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  • Nestlé Water Quality Advocacy Campaign to raise awareness on Water Safety

    Nestlé Waters has unveiled the Nestlé Water Quality Advocacy campaign; a bold initiative aimed at raising national awareness on the need for quality water across Nigeria. This campaign was developed in collaboration with the Organised Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH). 

    Nestlé Waters and OPS-WASH have committed to taking the advocacy for quality water to all segments of society, from policymakers and businesses to schools, and grassroots communities, with the intent to close the knowledge gap around the invisible threats posed by contaminated water. The launch event in Abuja brought together key stakeholders to emphasise the critical importance of protecting the nation’s water sources to protect public health and enhance community well-being. 

    Speaking at the launch, Mr. Olatunji Olutayo, Business Executive Officer, Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages, highlighted Nestlé’s strong commitment to quality which is the foundation for the water quality advocacy campaign.

    Speaking on Nestlé Waters quality standards, he said: “Water stewardship is a priority for Nestlé Waters. By 2025, we aim for all our sites to be certified under the Alliance for Water Stewardship Standard, underlining our commitment to sustainable water use, community engagement, and responsible watershed management.”

    He said that these measures align closely with the advocacy campaign’s objectives: promoting universal access to safe water, ensuring transparent monitoring and accountability, encouraging multi-stakeholder collaboration, and pushing for sustainable, long-term solutions.

    “Our central message is clear, water safety must become a priority in every home, business, and public institution,” he added.

    Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator, OPS-WASH, on his part said “Water is life, yet millions of Nigerians are still unaware of the quality of the water they consume daily. This campaign is therefore about more than raising awareness; it is about empowering people with the tools and knowledge they need to safeguard their health by safeguarding their water sources. By knowing and protecting our water sources, we can significantly reduce the burden of waterborne diseases and build a healthier, more productive nation.”

    Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources & Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, represented by Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh, Director, Water Quality Control and Sanitation, emphasised the government’s commitment to improving water quality nationwide and welcomed private sector collaboration in tackling water-related challenges.

    In his words: “I wish to commend Nestlé Waters and OPS-WASH for this timely initiative, which aligns with our national drive to ensure that every Nigerian has access to clean and safe water. Contaminated water continues to be one of the leading causes of preventable diseases in the country, with serious health and economic implications. This advocacy, therefore, comes at a critical time, as water quality management remains a top priority for the government.”

    He explained that nationwide assessments are ongoing in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6.3.2, adding that increased investments in water quality management will remain central to the government’s agenda. “Nestlé has set the tone. It is now up to all of us, government, private sector, and communities – to build on this momentum so that safe water becomes a reality for every Nigerian household,” he concluded.

    In their goodwill messages, the Minister of Environment and the Minister of Health and Social Security, commended Nestlé and OPS-WASH for undertaking the campaign, noting that it would facilitate the improvement of the quality of water across Nigeria, by creating more awareness to drive the behavioural changes necessary to achieve SDG6.3.2.

    Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria PLC, described the campaign as a national movement for water safety rather than a one-off programme.

    “Today marks the beginning of a national movement for water safety in Nigeria, but this is only the first step. This campaign will not only raise awareness but also provide practical steps that individuals and communities can take to ensure safe water, improve the quality of life, and support national development.”

    She added: “Collaboratively, we aim to turn awareness into action and a lasting change so that quality water becomes a conscious aspiration for every Nigerian. By also engaging all stakeholders from policy makers to the implementation agencies, quality water will go from aspiration to a reality supported by behavioural change.”

    The Nestlé Water Quality Advocacy reinforces Nestlé Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and community well-being. It also aligns with OPS-WASH’s mission to mobilise the private sector in achieving national and global water, sanitation, and hygiene goals. Together, both organisations are calling on government agencies, businesses, civil society, and individuals to play their part in ensuring that quality water becomes a universal standard in Nigeria.

    Present at the press launch were representatives of the Federal Minister of Environment, represented by Madam Okea Rita; Federal Minister of Health and Social Welfare, represented by Mrs. Philomena Nwobosi; Dr. Adebisi Osim (FNSE) President Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN),  Engr. Nnenna IGWEGBE, Vice President, and Engr. Josephine Onuabuchi, APWEN OPS-WASH, North Central Coordinator and others.

  • Continental fundraising course opens in Nairobi to build sustainable nonprofit financing models

    Continental fundraising course opens in Nairobi to build sustainable nonprofit financing models

    An elite fundraising course aimed at reshaping how African nonprofits mobilize resources has officially commenced in Nairobi, bringing together participants from across the continent. The three-day program, Fundraising for African Nonprofits, has attracted leaders of civil society organizations, fundraising professionals, grant makers, and policy experts to respond to a pressing challenge confronting Africa’s nonprofit sector: reduced foreign aid, shifting donor priorities, and the urgent need for organizations to develop homegrown and sustainable fundraising strategies.

    While the sector plays a critical role in advancing health, education, livelihoods, climate resilience, and other humanitarian and development interventions many organizations remain highly dependent on external grants. This training has been designed to address that gap by equipping participants with the knowledge, tools, and practical models needed to build long-term financial resilience.

    The initiative is convened by Impact Africa Consulting Limited (IACL) in collaboration with the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, Bloodlink Foundation, the Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School, and United Muslim Relief (UMR).

    Dr. Shariq Siddiqui, Director of the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at Indiana University and Lead Trainer, remarked at the opening session, “This program is about positioning African nonprofits for the future. It combines global evidence with regional realities to help organizations move beyond short-term fundraising and design models that are data-driven, community-rooted, and sustainable.”

    Dr. Edward Mungai, Lead Consultant at IACL, highlighted the significance of the training: “Our goal is not only to transfer skills but also to build institutional resilience. African nonprofits must stop chasing grants and instead craft fundraising approaches that support long-term growth and impact.”

    Across the continent, nonprofits are navigating a shifting fundraising landscape marked by declining foreign aid, heightened competition for grants, and donor expectations for measurable impact. Traditional reliance on international partners is proving less sustainable, pushing organizations to explore alternative revenue streams, local philanthropy, and strategic partnerships with the private sector. The course responds directly to these dynamics by equipping participants with frameworks to diversify funding portfolios, strengthen donor relationships, and design fundraising approaches that align with both community needs and global best practice.

    Oscar Kimaro from Private Agricultural Sector Support Trust, Tanzania, emphasized the stiff competition for donor funding. “Competition for grants is incredibly high, and many strong initiatives are left unfunded. This program will show us practical ways to position our organizations for success and improve our chances of securing the resources we need to deliver lasting impact,” he said. 

    The course is structured around interactive sessions, simulations, and case studies that mirror the realities African nonprofits face daily. It offers a pragmatic approach that moves beyond theory by blending international best practice with local context, the program. Participants are engaging with tools on donor mapping, leadership alignment, and resource diversification, ensuring that the lessons translate directly into institutional strategies that can withstand the volatility of the funding environment.

    Joseph Wang’endo, Senior Technical Officer at Africa CDC and Founder of Bloodlink Foundation, emphasized the structural gap being addressed. “African nonprofits are often expected to deliver world-class results with limited resources. By providing practical systems and frameworks for fundraising, this initiative gives them a fair chance to build reliable support.”

    The realities Joseph highlighted are not unique to one country. Across Africa, organizations are grappling with the dual challenge of shrinking donor budgets and rising social demands. Local nonprofits are increasingly expected to fill service delivery gaps left by governments while also meeting rigorous reporting and compliance standards set by international funders. These pressures have instigated the urgency of equipping institutions with adaptable fundraising models that draw on both domestic and global opportunities.

    Daniel Oluwasola, a participant from One Life Initiative in Nigeria, spotlighted the relevance of the program to their fundraising efforts. “This training is giving us the skills and strategies to compete for grants more effectively and secure the resources we need to keep our programs alive and growing,”. 

    The course will conclude on Thursday, August 28, with a fundraising conference featuring panel discussions, case studies, and regional insights from leading experts led by Dr. Edward Mungai. At the close of the program, participants will receive a Professional Development Certificate from Indiana University, 13 CFRE education points, and access to proprietary fundraising tools, donor behavior reports, and customizable templates.

    By the end of the week, African nonprofits are expected to leave Nairobi better positioned to lead their own fundraising agendas and chart new pathways for sustainable growth.

  • LASG, Afreximbank Train 253 Export Ready Entrepreneurs, Unveil 20 Trade Champions to IATF Algiers 2025

    LASG, Afreximbank Train 253 Export Ready Entrepreneurs, Unveil 20 Trade Champions to IATF Algiers 2025

    Lagos State Government has successfully trained 253 Small and Medium Enterprises under its Lagos State Export Readiness Program, LASERP. It unveiled 20 outstanding Trade Champions to represent the State and showcase the best Made in Lagos products in the Lagos Pavilion to be hosted at the Intra African Trade Fair, IATF, in Algiers in September.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the unveiling as a new chapter in the story of Lagos enterprise at the graduation and closing ceremony of the programme held in Lagos on Friday.

    Represented by his Special Adviser on Works, Dr. Adekunle Olayinka, the Governor remarked that the gathering was not merely to close a training programme; but to celebrate resilience, acknowledge courage, and commission a new generation of exporters who will carry the banner of Lagos into Africa and the world.

    His words: “When LASERP was conceived, our vision was clear: to prepare Lagos entrepreneurs to compete beyond our shores, to diversify our economy away from the dominance of oil, and to entrench Lagos as the undisputed gateway of trade for Nigeria and the African continent. Today, as we witness the graduation of these exceptional SMEs, we see the manifestation of that vision.

    “Our ambassadors are no longer just local champions – they are export-ready entrepreneurs, positioned to scale, to innovate, and to stand tall in regional and global markets. Already, Lagos contributes more than 60 percent of Nigeria’s non-oil exports, which stood at US$5.3 billion in 2024, and with this graduating cohort of over 250 SMEs, we project an additional US$1 billion in foreign exchange inflows annually within the next five years.

    Minister of Finance/Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, represented by his Special Adviser on Communications, Media, and Publicity, Dr. Ogho Okiti, commended the visionary leadership of the State, particularly the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, under Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, for initiating LASERP.

    “I also recognise the invaluable partnership of Afreximbank and ImpactHer in making this programme a success. This collaboration demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships in unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential. Export diversification is critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic growth. Programmes like LASERP directly support our broader agenda to grow non-oil exports, expand Nigeria’s global competitiveness, and strengthen women-led enterprises and SMEs. It will serve as a model for similar initiatives across Nigeria,” he said.

    Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose expressed that the gathering was for more than a class of graduates, but to celebrate a movement of exporters, innovators and pioneers who will carry the Lagos spirit across Africa and into the world.

    “Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Governor and Mr. Deputy Governor, Lagos has declared boldly: we will not be local champions; we will be global competitors. That is why LASERP was born. To move our SMEs from the streets of Lagos to the shelves of the world. To transform potential into performance. To prepare you not just to meet standards, but to set them. Already, Today is not just another day in our calendar. Today is history in motion. Today is vision becoming reality. Today is Lagos telling the world: we are ready, we are rising, we will lead,” she said.

    Also speaking at the event, Regional Chief Operating Officer, AfreximBank, Allain Thierry Mbongue, affirmed that the programme has set off a new generation of export ready champions who will write the next chapter of Africa’s economic story. “By investing your time and energy, you have positioned yourself not only as business leaders in Lagos but as future exporters whose goods and services would soon carry the proud label; Made in Africa. At Afrexim Bank, we believe SMEs are not just the backbone of African economies, they are the engine that will power Africa’s economic future under AfCFTA. That is why the bank has laid strategic emphasis on SMEs development,” he said.

    Founder/CEO, ImpactHER, Efe Ukala, revealed that the training focused on digital and brand transformation, as entrepreneurs were equipped with what they need to stand out in the digital export world. “During the training, we helped build websites, provided customised digital export marketing strategy, facilitated 5 percent single digit interest loan for participants – two out of which are being processed, as our participants shipped out over a dozen 20-foot containers of goods over the past 6 weeks while 10 businesses secured international trade certification – thus securing long term access to new markets,” she said.

    According to the Director, SME Development, AfreximBank, Ody Akhanoba, the training recognised the importance of SMEs to the African economy, and particularly to Lagos, which is the 5th largest economy in the continent. “I congratulate the SMEs that successfully participated in this programme, this is a testament to your aspiration that what you had was not enough and you devoted good time to acquire what you need to become future export champions. But this is not the end, you really need to leverage on your new skills, be resilient and collaborate to take your place in Africa and global marketplace where you belong. Africa industrial revolution rests on your shoulders,” he declared.

    Sharing experiences with the graduands, Managing Director, Secure ID, Mrs. Kofo Akinkugbe, OON charged the graduands to rise above skepticism and remain resilient and committed to global standards, ensuring high quality products and compliance with international certifications. “Commitment to quality and global standards is crucial for entering new markets and gaining international recognition, while you need to start small, scale gradually, understand your target market and devise entry strategy,” she said.

    Managing Partner, Zenforte Partner, Weyinmi Eribo, highlighted 5 principles for the trainees as guides to success; “Prepare deeply because readiness is the foundation of market access; Don’t go alone – clusters and cooperatives are your allies in scaling; See finance as within reach – with the right structures, capital will come; Invest in networks – because trade is built on trust, not just transactions; and Formalise your trade activities – so you can scale under AfCFTA and beyond,” she said.

  • 100 days to the G20: Will the G20 break Africa’s debt trap?

    100 days to the G20: Will the G20 break Africa’s debt trap?

    With just 100 days to go until the G20 Summit in South Africa, the ONE Campaign is calling on G20 leaders to seize this moment to deliver a clear roadmap for reforming the global financial system and lowering the cost of capital for African countries and other emerging markets.

    Lowering Africa’s borrowing costs demands coordinated action from African and international policymakers, investors and financial institutions. This means improving the availability and quality of economic data, dismantling outdated and biased perceptions of risk and scaling innovative financing tools that reduce investment risks. Without these reforms, too many African countries will remain locked in a vicious cycle where debt repayments swallow more resources than investments in critical resources.

    Kerezhi Sebany, Director, Economic Opportunities for Africa at the ONE Campaign, said: “Every extra percentage point Africa pays to borrow is a classroom not built, a clinic not stocked with medication and a road not paved. This isn’t just an African problem, it’s a global missed opportunity. The G20 has the power to change the rules, to make access to capital fairer and to unlock the investment needed to drive sustainable growth for billions. In 100 days, the world will be watching to see if the G20 choose courage over complacency.”

    The ONE Campaign is urging G20 to announce a bold, time-bound implementation roadmap at the Summit, one that reforms credit rating systems, improves data transparency, expands access to concessional finance and harmonises reforms across jurisdictions to level the playing field for Africa and other developing economies.

  • Safer borders, stronger trade for West African Women

    Safer borders, stronger trade for West African Women

    …The goal is to implement solutions like these to make cross-border trade safer, simpler, and more inclusive for women

    Every day in West Africa, thousands of women walk through border posts carrying produce like cassava, tomatoes, or maize to sell in neighbouring countries. They are unrecognised but vital parts of the region’s food systems and economies.

    But many face harassment at checkpoints, along with demands for bribes. Border processes may not be in a language that they speak. The border crossings themselves have poor infrastructure. And women often have limited access to banking or other financial services.

    Coordinated efforts are underway to tackle these challenges within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Forty regional officials met from 24 to 26 February 2025 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to endorse a slate of solutions, including:

    • establishing legal clinics at border posts
    • providing gender-sensitivity training for customs and transport officials
    • launching simplified declaration systems for small traders
    • deploying visual, mobile-accessible tools to help women comply with trade procedures
    • engaging men as allies

    ‘We need to ensure regional trade policy becomes a tool for inclusive growth, where women are not just participants, but empowered leaders,’ said Sandra Oulate, Director of the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC). 

    The International Trade Centre (ITC) is working with ECOWAS and the main German development agency GIZ on the ECOWAS Agricultural Trade (EAT) programme. The goal is implement solutions like these to make cross-border trade safer, simpler, and more inclusive for women.

    The workshop brought together representatives from ECOWAS, national gender and agriculture focal points, chambers of commerce, and development partners including ITC, Women in Law and Development in Africa (WILDAF), West Africa Association for Cross-Border Trade, in Agro-forestry-pastoral, fisheries products and Food (WACTAF), and the West African Food Systems Resilience Programme.

    Salimata Thiam, an EGDC representative, said participants were encouraged to ‘identify concrete actions that could be implemented within the framework of the EAT project to boost the role of women in regional trade’.

    ITC presented several tools under development: a new regional trade guide for women, a policy paper on women in agrifood trade, and findings from gender-sensitive border assessments to support informed policymaking.

  • Nigeria: Thousands killed, hundreds forcibly disappeared in two years in South-East region

    Nigeria: Thousands killed, hundreds forcibly disappeared in two years in South-East region

    …The report is based on interviews with 100 people, including survivors, victims’ relatives, civil society members, lawyers, traditional leaders, and religious leaders

    • 1,844 people killed between January 2021 and June 2023
    • Gunmen killed over 400 people in Imo state between 2019 and 2021
    • Hundreds of people arbitrarily detained and forcibly disappeared

    The Nigerian authorities’ persistent failure to address the security crisis in the country’s South-East region has created a free-for-all reign of impunity in which numerous state and non-state actors have committed serious human rights violations and killed at least 1,844 people between January 2021 and June 2023, Amnesty International said today.

    The report, A Decade of Impunity: Attacks and Unlawful Killings in Southeast Nigeria, documents unlawful killings, torture and other ill-treatment, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and displacement at the hands of rampaging gunmen, state-backed paramilitary outfits, vigilantes, criminal gangs and cults in the South-East region between January 2021 and December 2024.

    “The Nigerian authorities’ brutal clampdown on pro-Biafra protests from August 2015 plunged the South-East region into an endless cycle of bloodshed, which has created a climate of fear and left many communities vulnerable. Assassinations of prominent personalities and attacks on highways, security personnel, and facilities are chilling reminders of the region’s insecurity,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

    “The government must stop turning a blind eye to the unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, enforced disappearances, and destruction of properties in the South-East region. Authorities must live up to their constitutional and international human rights obligations including by ensuring all suspected perpetrators are brought to justice in fair trial, no matter who they are, and that victims and their families have access to justice and effective remedies.”

    The report is based on interviews with 100 people, including survivors, victims’ relatives, civil society members, lawyers, traditional leaders, and religious leaders. Amnesty International also conducted research missions to Owerri in Imo state, Asaba in Delta state, Obosi in Anambra state, and Enugu in Enugu state between April 2023 to November 2023.

    Violent attacks by “unknown gunmen”

    Gunmen killed over 400 people in Imo state between January 2019 and December 2021, often emerging from their camps unmasked to carry out attacks on residents, police stations, and vigilante offices. The raids have triggered reprisal attacks resulting in death and injury for thousands of residents.

    Victims described how the gunmen appear, routinely demanding money from communities during burial ceremonies and weddings. Anyone who resists risks being subjected to violent attack during the night, and their house set on fire.

    Ebulie, who survived an attack by gunmen in Ihiala told Amnesty International: “The “unknown gunmen” are armed – some come with guns, cutlasses, and machetes. If they come for an attack, anyone that blocks their way, they will kill them. It has been a terrible situation, people are scared…”

    Nigerian authorities continue to blame the pro-Biafran organization IPOB (Indigenous People of Biafra) and its militant arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) for most of the deadly attacks in the region. IPOB/ESN deny involvement in the activities of the “unknown gunmen” and their camps.

    However, the enforcement of a sit-at-home order by IPOB/ESN, across the South-East region, issued on 9 August 2021, has led to human rights violations, with people beaten or even killed for defying the order. Schools have been shut, exams disrupted, forcing children to stay away from school. Markets have been closed with harsh economic consequences for communities across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states.

    Climate of fear and disruption to daily life

    Insecurity in South-East Nigeria has affected people’s rights including the rights to life, physical integrity, security, liberty and freedom of movement. Many people have not travelled to their hometowns for several years for fear of attack or abduction. Traditional marriage and burial ceremonies that were normally conducted in people’s ancestral homes now mostly take place in other communities outside the South-East due to fear of attack by the gunmen.

    Gunmen have turned some communities into “ungoverned spaces,” by sacking traditional rulers, displacing residents, and taking total control of communities, including Agwa and Izombe in the Oguta Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo state and Lilu in Ihiala LGA of Anambra State.

    Amnesty International’s report also documents abuses and killings by various cult groups, which operate unchecked amidst a thriving drug business, in several towns in Anambra state, including Obosi, Awka, Onitsha, Ogidi and Umuoji.

    The report reveals how the state-backed Ebube Agu paramilitary force, established by the South-East governors on 11 April 2021, has been used as a tool to harass and intimidate opponents and critics of the state governments. It is also responsible for arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, and destruction of homes.

    During military operations in the South-East, Nigerian security agencies, including the military and police, committed unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests and detention, torture, enforced disappearances, and destruction of property.

    Despite the scale of the atrocities against the people, justice and adequate reparations have eluded victims of the violence.

    “No one knows exactly the number of people killed in the southeast since August 2015. Many people have been declared missing or forcibly disappeared. The number of high-profile killings and the consistent fear of possible attacks, anywhere and anytime, show how badly the authorities are failing to protect lives and property and ensure law and order. Impunity for these human rights crimes continues to have a chilling effect on the enjoyment of other human rights,” said Isa Sanusi.

    “The Nigerian authorities must uphold their constitutional and international human rights obligations by guaranteeing, protecting and ensuring the rights to life, physical integrity, and liberty security and safety of the people and stemming the tide of rampant insecurity in South-East region. Authorities must undertake prompt, thorough, independent, impartial, transparent and effective investigations into all allegations of violations and abuses committed by state and non-state actors in the region.”

    Background

    Amnesty International has been documenting human rights violations by state, non-state, criminal gangs, and state backed paramilitary outfits in the south since August 2015. This report builds on the research published on 24 November 2016, detailing brutal  crackdown on pro-Biafra activists by Nigerian security forces. Findings of this report were shared with the governors of South-East states and Nigeria’s security agencies. No response was received.

  • Gufwan Commends NCC for Sensitisation Workshop on Digital Citizenship for Persons with Disabilities

    Gufwan Commends NCC for Sensitisation Workshop on Digital Citizenship for Persons with Disabilities

    The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NDPWD), Ayuba Gufwan, has commended the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for organising a sensitisation workshop on digital citizenship for people with disabilities.

    The Executive Secretary, represented by the Director, Social Integration of the NDPWD, Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, expressed his delight towards the NCC for its forward-thinking initiative to bridge the digital divide and enhance the active participation of persons with disabilities in the digital ecosystem.

    He said that their effort was timely and aligned with national and international commitments to inclusion, accessibility, and sustainable development.

    “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the transformative potential of information and communication technologies in advancing equality, inclusion, and independent living for persons with disabilities. The digital space, when made accessible, can eliminate barriers to education, employment, health, and civic participation,” he added.

    The event, which took place on Thursday, July 17, 2025, in Abuja, with the theme: ‘Empowering All – Advancing Digital Citizenship and Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities’, offered a strategic platform for stakeholders to engage, exchange knowledge, and build collective capacity in advancing digital inclusion.

    The NCPWD Executive Secretary encouraged all participants – policy makers, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) professionals, civil society actors, and persons with disabilities – to seize the opportunity to foster innovative and inclusive digital solutions that leave no one behind.

    He reiterated that the NCPWD remains committed to working collaboratively with the NCC and other relevant stakeholders to ensure Nigeria’s digital transformation is inclusive, participatory, and empowering for all, especially persons with disabilities.
    The key takeaway of the workshop was that digital citizenship is an indispensable tool, as inclusion in it benefits access to information, improved communication, life transformation and empowerment, enhanced digital education, inclusive remote employment, tech savvy, and enhanced education, amongst other things.

    Some of the workshop’s outcomes include discussions on the importance of online safety, privacy, and ethical behaviours. Others include Barr. Ikem Onuegbunam’s presentation on bridging the digital divide gap and removing the stigma of People with Disabilities.

    The highlight of the workshop was the presentation of braille books by the NCC to the NCPWD, presented by the NCC’s Director of Digital Economy, Mrs Olatokunboh Oleyele and received by Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, on behalf of the Commission. Certificates of participation were also distributed to everyone in attendance.

  • NBA Yenagoa Branch Strengthens Collaboration with Security Agencies

    NBA Yenagoa Branch Strengthens Collaboration with Security Agencies

    …Pays Courtesy Visits to DSS Bayelsa Command and FRSC Sector Command Leaders

    In a strategic move to deepen institutional collaboration and reaffirm its unwavering commitment to justice, national security, and public safety, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa Branch, has paid a series of high-level courtesy visits to key security agencies in Bayelsa State.

    The Branch, led by its Chairman, Clement B. Kekemeke, Esq., engaged with the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Bayelsa State Command, Mr. Adedapo Amao, and the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Corps Commander Prince I. Abosi, at their respective Command Headquarters in Yenagoa.

    During both visits, Mr. Kekemeke expressed gratitude for the audience granted to the NBA delegation. He referenced their previous interaction with the DSS Director during the distressing period surrounding the kidnap of Hon. Justice E. G. Omukoro, expressing relief at meeting under calmer circumstances. The Chairman consistently emphasized the critical need for sustained synergy between the legal community and all security agencies, particularly the DSS in combating crime.

    Mr. Kekemeke passionately called for mutual respect towards legal practitioners in the course of their professional duties, urging security personnel to view them as partners in progress rather than adversaries. He advocated for the swift and diligent prosecution of suspects to serve as strong deterrents and uphold the rule of law.

    In his conversation with the FRSC, Kekemeke underscored the importance of effective enforcement of their mandate regarding the lawful prosecution of traffic offenders, and raised concerns about the unlawful seizure of vehicle documents and imposition of fines without due process, urging strict adherence to legal authority and judicial recourse. The NBA also proposed deeper collaboration, including the incorporation of FRSC officers into relevant NBA committees and the Branch’s willingness to provide pro bono legal services where necessary, alongside ensuring justice and compensation for victims of road traffic crashes.

    In his response, Mr. Adedapo Amao of the DSS warmly welcomed the NBA delegation, commending Mr. Kekemeke’s leadership. He acknowledged the Bar’s strong show of support during the unfortunate kidnapping incident and reiterated the DSS’s commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship with the legal community. Mr. Amao encouraged continued cooperation in the prosecution of criminal cases and reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to ridding society of criminal elements.

    Similarly, FRSC Sector Commander, Corps Commander Prince I. Abosi, thanked the NBA Yenagoa Branch for the thoughtful visit and acknowledged the long-standing relationship between the Corps and the legal community. He reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to collaborate with the NBA on all fronts, expressing appreciation for the Bar’s willingness to provide legal guidance and public advocacy in road safety enforcement. In a progressive gesture, he proposed the creation of a dedicated unit within the Corps to be manned by members of the NBA Yenagoa Branch as Special Corps Marshals, aimed at further integrating the Bar into road safety education and enforcement efforts.

    The NBA Chairman’s entourage for these significant visits included: NBA delegation, which included the Vice Chairman, Beimonyo Vivien Brisibe PhD; Secretary, Timipa Henry Theophilus, Esq.; Provost, Nathaniel Lokoson, Esq.; Rev. Godfrey Otiotio (Ex Officio); Funakpo D. Gita, Esq., Chairman of the Young Lawyers Forum (YLF), Yenagoa Branch, Nelson Abali, Esq. Chairman of the Publicity Committee; Social Secretary, Gloria  I. Owen; Financial Secretary, Ebitaritari J. Allison and Theresa Ebi Tobuyei Esq amongst others.

  • Airtel Backs Global Hepatitis Fight with Health Education and Free Employee Vaccination

    Airtel Backs Global Hepatitis Fight with Health Education and Free Employee Vaccination

    As the world commemorates World Hepatitis Day, Airtel Nigeria is taking bold steps to combat the global health challenge by equipping its employees with knowledge and access. Reinforcing its ongoing commitment to employee wellness and public health advocacy, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider hosted a companywide Health Talk and announced a free hepatitis vaccination rollout across its offices across the country.

    This year’s health and wellness theme at Airtel, “Stay Aware, Get Tested, Vaccinated & Seek Treatment,” aligns with global efforts to eliminate hepatitis and underscores the company’s belief that well-informed, healthy employees are the foundation of a thriving organisation.

    In collaboration with its healthcare partner, Leadway Health, Airtel Nigeria brought together staff from across the country for an educational session titled: “Healthy Habits, Healthy Liver: Ending Hepatitis Starts with You!” Led by esteemed medical consultant Dr. Obioma Anomneze-Chima, the session offered critical insights into the causes, symptoms, and prevention of hepatitis, along with practical lifestyle habits to safeguard liver health.

    In his remarks at the programme, Airtel Nigeria CEO, Dinesh Balsingh, highlighted the company’s holistic wellbeing philosophy.

    He said, “Our people are the heart of our organisation, and when they are healthy, they bring their best selves to work. We’re not just investing in employee performance; we’re investing in their complete wellbeing. From mental wellness to preventive healthcare, our programmes are designed to offer real, meaningful support.”

    Speaking during the session, Dr. Anomneze-Chima emphasised the importance of proactive prevention and early testing,“Hepatitis doesn’t always announce itself; it creeps in quietly and can cause lifelong complications. Conversations like this help us catch it before it catches us. I applaud Airtel for giving its employees not just facts, but tools and access to protect their health.”

    Director, Human Resources and Administration, Airtel Nigeria, Adebimpe Ayo-Elias, noted that events such as the Hepatitis education and vaccination activity are a firm part of the company’s corporate mission. “This hepatitis campaign is a reminder that corporate responsibility goes beyond business metrics; it’s about actively participating in global health conversations and making a difference where it counts: among our people,” she added.

    To sustain the impact of the educational talk, Airtel Nigeria is launching a free hepatitis vaccination programme across its premises, allowing employees nationwide to get vaccinated on-site with ease. This initiative reflects the company’s human-first approach to workforce wellness—prioritising both immediate care and long-term health security.

    With this initiative, Airtel Nigeria once again demonstrates its leadership in advancing workplace wellness and health advocacy in the corporate sector. From supporting mental health through its Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to promoting physical wellbeing with preventive screenings and vaccinations, Airtel is setting the standard for what it means to truly care for its workforce.

  • Nestlé Nigeria Trains 100 Plastics Waste Workers for a Sustainable Future

    Nestlé Nigeria Trains 100 Plastics Waste Workers for a Sustainable Future

    As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and social inclusion, Nestlé Nigeria has launched a comprehensive Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) Training Programme, empowering 100 plastic waste workers across Lagos and Abuja. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and wellbeing of these invaluable workers while empowering them and promoting their dignity within the plastics recycling value chain.

    Supported by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN), and the Food Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), the training encompassed essential topics such as best practices in occupational health and safety, responsible handling of recyclable materials, fire prevention and rescue techniques, and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Each participant will also receive PPE kits to ensure safer working conditions, fostering a healthier environment for both workers and their communities.

    Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead for Nestlé Nigeria articulated the company’s motivation for this initiative, highlighting Nestlé’s commitment to building a waste-free future and the recognition of the role that the waste workers play in bringing this vision to life.

    “At Nestlé, we are committed to building a waste-free future and recognize the crucial role plastic waste workers play in reducing pollution and facilitating a circular economy. This training is a vital component of our support for this key stakeholder group, enhancing Nigeria’s waste management infrastructure. By equipping these essential workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, we help to improve their quality of life while increasing their employability and boost productivity within a sustainable waste management framework.”

    During the opening ceremony in Abuja, Prof. Innocent Barikor, Director General of NESREA, praised Nestlé’s commitment to environmental sustainability, stating, “I commend Nestlé Nigeria Plc. for its commitment towards environmental sustainability and for prioritizing the health and safety of those at the frontline of waste management. Waste workers are often unrecognized yet play a crucial role in our national effort to combat plastic pollution in our environment. The focus on training waste workers is commendable, especially at a time when the world is seeking solutions to the prevailing challenges relating to plastic waste management”.

    Responding on behalf of the trainees at the Lagos event, Engr. Mayowa Elefin, MD, Maladase Ecopreneur Management Company Limited commented saying “This training is an impactful initiative which aligns with our commitment to promoting a safe, healthy, and sustainable work environment across our plastic recycling value chain. It has provided valuable knowledge and practical skills that will greatly benefit our staff, enhancing their capacity to maintain safe operations, ensure healthier workplaces, and ultimately improve productivity”.

    This initiative underscores the collective commitment of Nestlé Nigeria, NESREA, RAN, and FBRA to promote environmental sustainability and generate positive social impact. By ensuring that plastic waste workers acquire the skills necessary for healthier, more productive lives, we contribute to a more sustainable circular economy.

    Other Stakeholders at the Abuja and Lagos event were – Director, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA, Dr. N.C Beka, Asst. Director, Plastic Waste Control, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA, Engr. Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku, Director Environmental Health and Safety, Abuja Environmental Protection Board, Mrs. Kate Ogbona, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), Mr. Nura Abba Rimi, Director, Industrial Development Department, FMITI, Mrs. Muyiwa Ajayi, Controller, Federal Ministry of Environment, Lagos Zonal Office, Mrs. Olabimpe Adenaike, Director, NESREA Lagos Liaison Office, Dr. Jonathan Sylvanus Dajal, Special Adviser to Lagos State Government on Circular Economy and Climate Change, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi. President, North-Central Coordinator, RAN, Mr. Femi Owoeye, Southwest Coordinator, RAN, Mrs. Feyikemi Egbeyemi, President, Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN), Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, Lagos State Coordinator, WAPAN, Mr. Adebisi Franklyn.

    The SHE training program which was implemented by ImpactCrest Consulting aligns seamlessly with Nestlé’s dedication to enhancing quality of life and fostering a healthier future for individuals and families, as well as the planet. Together, we are taking significant steps towards a more sustainable and inclusive future.

  • EAAIF anchors Axian Telecom’s USD 600 million bond

    EAAIF anchors Axian Telecom’s USD 600 million bond

    …Powering Africa’s digital economy 

    The Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF), a Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company managed by Ninety One, today announced its anchor investment in Axian Telecom’s USD 600 million 5-year bond issuance. EAAIF invested USD 40 million as part of a USD 160 million anchor investment alongside the International Finance Corporation (IFC), British International Investment (BII), DEG, and Proparco. The transaction’s orderbook saw a final 2x oversubscription, attracting over USD 1.3 billion in demand, underscoring strong investor confidence in Axian Telecom’s growth trajectory and Africa’s vibrant digital sector.

    EAAIF’s investment will support, among other key initiatives, Axian Telecom’s capital expenditure across its subsidiaries – driving economic growth and providing improved digital infrastructure to millions of people. Operating across Madagascar, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Comoros, Axian serves over 40 million mobile customers with digital infrastructure, including mobile broadband networks, fibre optic cables, towers, subsea cables, and data centres. Its impressive revenue growth – approximately 2.5-fold between 2020-2023 – ranks it among the Financial Times’ fastest-growing companies in Africa, reinforcing EAAIF’s commitment to identify and back fast-growth, ambitious businesses that are vital to digital economies.

    Recognising that connectivity is key to the future of work, EAAIF has long been a leading force in developing Africa’s digital infrastructure – from telecom towers to green data centers. The transaction deepens EAAIF’s partnership with Axian Telecom, having previously acted as co-anchor for its maiden USD 420 million bond issuance, which supported the company’s expansion in frontier economies across the region, including Tanzania, Madagascar, and Togo. EAAIF has consistently led the development of bond issuances to support cutting-edge infrastructure in Africa, anchoring key transactions for digital champions with strong regional footprints. The Fund has also invested in pan-African data centre developers to help meet the continent’s surging demand for climate-aligned technology innovation. 

    Africa’s young, tech-savvy, and rapidly growing population is driving demand for mobile and digital services. While fixed broadband remains limited due to high costs and infrastructure gaps, the continent has a unique opportunity to leapfrog outdated systems and build a digitally empowered future. Through partners like Axian Telecom, EAAIF is helping scale telecom infrastructure across emerging markets, laying foundations for connectivity that spans nations, strengthens communities, and supports the ambitions of people across Africa in an increasingly connected world.

    This bond issuance also helps to strengthen Africa’s nascent debt capital markets. For telcos, issuing bonds provides access to substantial, long-term capital, often at a lower cost than traditional loans, enabling large-scale network expansions and technology upgrades. It also attracts international investors, deepening market liquidity and confidence. EAAIF’s ongoing support for corporate bond issuances – including over USD 320 million allocated to telecom bonds, contributing to more than USD 6.2 billion raised in total – highlights its role in strengthening Africa’s digital economy and expanding funding options for high-growth businesses.

    Hassan Jaber, CEO of Axian Telecom, said: “We are honoured by the trust placed in us by EAAIF and our fellow anchor investors. Their support for this bond issuance is a strong vote of confidence in our long-term vision and the impact of our work. This financing enables us to scale innovative digital infrastructure across our markets and to bring transformative connectivity to millions, fostering inclusive growth and strengthening AXIAN Telecom’s role in advancing Africa’s digital future.”

    Tidiane Doucoure, Director, Emerging Market Alternative Credit, Ninety One, the Fund Manager of EAAIF, said: “The development of African capital markets is and will remain a priority for PIDG and Ninety One. Expanding access to digital services unlocks new economic opportunities, and greater financial inclusion, which are crucial drivers for intra-African trade and entrepreneurial growth. This oversubscribed transaction underscores the immense potential of African businesses and the growing confidence of global investors in the region’s digital future and champions like Axian Telecom.” 

  • Freedom to Operate, Access to Capital Driving Seplat Energy’s Success – Roger Brown

    Freedom to Operate, Access to Capital Driving Seplat Energy’s Success – Roger Brown

    …Seplat Energy Earns NOG Indigenous Company of the Year Award

    Seplat Energy Plc, foremost Nigerian independent energy Company, has continued to blaze the trail in the country’s energy space by leveraging its Freedom to Operate in host communities and Access to Capital.

    The Company has developed and serviced clear ways of engagement with its communities and developing strong partnership with capitals.

    Roger Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Seplat Energy, said this at the 2025 NOG Energy Week Conference in Abuja during a panel session titled: “Harnessing Africa’s Energy Shift – From Acquisition to Optimisation”.

    Seplat Energy, he noted, sees engagement with its communities and other stakeholders from the long-term horizon. “A very clear way of engagement is what Seplat Energy and the indigenous players bring to the party. Shared prosperity is very important. Freedom to Operate has been our success, and this is the substance of our community engagement model,” Brown buttressed.

    Speaking on the indigenous energy sector’s inclination to succeed, he said that currently, the sector is thriving and full of incredible talents, which are committed to delivering value and boosting the fortunes of operators and the country at large.

    He added, “For us at Seplat Energy, when we completed the Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) acquisition last year, we were ready for it. This consolidates the fact that we are here for the long term. The assets are prolific in oil and gas, and we will continue to develop and optimise these resources.”

    Also commenting on the availability of capital to develop the assets, Brown said: “When we look at capital, we consider as many forms of capital that could be accessed. For us, capital is treated as a partner; in that partnership, everything is told and nothing is held back. It is full disclosure for us. Hence, capital access has been very critical to our success as a company.”

    The Seplat Energy CEO alluded to the prevailing situation where capital has become increasingly harder to access, but maintained that stability in business and business spheres will continue to attract capital.

    “Beyond committing funds to acquire assets, sufficient money should be set aside to develop the acquired assets. Seplat Energy has been able to redeploy capital and optimise the growth of the business. There is indeed capital to develop these assets that were acquired, and indigenous energy companies would continue to demonstrate this.”

    In a related development, Seplat Energy was honoured with the “Indigenous Company of the Year” Award by the organisers of the 2025 NOG Energy Week for its leadership and performance. The award was received on behalf of the company by the Director, New Energy, Okechukwu Mba.

  • LASG Partners AfreximBank, ImpactHER on Export Readiness Programme for SMEs

    LASG Partners AfreximBank, ImpactHER on Export Readiness Programme for SMEs

    The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, in partnership with AfreximBank- a leading Pan-African multilateral financial institution focused on financing and promoting intra- and extra-African trade and ImpactHER-a not-for-profit organization for empowering African female entrepreneurs by bridging the gender business financing gap, has officially launched the Lagos SMEs Export Readiness Programme (LASERP) for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as part of efforts to scale their businesses beyond national borders under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Speaking during the opening ceremony of the export readiness training programme organised by the Lagos Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment in partnership with AfreximBank and impactHER and held at Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Lagos on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the Honorable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Commerce, Lagos State, Mrs Folashade Bada Ambrose while delivering her welcome address described the launch as a defining chapter in Lagos state’s collective commitment to expanding the frontiers of international trade participation for our Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). She described the initiative’s launch as a bold step towards transforming Lagos-based businesses into globally competitive exporters, building wealth, creating jobs, and amplifying Lagos State and Nigeria’s economic prosperity. She noted that a total of 253 successful SMEs have been shortlisted for the programme.

    “The concept of export readiness is not just a trending term but an economic imperative. In an era marked by regional integration and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) operationalisation, we cannot afford to keep our vibrant enterprises confined to domestic markets. Our MSMEs must evolve from local champions to continental contenders. Nigeria, and Lagos State, in particular, has long been regarded as the economic engine of West Africa. But being an engine is not enough if we are not propelling forward. This programme is the vehicle that will drive us into new markets, beyond borders, and into the centre of intra-African commerce,” she said.

    Expressing appreciation to esteemed partners Afreximbank and ImpactHER for their collaboration, commitment to facilitating trade and industrialisation across Africa, and empowerment of women-led businesses on the continent, she noted that the week-long training has been meticulously designed to demystify the export process, build practical skills, and create a clear pathway to cross-border trade participation.

    She stated that the training which kicks on July 4, 2025 will offer participants the opportunity to be immersed in high-value sessions covering export documentation and regulatory compliance, product packaging and labeling standards for international markets, Trade finance and export credit guarantees, understanding logistics, customs, and border procedures, Market entry strategies, especially under the AfCFTA, Digital trade and e-commerce opportunities and Gender-responsive exporting for women-led MSMEs.

    “And that is not all. At the end of this training, 20 outstanding participants will be selected to represent Lagos at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) scheduled to hold in Algiers, Algeria, in September 2025. The Fair is a gateway to over 1.3 billion consumers and provides a chance to engage buyers, investors, partners, and policy influencers from across the continent. Our selected trainees will become Lagos’ Export Ambassadors,” she said.

    In his remarks, the Director, SME development, AfreximBank, Mr. Ody Akhanoba, while congratulating all the lucky beneficiaries of the initiative, noted that the selection is a testament to their dedication to building successful export-oriented businesses and a reflection of the bank’s commitment to expanding into the international market. Akhanoba explained that empowering SMEs with the resources they need via capacity training presents a significant opportunity to increase Africa’s share of exports.

    “We are at the edge of turning on the SME’s capacity to be more competitive in the market. With that in mind, we have taken concrete steps to promote the participation of SMEs in the African landscape through strategic interventions, such as facilitating trade and finance, capacity building, and market access,” he added.

    He disclosed that the bank has contributed significantly to providing training capacity to over 3,000 African SMEs through tailored incubator and accelerator programmes similar to the newly launched Lagos State/AfreximBank Accelerator Programme.

    In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Dr Olugbenga Aina, commended the Lagos State Governor for his purposeful leadership in the areas of commerce and industry, especially in empowering and accelerating the growth of SMES. He described the Accelerator Programme for SMEs as another first that would help to equip Lagos-based SMEs with the necessary technical tools they desire to scale them up to the next level.

    Also speaking, the Representative of ImpactHER’s founder, Clementina Uzogor, explained that the six-week training programme, comprising four weeks of training and two weeks of mentorship, is meant to enhance and scale participants’ export businesses and provide a platform to network with trade experts and other Nigerian WSMEs.

    Uzogor stated further that the major objectives of the programme include building capacity for MSMEs, particularly women, strengthening the Lagos trade ecosystem, market exposure, and trade facilitation, and providing access to promotion opportunities.

  • Unified Payments Partner Without Capes to Instill Life Values in Nigerian Students

    Unified Payments Partner Without Capes to Instill Life Values in Nigerian Students

    Unified Payment Services Limited, a trailblazer in Nigeria’s fintech space, has partnered with Without Capes, an organisation committed to nurturing young minds to instill core life values in students across Nigeria.

    The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, held across several schools in Lagos including Riverbank School, Kings College, Methodist Girls High School and Green Springs School, introduced the students to the Life Values Journal, a thoughtful tool designed to help young people grow in character and civic responsibility. Centered on the message of values, the students explored how six essential life principles: Kindness, Empathy, Patience, Self-control, Confidence and Humility can shape their choices, relationships and roles in the society.

    Speaking on the initiative, the Director, Corporate Services, Unified Payments, Vivian Okolo, explained that the company’s sponsorship reflects its commitment to nurturing not only technological progress but also human potential, beginning with the hearts and minds of the next generation.

    Okolo advised students to adopt a solution-driven mindset emphasizing that every young person has the power to become a problem-solver, a change maker and a patriot. She also encouraged them to view innovation as a form of kindness and national service, identifying challenges within their communities and responding with creativity and care.

    “Creating solutions to real problems in your country is one of the highest acts of kindness. Business should not just be about making money, it should be about making a difference. Our goal is to raise a generation that leads with heart and intention. We believe that when children grow in values, they grow into responsible adults; the kind who build strong families, healthy societies and prosperous nations,” she said.

    Also speaking, the Managing Director, Without Capes, Olajumoke Oluwatunmibi, expressed her excitement about the impact of the initiative on young learners, noting that building a better future for Nigeria requires more than just innovation but demands intentional investment in the minds and values of the next generation. Oluwatunmibi added that the partnership with Unified Payments enables Without Capes to reach more children with the tools they need to grow into better, value-driven versions of themselves.

    ”The journal was created to help children develop a sense of identity, purpose, and social responsibility from an early age. We believe that values are the roots from which excellence grows. When students are guided to reflect on who they are becoming, they are more intentional about their behavior and the impact they have on others.” she said.

  • Zedcrest Joins Lagos Govt, MacTay to Empower ICT Graduate Trainees with Jobs, Internships

    Zedcrest Joins Lagos Govt, MacTay to Empower ICT Graduate Trainees with Jobs, Internships

    Leading financial services firm, Zedcrest Group has entered a strategic partnership with the Lagos State Government and MacTay, to offer internships and entry-level jobs to top graduate trainees from the recently concluded, state-sponsored specialized ICT skill acquisition program.

    The Head of Brands and Communications, Zedcrest Group, Oyinkansola Adeboye made this announcement at the graduation ceremony for the 2024 cohort, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Ikeja, Lagos State.

    Adeboye explained that the program aligns closely with Zedcrest’s commitment to capacity building, not only in finance but across all sectors of the economy, highlighting the company’s continued investment in programs and initiatives that empower young Nigerians with the skills required for success.

    She then commended the Lagos State Government and MacTay for initiating the program which she described as critical to closing the digital skills gap among youths in Lagos and across Nigeria, assuring that every talent placed at Zedcrest Group will receive all the support they need to thrive in their chosen careers.

    Commenting on the initiative, Director of MacTay, Tunde Rotimi, disclosed that the training was created in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment as part of a broader mission to transform the future of work in Lagos by equipping young Lagosians with cutting-edge digital skills necessary to excel in a technology-driven world.

    Rotimi further revealed that MacTay meticulously designed the program’s curriculum to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy and urged the graduate trainees to leverage their newly acquired skills to build successful careers.

    In his address, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu underscored the importance of the training program and existing partnerships with MacTay and Zedcrest Group, stating that the initiative aims to empower youths to become innovators and job creators who will seize global opportunities, transform local businesses, and contribute to economic development.         

    Speaking through the State Commissioner, Ministry for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that the program attracted over 3,000 applicants when it launched in 2024, with only 200 candidates selected after a rigorous screening process. He added that the graduates were trained as full stack software engineers and data analysts, earning globally recognized certifications that give them an edge in the job market.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu then congratulated the graduates on successfully completing the program and encouraged them to remain exemplary ambassadors of Lagos State by upholding the values of resilience, innovation, and ambition in their future endeavors.