Exhibitors at the recently concluded Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, Georgia have lauded the event as a transformative platform for showcasing Nigerian non-oil exports and businesses on the global stage.

Hosted by Fidelity Bank Plc in collaboration with AFRICON from September 18 to 20, 2025, FNITCC brought together innovative, export-ready Nigerian enterprises across diverse sectors—including fashion, arts, manufacturing, and technology—creating a vibrant space for commerce, connection, and cultural celebration.

Praised for its energy and flawless execution, FNITCC Atlanta 2025 marked a significant leap forward from previous editions. With increased attendance, enhanced booth setups, and deeper engagement, participants described the experience as “a clear step up” and “more impactful than ever.”

“It was an honor to exhibit among such a vibrant community of creatives, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors. We left FNITCC 2025 with new customers, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of purpose. Well done to Fidelity Bank for championing Nigerian businesses and bridging global markets,” shared the By Nuga Designs team.

Exhibitors also highlighted the power of community and resilience, recounting moments of spontaneous international deals and heartfelt support.

“Last year, I was devastated when our goods didn’t arrive on time,” one exhibitor recalled. “But this year, even in my absence, my fellow AWE sisters stepped in. A surprise visit from a buyer led to an impromptu video-call deal that changed everything. FNITCC reminded me that connections often matter more than sales.”

Gratitude flowed freely for the Fidelity Bank team and the behind-the-scenes contributors who ensured the event’s success.

“On behalf of FSGF AFRICA LTD, I extend our deepest gratitude to Fidelity Bank for hosting such a wonderful event,” said another exhibitor. “To the Fidelity team—your warmth, professionalism, and commitment made this experience truly remarkable.”

FNITCC 2025 also celebrated Nigerian excellence and the rising influence of women-led businesses.

“Wow! Sisters online, making the impossible possible! This is the Africa we want. Nigerians are believing in Made-in-Nigeria products—and that belief is powerful,” shared one emotionally moved participant.

“Fidelity is carving out a big slice in Nigeria’s story of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship—and doing it with focus,” added another.

Reflecting on the vision behind FNITCC, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to expanding Nigeria-U.S. trade beyond oil. She noted that while Nigeria’s non-oil exports currently stand at under $5 billion annually, the potential is immense. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe access to global markets is a pathway to shared prosperity. That belief inspired the creation of FNITCC,” she said.

FNITCC 2025 demonstrated that when Nigerian innovation meets global opportunity, extraordinary outcomes follow. As Fidelity Bank continues to invest in platforms that amplify local talent and drive cross-border growth, the future of Nigerian enterprise shines brighter than ever.

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.

About Fidelity Bank

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.

The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has sold its 34 percent equity stake in Unity Bank Plc to Providus Bank, in a landmark transaction that further cements the ongoing merger between both banks.

The deal, executed yesterday through the negotiated window of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), involved three transactions covering 4 billion ordinary shares of Unity Bank at N1.66 per share, amounting to N6.5 billion.

The transaction, which represents 34 percent of Unity Bank’s issued share capital, came just a day before a court-ordered meeting where shareholders are expected to approve the merger scheme.

Market analysts noted that the deal’s completion reflected AMCON’s acceptance of Providus Bank’s bid and suggested that the necessary regulatory approvals had already been secured. Any transaction above 5 percent requires clearance from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). In addition, the NGX lifted its suspension on Unity Bank’s shares, specifically to enable the trade.

Over the past decade, Providus Bank has built a reputation as a fast-growing, digitally driven lender with strong appeal among tech-savvy customers and SMEs. Analysts believe the merger will transform Providus from a niche player into a full-fledged national bank, leveraging Unity Bank’s 211-branch network across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT.

The combined entity is expected to strengthen Providus Bank’s retail presence, diversify its customer base, and provide immediate scale in retail banking. The merger also adds a robust pipeline of SME lending opportunities across key sectors such as agriculture, mining, e-commerce, hospitality, and entertainment.

Providus Bank has stated that it plans to integrate its advanced technology platforms into Unity Bank’s branch operations, improving efficiency and customer service. The merger, it added, will create new value across retail, SME, and digital banking channels.

At today’s court-ordered meeting, Unity Bank shareholders will vote on the merger scheme. They will have the option of receiving a cash payout of N3.18 per share or exchanging every 17 Unity Bank shares for 18 shares in the enlarged Providus Bank.

If approved, all Unity Bank assets, liabilities, intellectual property, and ongoing legal matters will be transferred to Providus, while Unity Bank will be dissolved, leaving Providus as the surviving entity.

The merger already received approval from both the CBN and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in August 2024. To support the deal, the CBN also provided a N700 billion lifeline loan to recapitalize the enlarged bank.

Leading global and local brands in the building, design, and construction industries have finalized preparations for the Ecobank Build and Design Expo, a premier exhibition set to spotlight innovation and excellence in the sector.

The five-day event, themed “How We Build, How We Live,” will run from September 24 to 28, 2025 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos, with daily sessions beginning at 10:00 AM.

More than 60 exhibitors will showcase cutting-edge building materials, engineering solutions, household appliances, and interior design innovations. Among the headline participants are: Lafarge, a global leader in cement and concrete solutions.; Sacvin, renowned for industrial and consumer packaging; Maison Valor, a premium provider of luxury home essentials.

Other notable brands include: MIXTA (urban real estate solutions), AFP Julius Berger (furniture production arm of Julius Berger Nigeria), Plascon Paint (durable coatings), CTW (business and trade facilitation), Floor Nigeria (durable flooring solutions), and Goggins (precision-driven engineering solutions).

Speaking ahead of the event, Omoboye Odu, Head of SMEs at Ecobank Nigeria, expressed excitement about the caliber of exhibitors: “The success of last year’s maiden edition has inspired us to deliver an even bigger and better experience this year. Participants will discover world-class innovations while forging meaningful partnerships that can elevate their projects and businesses. Whether sourcing materials, seeking design inspiration, or exploring collaborations, the Design & Build Expo provides the perfect platform to connect directly with trusted brands driving excellence across the sector.”

She further emphasised Ecobank’s commitment to a seamless and rewarding experience for all attendees:

“There is something for everyone at the fair. Beyond product showcases, this event contributes to building a sustainable future for Nigeria’s design and construction industries.”

L – R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, Andre Dickens; and Executive Director, South, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mrs. Pamela Shodipo at the 2025 Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) held in Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America over the weekend.

Tier-one lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigerian businesses in scaling up and competing effectively on the global stage.

This commitment was underscored at the 2025 Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC), held over the weekend in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.

Reflecting on FNITCC’s evolution over the past four years, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, described the initiative as a strategic expression of the bank’s vision to empower homegrown businesses for global competitiveness.

“FNITCC is a vision that has come a long way. We began by equipping Nigerian exporters with foundational knowledge through capacity-building programs in partnership with the Lagos Business School. From ground zero, we taught small businesses the fundamentals of export. Once they were ready, we created this platform to showcase them to the world. Our goal has always been to help shift Nigeria from an oil-dependent economy to a diversified, non-oil-driven one—and exports are key to that transformation,” said Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe in her welcome address.

She emphasised the unique value of FNITCC in connecting buyers and sellers directly, fostering trust and confidence through face-to-face interactions.

“At this event, we have a wide range of buyers—from major retailers to small-scale distributors. Fidelity Bank has emerged as the leading bank in non-oil exports from the agricultural sector,” she added. She also encouraged participants to attend sideline sessions where regulatory agencies from Nigeria and the U.S. would share insights on compliance standards and export processes.

In his remarks, the Mayor of Atlanta, Mr. Andre Dickens, welcomed FNITCC to the city and highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Atlanta and Africa.

“This conference presents a unique opportunity for thought leaders from Atlanta and Africa to collaborate. Our shared legacies—from civil rights icons like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela to our mutual strengths in logistics, finance, technology, and the creative industries—form a strong foundation for trade and investment. We are not just networking; we are building lasting networks,” he said.

The third edition of FNITCC Atlanta featured deal rooms, panel discussions, exhibitions, and a gala dinner—all aimed at spotlighting Nigeria’s non-oil export potential and exploring pathways for expansion into the American market.

As part of efforts to deepen bilateral trade, a delegation from Lagos State also visited the Georgia State Capitol.

Speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared the state open for business and investment. He emphasized Lagos’ readiness to forge enduring partnerships and proposed the establishment of a sister-city framework to strengthen ties between Atlanta and Lagos.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

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.

Moniepoint Microfinance Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to financial inclusion as the cornerstone of its business, declaring that its mission goes beyond market share to transforming lives across Nigeria and Africa.

Speaking at the 2025 annual conference of Finance Correspondent Association of Nigeria (FICAN) in Lagos on Saturday, the bank’s Chief Executive, Babatunde Olofin, told a story that captured both the fragility and resilience of the Nigerian dream.

The theme of this year’s conference ‘Bracing for the Digital Economy in Nigeria: Taxation, Banking and Finance,’ brought together experts and stakeholders across the key finance sector of Africa’s largest economy, among whom was Moniepoint boss.

Olofin who was represented by the Head, Corporate Communications, Mr. Bemigho Awala, recounted the journey of a certain Iyaruka, a mother of four who relocated to Lagos after losing her homes in Abuja.

Starting out as a petty trader, she was onboarded onto Moniepoint’s payment platform two years ago, later gaining access to credit. Today, she runs three thriving stores and records daily revenues that once seemed impossible.

“That is the power of access. That is the meaning of inclusion,” the CEO declared. “Financial services should mean only one thing: progress.”

According to him Moniepoint’s new campaign, “We’re Made for Your Progress,” reflects its broader mission to power the dreams of Africans by using technology to provide speed, trust, and simplicity in financial transactions.

He stressed that the digital economy is not a distant prospect but a lived reality, underpinned by tools such as mobile connectivity, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. Yet, for technology to truly catalyse development, three pillars must be prioritised: trust, talent, and literacy.

Moniepoint, he noted, is investing heavily in these areas. Its “Dream Developments” incubator trains young Nigerians to build financial solutions, while the company also champions financial literacy as a safeguard against exclusion and misinformation. “Without knowledge,” he warned, “we are building on sand.”

Beyond banking transactions, Moniepoint is extending its solutions into areas such as inventory management for small retailers, enabling mom-and-pop shops to track stock and improve profitability. The bank is also documenting local case studies to better understand regional economies, including livestock and crop markets in Northern Nigeria.

The CEO emphasised that Africa’s financial future will not be scripted in Silicon Valley but determined by homegrown solutions, regulatory oversight, and informed journalism.

“At Moniepoint, we are not just interested in growing the market. We are committed to transformation. Everyone can bank on technology as a force for good,” he concluded.

L-R: Team Lead, Media and Communications, Union Bank, Adebukola Ayeni; Assist. Comptroler-General of Customs (ICT modernisation), Aondona Christopher Fanyam; Head, Communications and Public Affairs Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Hajia Hauwa Gambo; National Chairman, Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN), Mr. Chima Nwokoji; Head, Corporate Communications, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Ms. Joyce Onyegbule and Acting Chief Marketing Officer, Sterling Bank Limited, Donatus Okpako at the 2025 annual conference of FICAN in Lagos over the weekend.

For marking its 35th Anniversary, the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Lagos Business School (LBS), during the weekend joined other stakeholders to commend the Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) for remaining resilience in transforming finance journalism and contributing to the Nigeria’s economy growth.

Managing Director NDIC, Mr. Thompson Sunday who was represented by Director, Claims Resolution Department, Mr. Sule Olawale and Managing Director, NSIA, Aminu Umar-Sadiq who was represented by Head Corporate Communications, Joyce Onyegbule in their goodwill messages at the 2025 annual conference of FICAN in Lagos praised the executives and members of the Association for collaborating with government’s agencies in effective dissemination of Information.

Olawale noted that 35 years is not a small feat, stressing that FICAN has positioned itself to be the hallmark of finance reporting in Nigeria.

“My goodwill message will centre around appealing to you to continue the good works. I commend the past and current leadership of FICAN for sustaining the association for over 35 years.

“NDIC and FICAN have had a very warm and cordial relationship over the years. FICAN has been there to tell our stories, give us the platform to share our narratives and to show to Nigerians the great work that the NDIC has done and will continue to do”, he said.

In her goodwill message, representative of NSIA, Onyegbule congratulated FICAN on the 35th anniversary, stressing that executives and members of the association have done a great job.

“On behalf of the management and staff of the entire NSIA, we extend our very warm regards and congratulations on this very laudable milestone that you crossed.

“FICAN has also showcased all the work that we have done across the six geo-political zones and also given us a platform to say the things that we even wanted to do in future.

“We say a very big thank you to FICAN and we look forward to many more years of impactful association to tell the stories that impact and shape the outcome that we as Nigerians want to see again and again,” she said.

In his speech, the Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Christopher Famyam, who represented the Nigeria Customs Service said the service is aware of the tremendous education and enlightenment the association is doing through stories members churn out on daily basis.

According to him the NCS, who has been at the forefront of the federal government’s modernisation and streamlining of processes in revenue collection and taxation, appreciates the laudable efforts of Journalists and especially FICAN.

He said NCS commenced its digital transformation as far back as year 2006 with Asucuda, but has recently achieved a localised modern platform known as B’Odogwu.

He said the introduction of the local platform has boosted revenue collection as well as enhancing trade facilitation.

“B’ Odogwu refers to the Nigeria Customs Service’s unified, indigenous software system designed to modernise trade processes and improve efficiency at Nigerian borders.

” It acts as a single platform for all customs clearance processes. It centralises customs operations for better management and monitoring and risk control”, he noted.

Also, Professor Akintola Owolabi, Dean of Accounting, Lagos Business School, said FICAN stands as the beacon for financial journalism in Nigeria.

He stressed that for 35 years, the association has catalysed economic discourse by forging robust connections between the media, academia, and industry leaders.

” Your unwavering commitment to rigorous capacity building, incisive reporting, and fostering transparency has enriched public understanding of Nigeria’s complex financial sector”, he added.

Owolabi said that the theme of the conference was timely and vital for Nigeria’s sustainable development, adding that “at Lagos Business school the strategic vision is in consonance with advancing digital transformation, promoting and cultivating the leaders Nigeria requires to navigate and pioneer the evolving frontier.”

L – R: Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi, Group Head, Women Banking; Chozoba Iheme, Group Head, Product and Segment; and Ifeoluwa Oyeyipo, all of Access Bank Plc during a session to announce the launch of Womenprenuer Pitch-a-ton Season 7 in Lagos recently.

Access Bank is pleased to announce the launch of its Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton 2025 programme, empowering female entrepreneurs across Africa with essential skills, knowledge, and resources to drive business growth and self-sufficiency.

Applications for the program commenced on Friday, September 19, 2025, and will close on Friday, October 3, 2025.

Speaking at the press conference in Lagos, Group Head, Women Banking, Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi told pressmen that the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton has empowered hundreds of women with business training, mentorship, and access to funding since its launch in 2019.

“This year, the program is back and better, offering women entrepreneurs the opportunity to scale their businesses, gain visibility, and connect with like-minded trailblazers across the continent.

The 2025 edition promises a rich and rewarding experience for women in business. Selected participants will undergo an intensive Mini-MBA program designed in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), equipping them with the knowledge and tools required to grow sustainable businesses. In addition, participants stand a chance to access significant financial support, with over N17.5 million to be awarded in grants to the most outstanding businesses. The program also ensures that the impact goes beyond the winners, as other finalists will enjoy consolation benefits and other business support services to help strengthen their brands and operations” she said.

Reiterating Nene’s comments, Oyeyipo Ifeoluwa, Project Manager, Womenprenuer Pitch-a-ton said “We have trained  878 women and awarded grants of up to $175,000.00 since the launch of Womenprenuer pitch-a-ton since 2019.  The programme is not just about competition; it is a holistic journey designed to transform women-led businesses and contribute to Africa’s economic development.

The program is open to women entrepreneurs whose businesses are registered, have been existing for more than 1 year and own at least 50% shareholding in their business” Oyeyipo concluded.

L – R: Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi, Group Head, Women Banking; Chozoba Iheme, Group Head, Product and Segment; and Ifeoluwa Oyeyipo, all of Access Bank Plc during a session to announce the launch of Womenprenuer Pitch-a-ton Season 7 in Lagos recently.

Access Bank is pleased to announce the launch of its Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton 2025 programme, empowering female entrepreneurs across Africa with essential skills, knowledge, and resources to drive business growth and self-sufficiency.

Applications for the program commenced on Friday, September 19, 2025, and will close on Friday, October 3, 2025.

Speaking at the press conference in Lagos, Group Head, Women Banking, Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi told pressmen that the Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton has empowered hundreds of women with business training, mentorship, and access to funding since its launch in 2019.

“This year, the program is back and better, offering women entrepreneurs the opportunity to scale their businesses, gain visibility, and connect with like-minded trailblazers across the continent.

The 2025 edition promises a rich and rewarding experience for women in business. Selected participants will undergo an intensive Mini-MBA program designed in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), equipping them with the knowledge and tools required to grow sustainable businesses. In addition, participants stand a chance to access significant financial support, with over N17.5 million to be awarded in grants to the most outstanding businesses. The program also ensures that the impact goes beyond the winners, as other finalists will enjoy consolation benefits and other business support services to help strengthen their brands and operations” she said.

Reiterating Nene’s comments, Oyeyipo Ifeoluwa, Project Manager, Womenprenuer Pitch-a-ton said “We have trained  878 women and awarded grants of up to $175,000.00 since the launch of Womenprenuer pitch-a-ton since 2019.  The programme is not just about competition; it is a holistic journey designed to transform women-led businesses and contribute to Africa’s economic development.

The program is open to women entrepreneurs whose businesses are registered, have been existing for more than 1 year and own at least 50% shareholding in their business” Oyeyipo concluded.

Stanbic IBTC Holdings, in collaboration with the Lagos Business School Sustainability Centre (LBSSC), has announced the highly anticipated Sustainable Finance Summit 2.0. Scheduled for Tuesday, 23 September 2025, this year’s event is themed “Financing Resilience: Digital innovation and AI for climate-smart communities.”

The hybrid summit will be held at the Civic Centre in Lagos, ensuring global accessibility and participation from international stakeholders.

The Sustainable Finance Summit 2.0 represents the definitive platform for understanding and shaping the future of finance and climate resilience in the digital age. As a comprehensive engagement, the summit targets a diverse ecosystem of participants, including financial sector professionals, C-suite executives seeking to understand emerging sustainable finance opportunities, technology and AI innovators, policymakers and regulators, corporate leaders, academic community including researchers and students advancing knowledge in sustainable finance, media and civil society, journalists and NGO representatives amplifying sustainable finance awareness.

For Investors: Discovery of new sustainable investment opportunities, understanding of climate risk assessment tools, and connection with innovative fintech startups and for Regulators: Platform for policy dialogue, exposure to international best practices, and collaboration opportunities with private sector leaders.

The Sustainable Finance Summit 2.0 emphasises meaningful dialogue and active participation, through interactive panel discussions with industry thought leaders; Live Q&A sessions fostering direct engagement between speakers and attendees; Networking sessions designed to facilitate strategic partnerships; and Case study presentations showcasing successful sustainable finance implementations and demonstrations of AI-powered climate solutions.

While anchored in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, the summit’s hybrid format enables international participation, reflecting the global nature of climate finance challenges and solutions. The event positions Nigeria as a leading voice in sustainable finance across Africa and internationally.

Registration link: https://events.lbs.edu.ng/SUSTAINABLEFINANCESUMMIT2025