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Ecobank Kicks Off 5th Edition of Adire Lagos

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Ecobank Nigeria has kicked-off the fifth edition of the highly anticipated Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience, reaffirming its readiness to host local and international brands, partners, customers and visitors at the four-day fair scheduled to hold from June 11 to 14, 2026, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Bank has put in place all necessary arrangements to ensure a seamless, secure and memorable experience for exhibitors and attendees, further underscoring its commitment to promoting African creativity, entrepreneurship and intra-African trade.

Among the international exhibitors confirmed for this year’s edition are Creative Hub Africa and Shades of Class from Sierra Leone, Drame Khadidatou from Senegal, Tampoori from Ghana, and Naylah Collection from the Republic of Benin. Their participation highlights the growing continental appeal of the Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience as a platform for cultural exchange, business collaboration and market access across Africa.

The event will also feature more than 100 exhibitors and vendors, including leading Nigerian brands such as Obida Design Associates, This Is Us, Imani Kids, Ashabi Fads, E25Dresses, Miné by Ejiro Amos Tafiri, Buss Fabrics Store, Aina Aladire and many others, showcasing the richness of African craftsmanship, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Speaking on the Bank’s preparedness for the event, Head of SMEs, Partnerships and Collaborations at Ecobank Nigeria, Omoboye Odu, said all arrangements have been successfully concluded to deliver a rewarding experience for exhibitors, partners, customers and visitors throughout the four-day fair.

According to her, attendees can look forward to a vibrant showcase of fashion, craftsmanship, art, music, culture and entrepreneurship, with participants drawn from Nigeria and several other African countries.

“We are fully prepared and excited to welcome guests from across Nigeria and the African continent to another edition of the Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience. From exhibition spaces and cultural showcases to networking opportunities and customer engagement activities, every necessary arrangement has been put in place to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience for all attendees,” Odu said.

 

She added: “The Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience continues to evolve as a unique platform that connects creatives, entrepreneurs and consumers from across Africa. Attendees can look forward to exceptional products, interactive sessions, entertainment, cultural exhibitions and valuable opportunities to build relationships, explore new markets and expand their businesses.”

Over the years, the Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience has grown into one of Nigeria’s foremost platforms for promoting indigenous textile production, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and showcasing the ingenuity of African creatives. The event has also played a significant role in expanding market access for businesses while preserving and celebrating Africa’s rich cultural heritage.

Beyond the exhibition, participants will have opportunities to network, explore business partnerships, discover unique products and experience the diversity and vibrancy of African culture. The event is open to the public, and visitors can look forward to an immersive experience that seamlessly blends tradition, innovation, fashion, enterprise and entertainment in a grand celebration of Africa’s creative economy.

 

 

Stanbic IBTC Partners National Theatre to Spark Creativity in 180 Children at 2026 Blue Kids Day – The ToonTopia Edition

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Stanbic IBTC reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and creative thinkers at its annual Blue Kids Day event.

Held in partnership with the National Theatre, this year’s ToonTopia-themed edition, spotlighting Nigeria’s second Children’s Animation Festival, delivered a vibrant and immersive experience designed to spark creativity, inspire imagination, and promote learning among young minds. This was not just an event, it was a launchpad for discovery, expression, and boundless potential.

Launched in 2022, Stanbic IBTC Blue Kids Day has grown into a dynamic platform dedicated to enriching young minds through impactful and memorable experiences, demonstrating the organization’s enduring commitment to shaping a brighter future for children. This year’s ToonTopia-themed edition brought that vision to life, celebrating African storytelling, creativity, and imagination. It delivered an immersive and inspiring learning experience for 180 children aged 8 to 12, going beyond the traditional Children’s Day celebration to spark curiosity, unlock creativity, and shape future possibilities.

The event was successfully held on May 23, 2026, at the renowned Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (National Theatre), Iganmu, Lagos. It delivered a dynamic and immersive experience, with participants taking part in animation workshops, art sessions, film screenings, digital creativity classes, and hands-on educational activities. Each session was thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, ignite creativity, and build future-ready skills. The programme concluded on a high note, as every child received a certificate of participation, recognizing their enthusiasm, creativity, and the new knowledge they gained throughout the experience.

Speaking on the initiative, Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, Deputy Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, said:
“Children thrive when given the freedom to explore, imagine, and create. Through Blue Kids Day, we are deliberate about creating experiences that spark confidence, fuel creativity, and encourage lifelong learning. Our collaboration with the National Theatre reflects our strong belief that exposure to creative and digital skills can unlock the boundless potential within every child and prepare them for future opportunities.”

She further reaffirmed Stanbic IBTC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that nurture the holistic development of children, while creating lasting value for families and the communities they serve.

Reinforcing this vision, Olu Delano, Executive Director, Personal and Private Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, stated:
“At Stanbic IBTC, empowering children goes beyond financial literacy, it is about opening their minds to possibilities and inspiring their imagination. Blue Kids Day allows us to support families by creating experiences that build creativity, confidence, and future-ready skills. Our collaboration with the National Theatre underscores our commitment to raising well-rounded individuals prepared to thrive in a fast-changing world.”

This partnership underscores the rising importance of creative education and digital literacy in today’s world. By introducing children to animation, storytelling, and artistic expression in an evolving fun, hands-on environment, the programme not only made learning exciting but also nurtured innovation and critical thinking.

As Stanbic IBTC continues to enable Nigerians to live a better life by going beyond banking to enrich lives, Blue Kids Day stands as a strong symbol of its commitment to empowering young people, supporting families, and shaping a generation of confident, imaginative, and future-ready Nigerians.

Leadway Advocates for the Next Generation of Female Tech Talent

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Leadway Group has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusion, innovation, and talent development for women in the technology ecosystem. This commitment was highlighted at the Engineer Her Future 1.0 Conference, organised by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Lagos State Chapter on June 5, 2026 in Lagos.

The conference brought together leading female technology professionals, industry leaders, innovators, and aspiring female young talents, including secondary school students, to engage in conversations designed to spark interest in technology careers and equip aspiring female professionals with the knowledge, confidence, and inspiration needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

As part of the panel sessions at the conference, Ayomide Shodipo, Engineering Lead, Leadway Group, joined other industry leaders to share insights on how women can navigate the technology industry, build successful careers, and embrace innovation. Through candid discussions and practical advice, the panellists encouraged the female students and young professionals to explore opportunities within Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields and pursue their ambitions with confidence.
Speaking at the conference, Shodipo, highlighted the importance of creating platforms that expose young women to opportunities in technology from an early stage. “At Leadway, we believe that meaningful progress begins with creating opportunities for the next generation to see what is possible. Supporting Engineer Her Future aligns with our commitment to empowering young people, particularly young women, with the inspiration, exposure, and access they need to pursue careers in technology and innovation. By investing in platforms like this, we are not only supporting individual aspirations but also contributing to the development of a more inclusive, diverse, and future-ready workforce for Nigeria.”

Leadway’s sponsorship of Engineer Her Future 1.0 reflects the Group’s broader commitment to supporting initiatives that advance education, innovation, youth development, inclusion, and women’s empowerment. Through its female-focused community, Herssured, Leadway has fostered strategic partnerships with women-led initiatives such as She Leads Africa and Heels and Tech. These collaborations are aimed at providing women with the resources, opportunities, and enabling environment needed to thrive across various spheres of life. By continuously creating opportunities that empower women, Leadway remains committed to driving sustainable social and economic development.

 

About Leadway Group

Leadway Group is one of Nigeria’s leading non-banking financial services groups, providing insurance, asset management, pensions, healthcare, and other financial solutions that help individuals and businesses achieve their goals. With a legacy spanning over five decades, Leadway remains committed to innovation, excellence, and creating value for customers, partners, and communities.

 

Sim Tshabalala Leads Standard Bank Delegation on Courtesy Visit to South African High Commissioner to Nigeria

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Sim Tshabalala, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Bank Group, Africa’s largest bank, paid a courtesy visit to Thami Mseleku, South African High Commissioner to Nigeria in Abuja.

He was accompanied by Sola David-Borha, Chairman of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Board; Helmut Engelbrecht, Regional Chief Executive for Africa Regions, Standard Bank; Chuma Nwokocha, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings; Wole Adeniyi, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank; Yewande Sadiku, Head Investment Banking Africa, Standard Bank, alongside other senior executives.
This engagement highlights the importance of strengthening business ties between South Africa and Nigeria, two of Africa’s largest economies. Standard Bank Group remains committed to driving Africa’s growth by fostering investor confidence, creating employment opportunities, and supporting sustainable economic development.
At a time when collaboration is essential, this visit underscores the role of strong partnerships in building resilience, fostering unity, and unlocking Africa’s full potential for shared prosperity.

 

Africa’s Largest Bank, Standard Group, Backs Dangote Refinery IPO

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Africa’s largest financial institution, Standard Bank Group, the parent company of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has reaffirmed its commitment to support the growth of Dangote Industries Limited, pledging backing for the planned listing of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery while expressing readiness to finance future expansion projects across the continent.
The commitment came during a strategic visit by Standard Bank Group Chief Executive, Sim Tshabalala, and senior executives to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser complex in Lagos.
Speaking after touring the facilities, Tshabalala described the refinery as a transformational industrial project with far-reaching implications for Nigeria and Africa.
“We are here because the Dangote Group is a large and important global player and a significant force on the African continent,” he said.
“Standard Bank is the largest financial institution in Africa and we have partnered with Dangote on a variety of initiatives. We are here to lend support, to see this magnificent refinery and to discuss Vision 2030 and how we can continue supporting the Group’s growth ambitions.”
Tshabalala disclosed that Standard Bank intends to play a leading role in the refinery’s planned Initial Public Offering and future growth initiatives.
“As Dangote lists, there is an IPO coming up and we are a leading player in that process,” he said.

“As the Group continues to expand in Nigeria and across Africa, there will be opportunities for financial advisory services and balance sheet support, and we stand ready to provide both.”
He described the refinery as “a wonder of the world,” noting that its impact is already being felt through stronger foreign exchange earnings, improved balance-of-payments performance and enhanced energy security.
“This is a wonder to behold. It is massive, productive and transformative. It is already making a significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy through its impact on foreign reserves, the balance of payments and the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
Group Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, said the visit represented a significant milestone in a partnership that began during the refinery’s construction phase.
“The bank visited us during construction and understood the scale of what we were building,” Edwin said. “Today, the refinery is fully operational and they can see what their support has helped to create. It is like nurturing a tree and eventually seeing it bear fruit.”
He added that both organisations are exploring opportunities to deepen collaboration as Dangote expands its industrial footprint across Africa.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, David Bird, said the visit highlighted the importance of long-term partnerships in delivering large-scale industrial projects.
“Standard Bank has been one of our strongest supporters throughout the history of the refinery and the broader Dangote Group,” Bird said.

“This visit was an opportunity to demonstrate what that support has enabled. Seeing is believing, and it allows our partners to appreciate the scale of what has been achieved.”
The visit also coincided with a major operational milestone for the refinery, which has now exceeded its original design capacity.
Bird disclosed that the refinery recently completed performance test runs at 700,000 barrels per day, above its nameplate capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.
“We have always believed there was engineering flexibility built into the design,” he said. “Achieving sustained production of 700,000 barrels per day is a testament to the technical capability of our people and the strength of the systems we have built.”

 

CBN Chief, Yemi Cardoso, Formally Receives Central Bank of the Year Award

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Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, formally received the Central Bank of the Year Award at the Central Banking Awards ceremony held in London on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. He dedicated the honour to the Board, management, and staff of the Bank for their steadfast commitment to institutional reform and economic stability.

In his acceptance speech, Cardoso expressed appreciation to Central Banking Publications and the award judges for the recognition. He also congratulated fellow institutions and individuals honoured during the event.

The CBN Governor stressed that the award was not a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of the entire Central Bank of Nigeria, particularly the professionals whose dedication, integrity, and expertise – often exercised away from public attention – have strengthened the Bank and reinforced confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

“I accept this award on behalf of the Board, Management and staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria,” Cardoso said. “Above all, it belongs to the many dedicated professionals who serve our institution with integrity, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.”

Reflecting on the global economic landscape, Cardoso noted that recent years had presented significant challenges for central banks worldwide, with Nigeria facing its own share of economic pressures and policy tests.

He highlighted several difficult but necessary measures undertaken by the CBN, including efforts to address elevated inflation, implement major reforms in the foreign exchange market, and invest in critical digital and financial infrastructure to support the country’s long-term economic development.

Cardoso also pointed to key milestones achieved during the period, including Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list and the successful completion of the banking sector recapitalisation exercise. He noted that these accomplishments reflected the collaborative efforts of multiple institutions and stakeholders.

According to the Governor, the Bank’s reform agenda has been guided by a clear objective: restoring confidence, strengthening institutional resilience and policy credibility, and laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth.

While acknowledging that significant work remains ahead, Cardoso expressed optimism about the progress made so far and the renewed confidence emerging across the economy.

He attributed these gains to the support of the Federal Government, market participants, development partners, and, most importantly, the resilience and confidence of the Nigerian people.

“We receive this recognition with humility,” he said. “We see it not as a destination, but as encouragement to continue the important work ahead.”

Cardoso reaffirmed the CBN’s commitment to preserving public confidence, safeguarding financial and monetary stability, and fulfilling its mandate with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.

The award represents significant international recognition for the Central Bank of Nigeria at a time when monetary and financial sector reforms remain central to the country’s economic recovery and long-term growth agenda.

 

Heirs Insurance: 3m Policyholders in 5 Years of Industry Transformation

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Heirs Insurance Group says it has recorded over three million customers in five years of its existence in the Nigerian insurance sector through transformative products and services.

Mr. Niyi Onifade, Managing Director/CEO of Heirs Life and Sector Head of Heirs Insurance Group said at a media engagement session to celebrate five years of the Group in Lagos that Heirs came to transform the market by leveraging on technology and customer-centric products and services.

Onifade described Heirs as a digital insurance group that has a track record of over N21 billion claims payment for the Group (General & Life) in 2025, N7.5 billion profitability and N136 billion in total assets in just five years of operation in the Nigerian insurance space.

He added that Heirs also considers sustainability as an integral part of its business model.

“We take sustainability seriously because we believe that every business must have impact on the society. We believe in building the market and building the nation to improve lives and transform society. The next 50 years is anchored on building to last, by solidifying what we have been able to achieve and it would be about Africa-Heirs Insurance Group of Africa.”

Mr. Wale Fayemi, Managing Director/CEO of Heirs General said the vision of Heirs is to democratise insurance in Nigeria to ensure that every segment of the population has access to innovative insurance products and services.

“We plan to make insurance simple through adoption of technology to lead the way. With insurance, the economy will grow. We came to tackle the trust deficit in the insurance industry and we’ve transformed the market and the economy.”

Universal Insurance CEO, Jeff Duru, Chairs SUPERNEWS Confab 2026, as Idu Okeahialam Delivers Keynote Paper

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SUPERNEWS Nigeria has announced the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Universal Insurance Plc, Dr. Jeff Duru as the Chairman of its highly anticipated annual conference and 10th Anniversary celebration slated for July 7, 2026.

Similarly, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Royal Exchange Plc, Mrs. Idu Okeahialam will deliver the keynote paper at the annual conference which is presently in its 4th edition.

The conference themed; ‘Local Content & Digitisation: Building Synergy Between Oil & Gas and Insurance Sectors for Inclusive Growth’ will take place at Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos, at 10:00 am prompt.

The event is expected to attract regulators, operators, sectors’ chief executives, policymakers, civil society organisations, media practitioners, students, among other stakeholders.

The Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, has confirmed his participation as a Special Guest of Honour while the President, the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe will equally grace the occasion.

Erudite and prominent speakers ready for the conference include the Managing Director/CEO, Stanbic IBTC Insurance Limited, Mr. Akinjide Orimolade and the Managing Director/CEO, Guinea Insurance Plc, Mr. Ademola Abidogun.

Others include the MD/CEO, Deepshores Energy Limited, Mrs. Nneka Obi and Professor Olajide Fadun of the Department of Insurance and Actuarial Science, University of Lagos.

Speaking on the rationale behind the choice of the conference theme, the Publisher of SUPERNEWS Nigeria and the convener of the epoch-making event, Ngozi Onyeakusi, explained that the whole effort was geared towards providing insight on how both sectors can leverage technology-driven solutions to strengthen synergy to overcome challenges associated with the implementation of Sections 49 and 50 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.

She noted that the provisions of Sections 49 and 50 of the Act mandates operators involved in oil and gas activities to ensure all insurable risks connected to their businesses are covered with insurance companies and brokers registered in Nigeria.

The Act further stipulates that where an operator seeks to place an insurable risk offshore, a written approval of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) must first be sought and obtained and that NAICOM, prior to the issuance of the approval, must first determine that local capacity has been fully exhausted.

In a bid to smoothen the implementation and compliance to the Act, the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and NAICOM in 2022 launched the relevant guidelines which was expected to address the loopholes that were identified in implementing the provisions of the Act, particularly, Sections 49 and 50.

However, research has shown that insurance firms before now still faced lots of challenges ranging from capital inadequacy among others.

With the birth of the Nigeria Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, the insurance industry is now positioned for global competitiveness while the ongoing recapitalisation exercise is expected to pave way for big, strong and reliable insurance firms.

The conference therefore provides a veritable platform for robust deliberation on how digitisation, policy reforms, and implementation of local content guidelines can drive inclusive growth and sustainable partnership between the oil & gas and insurance industry.

REA CEO, Stakeholders to Brainstorm on Nigeria’s Energy Transition Pathway at 2026 Oriental News Conference 

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The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), would be leading conversations on Nigeria’s renewable energy strategy which is a component of broader energy transition strategy of the federal government

The 2026 Oriental News national conference with the theme, “Carbon Capture: Accelerating Decarbonisation Initiatives in Nigeria’s Extractive Industry Through Broad Regulatory Reforms” is bringing together top energy companies and experts as well as key government agencies to exchange innovative ideas on how to reduce carbon emissions in the energy sector and engage in knowledge sharing along individual industry perspectives.

The conference scheduled to hold on July 23, 2026 at Radisson Blu, Ikeja Lagos, also has a Sub Theme: Addressing Finance Challenges, Investment Strategies, Operational Sustainability and Climate Change Management.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of the REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, would engage critical stakeholders, including energy expert, industry leaders and financial institutions on the agency’s efforts in minimizing carbon emissions through expanded renewable energy development.

Nigeria drives its renewable energy transition through the Energy Transition Plan (ETP), which aims for net-zero emissions by 2060.

The country prioritizes decentralised solar power, green manufacturing, and massive multilateral investments to combat grid fragility and end its heavy reliance on petrol and diesel generators.

Launched to achieve net-zero, the ETP leverages a \(\$410\) billion investment strategy focused on expanding grid capacity, promoting clean cooking, and modernizing the power sector.

The Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) is a major \(\$750\) million World Bank-backed facility aimed at providing electricity to over 17.5 million unserved Nigerians via solar home systems and mini-grids.

The REA, is rapidly deploying community-based solar mini-grids to bypass fragile national transmission lines and directly empower rural businesses and healthcare centers, and this would be the focus of Aliyu’s key presentations at the conference.

Nigeria is prioritizing local manufacturing of solar panels, inverters, and standalone renewable systems to create jobs and build domestic supply chains.

The government offers policy incentives—such as tax holidays for independent power producers and specialised feed-in tariffs—to attract private capital into the renewable sector.

The global oil and gas industry operators are working assiduously to reduce emissions and Nigeria is also facing similar pressures to bring down the scale of emissions across all critical sectors of the economy.

Every year Oriental News Nigeria, a leading news Online platform provides opportunity for discussions among critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s energy, finance and industrial sector of the economy to discuss regulatory issues, investment opportunities with the aim to support both private and public led initiatives to improve economic growth and development.

Now in its 5th year, the 2026 conference is seeking to promote environmental sustainability by addressing actions and challenges facing operators in the extractive industry, particularly in the country’s oil and gas, petrochemicals and manufacturing sectors.

The conference would convene operators in the oil and gas industry to exchange ideas and decarbonisation solutions that align with operational needs.

The summit will focus on the industry challenges of harmonising environmental commitments with business performance.

Growing demands for sustainability have long underscored the need for the oil and gas sector to reduce its environmental impact. Now, with the emergence of innovative solutions, the industry is entering a transformative phase — reimagining the future of energy.

One of the key highlights of the summit is the presentation of case-studies from major industry players who have either achieved significant progress in their decarbonisation goals or are well on the path to success.

It brings all sides of the business together: vendors, oil and gas producers and suppliers. It gives an opportunity to hear different points of view on the same issue and find what suits the company best and it will offer unique opportunity to stay ahead of decarbonisation trends, connect with industry leaders and turn sustainability goals into operational strategies.

The topic seeks to interrogate regulatory frameworks, decarbonisation pathways initiated by operators, and financing gaps that has led to slow progress towards promoting meeting the country’s zero emissions targets.

The conference aims to foster dialogue on energy transition with the opening ceremony to be hosted with key presentations by the guest speaker and keynote speaker who will address the theme of the conference.

There will be panel discussions by stakeholders from broad spectrum of petroleum industry, manufacturing, financial sector, regulatory agencies among others.

This aspect of the discussion will include thematic dialogues, policy exchanges, and joint segments, potentially incorporating hybrid or digital elements for broader access and sustainability.

Mutual Benefits Unveils New Website, Expanding Digital Access to Insurance Solutions

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  • New Platform Enhances Customer Experience, Enables Online Purchase of General Insurance Products and Introduces Self-Service Capabilities

Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc has announced the soft launch of its newly redesigned corporate website, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing digital transformation journey and reaffirming its commitment to delivering innovative, accessible and customer-focused insurance solutions.

The enhanced platform has been developed to provide customers with a faster, more intuitive and seamless digital experience, making it easier than ever to engage with Mutual Benefits’ products and services from anywhere and at any time.

As part of this first phase of deployment, customers can now conveniently purchase selected General Insurance products online, create secure personal accounts and access dedicated customer dashboards designed to simplify policy interactions and improve overall service experience.

The launch reflects Mutual Benefits’ broader vision of leveraging technology to deepen insurance penetration, improve customer convenience and provide digital-first solutions that meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses.

Commenting on the rollout, Gideon Ayogu, Head of Marketing & Communications at Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, described the launch as an important step towards building a more connected and customer-centric insurance experience.

“The launch of our new website represents much more than a digital upgrade. It reflects our commitment to making insurance simpler, more accessible and more responsive to the needs of today’s customer. We are creating a platform that empowers customers to interact with us on their terms while laying the foundation for a broader digital ecosystem that will continue to evolve over time.”

He added: “As customer expectations continue to shift towards convenience, speed and self-service, we are investing in digital capabilities that enhance accessibility and improve the overall customer journey. This launch is the first of several strategic enhancements that will further strengthen how customers engage with the Mutual Benefits brand.”

The new platform features an improved user interface, streamlined navigation, mobile-friendly functionality, enhanced product information architecture and a secure account management environment designed to support a more personalised customer experience.

Mutual Benefits noted that the current release represents the first phase of a broader digital roadmap. Additional capabilities, products and self-service functionalities are currently in development and will be introduced in subsequent phases as the company continues to expand its digital offerings.

The soft launch period will also provide an opportunity for the company to gather customer insights and feedback to further optimise the platform and ensure it continues to meet the expectations of users.

As one of Nigeria’s leading insurance brands, Mutual Benefits remains committed to leveraging innovation and technology to create greater value for policyholders, while advancing its mission of creating and protecting wealth.

Customers, partners, and stakeholders are encouraged to visit the new website and explore the enhanced digital experience.

AIICO Delivers Strong Shareholder Confidence at 2026 AGM, Declares ₦4.39bn Dividend, Strengthens Board Leadership

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AIICO Insurance Plc has reinforced its position as a leading player in Nigeria’s insurance and financial services sector, following a successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on June 5, 2026, where shareholders commended the company’s performance and approved all resolutions presented.

In a strong show of confidence in the company’s growth trajectory and strategic direction, shareholders approved the payment of a dividend of 12 kobo per share, amounting to ₦4,392,633,121.44.

The meeting also marked a significant evolution in the company’s governance structure with the appointment of three accomplished professionals to the Board as Non-Executive Directors:

  • Tunde Mabawonku joins as a Non-Executive Director, bringing over two decades of experience across banking, finance, strategy, and corporate services, with a strong background in digital and retail financial services.
  • Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, HCIB, also appointed as a Non-Executive Director, contributes deep expertise in capital markets, energy finance, and risk governance, with extensive experience operating across multi-jurisdictional environments.
  • Sadiq Mohammed joins as an Independent Non-Executive Director, with over three decades of leadership across asset management, pensions, infrastructure, and investment advisory, as well as significant boardroom experience.

Collectively, these appointments further strengthen the depth, diversity, and strategic capability of AIICO’s Board, positioning the company for sustained growth and enhanced governance.

In addition, Mr. Olalekan Akinyanmi was announced as the new Chairman of the Board, succeeding Mr. Kundan Sainani. Mr. Akinyanmi is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of LEKOIL Nigeria Limited, an Africa-focused oil exploration and production company. With over 30 years of experience in the global energy sector, he has led significant capital raises and landmark projects, bringing strong leadership and strategic insight to his role as Chairman.

Commenting on the outcomes of the AGM, the MD/CEO, Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun, stated:

“We are grateful to our shareholders and investors for their continued confidence and support. Their trust remains a strong validation of our strategic direction and the progress we are making as a business.

The strengthening of our Board reflects our deliberate commitment to robust governance, disciplined oversight, and long-term value creation. With the depth of experience and diversity now represented at the Board level, we are well-positioned to enhance the quality of our decision-making and sustain our leadership in the market.

As we continue to evolve as a financial services group, we remain focused on building a resilient, forward-looking institution that consistently delivers sustainable value to all stakeholders.”

AIICO Insurance is a leading composite insurer in Nigeria, with a 63-year record of accomplishment in delivering quality service to its clients.

Founded in 1963, AIICO provides life and general insurance, health insurance, and investment management services to create and protect wealth for individuals, families, and corporate customers.

Govt Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, Crowned Champion of 2026 NLNG Science Contest

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Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, NLNG, presenting the award to student of Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, winner of the 2026 NLNG Science Quiz Competition.

The 2026 NLNG Science Contest came to a remarkable close on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, emerged winner after a strong performance in the grand finale.

The contest, themed “Powering Tomorrow: Science and Innovative Solutions” brought students from across Rivers State in a showcase of knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving skills to promote STEM education, encourage healthy academic competition, and nurture future scientists, engineers and technologists.

After several rounds of intense intellectual challenge, Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borikiri, outperformed other contestants to clinch the top prize.

The victory marked the conclusion of a rigorous three-phased contest comprising the Championship, Science Project Exhibition, and Grand Finale. The school distinguished itself through accuracy, composure, and a strong grasp of science concepts.

In the Science Project Exhibition, Government Girls Secondary School Orominieke secured the top position, followed by Oginigba Comprehensive Secondary School, Oginigba in second place, and Government Girls Secondary School, Finima-Bonny in third place.

Speaking at the finale, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development of NLNG, described the contest as a deliberate investment in the future of young people and in the development of Nigeria’s next generation of innovators.

“The NLNG Science Contest provides the framework required for innovation-led projects to thrive, as NLNG continues to inspire a sustainable future through the power of science.”

“This platform now serves as a genuine catalyst for excellence. We have redesigned it to strengthen foundational knowledge in Mathematics, ICT, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology across a much broader scope. Our goal is to go beyond the textbook, sparking the critical thinking and innovation that our world so urgently needs”, she said.

Horsfall emphasised that NLNG remains committed to promoting quality education and strengthening interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, adding that the future of the country would depend largely on young minds who could think critically, innovate boldly, and provide solutions to real-life challenges.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Rivers State, Hon. Dr. Peters Nwagor, stated that education remains the foundation upon which scientific innovation thrives, noting that it equips young minds with critical thinking skills, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to transform ideas into practical solutions. He said the Rivers State Government recognises the strategic importance of science education in building a prosperous and competitive society.

“The Rivers State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, remains committed to strengthening the education sector through improved infrastructure, capacity building for teachers, curriculum enhancement, and the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education,” he said.

Addressing the students participating in the competition, the Commissioner congratulated them for reaching that stage. He described their participation as evidence of hard work, determination, discipline, and intellectual excellence. He added that whether or not they emerged winners, they had already distinguished themselves as future scientists, innovators, engineers, researchers, and leaders.

The 2026 NLNG Science Contest commenced with 140 secondary schools from across Rivers State, out of which seven schools qualified for the final round. In the Science Project Exhibition category, 11 out of 42 schools advanced to the final stage of the competition.

First introduced in 2008 and relaunched in 2020 after a six-year pause for process improvement, the NLNG Science Contest has continued to grow as a major platform for promoting excellence in science education.

The recent introduction of the Science Project Exhibition has further expanded the scope of the contest, giving students an opportunity to showcase practical solutions to scientific and environmental challenges while deepening their engagement with STEM.

The competition is organised in partnership with the Rivers State Ministry of Education, the Rivers State Chapter of the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN), and Dragnet Solutions Limited.

Over the years, the competition has become a strong platform for identifying talent, encouraging innovation, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists in Rivers State.

 

Leadway Commences Fourth Edition of ‘Pages to Places’ Initiative Across Six States to Advance Literacy, Education in Nigeria

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L-R Brand Manager, Leadway, Adewale Fayiga; Brand and Communications Manager, Leadway, Niyi Abiola; Head Teacher, Idera Primary School, Ikosi Ketu, Ajayi Comfort Olubunmi; Representative of Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Mrs. Elliot Folake Ayisat and Corporate Communications and CSR Manager, Leadway, Motolani Babalola during the book donation and book reading drive tagged ‘Pages to places by Leadway’ held at Idera Primary School in Lagos on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026. 

Leadway, Nigeria’s leading non-banking financial and wellbeing conglomerate, has announced the commencement of the fourth edition of its flagship “Pages to Places” school outreach initiative.

Scheduled to begin on June 3, 2026, the programme will be implemented in six key locations in Nigeria, cutting across Lagos, Warri, Ekiti, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Abuja, reaching public primary schools with critical educational resources designed to promote literacy and learning.

Now in its fourth year, Pages to Places has become a cornerstone of Leadway’s commitment to improving educational outcomes and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians. Through the donation of carefully curated literature books and the deployment of mobile libraries to beneficiary schools, the initiative seeks to strengthen literacy levels, cultivate a sustainable reading culture, and improve access to learning materials in underserved communities.

At the heart of the programme is the belief that books are powerful gateways to knowledge, imagination, and opportunity. By exposing children to stories, ideas, and experiences beyond their immediate environments, Pages to Places broadens horizons, inspires curiosity, and nurtures a lifelong love for reading and learning.

Commenting on behalf of Leadway Group on the 2026 Pages to Places initiative and the company’s wider investments in children’s development, MD/CEO, Leadway Pensure, Olusakin Labeodan, said, “Our investments are guided by a simple philosophy that to secure the future, we must intentionally invest in the total wellbeing of the child today. The Pages to Places initiative, now in its fourth edition, reflects our enduring commitment to creating meaningful impact in underserved communities. By improving access to quality learning resources and promoting healthy lifestyles, we are equipping children with the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive and contribute positively to society.”

Leadway’s commitment to child development extends beyond literacy. As part of its broader Children’s Day engagements, the company partnered with Holdbodi to support over 3,000 children across Agege, Ebute Metta, and Abule Egba in Lagos State through a community outreach programme focused on wellbeing and enrichment.

The company also participated in the Akada Children’s Book Festival, engaging parents, educators, and stakeholders within the education ecosystem, while supporting the Get Fit with Jhay initiative, which promotes healthy lifestyles through youth-focused fitness, wellness, and recreational activities.

Together, these interventions underscore Leadway’s holistic approach to child development, one that recognises education, health, and wellbeing as interconnected pillars for building thriving communities and securing a brighter future for the next generation.

 

About Leadway Group

Leadway is a financial services group with a strong market presence and expertise in insurance, pensions, asset management, trusteeship, and investment solutions.

Since 1970, Leadway has grown from a traditional insurer into a broad-based platform with interests across general and life insurance, pensions, wealth management, health insurance, and hospitality.

For more than five decades, the Group has been known for reliability, integrity, innovation, and strong governance. It provides solutions that help individuals and institutions protect, grow, and transfer wealth.

Today, Leadway oversees a portfolio of businesses and is considered one of Nigeria’s most trusted and resilient financial services groups.

Former Power Minister, Barth Nnaji, to Grace SUPERNEWS Confab as Special Guest of Honour

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The Chairman, Geometric Power Limited and former Nigerian Minister of Power, Professor Barth Nnaji will be a Special Guest of Honour at the forthcoming SUPERNEWS Conference and 10th Anniversary scheduled for July 7, 2026.

The conference, with the theme: ‘Local Content & Digitisation: Building Synergy Between Oil & Gas and Insurance Sectors for Inclusive Growth’ will be held at Oriental Hotel, 3, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos at 10.00 am prompt.

The Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin has confirmed his attendance at the conference which will bring together other regulators, key stakeholders in the oil & gas and insurance sectors, civil society organisations, media and students, among others.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Universal Insurance Plc, Dr. Jeff Duru will chair the conference while the Group Managing Director/CEO, Royal Exchange Plc, Mrs. Idu Okeahialam will deliver the keynote paper.

The Publisher, SUPERNEWS Nigeria, Ngozi Onyeakusi, said the choice of this year’s theme was borne out of the quest to provide insight on how the two sectors, insurance and oil & gas, can leverage on cutting-edge technologies to boost collaboration and synergy towards surmounting challenges associated in implementing the Provisions of Sections 49 and 50 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.

For instance, provisions of Sections 49 and 50 of the NOGICD Act requires all operators engaged in any form of activity or project in the oil and gas industry to insure all insurable risks related to its oil and gas business with an insurance company, through an insurance broker registered in Nigeria.

The NOGICD Act also provides that where an operator seeks to place an insurable risk offshore, a written approval of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) must first be sought and obtained and that NAICOM, prior to the issuance of the approval, must first determine that local capacity has been fully exhausted.

In a bid to smoothen the implementation and compliance to the Act, the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and NAICOM in 2022 launched the relevant guidelines which was expected to address the loopholes that were identified in implementing the provisions of the Act, particularly, Sections 49 and 50.

However, research has shown that insurance firms before now still faced lots of challenges ranging from capital inadequacy and others.

With the birth of the Nigeria Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, the insurance industry is now positioned for global competitiveness while the ongoing recapitalisation exercise is expected to pave way for big, strong and reliable insurance firms.

IFC, NGX Group, LCCI Unveil Nigeria Gender Country Program at CEO Roundtable

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The International Finance Corporation (IFC), Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) have unveiled the Nigeria Gender Country Program (NGCP) at a high-level virtual CEO Roundtable convened to advance private sector action on gender equality and inclusive economic growth.

The session brought together chief executives and senior business leaders from NGX-listed companies, IFC client organisations, and LCCI member companies to introduce the programme’s strategic framework, align stakeholders around a shared agenda, and mobilise support ahead of its formal launch.

The NGCP builds on the momentum of Nigeria2Equal and other initiatives that have advanced workplace inclusion, women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainable finance across Nigeria’s private sector. Designed as a more integrated and collaborative platform, the programme seeks to scale impact through coordinated action among development institutions, business leaders, regulators, and the organised private sector.

Anchored on three strategic priorities, the programme aims to increase women’s representation in leadership, improve access to quality employment, and expand access to productive assets—including finance, technology, and markets—for women and women-led businesses.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), underscored the private sector’s critical role in accelerating gender-inclusive growth.

“Gender inclusion is fundamentally an economic growth imperative. Closing gender gaps can unlock billions of dollars in value for Nigeria while strengthening business performance and national competitiveness. We must therefore move beyond viewing inclusion as a corporate social responsibility initiative or compliance exercise, and instead recognise it as a strategic driver of productivity, innovation, and sustainable economic growth,” he said.

Commenting on the initiative, Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, described the NGCP as a strategic platform for scaling women’s economic participation through stronger collaboration among the private sector, development institutions, and market stakeholders.

“The Nigeria Gender Country Program presents a significant opportunity to deepen impact and accelerate progress across corporate Nigeria. By expanding women’s access to leadership opportunities, quality employment, finance, technology, and markets, we can unlock substantial economic value while building a more competitive, inclusive, and resilient private sector. At NGX Group, we believe the capital market has a critical role to play in advancing these outcomes through stronger governance, transparency, and stakeholder engagement,” he said.

Also speaking at the session, Christian Mulamula, IFC Head of Office in Lagos, highlighted the strong business case for gender inclusion.

“Closing the gender gap is one of the most significant opportunities to strengthen competitiveness and productivity. Across Africa, gender inequality is estimated to cost up to $2.5 trillion. Through the Nigeria Gender Country Program, IFC is working with the private sector to expand women’s leadership, improve access to better jobs, and increase opportunities for women-led businesses. Building on Nigeria2Equal, this initiative focuses on practical, measurable solutions that help businesses grow while advancing inclusive growth,” he said.

In her remarks, Dr. Chinyere Almona, Director General of LCCI, noted that the programme’s success would depend on leadership accountability and sustained commitment from business leaders, particularly in embedding gender inclusion into organisational strategy and execution.

The partners are expected to formally launch the Nigeria Gender Country Program at a physical event scheduled for July 9, 2026, where stakeholders will further advance implementation of the programme’s strategic priorities.

 

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