualified Nigerians are given opportunities across all operational roles. It is critical to job creation, skills development, and national capacity building in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he added.

The NCDMB boss also urged Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals to support its initiative aimed at developing oil and gas industrial parks across the country to foster local content and manufacturing in the oil and gas sector.

He explained that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Parks Scheme (NOGaPS) seeks to create an enabling environment for Small and Medium Enterprises in the sector. NOGaPS was conceived by the Board to develop facilities close to oil fields where manufacturing of oil and gas components, as well as research and development, can be carried out.

“We would like Dangote to support one of our major activities, which is the oil and gas industrial parks scheme. The parks are aimed at creating an enabling environment for SMEs in the industry to do fabrication, among others, and create more jobs for Nigerians,” Ogbe said.

In his welcome address, Chief Edwin Devakumar highlighted that the Dangote refinery project and NCDMB have been working together, promoting local content development during the construction stages of the project. “We can’t say we have achieved everything, but there is opportunity to do more,” he said.

“We are grateful to the NCDMB for all their support and advice. As entrepreneurs, we are trying to optimise costs. It is a Nigerian company; it is also an entrepreneur-driven company. As a Nigerian company, the focus will be on Nigerian content. As an entrepreneur-driven company, it will be cost-focused.

He underscored the long-standing commitment of the Dangote Group to national development and capacity building, remarking that the Group’s vision is to grow Nigeria’s industrial landscape.

The high point of the visit was the inauguration of the Committee’s members.

The Committee is tasked with ensuring the implementation of local content in refinery operations. Its core objectives include promoting the use of Nigerian skilled manpower, services, and locally sourced materials in compliance with Section 3 of the NOGICD Act. They will also support Dangote Refinery in aligning its operational procedures with the Act’s requirements.

In his acceptance remarks, Director of Corporate Services at NCDMB and chair of the Committee, Mr. Abdulmalik Halilu, expressed gratitude to the leadership of both organisations. He reiterated the Committee’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of local content enforcement and fostering measurable outcomes that will benefit the Nigerian economy.

 

NIMC Trains Corps Members for Nationwide NIN Ward Enrolment

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The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Development and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has commenced the training of selected Youth Corps members to drive National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment to all the wards in the Federation.

This initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of enrolling and issuing the NIN to all Nigerians and legal residents within the shortest time possible.

NIMC has enrolled and issued the NIN to over 120 million Nigerians and legal residents and, therefore, intends to cover hitherto unreachable areas through the Ward Enrolment initiative. The Corps members selected are currently undergoing intensive training in preparation for the kick-off of the ward enrollment.

Consequently, Nigerians, most especially children below the age of 16 years are by this initiative encouraged to enrol for the NIN in their respective wards. This initiative aims to take NIN enrolment closer to the people.

The NIMC DG/CEO, Engr (Dr) Abisoye Coker-Odusote lauded the immeasurable support of President Tinubu towards the achievements of the NIMC mandate.

She also appreciated the commendable efforts of the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande and the DG, NYSC, Brigade-General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu.

NAICOM Hosts Gambia Central Bank Delegation for Strategic Knowledge Exchange

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L-R: Nyang Madeleine Gomez, Leader of Gambia Central Bank delegation, Dr. Usman Jankara, NAICOM Deputy Commissioner, Technical, Drammeh Alieu, Mr. Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon, Deputy Commissioner, Finance and Administration.

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) recently welcomed a high-powered delegation from the Central Bank of The Gambia, led by Mr. Nyang Medeleine Gomez, on a strategic working visit aimed at fostering regulatory collaboration and exchanging knowledge in key areas of insurance supervision.

The primary focus of the visit was to study Nigeria’s regulatory approach in three critical areas:

*Risk-Based Supervision

*Prudential Frameworks

*Inclusive Insurance

Receiving the delegation on behalf of the Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, the Deputy Commissioner for Technical, Dr. Usman Jankara, alongside the Deputy Commissioner, Finance and Administration, Mr. Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon expressed NAICOM’s readiness for collaboration and mutual learning.

He described the engagement as a “knowledge-sharing visit,” noting that “no one regulator has all the answers,” and emphasised the importance of peer-to-peer learning in enhancing regulatory capacity across Africa.

In his remarks, Mr. Gomez explained that the visit was intended to:

 

* Understanding NAICOM’s implementation of a risk-based supervisory system to ensure a stable and resilient insurance sector

 

* Exploring strategies for expanding insurance access to underserved and low-income populations through inclusive insurance frameworks; and

 

*              Learn best practices in prudential regulation to safeguard policyholders’ interests and uphold public confidence in the insurance market.

In a detailed response, Dr. Jankara reaffirmed NAICOM’s commitment to supporting the Gambian delegation across all areas of interest.

He emphasised that Nigeria’s regulatory framework has evolved significantly, especially in corporate governance, where the Commission has moved from basic compliance to robust enforcement mechanisms.

He further noted that the newly passed Insurance Regulatory Bill, once it receives presidential assent, will contribute meaningfully to the current administration’s goal of achieving a one-trillion-dollar economy.

Jankara also highlighted NAICOM’s progress in promoting financial inclusion, citing the successful licensing of 15 microinsurance companies and 6 Takaful insurance providers, milestones that reflect growing insurance penetration.

He assured the visiting delegation that NAICOM would share its operational templates and regulatory manuals through the appropriate directorates, while continuing engagement with key departments, including Inspectorate, Supervision, and Innovation & Regulation.

 

 

 

Fidelity Bank Partners Ashoka Africa to Empower Young Innovators

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L-R: Co-President, Ashoka Africa, Angelou Ezeilo; Divisional Head, Product Development, Fidelity Bank Plc, Osita Ede; Team Lead, Retail Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc, Onyeka Kurume; Winners, Changemaker Idea Pitch-A-Thon, Abule-Eko Community Junior Grammar School Pupils, District 2, Ikorodu Lagos; their Teacher, Alabi Felix; Project Coach, Opeoluwa Jamiu; Branch Leader, Fidelity Bank Plc, Festac, Ethel Genesis; and Regional Director, Ashoka Anglophone, West Africa, Josephine Nzerem; at the Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival in Lagos recently.

As part of its commitment to youth empowerment and social impact, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has partnered with Ashoka, a global network of social entrepreneurs, to provide financial support and mentorship to young innovators across Nigeria.

Speaking at the 2025 Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival in Lagos, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank, Osita Ede, reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to youth empowerment, emphasising its place as a pillar of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy.

“Empowerment is at the core of everything Fidelity Bank stands for,” Ede said. “Creativity and innovation are fundamental to our brand essence and that is why we are excited to support these young changemakers. Listening to their ideas today just validates the investments we have made to foster entrepreneurship and creativity.”

Ede confirmed the bank’s willingness to continue funding and supporting the dreams of young people, adding that the bank plans to offer innovators access to its SME Hub’s resources and specialized master classes designed to nurture their growth.

“We are not just funding initiatives; we are creating an enabling environment where these young innovators can thrive. Our SME Hub will serve as a platform to guide and mentor these changemakers, helping them develop the right mindset and business acumen to succeed,” Ede stated.

On her part, Josephine Nzerem, Regional Director, Ashoka Anglophone West Africa & Director, Venture and Talent, Ashoka Africa, expressed her appreciation for the partnership.

“We are excited to move beyond being just Fidelity Bank’s clients to becoming true partners in the change making movement,” Nzerem stated. “Their continuous support which includes funding for awards and gift packs for young innovators, is vital for sustaining this journey. We celebrate not only the Changemakers but also the process of empowering young people to scale their impact and inspire others.”

The Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival celebrates bold ideas, youth leadership, and innovation. The 2025 edition unveiled nine remarkable changemakers poised to transform Nigeria’s future. Together, Fidelity Bank and Ashoka are creating opportunities for young innovators to turn their ideas into solutions that can transform their communities and the world.

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.

 

World Environment Day: Stakeholders at Unity Bank Webinar Demand Urgent Action on Plastic Pollution

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Environmental activists and climate change advocates seized the opportunity of a webinar hosted by Unity Bank to call for urgent and coordinated action to tackle Nigeria’s growing plastic pollution crisis, describing it as one of the greatest environmental threats facing the country today.

The call was made at the event marking this year’s World Environment Day facilitated by Unity Bank’s Sustainability Team to fashion out innovative strategies to curb plastic pollution in Nigeria in line with this year’s global theme: “Ending Plastic Pollution.”

In his remarks, Mr. Usman Abdulkadir, Executive Director, Risk Management, Unity Bank Plc, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to sustainability, adding that issues like plastic pollution carry deep risk implications for businesses and communities.

“Environmental degradation is increasingly a business risk, not just a corporate social concern,” Mr. Abdulkadir stated. “We must all begin to view environmental stewardship as a duty that cuts across sectors – finance, government, industry, and civil society. Unity Bank remains committed to integrating ESG principles into its risk frameworks and sustainability agenda.”

Guest speakers included leading waste management entrepreneurs and environmental activists such as Sunday Kolawole Sholanke, Co-founder/CEO of PETsPoint Recycling Nigeria, and Omoh Alokwe, Co-founder/CEO of Street Waste Company Limited.

Speaking at the Webinar, Mr. Sholanke decried the alarming volume of plastic waste in Nigeria, putting estimates on the country’s waste generation to about 596 million metric tonnes annually, with 88% of it neither reclaimed nor recycled.

“Nigeria ranks as the 9th highest contributor to global plastic pollution. Much of Nigeria’s plastic waste ends up in landfills, drainage systems, and water bodies, causing extensive environmental damage and posing serious health risks,” he explained.

He also shared startling global statistics: “Over one million plastic bottles and 10 million plastic bags are produced every minute. In 2020 alone, eight million tons of plastic bottles were produced globally, with less than 30% collected and under 10% recycled. The rest is dumped, burned, or abandoned in the environment, worsening risks of flooding, climate disruption, and disease.”

He identified poor waste management culture, low public awareness, and lack of community collection infrastructure as major factors aggravating the Nigeria’s plastic waste crisis.

Calling on the financial services sector to be more proactive, Sholanke urged Banks to invest in green financing by increasing access to affordable credit for green businesses and eco-friendly initiatives.

Also speaking, Omoh Alokwe emphasised the role of regulators in strengthening enforcement and updating policy frameworks to reduce harmful practices that fuel the global plastic crisis.

Also speaking in the same vein, Mr. Ibukun Coker, Head of Strategy and Innovation at Unity Bank Plc emphasised the Bank’s commitment to sustainable practices and environmental protection, highlighting the role of the financial sector in driving meaningful change.

“Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue, it is an economic and public health crisis,” said Mr. Coker. “At Unity Bank, we believe that sustainability should be more than a policy; it must be embedded in how we operate, the projects we finance, and the partnerships we build.”

The webinar offered a platform for robust dialogue around sustainable actions and innovative solutions that can mitigate the escalating threat of plastic pollution and promote environmental protection.

Unity Bank has consistently championed environmental causes, including its annual Earth Day partnerships with non-profits such as RESWAYE to clean the Royal Beach in Elegushi, Lagos, part of its mission to protect marine ecosystems.

In its most recent Earth Day campaign, the Bank challenged every staff member across 32 states to plant a tree in their locality, driving a grassroots reforestation movement and reinforcing environmental awareness.

Fidelity Bank Uplifts Old People’s Home with Essential Items Donation

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L-R: Member, Nexus 2025 Inductee Class, Grace Bamigboje; Caregiver, Old People’s Home, Mrs Kebbi Orinowu; and Products Marketing Partner, Fidelity Bank Plc, Tolulope Rojaiye; at the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme Donation to Old People’s Home, Yaba, Lagos State recently.

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to corporate social responsibility with the donation of food and essential items to the Old People’s Home in Yaba, Lagos.

The donation was made possible through the generosity of the bank’s Nexus Inductees Class, under its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative known as the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).

Through the FHHP, staff across Fidelity Bank branches nationwide identify crucial interventions needed in their immediate community and raise funds to execute them. The bank’s management then matches this contribution with an equal amount and disburses it for the selected project.

Commenting on the donation, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, emphasised the bank’s unwavering commitment to impacting its host communities positively noting that the community is an essential part of the bank success story.

“Today’s donation is a token of our appreciation for our incredible parents and guardians who have raised outstanding individuals that trust us with their banking needs. Our donation to the Old People’s Home reflects our deep commitment to supporting the well-being and dignity of our senior citizens. We are honored to contribute to a cause that ensures they receive the care, comfort, and respect they deserve.” Nwagboh stated.

Appreciating the gesture from the bank, the Director-in-Charge of the Home in Yaba, Adetutu Ipaye, said: “Community support initiatives such as this from Fidelity Bank is vital to sustaining our mission and enhancing the quality of life for the elderly. We urge other organizations to follow in the Bank’s footsteps as this kind of support will go a long way to ensure that the elderly live with dignity and comfort.”

One of the beneficiaries from the home, Mr. Kamoru Adeyetu noted that, “your presence today has brought us immense joy, and our greatest happiness lies in seeing the younger generation thrive. Beyond the gifts, your visit means the world to us and please remember to visit us regularly.”

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 recognised 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.

NDSF 2025: Nigeria ICT Stakeholders Urged to Engage in WSIS Review Process

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Stakeholders in Nigeria’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector have been tasked to actively engage in the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) review process. This call was made by Dr. Jimson Olufuye, Principal Consultant at Kontemporary Konsulting Ltd and Chairman of the 2025 Nigeria DigitalSENSE Africa Forum on Internet Governance for Development.
The call was made during the forum held at the Nigeria DigitalSENSE Forum series, hosted by the internet corporation for assigned names and numbers (ICANN) certified At-Large Structure (ALS), DigitalSENSE Africa, under the Africa Regional At-Large Organization (AFRALO), is powered by ITREALMS Media.
The WSIS review aims to assess progress made since the summit’s initial outcomes in 2003 and 2005, focusing on key areas such as digital divides, internet governance, and sustainable development.
Olufuye also encouraged Nigeria’s ICT stakeholders to participate in the review process, sharing their experiences and insights to shape the country’s digital future.
By engaging in the WSIS review process, Olufuye who is member of the United Nations’ Multistakeholder Advisory Group, said, Nigeria’s ICT stakeholders could contribute to shaping the country’s digital landscape and ensuring that the benefits of technology are equitably distributed.
The stakeholders have also been urged to explore opportunities for collaboration and partnership to drive technological development and economic growth.
The WSIS review process, he underscored, is expected to culminate in future high-level events, where world leaders and ICT stakeholders will gather to review progress and outline future directions.
This event will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss key issues, such as digital divide, Internet Governance, cyber security among others.
In addition to fostering the Sustainable Development by leveraging digital technologies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
He recalls that some countries have already conducted WSIS reviews, providing valuable lessons and insights for Nigeria.
In 2015, he recalled that there was  a WSIS+10 Review by the UN General Assembly to conduct a ten-year review of the WSIS outcomes, which reaffirmed the WSIS principles and called for a further review by the Assembly in 2025, hence countries like Nigeria should take the review seriously.
Olufuye further pointed out that by participating in the WSIS review process, Nigeria’s ICT stakeholders could help shape the country’s digital future and ensure that the benefits of technology are equitably distributed.
Welcoming participants earlier, the Lead Consulting Strategist, DigitalSENSE Africa and Group of ITREALMS Media group, Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke noted that the 16th annual forum began since 2009, which has continued to rally Internet stakeholders to address challenges in Internet Governance, security, and socio-economic impact, focusing on students, youth, women, and community-based organisations.
Focus, this year, he said, was on the Global Digital Compact (GDC), a globally significant UN initiative that demands global effort and urged Nigeria to take lead in this transformation, at least from the African continent.
“The GDC calls us to commit to bridging digital divides, inclusive digital economy, open, safe, and secure digital space; international data governance and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to name a few,” he said.
Nweke also appreciated participation of esteemed speakers, including Dr. Jimson Olufuye, Mr. Muhammed Rudman, Mr. Gbenga Sesan and Mrs. Tinuade Oguntuyi, among others.
NDSF 2025, he said, was hosted in partnership with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) via the African At-Large Regional Organisation (AFRALO), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Internet Society Nigeria chapter, NLNG, NNPCL, Digital Realty, and Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), among others.

NLNG Science Quiz Competition 2025: Community Secondary School, Igboh Etche, Emerge Winner

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Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s GM, External Relations & Sustainable Development, cheering Udoka Delight and Uguta Emmanuel of Community Secondary School, Igbo Etche, Champions of the 2025 NLNG Science Quiz Competition after receiving their award in Port Harcourt on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

Eight schools reached the climax of the 2025 NLNG Science Quiz Competition on Saturday, showcasing brilliance, speed, and scientific prowess in a fiercely contested finale, with Community Scondary School, Igboh Etche, emerging victorious over seven other schools to clinch the championship.

Held in Port Harcourt, the competition drew students from across Rivers State in a bid to crown this year’s top science students under the theme “Renewable Energy Solutions.”

After rounds of intense intellectual display, Community Secondary School, Igboh Etche emerged as the winner in the Senior Secondary (SS 2) category. Their victory marked the conclusion of a rigorous three-phase contest comprising the Championship, Science Project Exhibition, and Grand Finale. The school distinguished itself through accuracy, composure, and a strong grasp of science concepts related to clean energy.

In the Science Project Exhibition, Oginigba Comprehensive Secondary School, Oginigba, secured the top position, followed by Bonny National Grammar School (Senior) in second place, and Community Secondary School, Kira Tai, in third place.

In the Senior Secondary 1 (SS1) category, the competition concluded at the Championship stage. Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori, Khana claimed the top position, while Niger Delta Science School, Obio/Akpor, secured second place, and Government Secondary School, Abua, came third after a closely contested challenge among peers from across Rivers State.

The remaining finalists in the competition included Government Secondary School, Eneka (4th); Niger Delta Science School, Obio/Akpor (5th), Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Port Harcourt (6th), Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori, Khana (7th) and Government Secondary School, Abua (8th).

Speaking at the finale, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, emphasised the company’s commitment to nurturing scientific excellence and promoting sustainability.

“The world is moving fast towards cleaner, greener energy. NLNG is proud to be leading this shift by exporting LNG, a cleaner fossil fuel, and supplying LPG to Nigerian homes. Through this quiz, we are not only investing in education, but inspiring the scientists, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow,” she stated.

“Science is the heartbeat of progress. That’s why we support platforms like this, where young minds can discover their potential. Since inception, over 200 public schools have benefitted from this competition, proving that when given the opportunity, our students will shine,” she added.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Education, Dr. Azibaolanari Uzoma-Nwogu, represented by Tam Job Inisefiekabo, stated that the theme was both timely and significant, as the global community confronts the challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and energy insecurity.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Peters Nwagor, Chairman of the Rivers State Chapter of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), remarked that it was imperative to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and creativity required to drive innovation and sustainable progress.

First introduced in 2008 and relaunched in 2020 after a six-year pause for process improvement, the NLNG Science Quiz Competition continues to evolve.

The recent addition of the Science Projects Fair a year ago has created an avenue for students to present practical solutions to pressing scientific and environmental challenges, further deepening their engagement with STEM.

Organised in partnership with the Rivers State Ministry of Education, the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (Rivers State Chapter), and Dragnet Solutions Limited, the quiz competition has become a beacon of excellence in science education.

 

NGX Group Chair: AI Will Enhance Efficiency in the Nigerian Economy

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L-R:  Thaibat Adeniran, former Managing Director, Hilal Takaful Insurance Ltd; Mr Johnson Chukwuma, Keynote Speaker/founder & Managing Director, Cowry Asset Management Ltd; Alhaji (Dr). Umaru Kwairanga, Chairman of Occasion/Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group; Ngozi Onyakusi, Convener & Publisher/CEO, SUPERNEWS Nigeria; Ayokunle Olubunmi, Head, Financial Institutions Ratings, Augusto & Co; Adeola Adewumi-Zer, Founder/CEO, ZER Consulting Africa and Uju Ogubunka, National President, Bank Customers Association of Nigeria, during the AI Artificial Intelligence ’25 conference organised by SUPERNEWS with the theme: Power of AI: enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction for better financial services experience in Lagos.

SPEECH BY THE GROUP CHAIRMAN NGX, ALHAJI (DR.) UMARU KWAIRANGA AT THE SUPERNEWS 2025 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIEGENCE CONFERENCE

It is a privilege and an honour to join you today at this important dialogue on Artificial Intelligence in financial services, convened by SuperNews.

I congratulate the organisers for creating this vital platform that brings together key stakeholders to explore how emerging technologies are shaping the future of our industry.

Also, I commend them for identifying and focusing on AI which has been the most prominent concept in technology in the last couple of years.

By doing so, they have identified an area that many believe will be the basis for the next great leap in global and human development, just like the steam engine and the Internet. Such concepts often determine the trajectory of development and capital accumulation and those who are quick to adopt and master them are most likely to be the leaders of the future.

The theme of this year’s conference is the Power of AI: Enhancing Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction for Better Financial Services Experience. The theme focuses on how AI can be used to improve services in our financial services sector.

From recent statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics, the services sector is the driver of Nigeria’s economy and the financial services sub sector is the most active in that sector. It is doing well in many ways but most of us here will agree that there is still plenty of room for improvement.

A lot of that improvement can come through utilisation of artificial intelligence and that is what the erudite speaker and panelists we have here today will be speaking on. I believe we will hear not just about the uses and benefits of AI in the financial services sector but also how we can overcome peculiar Nigerian problems such as power scarcity, data availability and capital needs and ensure that our sector and the Nigerian economy is at the leading edge of this next revolution in business.

We have a distinguished set of discussants for this year’s conference with Mr. Johnson Chukwu, a seasoned banking and capital market executive as the keynote speaker. Mr. Chukwu’s analysis are always lucid and enlightening and I do not expect any less today.

We are also privileged to have our regulators, the Commissioner of Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, and the Director General of the Pension Commission, Mrs. Omolola Oloworaran to provide insights into the enabling frameworks for artificial intelligence in the financial services sector.

We also have distinguished panelists selected from the operators, the customers and users, as well as the expert consultants to give us a rounded view of how artificial intelligence can be used to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction in the financial services.

With such a rich table, I am confident that we are in for an interesting and educating time and I invite you all to listen attentively and participate actively.

 

 

IMT 4.0. Sets Stage for 2025 Edition, Names Per Lagerström as Headline Speaker

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Insurance Meets Tech (IMT), one of West Africa’s leading conferences focusing on the convergence of insurance and technology, is scheduled to return for its highly anticipated fourth edition on Wednesday, September 11, 2025. The event will take place at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton, Ikeja, Lagos.

With the theme, Innovating for the New Trybe,” IMT 4.0 will convene stakeholders across the financial, tech, and creative ecosystems, redefining how insurance meets digital innovation, lifestyle, and Africa’s future economy.

This year’s edition will once again deliver a powerful dual-experience format:

  • IMT 4.0, the flagship C-suite and policy-focused discourse
  • IMT Redefined 2.0, the youth-forward segment exploring the convergence of insurance, culture, and innovation.

The 2025 headline speaker is Per Lagerström, a global thought leader, an insurtech innovator, financial expert, and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience across financial services, technology, FMCG, and strategy consulting. A former Partner at McKinsey & Company, he founded BehaviorTech, a groundbreaking field that merges behavioural science, AI, and innovation to deliver transformative outcomes for people, businesses, and society.

As CEO of Yellowspot, an Ireland-based venture studio, he leads the development of disruptive ventures focused on financial planning, education, longevity, and human-centred digital transformation. Known for navigating complexity with clarity, Per has advised boards and executives across Europe, Africa, and the Americas. His work is driven by an unrelenting passion for unlocking potential at the intersection of science, technology, and human insight.

Odion Aleobua, Convener of IMT and CEO of Modion Communications, expressed his delight ahead of the event. “We are incredibly honoured to welcome Per Lagerström to Lagos, Nigeria for IMT 4.0. His experience at the cutting edge of behaviour-tech research, an astute financial guru and huge insight into insurtech innovation align with the conversations we drive at this year’s conference.

IMT is about the future of protection for a new generation, and we are convening voices and celebrating ideas that matter.”

IMT 4.0 will also continue to explore the role of predictive technology, embedded insurance, disruptive underwriting, and inclusive innovation. With engaging panels, immersive workshops, product demos, and youth-led showcases, the event promises actionable insights and bold ideas for building relevance in a shifting risk landscape.

Commenting, Per Lagerström stated: “Financial services are undergoing rapid and fundamental change, driven by AI inflection and BehaviorTech advances, blurring industry boundaries and shifting consumer behaviours. The result places incumbent business models under tremendous pressure and create unrivaled opportunities for growth and value creation. I am excited to join the year’s edition of IMT to unpack the forces at work and share my playbook for navigating these extraordinary times.”

IMT 4.0 proudly announces an early strategic partner powering this year’s event. CubeCover, one of Nigeria’s leading insurtech and microinsurance providers, comes aboard as a proud Gold Sponsor, racing ahead as early co-travelers for this year’s edition.

To register for IMT 2025, visit www.insurancemeetstech.com. For inquiries, contact Odion at +234 902 222 2226.

 

About Insurance Meets Tech (IMT)

The Insurance Meets Tech (IMT) Conference is one of West Africa’s leading platforms for exploring the future of insurance through the lens of technology, innovation, and culture.

In its fourth year, IMT offers a robust, multi-stakeholder, two-pronged experience featuring IMT 4.0, focused on C-suite insights, and IMT Redefined, a dynamic youth engagement segment inspired by innovation, lifestyle and creativity.

IMT is curated by Modion Communications, one of Africa’s most celebrated young Public Relations consultancies.

 

SanlamAllianz Flags Off 12-City Roadshow to Deepen Customer Engagement, Awareness

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SanlamAllianz, Nigeria’s leading insurance powerhouse formed from the merger of two foremost global and African insurers, Allianz and Sanlam, will begin an unprecedented 12-city nationwide roadshow on Monday, June 23, following the brand’s recent official introduction to the Nigerian market.

The campaign, which will run across key cities across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, is part of the company’s strategic effort to deepen customer engagement, raise awareness about the brand and insurance, and demonstrate its commitment to making wealth creation and financial protection capabilities more accessible to individuals and businesses.

The roadshow will span major commercial and regional hubs, including Lagos, Ibadan, Akure, Warri, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Onitsha, Enugu, Owerri, Kano, Jos, and Abuja. The initiative marks one of the most expansive customer-facing campaigns ever undertaken in Nigeria’s insurance sector, positioning SanlamAllianz as a brand that is not only Pan-African in strength but also locally attentive in approach.

Speaking on this groundbreaking initiative, Tunde Mimiko, MD/CEO of SanlamAllianz Life Insurance, said: “This nationwide campaign signals the scale of our ambition and the depth of our commitment to the Nigerian market. At the heart of insurance is trust, and trust begins with presence. Reaching customers where they are is fundamental to how we are building SanlamAllianz.

“This roadshow is a strategic move to bridge the gap between perception and reality, allowing us to engage directly with our customers and Nigerians in general, challenge long-held misconceptions, and position insurance as a practical tool for thriving in financial confidence, building resilience and long-term financial security.”

As part of the roadshow, SanlamAllianz will hold customer engagement forums in each of the twelve cities. The in-person sessions allow customers to interact directly with the company’s leadership and frontline teams. The forums aim to reconnect with customers under the unified brand and reaffirm its long-term commitment to the local market.

“Insurance only becomes relevant when it is understood, trusted, and connected to the realities people face,” said Yomi Onifade, MD/CEO of SanlamAllianz General Insurance.

“These forums are our way of reintroducing SanlamAllianz not just as a merged entity, but as a unified brand committed to showing up for Nigerians. We are creating a platform for real conversations — to listen, address concerns, and deepen understanding. This is how SanlamAllianz intends to lead, by listening actively, showing up with solutions, and shaping a future where insurance is truly embedded in the fabric of everyday Nigerian life,” he added.

Industry analysts say the scale and structure of the campaign mark a departure from the traditional approach to insurance marketing in Nigeria, where customer acquisition often relies heavily on brokerage networks or limited digital channels. By adopting a city-by-city physical rollout, SanlamAllianz Nigeria is positioning itself as one of the few players actively investing in deeper grassroots engagement toward deepening insurance penetration in Nigeria.

 

About SanlamAllianz

SanlamAllianz is a leading Pan-African financial services entity, established in September 2023 through a joint venture between Sanlam, Africa’s largest non-banking financial services provider, and Allianz, one of the world’s foremost Insurers and Asset Managers. Operating across 27 African countries, SanlamAllianz combines over two centuries of collective experience to offer a comprehensive suite of services, including life and general insurance, asset management, assistance, third-party administration, and retail credit.