In a significant development for individuals looking to acquire new automobiles this season, Stanbic IBTC Bank, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has partnered with CIG Motors, the powerhouse behind popular automobile brand, GAC Motors.

The partnership, formally signed at the GAC G-Style showroom, aims to simplify the rigorous process of owning a brand-new vehicle, with a flexi-repayment structure, and a 10 per cent discount rate on all vehicles purchased within 12 months.

As part of this collaboration, CIG Motors is also giving a five (5) year warranty on all its GAC vehicle models. The partnership will also provide incentives to customers purchasing through the Stanbic IBTC Vehicle and Asset Finance (VAF) product. This initiative comes at a time when many individuals and families are seeking affordable ways to own cars.

Jubril Arogundade, Executive Director, CIG Motors, expressed delight at the partnership stating that “Through this partnership, Nigerians are guaranteed to experience a premium and hassle-free process in owning brand new vehicles that suit their taste.”

CIG Motors’ expertise in the automobile sector, enhanced by Stanbic IBTC Bank’s Vehicle and Asset Finance (VAF) scheme, will allow equal opportunity for customers to own cars without stress or worry”, He added.

CIG Motors is a renowned automobile company known for cutting-edge designs and reliable automobile brand. The scheme is open to individual Nigerians (including the self-employed), and businesses seeking to expand their fleets.

During the event, Olu Delano, Executive Director, Personal & Private Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, emphasised that, “The collaboration enhances the purchasing power of our customers, enabling them to access a broad range of brand-new vehicles under CIG Motors. It also highlights our commitment to fostering economic growth in the communities we serve.

“Stanbic IBTC Bank and CIG Motors’ collaboration illustrates a broader trend of growth between financial institutions and automobile manufacturers,” he added.

As the automotive market expands, collaborations like Stanbic IBTC Bank and CIG Motors are crucial for promoting customer satisfaction and fostering loyalty. The combination of quality vehicles and favourable financial solutions is set to transform the car-buying experience, making it efficient and enjoyable.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC has achieved another milestone with the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recognising an additional ₦75 billion in its capital raise.

This approval represents the final leg of the capital injection that was achieved through a private placement in September 2024.

Building on the private placement’s success, Sterling launched a Rights Issue in October

2024, structured to provide existing shareholders the exclusive opportunity to deepen their stakes in the company and share in its growth story.

The Rights Issue received significant interest and participation, highlighting the confidence and trust the company has cultivated among its shareholders over the years. Regulatory approval for the process is currently underway, marking another significant step in the recapitalisation journey.

The public is eagerly awaiting Sterling’s Public Offer, which will present an exciting opportunity for individuals to invest in the company. It is anticipated that the recapitalisation process will be completed with a Public Offer early next year, allowing wider participation from the public and further strengthening its commitment to shared value creation.

Group Chief Executive, Yemi Odubiyi described the capital injection and the approval as a validation of the company’s strategic direction and operational excellence.

“This milestone reflects the confidence of regulators and stakeholders in our vision to redefine financial services in Nigeria and beyond. Our enhanced capital base empowers us to pursue transformative opportunities, deliver sustainable value to all stakeholders and drive impact across critical sectors of the Nigerian economy,” he stated.

Odubiyi emphasised the company’s evolution from its origins as a merchant bank to its current status as a diversified financial holdings company. Powered by cutting-edge technology and a flexible operational model, the company has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate market difficulties and seize growth opportunities.

Reflecting on Sterling’s accomplishments, Odubiyi acknowledged the instrumental role of stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and customers. “We are grateful for the unwavering support and trust in our strategy, which has been pivotal to our journey. This recapitalisation strengthens our ability to unlock new opportunities, create value, and drive economic growth,” he added.

The capital boost follows a year marked by robust financial performance and significant strategic achievements for Sterling. As at the last week in December 2024, Sterling witnessed a 19% surge in stock price, contributing to a remarkable three-year growth of 287.42%. In the first half of 2024, the company recorded a 51% increase in profit before tax compared to the same period in 2023 and achieved a 20% growth in total assets.

These results demonstrate Sterling’s resilience and ability to deliver superior outcomes despite the complexities of Nigeria’s economic landscape, marked by high inflation and currency volatility.

As Sterling looks ahead, its focus remains firmly on innovation, sustainability, and value creation. With a fortified capital structure, the company is well-positioned to execute its ambitious growth plans, deepen its impact across critical sectors, and set new benchmarks for excellence in Nigeria’s financial services industry.

This latest milestone marks a transformative chapter for Sterling Financial Holdings Company Plc as it continues to redefine the future of financial services in Nigeria and beyond.

This holiday season just got a whole lot more exciting! PalmPay, one of Africa’s leading fintech platforms, operates Nigeria’s most used mobile wallet and has teamed up with Jumia, the continent’s e-commerce giant, to launch a festive campaign that’s all about convenience, rewards, and enhancing your shopping experience.

Running from December 11th to 28th, 2024, this holiday campaign is set to reward shoppers who use the new “Pay with PalmPay” feature on Jumia with cash prizes. Every purchase made using the direct payment method automatically enters participants into a draw, giving them a chance to win exciting cash rewards while enjoying the seamless shopping and payment process.

A Strategic Partnership to Enhance Digital Payments

The integration of the “Pay with PalmPay Wallet” feature on Jumia marks a major milestone in the partnership between the two industry leaders.

Speaking at the media announcement, Mr. Chika Nwosu, Managing Director of PalmPay, highlighted the broader mission driving this collaboration: “We are thrilled to join forces with Jumia to redefine convenience for shoppers. At PalmPay, our mission has always been to drive economic empowerment through accessible and user-friendly financial services. This partnership is a natural step forward in achieving that goal.”

Beyond the holidays, this partnership with Jumia m,k is a signal of bigger things to come. Mr. Chika added: “This is more than just about payments—it’s about creating value for our customers. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will unlock in 2025, including campaigns and innovative initiatives that will further transform the online shopping landscape.”

Sunil Natraj, CEO of Jumia Nigeria, highlighted the shared vision between both companies, stating: “At Jumia, we are dedicated to creating value for our customers by ensuring a convenient, reliable, and secure shopping experience. This partnership with PalmPay strengthens our commitment to enhancing the digital payments within our platform. By integrating PalmPay, we are providing more options for customers to access affordable and quality goods with the convenience of cashless transactions.”

How to Join the Holiday Fun

Participating in the campaign is simple. vrWhen shopping on Jumia, select the “Pay with PalmPay” option at checkout, and your entry into the draw is automatic. It’s that easy!

Bonus Entry: Share a screenshot of your purchase on X (formerly Twitter) using the hashtag #PalmPayXJumia to increase your chances of winning. Additional winners will be selected from participants engaging with the campaign on Twitter.

Whether you are shopping for gifts, or gadgets this festive season, PalmPay and Jumia are making sure your experience is not only seamless but also rewarding.

To learn more about the campaign, stay tuned to the official X accounts (formerly Twitter) of @palmpay_ng and @JumiaNigeria. for updates, announcements, and more chances to win.

The Committee of Banks in Nigeria on Thursday lifted the victims of the recent flooding in some parts of Jigawa State with a solidarity visit to Dutse, the state capital, during which they made donation of assorted items of relief materials to the State Government as part of their own contribution to alleviate the plight of those impacted by the September 2024 natural disaster.

The donation of the relief materials comprising food items, including bags of rice, cartons of vegetable cooking oil, mattresses, and beverages were presented to the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar A. Namadi, by a high-powered delegation of the Committee of Banks in Nigeria led by their Chairman and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), Dr. Oliver Alawuba.

Other banks’ CEOs that were on the delegation included the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO), Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji; and Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO); Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. (Mrs.) Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.

In his remarks while presenting the relief materials, Dr. Alawuba stated that the gesture by the bankers was one of the ways to empathise with the government and people of Jigawa State, and importantly the residents who were severely impacted by the floods. He added that the relief materials were targeted at boosting the current multi-stakeholder efforts to support the flood victims in getting back on their feet, as well as supporting critical institutions that provide care for the victims, especially public hospitals.

“I stand before you today as the Chairman of the Committee of Banks in Nigerian, to demonstrate our solidarity with the Government and good people of Jigawa State. Principally, we are in Jigawa State to empathize with the State Government, families, and relations of those who were severely impacted by the recent flooding that occurred across some local government areas of the state, in specifically in September this year. We pray for the repose of souls that were lost in the devastating floods, as well as comfort for their families. We also pray for the recovery and restoration of those who lost properties and valuables during the floods,’’ he said.

Speaking further, Dr. Alawuba asserted: “We are here today to lend our hand of help to the State Government by donating relief materials worth several millions of Naira in support of the affected residents, and also critical institutions that provide care such as public hospitals. We believe the relief materials consisting of food items such as; bags of rice, cartons of vegetable cooking oil, mattresses, and beverages would go a long way in providing comfort and lessen the burden of the victims impacted by the floods.’’

The Chairman, Committee of Banks in Nigeria added that the humanitarian gesture was a testament to the Nigeria banking sector’s commitment to supporting the well-being of Nigerians in times of need. “As bankers, we are not just concerned about the economic implications of natural disasters; we are also deeply troubled by the human suffering that accompanies them. We believe that it is our collective responsibility to support those affected and help them rebuild their lives,’’ he noted.

Dr. Alawuba stated that the gesture further affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian financial institutions to leading from the front as agents of positive change in society, while assuring that they would continue to work together to support those in need, promote economic growth and development, and to contribute to the well-being of our great nation.

He expressed gratitude to his colleague CEOs of Nigeria banks for their generosity and contribution to the relief effort. “Your support underscores our unrelenting passion for national development and care for the environment where we do our business,’’ he applauded.

Dr. Alawuba affirmed the long history of commitment of the Nigerian banking and financial institutions to the well-being of the Nigerian people and the environment, stating that the banking sector provided similar interventions to the victims of the 2011 flooding which affected 28 states and that of 2013 flooding which affected 32 states of the federation. Other interventions by the financial institutions include corporate support for the management and containment of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, including funding support for public healthcare infrastructure, and access to credit for micro and small businesses to stay afloat in the post-pandemic era.

He said, “Notably, we were proud to be part of the Central Bank of Nigeria-led Private Sector Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) Relief Fund, where we contributed significantly to the Fund’s efforts to provide palliatives to vulnerable Nigerians and strengthen the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. The intervention of the banking sector resulted in over Thirty-two Billion Naira (N32 billion) being pooled to fill a significant funding gap for the governments during the unexpected global pandemic.

“Furthermore, as we navigated the post-pandemic era, Nigerian banks played important roles in helping businesses recover. Banks in Nigeria supported firms of all sizes, to mitigate the impact of the extended lockdown and disruption to business activities in many ways. Through the stabilization funds, Nigerian banks provided loans and credits to small and medium businesses to stay afloat, thereby ensuring business sustainability, preventing job losses, and fostering national economic growth.’’

Additionally, Dr. Alawuba said Nigerian banks also support many other laudable initiatives across both economic and non-economic sectors, one of which is in the area of security. For example, he said banks have continued to support the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, which has become a model copied by other states for sustainable funding of the training, equipment, and welfare needs of personnel of the Nigeria Police deployed to the state. He said the support has led to improved security of lives and property in the state.

He disclosed further that the banking sector supported the government in rebuilding and remodeling of Police stations destroyed in the wake of the #EndSARS protesters, in 2020. With the support, he added that officers and men of the Nigeria Police now have more befitting workplaces to function.

The bankers commended Governor Namadi, the federal and state governments, donor agencies and other stakeholders for the efforts in responding to the need of the victims of the flooding, while noting that, through collective efforts and actions, we could all make a big difference in the society, as well as build a prosperous nation that works for all.

Responding, Governor Namadi thanked the Committee of Banks in Nigeria for their humanitarian gesture, describing it as a rare demonstration of love, care and empathy for humanity. He said he was particularly touched receiving such a high number of bank chiefs leaving their offices to come and show solidarity to the families and individuals affected by the flood.

“On behalf of the government and people of Jigawa State, I want to most sincerely thank you for this visit. Certainly, what you have done today has demonstrated a good sign of love, care and maturity because, I don’t think it has ever happened like this, for four managing directors of the big Nigerian banks leaving their offices and come and sympathise with us on the incident that happened to us; that has shown the serious sign of love, care and maturity,’’ he enthused.

Governor Namadi assured that the state government would continue to seek opportunities to work together with the financial institutions as critical enablers of socio-economic growth, adding that with the significant support of the banks, the task of supporting the flood victims to get back to normal life had received a boost.

He stated, “So whilst I really thank you very much, I assure you that as we go on we will continue to work together for the betterment of this country. Certainty, some time two of you at one time or the other has done something to help out Jigawa State and today again we are putting ourselves together as the body of banks’ CEOs also coming to our aide, to help our people and bring them back to life in order to move forward.’’

The governor gave the assurance that the donated relief materials would be judiciously used and get to the people they were meant for. “I also want to assure you that the Jigawa State government will continue to work together with you, to ensure that we improve the lives of those affected by the devastating floods.

“Like we said, these people have really suffered a lot; they lost their means of livelihood which is not easy at this time, but with the people and body like yourself, these people have a lot of hope and then at least they are being shown they have brothers and sisters that are there for them in their time of need. So, we really appreciate this gesture and we are not taking it for granted. We pray that God almighty will replenish your purse for what you have done for our people,’’ Governor Namadi stated.

Other personalities on the delegation for the donation of the relief materials were President, Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB), Mr. Rasheed Bolarinwa; the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr. Akin Morakinyo, and others

Polaris Bank over the weekend, added yet another feather to its cap by winning Sustainability, Enterprise, and Responsibility Awards (SERAS), Africa’s most renowned and prestigious Sustainability/Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) recognition, for its consistent and impactful critical community interventions across Nigeria over the years.

At the 18th edition of the SERAS Awards, held in Lagos, recognition came the way of Polaris Bank in what the organisers described as “the Banks unwavering commitment to sustainable development and impactful community interventions across Nigeria.”

The SERAS Awards, widely regarded as Africa’s gold standard in Sustainability and CSR, celebrates organizations that exemplify innovation, impact, and excellence in advancing sustainable development. The awards spotlight large corporations, SMEs, and nonprofits that champion solutions with lasting societal and environmental benefits.

This year’s ceremony brought together an elite gathering of business leaders, global sustainability experts, policymakers, and CEOs dedicated to shaping Africa’s sustainable future. For Polaris Bank, the recognition reaffirmed its leadership in driving transformative change through its strategic Sustainability and CSR interventions.

Polaris Bank’s extensive portfolio of Sustainability, ESG and CSR initiatives which earns it” “Best in Rural Population Integration” award at the SERAs, underscores its commitment to improving lives and fostering sustainable growth in rural and underserved communities. Over the years, the Bank has implemented critical interventions across Nigeria, ranging from providing basic infrastructure to supporting vulnerable groups. Some of its notable achievements include:

Sponsoring the Acquisition and Planting of 2,000 economic trees across communities in Nigeria…e.g Ajingi community in Kano State.

Donation of equipment and renovation of the Ibeju-Lekki Skill Acquisition Centre

Installation of boreholes in key but underserved communities to provide access to clean water in rural areas.

Delivering educational resources/essentials —including libraries, sandals, bags, uniforms, books, and pens—to over 15,000 indigent students across public secondary schools in Nigeria, ensuring their continuous education with many in remote communities.

Providing over a decade free breast cancer screening support to some 20,000 women and retreat/experience sharing for survivors that has reduced mortality rate in Nigeria.

Establishing hospitals, and reconstruction/rehabilitation centers for victims of sexual violence, and vocational centers for women.

Donating ICT laboratory to IWD Skills Acquisition Center and promoting financial literacy programs in schools.

Launching medical outreach programs and supporting Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) through significant donations.

These interventions have not only improved living standards, but have also stemmed rural-to-urban migration by making the communities more attractive, conducive and habitable and self-reliant.

Polaris Bank recently demonstrated its commitment to community resilience with the reopening of its Sagamu branch, which was destroyed during the cash crunch riots following the Naira redesign policy. Following appeal from stakeholders within the community, the Bank’s management approved the complete reconstruction and re-equipping of the branch The reopening marked a turning point for the Sagamu community, restoring access to critical banking services and underscoring Polaris Bank’s role as a trusted partner in economic recovery.

Speaking on the award, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director, Kayode Lawal, highlighted the Bank’s dedication to sustainability and social impact. “We thank SERAs for the recognition of our bank’s strategic intervention and consistent investment across communities on project that impact positively on the people and the environment”.

In Polaris Bank, Kayode says, “sustainability is not just a cliché, and it is not a destination, but a journey. Our involvement in community development projects is something borne out of our deliberate effort to impact the citizens through enhanced socio-economic interventions that reduces the impact of climate change on our environment, as it affects the economy and people at large.” he stated.

Participants at the award ceremony leveraged the classy evening, “to connect with like-minded professionals and organizations championing sustainable business practices at an event that celebrated Africa’s sustainability leaders and reaffirmed the shared vision of driving positive, lasting change across the continent.

As a trailblazer in Sustainability and CSR, Polaris Bank remains steadfast in its mission to uplift communities, foster economic growth, and champion innovative solutions that address pressing societal challenges.

The Management of the NDIC led by the MD/CE NDIC, Mr. Bello Hassan (3rd from left) on a working visit to the Honourable Minister of State Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite (2nd from Left) at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja along with the NDIC Executive Director, Operations, Mustapha Ibrahim (1st Left) and the NDIC Executive Director, Corporate Services, Mrs. Emily Osuji (1st Right).