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FINTECH: INUWA CALLS FOR COLLABORATION TO DEEPEN FINANCIAL LITERACY

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H


In line with the present administration’s focus on Reforming the Economy for Sustained Inclusive Economic Growth, Accelerating Diversification through Industrialisation and Digitisation, and Improving Governance for Effective Service Delivery, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has called for increased collaboration among key players in the Fintech ecosystem to enhance financial literacy and promote financial inclusion for all citizens.


The DG made this statement at the 6th edition of the annual FirstBank FinTech Summit where he joined other key players in the ecosystem in a session titled: “Policy and Infrastructure: Navigating Financial Regulations for Fintech Innovations” held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos State.


Inuwa emphasised that NITDA’s regulatory approach, based on a triple helix model, is not just about imposing standards but actively creating and supporting markets.
Outlining the objectives of the Regulatory Intelligence Framework developed by the agency to creating marketing values, enabling innovations, protecting consumers and effectively discharging services, Inuwa noted that priority was given to collaborations with the ecosystem in meeting these deliverables.


“To achieve this, we came up with a way which we call the participatory framework or policy dialogue for any regulation. This is because at the heart of everything we do is co-designing and co-creation,” he said.
Speaking on working with the ecosystem, he noted that collaboration was instrumental in successfully implementing Nigeria’s cashless policy which the agency did in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

L-R: Olusegun Zaccheaus, Partner, West Africa Lead & Strategy; Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE, The Director General, NITDA; Bashir Are, CEO, Lagos State Lotteries & Gaming Authority; Adewale Salami, CTO, First Bank; Premier Owioh, MD & CEO, NIBBS in group photograph after a Regulatory Roundtable discussion on Policy and Infrastructure: Navigating Financial Regulations For FinTech Innovations at the FirstBank FinTech Summit, held at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on Thursday 15th November 2024


“NITDA worked with CBN to come up with a cashless policy, which gave birth to the fintech industry we are talking about today.”


“This led to the banks to start upgrading their infrastructures, both hard and software, and the FinTech identified gaps and started coming up with solutions that can bridge the gaps left by the banks,” he added.


The DG however stated that the agency is working with the Federal Inland Revenue Service and some other stakeholders to develop guidelines for electronic invoicing which will create opportunities for the Fintech.


“As a regulator with a focus on facilitating financial inclusion, we need to strengthen unified regulations and policy-making, because if you make policies without having the implementers in the room, it will be difficult for them to implement, “ he averred.


He also elaborated on NITDA’s efforts to bridge the digital divide as an essential factor for financial inclusion, underscoring the launch of a National Digital Literacy Framework to integrate digital skills in formal education.


Highlighting the agency’s efforts at fostering digital literacy and cultivating talents, he disclosed that the agency has engaged in collaborations with the Ministry of Education in integrating digital literacy into curriculum and also, with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in training over 17,000 Youth Corp members annually.
He added that the initiative is expected to provide basic digital literacy to millions, and aims to engage artisans, market women, senior citizens, and others from the informal sectors.


Inuwa further addressed Nigeria’s data sovereignty issues, particularly regarding reliance on foreign cloud services. He noted that building in-country cloud capabilities is vital for national security and for empowering local FinTechs.

“Without operational sovereignty, we cannot fully control or secure our digital assets,” he stated, mentioning ongoing partnerships with hyperscale providers and local data centres to create cloud infrastructure within Nigeria.


He explained that the agency is working with other stakeholders in developing the cybersecurity architecture to achieve financial inclusion while asserting that infrastructures will be created, the unconnected will be connected and promoting digital literacy to foster trust on digital platforms.


Revealing that NITDA has several interventions and initiatives aimed at supporting the underserved and unserved areas in the country by building their digital capacities and skills, he urged the fintech to leverage these opportunities by infusing their financial literacy into them which will consequently drive a deeper financial inclusion for all.


“Nigeria has the infrastructure and with the right collaborations and continued focus on inclusive policies, we can make significant strides in bridging both digital and financial divides,” Inuwa concluded.


Other panelists who shared their insights and expertise at the session with the DG were the MD & CEO, NIBSS, Mr Premier Oiwoh, CEO, Lagos Lotteries & Gaming Authority, Mr Bashir Are and the Chief Information Officer, FirstBank of Nigeria, Mr Adewale Salami.

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ASR AFRICA HOLDS GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR A N250 MILLION ABDUL SAMAD RABIU MEDICAL SCIENCE LABOURATORY FOR CRESCENT UNIVERSITY

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

ASR Africa has commenced the construction of a N250 Million medical science laboratory for Crescent University, Abeokuta in Ogun State.

From Right: Mr. G. T. Ogunmefun (University Acting Bursar); Barr. A. M. Ajiobla, SAN (Proprietor); Prof. Ibraheem Gbajabiamila (Vice- Chancellor); Dr. Ubon Udoh (MD/CEO, ASR Africa); Barr. Z. A. Ajibola (Registrar) and Prof. M. K.  Momodu (Dean, College of Law) at the ground breaking ceremony of the Medical Science Laboratory for Crescent University, Abeokuta.

August24news.com gathered that the laboratory will enhance the capacity of the institution in meeting the National Development Plans and Transformational Agenda (NDTA) of the Federal Government of Nigeria, whilst filling the gap created by laboratory scientists who have left the country recently.


Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ibraheem Gbajabiamila, expressed gratitude for the institution’s nomination by ASR Africa under its Tertiary Education Grant Scheme (TEGs).

He applauded ASR Africa for the award of the grant and noted that the project is the university’s topmost priority, considering its drive to expand its College of Health Sciences programs.


In his response, the MD CEO of ASR Africa, Dr Ubon Udoh, commended the management of the university for their academic achievements and systematic growth which is evident by the addition of three new colleges recently.

These colleges include the College of Environmental Sciences (COES), Bola Ajibola College of Law (BACOLAW) and the College of Health Sciences (COHES). Dr Udoh reiterated the commitment of ASR Africa in ensuring a timely completion of the project.


The N250 Million grant will provide fixtures and fittings for the medical science laboratory which features a 300 sitting capacity auditorium, offices for Head of Departments and lecturers, lecture /seminar rooms.

It will also cater as laboratories facility for Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Biology, Hematology, Pharmacology/Therapeutics and Chemical Pathology.


The ASR Africa Tertiary Education Grant Scheme is targeted at supporting quality education within the tertiary education system in Nigeria and so far over 30 tertiary institutions in Nigeria have benefitted from this grant which ranges from N250 million to N 2 billion.


ABOUT ASR AFRICA
The brainchild of African Industrialist, Philanthropist and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) was established in 2021 to provide sustainable, impact-based, homegrown solutions to developmental issues affecting Health, Education and Social Development within Africa. 

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Seplat Energy Clinches ‘Deal of the Year’ at New Telegraph Award

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Seplat Energy Clinches ‘Deal of the Year’ at New Telegraph Award

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

Seplat Energy Plc, a leading Nigerian energy company listed on both the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the London Stock Exchange, has clinched the ‘Deal of the Year’ Award at the recently held New Telegraph Newspaper Awards.

L-R: Stanley Opara, Manager Corporate Communications, Seplat Energy; Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information & Strategy; and Adebowale Eboda, Associate General Counsel Corporate & Compliance, Seplat Energy at the New Telegraph Newspapers Awards where Seplat Energy clinched the ‘Deal of the Year Award’ in Lagos … on Friday.

Seplat Energy completed the deal on the acquisition of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited – renamed Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU) from ExxonMobil in December 2024. 

The Award ceremony was not just a ceremony but a heartfelt tribute to outstanding organisations and individuals that have made significant contributions across various sectors, including governance, business, education, and technology. The event honoured those who have excelled in their fields and inspired others through their work.

In his remarks, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of the New Telegraph Newspaper, Mr Ayodele Aminu, said: “Tonight, we celebrate not just achievements but the transformative power of love, dedication to work, those who have transcended expectations, those who have defied barriers and inspired digital growth and made extraordinary waves and impact in their various fields.”

“The true essence of these awards lies not in accolades or trophies, but in the enduring impact of each orgnanisation and individual’s contributions,” Aminu  said, urging awardees to continue to push boundaries and inspire others for greater heights.

L-R: Stanley Opara, Manager Corporate Communications, Seplat Energy; Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information & Strategy; and Adebowale Eboda, Associate General Counsel Corporate & Compliance, Seplat Energy at the New Telegraph Newspapers Awards where Seplat Energy clinched the ‘Deal of the Year Award’ in Lagos … on Friday.

The MPNU deal was transformative for Seplat Energy, with the capacity of more than doubling production and positioning the Company to drive growth and profitability, whilst contributing significantly to Nigeria’s future prosperity.

The completion of the acquisition has created Nigeria’s leading independent energy company, with the enlarged company having equity in 11 blocks (onshore and shallow water Nigeria); 48 producing oil and gas fields; 5 gas processing facilities; and 3 export terminals.

The acquisition of the entire issued share capital of MPNU adds the following assets to the Seplat Group: 40% operated interest in OML 67, 68, 70 and 104; 40% operated interest in the Qua Iboe export terminal and the Yoho FSO; 51% operated interest in the Bonny River Terminal (‘BRT’) NGL recovery plant; 9.6% participating interest in the Aneman-Kpono field; and approximately 1,000 staff and 500 contractors have transitioned to the Seplat Group.

This strongly connects to Seplat Energy’s mission of delivering value to all its stakeholders, and building a sustainable business that can deliver affordable, accessible and reliable energy for Nigeria.

Responding, Seplat Energy thanked the New Telegraphy Newspapers for its recognition whilst lauding the Newspaper’s commitment to excellence and professionalism. “At Seplat Energy we are proud of the contributions we can make to improving affordable energy access for Nigerians through the safe, responsible development of Nigeria’s oil and gas reserves,” it added.

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Olusunle, Now Fellow Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society (FNMGS)

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…As Society Celebrates 64 Years of Existence

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

A research Director of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Engr. Dr. Samuel Olugbenga O. Olusunle has been conferred with the prestigious Fellow of Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (FNMGS), one of the oldest professional bodies in the history of Nigeria.

NASENI Research Director, Engr. Dr Samuel Olugbenga O. Olusunle, FNMGS, (right) receiving the Conferment Award plaque and Certificate from Prof. Akinade Sadrach Olatunji, the President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society(NMGS)(left) during the Awards Night which took place at the Chida International Hotels Abuja on Wednesday 19 February 2025.

The Nigeria’s late sage, Pan Africanist and President during the First Nigerian Republic Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was the first patron of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society.     

The Society yesterday in Abuja concluded its 60th Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE), and it was time for the body to honour and recognize its members who had contributed tremendously not only to the growth and development of the Mining and Geosciences profession in the country, but the accomplishments of the honourees having direct bearing on the general socio-economic development of the country.

The event which was held between 16th to 19th February 2025 at the Chida International Hotel Abuja, came to a climax with Awards Night and recognition. Dr. Olusunle and 42 other members were honoured with the prestigious fellow category, which is the highest election attainable in society.

This conferment has added new appellation to Engr.Dr. Olusunle’s name as FNMGS.  In 1977, the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) succeeded the Nigerian Mining Geological and Metallurgical Society (NMGMS) which was founded on 15th January 1961 and officially inaugurated on 17th December, 1962.

The society is an international professional organization. Its Objectives include: Advancement and practice of Mining, Earth sciences and Metallurgy, Acquisition, preservation and dissemination of mining geoscientific and metallurgical knowledge, publication of an interdisciplinary learned journal of Mining and Geology (JMG), the CRUST, periodicals and specialized books including annual books of abstracts and programmes of the society’s conferences and activities and upholding the ethics and safeguarding the interests of the professionals covered by the society.

The society also has statutory representation in the council of the Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG) established by the Federal republic of Nigeria Decree No. 40 of 1990. The categories of membership are Fellow, Corporate, Graduate, Students, Affiliate, Institutional and Honorary fellow, the highest of all is the Fellow category.

When asked to speak on the significance of the society’s recognition to him and NASENI where he serves as Director Research, a highly elated Olusunle had this to say: “I give God the glory and I am really humbled to be elected FELLOW of NMGS. It should be noted that the mandate of NASENI and the core concerns of NMGS are knittingly related. NASENI has one of its institutes operating within the purview of solid minerals exploitation (SOMMEDI).

NASENI also under wonderful leadership of the EVC/CEO, Khalil S. Halilu, is actively involved in the CNG project of the Federal Government. These and other notable activities/intervention of NASENI are collaborative windows between the agency and NMGS”.

Before he became research director, Dr. Olusunle was former Managing Director, Engineering Materials Development Institute (EMDI) Akure, one of NASENI Development Institutes. Also, he is a FELLOW of the Nigeria Institute of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), the Materials Science and Technology Society of Nigeria (MSN), the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), The Nigeria Institute of Management (NIM), The Nigerian Metallurgical Society (NMS)and many others.

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