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Tag: United Kingdom

  • Prudential Launches Programme for Young Professionals Aspiring to be Change Makers

    Prudential Launches Programme for Young Professionals Aspiring to be Change Makers

    Big time supporter and enabler of youth development, Prudential (www.Prudentialplc.com) has completed a four-day immersive leadership program for young professionals from across the Group hosted in Lagos, Nigeria, West Africa, set to inspire, empower and develop a community of young employees to become active change makers through innovation in order to create a future-ready Prudential.

    Now in its third cohort, the Prudential Young Professional Programme is a grouping of 40 young employees aged 35 years and below from Africa, Europe and Asia i.e. Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, United Kingdom selected on the recommendation of their leaders.  

    The young professional programme was designed to connect young changemakers across the Group to each other, mentors who are CEOs as well as senior executives, to learn and create solutions for our customers.

    “With an average employee age of 37 years in Africa, we value thoughts and ideas from our younger employees. The program is not only designed to serve our customers to get the most out of life, we enable all employees to pursue their dreams and reach the highest potential, both personally and professionally. Prudential is counting on the young professionals, our next generation, to continue building our legacy as future leaders and create a future-ready Prudential,” said the Chief HR Officer for Prudential Africa, Maria Shipiri.

    “As a just and inclusive employer, Prudential strives to create a work environment where our diverse and talented team can bring their authentic selves to the workplace, in order to create, innovate, learn, succeed and grow,” said Nikki Davies, Group Diversity and Inclusive Director

    The programme is central to Prudential’s efforts to contribute to the growth and transformation of the economy and young employees by bringing a fresh perspective and a different way of thinking to any business.

    Harnessing on the creativity and energy of our young colleagues, the cohorts will collaborate across locations, businesses, and departments, generating ideas and prototypes and resulting in proposals to create a future-ready and competitive Prudential. 

    With over 540 employees in Africa 35 or less, the program focuses on building a tight-knit cohort while simultaneously supporting individuals and uniting emerging leaders from various businesses to engage in value-based leadership discussions and hands-on workshops, while also gaining visibility across senior stakeholders and co-creating solutions for the company.

    As part of Prudential’s growth roadmap, we are significantly investing in our people and technology to build the capacity to serve more customers. Today, Prudential serves over 19 million life customers in Asia and Africa.

  • Fidelity Bank Partners Invest Africa to Showcase the Best of Nigeria’s Non-Oil Exports

    Fidelity Bank Partners Invest Africa to Showcase the Best of Nigeria’s Non-Oil Exports

    …FITCC will host leading businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and regulators operating in the commodity, service, creative, fashion and fintech sectors in Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the wider European market

     In line with its strategic intent to always provide solutions and business support for its customers, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc (www.FidelityBank.ng), has announced plans to host the maiden edition of the Fidelity International Trade and Creative Connect (FITCC) in partnership with Invest Africa. 

    Scheduled to hold on Tuesday, 15 and Wednesday, 16 November 2022 in London, United Kingdom, FITCC will host leading businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and regulators operating in the commodity, service, creative, fashion and fintech sectors in Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the wider European market, to promote Nigeria’s Non-Oil Exports and facilitate integrations to global supply-chain networks via partnerships, co-creation opportunities and foreign direct investments. 

    According to a joint press release issued by the two organisations, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe stated, “FITCC is the next step in a series of activities we organized over the years to promote exportation in Nigeria. We started by investing in growing local capacity through our Export Management Programme in conjunction with the Lagos Business School and providing funding options for exporters. Over the years, we have remained committed to promoting non-oil exports from Nigeria, and through the FITCC, we are opening new opportunities in the international markets for Nigerian exporters and contributing positively to the growth of our economy. We are delighted to have Invest Africa collaborate with us on this amazing journey as we connect local businesses to importers and investors in the United Kingdom and Europe.” 

    Besides product exhibitions, FITCC will feature keynotes/plenaries, syndicate rooms for closed-door engagements with industry leaders, deal/meeting rooms, art exhibitions, themed theatrical performances, networking cocktails, and side fashion shows. 

    “As a leading business and investment platform, Invest Africa is thrilled to be partnering with Fidelity Bank on their inaugural FITCC conference in London this November. With a global footprint of more than 400 member companies, comprising multinationals, private equity firms, institutional investors, development finance institutions, professional service organisations, government bodies and entrepreneurs, we are well placed to support the bank in bringing the right partners and delegates to the event. The Nigerian market is hugely important to our members and there is no better time than now to showcase the extensive export capacity that Nigeria holds.,” commented Alison Kingsley-Hall, Head of Membership, Invest Africa.

  • World Vegan Day – Emirates embraces demand for plant-based meals and healthier choices

    World Vegan Day – Emirates embraces demand for plant-based meals and healthier choices

    Emirates has delivered a resounding response to heightened demand for plant-based cuisine with a multimillion-dollar investment into new vegan choices onboard, in a remarkable gesture that heralds the upcoming World Vegan Day on November 1. This comprises a curated menu of gourmet vegan dishes, introduced into First and Business Class and menus a refreshed selection of plant-based produce for the Economy Class.


    Renowned for its responsive alertness to customers’ concerns, this latest move by Emirates will help cater to the rapid growth of the global vegan community and general interest in herbivorous diets, It is setting new standards in customer experience with delicious and healthy options for cosmopolitan customers following a vegan lifestyle, or for those who seek a lighter meal choice while travelling. Vegan options are available to order and pre-order onboard, as well as in Emirates Lounges. 

    While Emirates has been serving vegan options onboard since the 1990’s, the vegan requirements were initially focused on specific routes such as Addis Ababa where vegan meals are required during certain times of the year by those practising the Ethiopian Orthodox faith, or across the Indian subcontinent where multiple faiths encouraged a plant-based diet. Vegan dishes are now rapidly gaining general popularity on US, Australian, some European and UK routes, with Emirates noting a sizable increase in interest in vegan dishes over the last decade. Routes showing recent increasing interest in vegan meals include Beirut, Cairo, and Taiwan. Currently Emirates offers more than 180 plant-based recipes catering to vegan customers.

    Already consistently rated as the best airline for vegan travellers by many dedicated website polls including VegNews, Emirates has invested into developing a new vegan menu to rival acclaimed restaurants. The vegan menu in First and Business Class spent a year in development in Emirates Flight Catering, an expansive facility based at Dubai International airport, which is home to 11,000 employees and serves up to 225,000 meals daily. It is the largest flight catering facility in the world and home to international chefs of 69 different nationalities. The menu was the focus of multiple presentations and tastings, featuring contributions from diverse cuisine specialists like Chinese, Indian and Arabic speciality chefs, to create a wide range of flavours and textures. The tasting panels included both vegan and non-vegan chefs and team-members to ensure an inclusive approach.

    In Economy Class, the vegan menus are also refreshed every month, providing a wide variety of dishes to frequent travellers. The vegan meals in Economy Class are available to pre-order and have been extremely well received by passengers worldwide. Current passenger favourites include a creamy spinach and avocado mousseline, with marinated tofu, blanched snow peas, radish, asparagus, pomegranate seeds, courgette ribbon and sriracha oil, or the multi colored quinoa with succulent caramelised pear and celeriac purée, roasted cauliflower, glazed carrots, sautéed kale and lovage pesto, and the hearty Autumnal flavours of barley risotto with mushrooms, served with sundried tomatoes, buttered chestnuts, blanched broccolini and toasted pumpkin seeds.The vegan desserts are also very delicious and features tempting choices such as a dark chocolate custard cake balanced by fresh, juicy strawberries, a zesty lemon tart lightly laced with coconut cream and a rich chocolate tofu cheesecake complemented by a sweet strawberry compote.

    The benefits of plant-powered choices are of increasing interest to health-conscious customers who may not define themselves as vegan but will occasionally choose lighter choices to complement their lifestyle. Alternative products used onboard Emirates include items like artisan vegan cheese, chickpea flour instead of white flour, because chickpea flour is gluten-free and naturally aerates dishes like crepes and omelettes to an irresistible fluffy texture. Coconut or vegetable-based cream is used instead of full fat dairy cream, coconut butter or margarine instead of dairy butter, and coconut and flaxseed oil are used as healthier alternatives to vegetable oil, with the bonus of infusing additional flavour to dishes and a high smoke point. The dishes also incorporate a range of super foods including rich-in-antioxidant black and white quinoa seeds, which help with cholesterol and blood sugar levels, lowering the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The new vegan menu in tFirst and Business Class features unique koftas, made with plant-based products from the world-renowned Beyond meat company. Vegan desserts have been created using organic dark chocolate with 60% raw cocoa ingredients, sourced from the Dominican Republic. Vegan dishes are complemented by refreshing Vitality juices, a bespoke range of juice blends, created by beloved UAE brand Barakat. Each gluten free and vegan juice is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants, with no added sugar, additives, or preservatives.

    The Emirates team of award-winning chefs have put together a creative new menu, where vegetables take centre stage and the absence of meat isn’t felt, through clever use of textures and infusions to conjure the essential umami effect. Jackfruit, a fibrous tree fruit from southwest India, is used as a focal point in some of the vegan dishes as it cooks out with a meaty texture. Kohlrabi, a Northern European cross between cabbage and a turnip, has a mild taste that absorbs the flavours it’s marinated in or cooked with – a very effective addition to vegan cuisine. Other core ingredients providing a moreish meal include the inimitable tofu, cauliflower steak and varieties of nuts and legumes. With an emphasis on freshness, vibrancy of taste and satiety, Emirates’ new vegan dishes showcase a tempting collection of colourful and healthy choices including heirloom cherry tomato tofu with edamame and roasted sesame, thyme scented mushroom ragout, fresh Hass avocado and mango salad timbale, or kale and cranberry salad served on a bed of grilled sweet potato. Ensuring that the tasty and healthy dishes are also edible to the eye, vegan meals are delicately garnished with farm-fresh herbs, berries, and colourful jus,’ while several of the new vegan desserts are adorned with thin sheets of genuine gold leafs.

    Vegan options onboard Emirates are nutrient-dense and rich in greens, fruits, and vegetables, sourced from several UAE-based suppliers including fresh locally grown kale, heirloom cherry tomatoes, salad leafs and herbs from Bustanica. Bustanica is the world’s largest hydroponic vertical farm, a US$40 million joint venture investment through Emirates Flight Catering. The Bustanica farm is driven by powerful technology – machine learning, artificial intelligence, and advanced methods – and a specialised in-house team that includes agronomy experts, engineers, horticulturists, and plant scientists. A continuous production cycle ensures the produce is perfectly fresh and clean, and grown without pesticides, herbicides, or chemicals. All passengers on Emirates will be served delicious leafy greens, including lettuces, arugula, mixed salad greens, and spinach directly from Bustanica, with plans for even more fruit and vegetables to be farmed in the future

  • Guaranty Trust’s You Read Initiative Hosts Damilare Kuku at Its Book Reading Event

    Guaranty Trust’s You Read Initiative Hosts Damilare Kuku at Its Book Reading Event

    Booklovers in Lagos were treated to an afternoon of uplifting creative interactions at a book reading event organized by Guaranty Trust Bank (Guaranty Trust) on Sunday, October 9, 2022, at the Herbert Macauley Library, Yaba. The event is an offshoot of Guaranty Trust’s You Read initiative which aims to champion continuous learning and promote a reading culture across Africa as part of its CSR policy.

    The selected literature for the book reading was, Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad by Damilare Kuku – a work of fiction that chronicles the experiences of various women as they navigate the world of friendships, dating, and marriage in Africa’s most populous metropolis. Each of the 12 stories employs brilliant characterization and witty dialogue to deliver relatable content and evoke familiar emotions. The author recited different portions of the book during the session and went on to explain her influences. She also offered some colour to her characters which fed the audiences’ curiosity and sparked a range of reactions. Attendees were allowed to join the discussion, and some got to share their personal experiences. The event was compered by Judith Atibi, radio personality and broadcast journalist, and featured a poetry act by Kolade Pelumi, a budding spoken word artist.

    Commenting on the You Read initiative, the Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd, Miriam Olusanya, said; “Reading is a rewarding life-long practice that greatly impacts quality of life – from building character and shaping thought to guiding ambition. With You Read, we are providing a platform that nurtures talent and rewards creative enterprise whilst fostering social engagement especially amongst youths in the society.” She further added; “We will continue to explore opportunities to expand our reach and impact with this initiative as it demonstrates our unwavering commitment to creating better outcomes for people and the communities where we operate through education.”

    The Herbert Macauley Library was refurbished and equipped by Guaranty Trust Bank in 2017. The project, which was executed in partnership with the Lagos State Government, included internal and external remodeling of the physical structure, refitting of furniture, installation of computers and internet facilities to start an e-library as well as provision of new books. 

    Guaranty Trust Bank is the flagship subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, a leading financial services company providing banking and non-banking services across eleven countries spanning West Africa, East Africa, and the United Kingdom. The Group operates a diversified, proudly African franchise and is renowned for its innovative approach to customer service and stakeholder engagement, especially through its non-profit, consumer-focused fairs and capacity-building initiatives for small businesses and individuals, which has endeared the brand to millions of people across Africa and beyond.

  • Breaking: OOU gets new Vice Chancellor

    Breaking: OOU gets new Vice Chancellor

    Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola has been announced as the new Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

    Prof Agboola who is currently the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic of the university holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MB.Ch.B) of the Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University), a Master Degree in Oncology and a Doctorate Degree in Molecular Pathology, both of the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.

    He was employed as a Lecturer II in the Department of Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology after a mandatory year of housemanship.
    Thereafter, he rose to the position of a Professor in the year 2016, after passing through the ranks in the University.

    He has served in various Committees of Senate, Joint Committee of Senate and Council of the University. He has equally served as Director of Linkages, Research and Advancement and Head of Department, Morbid Anatomy and Histopathology. He was the immediate past Chairman of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and Secretary, Nigerian Medical Association, Ogun State Chapter.

  • Over 2,500 construction professionals to be CPD certified this month at The Big 5 Construct Nigeria

    Over 2,500 construction professionals to be CPD certified this month at The Big 5 Construct Nigeria

    …the Big 5 Construct Nigeria Industry Talks offer event attendees the chance to earn their annual CPD and PDU points

    At The Big 5 Construct Nigeria 2022, public and private stakeholders will come together to explore sustainable solutions for the growth of Nigeria’s construction industry, from 27 to 29 September 2022 at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos. According to ABIQ’s latest Nigeria Construction Project Market Report, public-private partnerships play a starring role in achieving the country’s goal of becoming a world-leading economy by the mid-century. Nigeria’s National Development Plan 2021-25, the first of a series of five-year development plans, illustrates the importance of such partnerships, showing a significant contribution of $822 billion USD to be financed by the private sector.

    This emphasizes the increasingly urgent need for proactive industry talks and collaboration on a national and international level. The Big 5 Construct Nigeria offers an opportunity for event attendees to gain new insights, learn from top industry players as well as connect to a wide range of construction stakeholders. The event’s interactive learning platform, The Big 5 Construct Nigeria Industry Talks, will be hosted alongside the exhibition and is free to attend. The three-day talks programme offers visitors the chance to earn their annual CPD and PDU points, by choosing from keynotes and panel discussions led by senior experts that focus on three core pillars of Technology, Project Management and Architecture & Design.

    As the world’s largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) will present a number of masterclasses focusing on sustainable project management implementation, the role of urban mobility and street re-design in building sustainable African cities and building sustainable credibility. “In a world of increasing misinformation and greenwashing, building sustainable credibility is of the essence, especially in a work environment,” says CIOB’s Sunday Chukwuyem Mordi.

    CIOB Qualifications Liaison Manager, Ntando Teddy Khuzwayo adds: “With our experts covering new trends, opportunities and challenges currently facing today’s construction businesses, the CIOB masterclasses promise to provide visitors with practical takeaway solutions for a more prosperous construction future in Nigeria and beyond.”

    Additional masterclasses, feature keynotes and panel discussions will be held by both local and international partner associations including the Occupational Safety and Health Association, United Kingdom (known as the OSHAssociation); the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors; BIM Africa; the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and the Project Management Institute of Nigeria.  

    “    Continuing professional development is a core value of The Big 5 Construct Nigeria. We take pride in delivering exceptional content at the Industry Talks and are proud to work in collaboration with local and international associations to provide impactful content for our event attendees.” says Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President, dmg events.

    Learning does not stop at the Industry Talks. Upon entering the exhibition halls, visitors will be welcomed by 130+ local and international construction companies from 25 countries, who will showcase and demonstrate over 5,000 innovative industry products and solutions. These include the event’s gold sponsor CDK Integrated Industries, sponsors Sana Group and WNT Capitas, as well as Royal Ceramics, Kohler and Zoomlion. It will also host two new international pavilions from Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    Registration for the event is currently open. For more information or to register, please visit:  www.thebig5constructnigeria.com

  • Hudson Sandler appoints Onyebuchi Ajufo as Partner in charge of its West Africa Business

    Hudson Sandler appoints Onyebuchi Ajufo as Partner in charge of its West Africa Business

    International strategic communications and ESG consultancy, Hudson Sandler is pleased to announce that it has appointed Onyebuchi Ajufo as Partner in charge of its West Africa business. 

    The appointment reflects Hudson Sandler’s continued growth in Africa, driven by flagship offices in Kenya and Nigeria. Hudson Sandler Africa has grown rapidly over the last two years and is now providing pan-African and international consulting services to many of Africa’s most dynamic and progressive companies and institutions.

    Onyebuchi is an advocacy and communications advisor with over 15 years’ experience working across Africa, the Middle East and the United Kingdom.  She joins Hudson Sandler from Africa Practice where she led the Strategic Communications and Advocacy Practice across the Africa Practice Group (Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Botswana, Kenya and the United Kingdom). In this role she was also responsible for brand positioning, talent retention and development, client retention and growth. In her new role with Hudson Sandler Onyebuchi will also act as the global lead on policy and advocacy across the consultancy.

    She has a master’s degree in business Analytics from the University of Warwick and is on the Board of Haima Health, an organisation building a network of voluntary blood donors for safe, affordable and quick access to blood in Nigeria.

    Commenting on the appointments, Chris Genasi, Chairman of Hudson Sandler Africa, said:

    “Africa is a key strategic market for Hudson Sandler. We are proud to work with Africa’s leading businesses, foundations, and NGOs, to tell positive stories about the contribution they are making to Africa’s sustainable economic and social development. Buchi brings a unique perspective on the African business environment. a wealth of experience in corporate communications and advocacy, as well as strong leadership and business development skills, which will be instrumental in our further expansion as we continue to grow our fantastic teams across the continent.

    Hudson Sandler is an award-winning integrated communications consultancy that enhances and protects brands reputations amongst their business-critical audiences through thoughtful communications counsel and campaigns. Its approach is embedded in analytics and underpinned by experience and creativity while being delivered by some of the industry’s most creative and experienced public relations consultants. 

    Some of Hudson Sandler’s clients in Africa include Airtel Africa, AGRA, Afreximbank, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Flutterwave, FSD Africa and The Nature Conservancy.

  • Sky Capital Appoints MD, Non-EDs for Skye Bank Sierra Leone

    Sky Capital Appoints MD, Non-EDs for Skye Bank Sierra Leone

    Sky Capital & Financial Allied Limited, the financial services subsidiary of SIFAX Group, has appointed a new Managing Director and three non-executive directors for one of its subsidiaries Skye Bank, Sierra Leone.

    After the approval by the Bank of Sierra Leone, Mr. Abiola Bolaji has assumed office as the substantive Managing Director while Mr. Ayoku Liadi, Mr. Abdul Sheku Kargbo and Arch. Abel Onomake have assumed the positions of non-executive directors of the bank.

    Abiola Bolaji is a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife and has two Masters degrees in Accounting and Financial Management (Distinction) and Corporate Finance from the ICMA Centre, Henley Business School, University of Reading, United Kingdom. He began his professional career as an Office Assistant in the Development Finance office of the Central Bank of Nigeria in Uyo as a Youth Corp member before joining Universal Trust bank as a Relationship Officer in 2003. Between 2006 and 2020, Abiola worked with Guaranty Trust Bank, Access Bank and Stanbic IBTC rising to become a Regional Manager and managing 10 branches of the bank located in Ogun and Oyo states. He has received numerous awards for his outstanding performance both professionally and academically.

    Ayoku Liadi is an accomplished financial expert with over 25 years of progressive experience. He had served as the Deputy Managing Director, UBA Nigeria where he was in charge of about 500 branches of the bank with deposits of more than 3.5 trillion naira. He also served as the MD/CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank Sierra Leone between 2011 and 2013 where he recorded outstanding achievements and led the bank to become the most profitable bank in 2013. Ayoku’s exceptional leadership also earned the bank the prestigious KPMG award for Best Customer Service Bank in 2012. Ayoku holds a B Sc. in Business Management from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, an ACA from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and a Master’s degree in Marketing from the University of Lagos.

    Abdul Sheku Kargbon is an Executive Director of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the immediate past board chairman of UBA Sierra Leone. He has a vast work experience in policy and strategy formulation locally and internationally. Kargbo is a LLM graduate of Birmingham City University, UK; Master of Arts in Human Rights, Globalization and Justice – University of Keele, UK and LLB (Hons) from the University of Warwick in the UK. 

    Abel Onomake is a seasoned architectural consultant who has worked on key designs and supervision of architectural and engineering projects in Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia and The Gambia. He holds a B.Sc and M.Sc in Architecture from the University of Ife and a Diploma in Valuation and Estate Surveying from the Architecture and Surveying Institute, Wiltshire, United Kingdom. Between 2005 and 2021, he is the Managing Director of Ideas Limited, a West Africa-based consulting firm with offices in Sierra Leone and Nigeria.

    The appointment of the four (4) new Board of Directors brings to seven (7) the directors of the bank including the Acting Chairman, Mr. Brimah Conteh; Chief Adekunle Oyinloye and Mr. Akinremi Akinwale Oladipo (The Executive Director). The Multitude of resident directors is a part of the Bank’s strategic focus on domesticating the governance, products and services of the Bank to meet the local requirements of the country’s economy.

    While congratulating the new appointees, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman, SIFAX Group, said the desire to make sustainable impact in the financial sector across West Africa was responsible for the quality of leaders appointed to manage the financial institutions in Sierra Leone.

    He said: “SIFAX Group is synonymous with the delivery of best value and excellence. We know that a quality workforce and experienced board would drive our vision of becoming the most desired financial services brand across the West Coast. We are pleased with these appointments and convinced they possess the requisite knowledge and experience to deliver on the vision.

    “I have no doubt that these new leaders will catapult Skye Bank, Sierra Leone to the top in the country.  We will provide all the necessary support needed for them to succeed in our quest to become a Pan-African financial institution”.

  • FirstBank commemorates its annual Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability week

    FirstBank commemorates its annual Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability week

    …CR&S Week is held in Nigeria, United Kingdom, Ghana, DRC, Guinea, Sierra Lone, Senegal and Gambia.

    In furtherance of its continued commitment to impacting the lives of individuals in its host communities across 7 Countries: Nigeria, United Kingdom, Ghana, DRC, Guinea, Sierra Lone, Senegal and Gambia. First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced the Fifth edition of its Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability (CR&S) week, scheduled for 22- 27 August 2022.

    The event which is themed:  “Kindness…. A Way of Life” reflects the single-minded purpose to make a difference in the world by inspiring and institutionalising kindness. SPARK is an acronym for Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness and it is a values-based initiative designed to raise consciousness that we can choose to be kind.

    The FirstBank CR&S Week is a dedicated week designed to offer opportunities for employees to give their time & resources to defined causes in line with the Bank’s CR&S strategic approach. The CR&S Week will offer employees opportunities to give their time & resources to defined causes. The Week’s activities are an aspect of the Bank’s Employee Giving & Volunteering Program, which was instituted to encourage employees to give back to the community as well as inculcate in them the integral corporate culture of giving.

    The Bank held the maiden edition of the CR&S week in 2017 with a focus mainly on three key initiatives/activities which were giving and visits to orphanages/less privileged homes/IDPs; career counselling day; and Staff Promoting Acts of Random Kindness (SPARK) initiative – which is now Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness. The CR&S week has become more successful in subsequent years and is fast becoming a household name in the Bank’s host economies.

    There are five main activities to be implemented during this year’s CR&S Week in Nigeria, FBNBank UK and across the SSA markets. These activities include SPARK APP,Kind Comments Day, Visits to orphanage/less privileged homes, SPARK School Engagement, and Women Economic Empowerment. The major highlight of the Week will be the launch of the SPARK APP. The app is strategic in the Bank’s journey to institutionalize “A Day of Kindness” on a national level, and globally position the Bank as a Corporate Citizen in leveraging new media to drive sustainability practices.

    The SPARK App is a sensational application designed to have individuals abreast with the act of kindness through various kindness-based quotes and inspirational phrases that will be displayed on one’s phone screen, especially when the phone is idle.

    Kind Comments Day is an initiative that focuses on inspiring and encouraging everyone to be deliberate with the use of kind words in relating or interacting with anyone.

    In addition, with Women Empowerment, the Bank will support, VVF patients in need of surgical operations and also empower them with vocational skills as they integrate back into the society.

    The SPARK Schools Engagement will be implemented through the National Competition of Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) SPARK School Integration. The activity is aimed at rewarding the various participating students, following their SPARK activity, Through the partnership with JAN, SPARK is integrated into the JAN Company Program, where students are taught the values of SPARK. The SPARK schools’ competition has been tied with Company programme regional competition, ensuring they imbibed the values taught during the training. One of the highlights of the event is the visit to orphanage homes and the less privileged, across various cities which will be carried out by volunteers from the Bank.

    Speaking on the week, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, CEO, FirstBank said “The CR&S Week is another opportunity to strengthen our commitment and extend our reach beyond the communities where we operate in Nigeria and across our subsidiaries.  Over time, our goal has stayed the same, to create platforms through which our positive impact is felt.”

    “For us in the FirstBank Group, beyond saying that we care, we take a step further and show it,” he concluded.

    Through the years of commemorating its annual CR&S Week, FirstBank has impacted lives across its host communities in Nigeria, the United Kingdom and its SSA subsidiaries. These impacts comprise the partnership with Lagos State Government on the provision of a Primary Health Centre at Ijedodo Community, Lagos State; engagements with over 60 charities, Non-governmental organisations, orphanages, correctional centres, schools and Internally Displayed Persons (IDP) Camps which resulted in touching the lives of over 20,000 underprivileged individuals in the society including widows, orphans and children with disabilities.  

  • The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund secures A2 credit rating from Moody’s

    The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund secures A2 credit rating from Moody’s

    • …rating affirms EAIF’s strong capital position, moderate leverage, diversified portfolio, and strong shareholder base.

    Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company, the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF or The Fund), today announced that Moody’s has assigned EAIF a foreign currency long-term issuer rating of A2 with a stable outlook.

    EAIF mobilises public and private debt capital to deliver transformative infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa. Since its establishment in 2001, up to December 2021, EAIF has closed 90 projects for a total investment of $2.1 billion and mobilised private sector investment commitments of $15.2 billion.

    International Rating Agency Moody’s confirmed that the main factors underpinning the EAIF’s A2 rating are:

    1. A strong capital position that reflects moderate but rising leverage, and a diversified lending portfolio notwithstanding weak asset credit quality;

    2. A robust base of liquid assets stemming from highly-rated development finance institutions and commercial lenders;

    3. A high level of member support from a base of highly-rated shareholders, reflecting EAIF’s strategic position in the broader Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG).

    The rating affirms EAIF’s leading position as an attractive vehicle for investors seeking exposure to the burgeoning African infrastructure asset class, with strong Health, Safety, Environment and Security (HSES) performance, a proven ability to generate sustainable development impact and significant downside mitigation due to strong anchor support from four European governments.

    EAIF’s unique blended finance model is backed by leading development finance institutions and commercial and institutional lenders, with a dual mandate to deliver commercially competitive returns and sustainable impact. The Fund has received US$395m of equity capital from four Governments (United Kingdom, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Sweden) through the Private Infrastructure Development Group. Retained earnings are over US$100m and have been recycled back into the Fund. The Fund’s loss rate has been low, demonstrating the essentiality and commercially conservative financing structures of the projects it funds.

    Martijn Proos, Director at Ninety One, the fund manager of the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund, said: “We are proud to initiate a rating with Moody’s, which recognises the Fund’s unique business model, 20-year track record of success and conservatively levered balance sheet. The A2 rating evidences our ability to take on and proactively manage risk to deliver returns and generate sustainable development impact. We are committed to building our diversified portfolio as we ramp up vital funding for strategic projects that boost Africa’s resilience. This rating will assist us to further diversify the types and sources of funding we can access as we build our business in the years to come.”

    EAIF’s current committed loan portfolio is US$ 1.15bn and diversification is strong, with projects spread across 17 African countries and 9 infrastructure sectors (digital communications infrastructure, energy generation, transmission and distribution, gas transportation, distribution and storage, bulk storage and logistics facilities, infrastructure for agribusiness and mining, transportation, affordable housing, manufacturing of infrastructure components and equipment, water, sewage and sanitation). An estimated 151.4 million people across Africa are benefitting from EAIF-funded projects.

  • SpecSMART Opens Optometry Clinic in Lagos, Promises to Deliver World Class Eye Care Services

    SpecSMART Opens Optometry Clinic in Lagos, Promises to Deliver World Class Eye Care Services

    SpecSMART, a world-class optometry clinic has opened its store in Lagos, the commercial hub of the country, promising to deliver high-quality optometry services comprising primary eye care, premium quality frames, lens variants, contact lens fitting, and optical/ophthalmic services to Nigerians, for patients seeking effective healthcare.

    The clinic with the United Kingdom standard which debuted on Wednesday, 17th August, 2022 was unveiled at the Ikoyi Plaza Mall, Awolowo Road, in Ikoyi, Lagos, to cater to the over 50 million people requiring eye care that has become almost exclusive for the few in the country.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Clarence Nwokocha, Practice Head and Medical Director, SpecSMART, said quality eye care is one of the key areas of healthcare and that the gap in the services has prompted the launch of the first-class clinic which was launched to meet the demand while ensuring the overall well-being of the patient and expectations that are fully guaranteed.

    Dr. Nwokocha pointed out that with the unveiling of SpecSMART, patients would be able to have access to over 1,000 premium frames, contact lens fitting with sales and after-sales service, as well as international and designer sunglasses of a high standard at affordable prices.

    He said SpecSMART will ensure on-the-spot glazing of spectacle prescriptions for standard lens prescriptions, fully automated quality eye examinations, full glaucoma care services, free registration for patients, world-class medical suite using automated digital equipment, and delivering a wide and comprehensive range of tests every day of the week, for flexibility of appointments.

    The Medical Director stated that lots of Nigerians complain that they don’t get the type of customer service they need, the prescription of frames, type of eye care required, and we are here as a UK standard clinic to offer them the best treatment in line with global best practices.

    “We are working towards opening another branch at the Lekki and Ikeja districts of Lagos State, to effectively provide our high standard services to Nigerians that desire quality eye care services. Patients who are desirous of SpecSMART services should contact the clinic through the official Email: info@specsmart.ng, the website www.specsmart.ng, and the phone number 01 521 2807,” Dr. Clarence stated.

    According to him, there will be 24 hours automated appointment scheduler via the clinic’s website platform, 12-hour online customer care service, and eye care plans according to customers’ budgets and preferences, from skilled, licensed optometrists that would guarantee top-notched optometric and optical services to achieve accurate diagnoses.

    With the unveiling of SpecSMART, patients seeking eye care treatment outside the country and within would now have access to excellent services in line with global best practices, as the clinic would also be extended to other parts of the country to meet the dire needs of patients.

    Against this backdrop, the World Health Organisation (WHO) at the 74th World Health Assembly in 2021 pointed out that more than 800 million people in the globe have eye defects that could be addressed with the appropriate pair of spectacles, while an estimated 100 million people have moderate-to-severe distance vision impairment or blindness that could be corrected through access to cataract surgery.

    It posits that to ameliorate the situation, there is a need for the provision of quality eye care services for underserved populations.

  • GTCO Autism Conference Holds on August 29th and 30th at MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos

    GTCO Autism Conference Holds on August 29th and 30th at MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos

    The 12th edition of the annual GTCO Autism Conference themed “Creating a Community of Awe-Tism Advocates” will hold on Monday and Tuesday, August 29th and 30th, 2022, at MUSON Center, Onikan, Lagos. 

    The annual Autism Conference is a pivotal component of GTCO’s Orange Ribbon initiative and serves as a key advocacy platform for people living with autism and other developmental disorders. In recent years, the GTCO Autism Conference has gained wider acclaim for bringing together some of the world’s leading experts in Autism, especially with the successful coordination of a fully virtual autism conference in 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. For this year, the GTCO Autism Conference will feature keynote addresses and panel discussions by experienced specialists from renowned institutions in Nigeria and abroad in a hybrid setup to allow for both in-person and virtual participation. Some of the partnering organisations include Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Autism Compassion Africa, Ghana, The Color of Autism Foundation, USA, Meharry Medical College, USA, and Behaviorprise Consulting Inc., Canada.  

    One-on-one consultations and Q&A sessions during the conference will provide opportunities for parents and other stakeholders to further engage on best practices for proper diagnosis and treatment of persons on the autism spectrum with the experts. As a special feature and to ensure more persons with developmental disorders can benefit from professional help, provision has been made to offer specialist care to autistic children in the areas of speech and behaviour therapy, child psychology and psychiatry, as well as occupational development for adults living with autism via in-person consultations at the Chapel of Light, Alausa, Ikeja, starting from Tuesday, August 23rd to Saturday, August 27th between the hours of 10am and 5pm. 

    Commenting on the 2022 Autism Conference, Segun Agbaje, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc said, “While much has been done over the years to increase the social consciousness around Autism and to improve the available support systems for managing developmental disorders, we strongly believe that we can do more individually and collectively to create and uphold a culture of inclusion towards people with ASD to enable them reach their full potential.” 

    Mr Agbaje further stated; “The Orange Ribbon initiative was created to support children and adults with developmental disabilities with a focus on those with autism spectrum disorders. Now in its 2nd decade, the annual Autism Conference has over the years created a community of people with a shared commitment to create better outcomes for those who find themselves in the margins of society simply because they are different from the rest.” 

    Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) is a leading financial services company providing banking and non-banking services across eleven countries spanning West Africa, East Africa, and the United Kingdom. The Group operates a diversified, proudly African franchise and is renowned for its innovative approach to customer service and stakeholder engagement which has endeared the brand to millions of people across Africa and beyond.  

  • Feature: A standing Ovation For Yeye Oodua, HRH, Erelu Dr. Abiola Dosunmu

    Feature: A standing Ovation For Yeye Oodua, HRH, Erelu Dr. Abiola Dosunmu

    by Oluwatosin Ojebisi

    Many years ago, juju maestro, Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adegeye,  popularly known as King Sunny Ade thrilled Nigerians with a particular track that is more relevant today than it was when aired – Bibiire Kose Fowora. The song was to honour Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, the Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos. The track, “Biibire Kose Fowora” loosely translates as “A noble birth is not something to be bought”. 

    There is no doubt that Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos, Her Royal Highness, Dr. Abiola Dosunmu, a highly distinguished woman, has used the privilege of her birth to impact her community, the Yoruba race and the world at large. 

    It is thus not surprising that the revered monarch, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II recently crowned her Yeye Oodua of the source; Queen Mother of the House of Oduduwa. This is a testament to her contributions to promoting commerce, art, science, sport, culture, education, research, charity, poverty alleviation and other societal causes too numerous to mention.

    In an elaborate ceremony that took place on Friday, July 22, 2022, at the palace of the Ooni in Ile Ife, Osun State in the presence of dignitaries from all walks of life, Erelu Dosunmu was formally decorated with her new title. This was followed by traditional prayers and a cultural festival at the Erelu Abiola Foundation on Lagos Island. Subsequently, a thanksgiving mass was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Victoria Island, Lagos followed by the grand reception at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The events were attended by top figures in Yorubaland including Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, Otunba Gbenga Daniel former governor of Ogun State, HRM Oba Alayeluwa Saheed Ademola Elegushi amongst others.

    In his remarks, Ooni noted that Erelu is a woman who has done a lot to propagate the Yoruba culture and unify the tribe. It should be noted that by her title, Erelu Dosunmu, is the mother of kings (Oba of Lagos), both past and present. Born a princess, she went on to become the queen mother and queen regent of Lagos. Beyond being a mere title, her position is recognised by the government in the same first-class category of monarchs according to the laws of Lagos State.

    According to the history books, the first Erelu Kuti started the dynasty the men are currently enjoying. She was a queen but gave her crown to her son, and the direct descendants have been reigning for 400 years. A goal-getter from an early age, Erelu Dosunmu is also an advocate for gender parity, women’s development, women empowerment, and leadership. 

    Considering her endowments, many would have expected her to be involved in partisan politics, but she stated that her title bars her from doing that. She said, “I am the Erelu Kuti of Lagos and the title is recognized by the chieftaincy laws of Lagos State. It bars me from active politics. At the time I took up the title, there weren’t many Nigerians, outside the traditional rulers, who were involved in traditional institutions.

    “I saw it as an important platform to make a difference, especially because I had lived a greater part of my life abroad and I had come to appreciate my identity, in terms of my culture and tradition.

    When I became the Erelu, I worked hand-in-hand with the king and we were visible, making interventions in government affairs. If the king could not be somewhere, I would represent him. It was a beautiful collaboration between the government and traditional institutions.”

    Speaking on the significance of the Erelu title, she said, “Being Erelu is not just about being beautiful, for the last 20 years of the late King of Lagos, Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II, I was one of his closest confidantes. It is a three-in-one title― Erelu Kuti, Erelu of Lagos, and Erelu Oba. The Erelu’s duties include advising the king on social matters, advising him on people deserving of titles, making sure things run well at the palace, and all those are in the gazette of the chieftaincy laws of the state.”

    It should be recalled that Erelu Kuti was a member of the first Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from June 3 to 14, 1992. She was also a part of the negotiations for foreign debt cancellation for Nigeria during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration and Chairman of the Lagos State Tree Planting and Beautification Committee. Other worthy  of note affiliations include the Institute of International affairs as well as representing Nigeria at environmental summits.

    It is also to her credit that she revolutionised the traditional Aso Oke sector to become the multi-million dollar industry it is today. Many years ago, she established a shop on Bond Street, London, United Kingdom to promote aso-oke. The renowned fashion designer, Adebayo Jones, worked with her as an intern then. So good was she in showcasing aso-oke that even people from the Middle East were excited about the traditional fabrics.

    A woman of many parts, she also has a title from the Royal Kingdom of Belgium. Speaking on how the title came about, she once said, “When Lagos State was the capital of the country, the diplomatic community was usually welcomed by the palace of the Oba of Lagos. It was my portfolio to receive ambassadors, entertain them, show them around, and provide whatever they needed in terms of enlightenment. Those activities got me involved with the diplomatic community.”

    Over the years, Erelu Dosunmu has interacted with presidents and high-ranking officials from different countries. For those who haven’t followed her life religiously, little is said about her humanitarian strides. One of the many high points of ERAF was the rehabilitation of street children and school dropouts. An avowed philanthropist, she has often spoken about her passion for helping the underprivileged. It was to further this objective that she established the Erelu Abiola Foundation, which has contributed positively to the lives of many members of society.

    When Erelu Dosunmu smiles, the world smiles along with her, not because everything is perfect but because in her, they see a woman who has over the years rebirthed herself into what she is today.

    Oluwatosin Ojebisi, contributed this piece from Lagos

  • Zenith Bank Ranked Number One Tier-1 Bank In Nigeria For The Thirteenth Year In A Row In The 2022 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking

    Zenith Bank Ranked Number One Tier-1 Bank In Nigeria For The Thirteenth Year In A Row In The 2022 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking

    Zenith Bank Plc has been ranked as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital in the 2022 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking published by The Banker Magazine. For the thirteenth consecutive year, the Bank retained its position as the number one Tier-1 bank in Nigeria with a Tier-1 Capital of $2.75 billion, emerging as the 460th Bank globally.

    The ranking, which was published in the July 2022 edition of The Banker Magazine of the Financial Times Group, United Kingdom, was based on the 2021 year-end Tier-1 capital of banks globally. Zenith Bank’s financial performance for the year was underpinned by double-digit growth of 10% in gross earnings, with an improved market share in both retail and corporate sectors despite a very challenging macroeconomic environment aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Commenting on the 2022 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, said: “This ranking is a testament to our resilience and doggedness as an institution despite economic headwinds and a persistent challenging macroeconomic environment. Indeed, being ranked as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the thirteenth year in a row underscores our commitment to sustaining the superior performance we are renowned for and creating value for our highly esteemed customers.” He expressed his appreciation to the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CON, for his guidance and for laying the foundation and building the structures of an enduring and very successful institution; the Board for the outstanding leadership they provide; the staff, whose drive and commitment sustains the exceptional performance; and the Bank’s customers for their unflinching loyalty to the Zenith brand.

    Tier 1 Capital describes capital adequacy, which is the core measure of a bank’s financial strength from a regulator’s point of view. According to the ranking, Tier 1 Capital, as defined by the latest Bank for International Settlements (BIS) guidelines, includes loss-absorbing capital, i.e. common stock, disclosed reserves, retained earnings and minority interests in the equity of subsidiaries that are less than wholly owned.

    Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards, with this latest accolade coming on the heels of several recognitions, including being recognised as the Best Bank in Nigeria for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria 2021 and 2022 in the World Finance Banking Awards; Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards 2022; Best in Corporate Governance ‘Financial Services’ Africa, for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, by the Ethical Boardroom; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation In Retail Banking, Nigeria in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards; and Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2020. Also, the Bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021, and the Retail Bank of the year at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Awards 2020 and 2021.

    Similarly, Zenith Bank was honoured as Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020 and emerged winner in four categories at the Sustainability, Enterprise, and Responsibility (SERAS) Awards 2021, carting home the awards for “Best Company in Reporting and Transparency”, “Best Company in Infrastructure Development”, “Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment”, and the coveted “Most Responsible Organisation in Africa.

  • GTCO Plc’s GTBank Maintains its Dominance in Financial Services at the Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands Awards

    GTCO Plc’s GTBank Maintains its Dominance in Financial Services at the Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands Awards

    Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the banking subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc or the Group), emerged winner in four major categories at the 12th annual Brand Africa 100: Africa’s Best Brands 2022 rankings of the Top 100 Most Admired Brands in Africa. The award is an initiative by Brand Africa aimed at driving Africa’s competitiveness and creating a positive image through strong brands with GeoPoll, the world’s leading mobile surveying platform, and Kantar, a well-respected consumer insights and data analytics company, as key technical partners.

    In the presentation ceremony held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, GTBank retained the number #1 spot as Most Admired Financial Services Brand in Africa, Most Admired Financial Services Brand in West Africa, and Most Admired Financial Services Brand in Nigeria for the second year in a row. GTBank also ranked as the Most Admired Nigerian Financial Services brand in recognition of its excellent positioning, strength, and reach beyond Africa. 

    In an inaugural feature of the awards ceremony, Mr. Segun Agbaje, the Group CEO of GTCO Plc, was conferred with the Africa Brand Leadership Excellence award for his pivotal role in inspiring brand-led excellence that drives the growth of ‘Made in Africa’ brands and businesses and his long-standing contributions to the financial services industry. Mr. Agbaje led GTBank through a decade of unparalleled growth and now oversees the Holding Company. The Group recently concluded the acquisition of key businesses in fund management and pension operating as Guaranty Trust Fund Managers Ltd and Guaranty Trust Pension Managers Ltd. 

    Commenting on the awards, Mr. Segun Agbaje, said: “As a leading financial services company, we are always looking for new ways to meet every customer need and to do more to help our customers and communities thrive by creating faster, cheaper, safer and products for people and businesses through every stage of life. The awards are testament to our boundless innovative capacity and the power of the Guaranty Trust brand to touch and enrich lives as a Proudly African and Truly International institution.’’

    He further stated that, “As we grow and expand as a Group, we remain committed to our founding values which have endeared our brand to millions of people across Africa and beyond, and which continue to drive our financial success. We will leverage the synergies within our holding company to drive Africa’s growth and achieve our vision of making end-to-end financial services easily accessible to every African.”

    GTCO Plc is a diversified financial services company with over N5.1trillion in assets, providing a wide range of banking as well as non-banking financial services in Nigeria, West Africa, East Africa, and the United Kingdom. The Group’s consistent year-on-year growth in customer base and delivery of superior value to all stakeholders is underpinned by its strong service culture, world-class corporate governance standards, efficient management, and bias for innovation.

    The Group is rated ‘B’ and ‘B-/B’ by Fitch and S&P Global, respectively, a reflection of its long-term stability and reputation of being a well-established franchise with strong asset quality and consistent excellent financial performance.