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FirstBank Champions Inclusive Fintech Innovation at Canada-Africa Fintech Summit (CAFS 2025)

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FirstBank proudly sponsored the recently held Canada-Africa Fintech Summit (CAFS 2025), which took place from August 5–8 at the Sheraton Centre in Downtown Toronto. Convened by Dr. Segun Aina, President of the African Fintech Network, CAFS 2025 was a landmark event that united fintech leaders, regulators, startups, and investors from Africa and Canada to explore scalable digital solutions, encourage investment, and promote inclusive economic development across both continents.

 

As a legacy institution with over 131 years of leadership in financial services, FirstBank’s sponsorship highlights its commitment to fostering cross-border collaboration, financial inclusion, and forward-thinking innovation in the global fintech landscape. Olayinka Ijabiyi, Ag. Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, stated, “Our support of CAFS 2025 reflects our belief that collaboration between African and Canadian fintech ecosystems can lead to transformative innovations. FirstBank is proud to help shape that future.”

During a high-level panel discussion with Rudy Cuzzeto, MPP for Mississauga–Lakeshore, and David Stevenson, Country Director for the United Nations World Food Programme (Nigeria), Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive for E-Business & Retail Products at FirstBank, stressed the significance of digital collaboration in Africa’s financial ecosystem. “We’re building APIs that understand regulatory bifurcation, who has access to what, and why. The technology is the easy part. The real challenge lies in maintaining security, consent, and performance,” he explained. “In Nigeria, fintech has evolved beyond disruption to convergence, integrating banks, fintechs, and regulators into an agile and accountable ecosystem.” He further emphasized that regulatory clarity is essential for building public trust and attracting private investment in fintech, stating, “The more we collaborate, the more lessons we learn, and the greater the benefits for consumers.”

 

 

In a separate panel discussion, Rachel Adeshina, Chief Technology Officer at FirstBank, shared insights on harnessing AI to enhance credit access for the underbanked. “We’re addressing data poverty by using AI to interpret alternative data, allowing us to lend to individuals who might otherwise be invisible to the traditional credit system,” she noted. Adeshina highlighted that FirstBank has disbursed over ₦1 trillion in digital loans through this AI-driven model, achieving a remarkable repayment rate of over 99%. “This innovation was enabled not only by technology but also by a supportive environment, including API banking regulations, data privacy laws, and a shift from account-based to wallet-based banking,” she added. She also underscored the importance of scalability through collaboration, stating, “In a fragmented continent like Africa, digital scale will come from interoperability. Connecting the 54 markets is the next big challenge, and fintechs are ideally positioned to lead that initiative.”

The summit formed part of Canada’s broader Africa Strategy, aimed at fostering economic partnerships, digital cooperation, and innovation exchange. As Africa’s digital finance ecosystem continues to grow and Canada develops its own open banking framework, events like CAFS 2025 provide a timely platform to align strategies and ignite collaborations.

 

About FirstBank

 

First Bank of Nigeria Limited “FirstBank”, established in 1894, is the premier bank in West Africa, a leading financial inclusion services provider in Africa, and a digital banking giant. 

 

FirstBank’s international footprints cut across three continents ─ Africa, Europe and Asia, with FirstBank UK Limited in London and Paris; FirstBank in The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea and Sierra Leone; FBNBank in Senegal; and a FirstBank Representative Office in Beijing, China. All the subsidiary banks are fully registered by their respective Central Banks to provide full banking services.

 

Besides providing domestic banking services, the subsidiaries also engage in international cross-border transactions with FirstBank’s non-Nigerian subsidiaries, and the representative offices in Paris and China facilitate trade flows from Asia and Europe into Nigeria and other African countries.

For over 13 decades, FirstBank has built an outstanding reputation for solid relationships, good corporate governance, and a strong liquidity position, and has been at the forefront of promoting digital payment in the country with over 13 million cards issued to customers (the first bank to achieve such a milestone in Nigeria). FirstBank has continued to make significant investments in technology, innovation and transformation, and its cashless transaction drive has been steadily accentuated with virtually over 25 million active FirstBank customers signed up on digital channels including the USSD Quick Banking service through the nationally renowned *894# Banking code.

 

With over 43 million customer accounts (including digital wallets) spread across Nigeria, UK and sub-Saharan Africa, the Bank provides a comprehensive range of retail and wholesale financial services through more than 820 business offices and over 280,000 agent locations spread across 772 out of the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria.

 

In addition to banking solutions and services, FirstBank provides pension fund custody services in Nigeria through First Pension Custodian Nigeria Limited and nominee and associated services through First Nominees Nigeria Limited.

 

FirstBank’s commitment to Diversity is shown in its policies, partnerships and initiatives such as its employees’ ratio of female to male (about 41%:59%; and 37% women in management roles) as well as the FirstBank Women Network, an initiative that seeks to address the gender gap and increase the participation of women at all levels within the organisation. In addition, the Bank’s membership of the UN Women is an affirmation of a deliberate policy that is consistent with UN Women’s Women Empowerment’s Principles (WEPs) ─ Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Nondiscrimination.

For six consecutive years (2011 – 2016), FirstBank was named “Most Valuable Bank Brand in Nigeria” by the globally renowned The Banker Magazine of the Financial Times Group and “Best Retail Bank in Nigeria” eight times in a row, 2011 – 2018, by the Asian Banker International Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards.

 

Significantly, FirstBank’s Global Credit Rating was A+ with a positive outlook while ratings by Fitch and Standard & Poor’s were A (nga) and ngBBB+ respectively both with Stable outlooks as at September 2023. FirstBank maintained the same level of international credit ratings as the sovereign; a milestone that was achieved in 2022 for the first time since 2015.

 

In 2024, FirstBank received notable international awards and accolades. Some of these include Nigeria’s Best Bank for ESG 2024 and Nigeria’s Best Bank for Corporates 2024 both awarded by Euromoney Awards for Excellence; Best SME Bank in Africa and in Nigeria by The Asian Banker Global Awards; Best Private Bank in Nigeria and Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa by Global Finance Awards; Best Corporate Bank in Nigeria 2024, Best CSR Bank in Nigeria 2024, Best Retail Bank in Nigeria 2024, Best SME Bank in Nigeria 2024 and Best Private Bank in Nigeria 2024 all awarded by the Global Banking and Finance Awards.

FirstBank has continued to gain wide acclaim on the global stage with several international awards and recognitions received so far in 2025 which includes Best SME Bank in Nigeria 2025 and Best SME Bank in Africa 2025 by The Asian Banker; Best Private Bank in Nigeria 2025 and Best Private Bank for Sustainable Investing in Africa 2025 by Global Finance Awards; SME Financier of the Year in Nigeria 2025 by The Digital Banker Global SME Banking Innovation Awards; Best Retail Bank in Nigeria 2025 and Best Bank for Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria 2025 all by The Annual Global Economics Awards.

 

Our vision is “To be Africa’s Bank of first choice” and our mission is “To remain true to our name by providing the best financial services possible”. This commitment is anchored on our core values of EPIC – Entrepreneurship, Professionalism, Innovation and Customer-Centricity. Our strategic ambition is “To deliver accelerated growth in profitability through customer-led innovation and disciplined execution.”

 

SPECIAL REPORT: Access Bank, A Game-Changer in Africa’s Financial Future

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In today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, few institutions can claim to be true pioneers. But Access Bank, with its bold vision, cutting-edge innovation, and pan-African presence, has shattered the traditional image of a bank.

 

It is no longer just a financial institution—it’s a movement, a catalyst for economic empowerment, and a force driving sustainable change across continents.

 

From Nigeria to the World

 

With headquarters in Lagos, Access Bank has become Africa’s largest bank by customer base, serving over 60 million customers across more than 20 countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. With bank’s total assets valued at a staggering N41.5 trillion (Access Holdings); N40.8trillion (Access Bank) as at FY December 31, 2024, it’s Nigeria’s largest bank by assets and a formidable multinational financial player.

In Africa, it has recorded a domineering presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, South Africa, Cameroon, Mozambique, and Angola. Excellently spreading its tentacles in European countries, its footprint is felt in the United Kingdom and France while it has penetrated the

Middle East: United Arab Emirates (UAE).

 

However, the bank also have representative Offices in India, China, and Lebanon.

 

Innovation as a Growth Engine

 

What sets Access Bank apart isn’t just its size, but its commitment to innovation and customer-centric technology.

In partnership with Avaya, the bank deployed a hybrid cloud contact center solution, enhancing real-time customer engagement and scalability.

 

Result? An impressive 10% increase in customer satisfaction score (from 54% to 64%) and a dramatic Net Promoter Score jump from -4 to +23.

 

Its digital banking platforms support millions of daily transactions, providing secure, accessible banking across mobile, internet, and agent networks.

 

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Expanding Digital Inclusion

 

It’s investment in technology isn’t just about convenience—it’s about financial inclusion:

 

* Over 50,000 Closa Agents across Nigeria, ensuring the unbanked and underserved have access to basic financial services.

 

* Robust mobile banking platforms designed to work even in low-bandwidth areas.

 

* Internet Banking offering seamless 24/7 account management, bill payment, and fund transfers.

 

Banking on Sustainability: ESG in Action

 

Access Bank is Africa’s most recognized ESG-focused bank, winning:

 

* Best Bank in Nigeria

 

* Best Bank in Ghana for ESG

 

 

— both at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024 and 2025

 

Through sustainable finance initiatives, the bank has:

 

* Financed renewable energy projects across rural Africa

 

* Promoted clean energy access

 

* Cut carbon emissions through green operations and eco-loans

 

Its SME Banking Programme empowers thousands of small businesses with tailored financial products, mentorship, and market access—crucial for Africa’s post-pandemic recovery.

 

The 2027 Vision: 125 Million Customers

 

With its determination to be a driver in the industry, Access Bank is targeting 22 African countries by 2027, signaling a strategic drive for dominance across emerging markets.

 

However, doubling its customer base to 125 million by 2027 is a huge feet that is conquerable. In realisation of that, it’s anchoring on:

 

* Aggressive digital expansion

 

* Continental acquisition strategy

 

* Inclusive financial products

 

* Youth and women-focused entrepreneurship financing

 

With its smart, people-first approach, Access Bank is not just participating in Africa’s growth story—it’s writing it.

Conclusion

 

As Africa eye a new economic dawn, Access Bank is proving that banking can be more than numbers—it can be purpose-driven, sustainable, and transformational.

 

For the youth in Kano or Kigali, the entrepreneur in Accra or Addis Ababa, and the rural trader in Makurdi or Mombasa—Access Bank isn’t just a bank. It’s a partner for progress.

 

According to the Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), this ambition is not only possible—it’s well underway.

 

So, yes—Access Bank is more than banking. It’s the future. And the future is here.

 

“Access Bank represents a bold new vision of what an African bank can and should be—global, inclusive, digital, and sustainable. As Chairperson of NOMA, I can confidently say: This is not just Africa’s largest bank by numbers—it is Africa’s most impactful bank by purpose.”

Access Bank Launches Clean Water Project in 10 Nigerian Communities

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As part of its commitment to sustainable development and community well-being, Access Bank has launched the Access Clean Water Project, a transformative initiative aimed at improving access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in 10 communities across Nigeria.

 

 

 

Through the Access Clean Water Project, Access Bank has facilitated the installation of boreholes in 10 underserved communities, namely: Arogun, Omu Ishoko, Kemta, Ajibode, Aleku, Ogunrun, Oniwawa, Okeran, Abaren, and Afojupa, ensuring reliable access to clean and safe water for thousands of residents.

 

 

 

The project, implemented in partnership with HACEY, a leading development organisation, directly supports Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

 

 

 

With Nigeria’s population exceeding 200 million and access to pipe-borne water in urban households declining from 32% in 1990 to just 3% in 2015, the need for sustainable water solutions has never been more urgent. The Access Clean Water Project addresses this challenge by providing functional boreholes and WASH education to communities in Obafemi Owode and Otta Local Government Areas, benefiting over 500,000 residents.

 

 

 

This initiative aligns with Access Bank’s broader Corporate Social Investment (CSI) strategy and reinforces its position as a leading sustainability-focused financial institution. By supporting clean water access, the Bank is fostering community growth through improved health, education, and economic opportunities and demonstrating its commitment to inclusive development and long-term positive impact.

 

 

 

Access Bank is proud to support this vital initiative that not only improves lives but also strengthens the foundation for sustainable economic growth,” said Esther Graham, Programme Officer, Health, Access Holdings PLC. “Our commitment to community development is unwavering, and we believe access to clean water is a fundamental right that drives progress.”

 

 

 

In addition to infrastructure development, the Access Bank Clean Water Project includes comprehensive WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) education, equipping community members with essential knowledge on hygiene practices and the prevention of waterborne diseases.

 

 

 

The impact of this initiative is far-reaching. By improving access to clean water, the project is expected to significantly reduce the incidence of waterborne illnesses, enhance hygiene standards, and promote healthier living conditions. Ultimately, the project is expected to strengthen community resilience, drives sustainable development, and reaffirm Access Bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and well-being across Nigeria.

Dangote Foundation feeds 10,000 households in Cross River

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As part of efforts to ameliorate the pangs of hunger in the society, the Aliko Dangote Foundation last week began the distribution of 10,000 bags of rice, each weighing ten kilograms, to vulnerable households, people living with disabilities and the less privileged in Cross State.

 

Secretary to the Cross River State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, represented the State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, at the event. Prof Owan-Enoh described the donation as a true example of what public private partnership can do to reduce level of suffering in the society. He said “this impactful gesture, part of a nationwide food intervention effort, is a testament to the power of collaboration between government and private organizations in improving the lives of citizens. On behalf of the Governor, we extend our sincere gratitude to the Aliko Dangote Foundation. This kind of support uplifts our people and aligns perfectly with the ‘People First’ agenda of the Cross River State Government. Cross River State remains committed to partnerships that bring relief, hope, and development to our communities.”

Speaking during distribution exercise, the Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Edero Victor Ejiro, said the initiative is part of the foundation’s annual National Food Intervention Project, which aims to support over one million disadvantaged Nigerians across the country.

 

He stated that the foundation will be distributing 10,000 bags of 10kg rice to the vulnerable population in the state.

He pointed that the Foundation’s distribution is across the 774 local government areas in the country and is intended to cushion the effects of the hardship currently being experienced in the country.

His words: “We are here to present 10,000 bags of 10kg rice to the people of Bayelsa. The Aliko Dangote Foundation has been in existence for over 30 years and has been helpful in the areas of empowerment, nutrition and education.

“This distribution of rice is to support and complement the food security initiative that is been put in place by the various state governments and the rice distribution is across the 774 local government areas in the country. Our target beneficiaries are market women, the vulnerable, physically challenged people, widows and artisans.

“We have seen the template that the state government wants to use to distribute the rice and we are impressed with what we saw, and we believe that they are going to do a thorough job by distributing the rice to the needy and vulnerable in our midst.

“This programme is to support families, support people in the grassroots to alleviate and back up synergy with the state government.”

There was a large turnout of beneficiaries at the event, who after receiving the bags of rice commended the Chairman of Aliko Dangote Foundation for his large heart in caring for the vulnerable in the society. A widow, Victoria Edem Ekpenyong, one of the beneficiaries lauded the Chairman of the ADF for his kind gesture and prayed for God’s continuous protection for him.

Distribution has also kicked off at the local government level, with hundreds of beneficiaries collecting the bags of rice with joy and praising the founder of Aliko Dangote Foundation.

Ekiti Petrol Dealers Hail Dangote’s Initiative To Reduce Fuel Prices

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The Ekiti state chapter of the Petroleum Dealers Association of Nigeria (PEDAN) has lauded the founder and CEO of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, for his efforts to reduce the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) through its refinery.

 

The association’s chairman, Olobele Michael Olu, praised the initiative, stating that it would bring relief to the petroleum marketers and Nigerians at large.

 

Speaking after his swearing-in as the new chairman of PEDAN in Ekiti state, Olobele described the Dangote Refinery’s intervention in the energy sector as a welcome development.

 

He noted that the reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit would empower petroleum marketers to access capital and operate their businesses efficiently, without fear of incurring losses.

 

According to Olobele, a price reduction to around ₦600 per litre would be ideal for marketers, enabling them to better manage their costs and improve their competitiveness in the market.

 

He lamented that the association still faces significant challenges in accessing capital, citing high bank interest rates ranging from 28% to 33%.

 

He appealed to petroleum marketers in the state to remain patient, assuring them that the association is committed to advocating for their welfare and ensuring they benefit from positive changes in the downstream sector.

 

The PEDAN chairman also highlighted the association’s recent achievements, including securing a rented office space, receiving furniture and office equipment, purchasing a vehicle, and acquiring landed property.

 

Olobele pledged to redouble his efforts towards building a permanent structure for the association and fostering peace among critical stakeholders to record further successes.

 

Other newly inaugurated executives include Akiola Stella Akinola (Vice Chairman), Nwache Kingsley (General Secretary), Micheal Adeniyi (Assistant Secretary) and Omodara Ayokunle (Public Relations Officer).

Africa’s Losing $90bn Annually To Imported Substandard Fuel – Dangote

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…Says Dangote Refinery imports 9-10m barrels of crude monthly from US, others

Africa is increasingly becoming a destination for cheap, often toxic petroleum products — many of which are blended to substandard levels that would not be permitted in Europe or North America.
This concern was raised by the President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, during the ongoing West African Refined Fuel Conference held in Abuja. The event is organised by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and S&P Global Commodity Insights.
Dangote revealed that, due to the continent’s limited domestic refining capacity, Africa imports over 120 million tonnes of refined petroleum products annually, at a cost of approximately $90 billion.
While appreciating the Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), for making some cargoes of Nigerian crude available to us from start of production to date, he revealed that the company, monthly import between 9-10 million barrels of crude from the United States of America and other countries. He said: “As we speak today, we buy 9 – 10 million barrels of crude monthly from US and other countries. I must thank NNPC for making some cargoes of Nigerian crude available to us from start of production to date.”
Dangote further stated that despite producing around 7 million barrels of crude oil per day, Africa only refines about 40% of its 4.3 million barrels daily consumption of refined products domestically. In stark contrast, Europe and Asia refine over 95% of what they consume.
“So, while we produce plenty of crude, we still import over 120 million tonnes of refined petroleum products each year, effectively exporting jobs and importing poverty into our continent. That’s a $90 billion market opportunity being captured by regions with surplus refining capacity. To put this in perspective: only about 15% of African countries have a GDP greater than $90 billion. We are effectively handing over an entire continent’s economic potential to others—year after year,” he said.

While reaffirming his belief in the power of free markets and international cooperation, Dangote emphasised that trade must be grounded in economic efficiency and comparative advantage — not at the expense of quality or safety standards. He stressed that, “it defies logic and economic sense for Africa to be exporting raw crude only to re-import refined products—products we are more than capable of producing ourselves, closer to both source and consumption.”
Reflecting on the experience of delivering the world’s largest single-train refinery, Dangote also highlighted a range of challenges faced, including technical, commercial, and contextual hurdles unique to the African landscape.

Africa’s wealthiest man described building refineries such as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as one of the most capital-intensive and logistically complex industrial facilities ever constructed. The Dangote refinery project, he said, required clearing 2,735 hectares of land (seven times the size of Victoria Island), of which 70% was swampy, requiring the pumping of 65 million cubic metres of sand to stabilise the site and raise it by 1.5 metres, over 250,000 foundation piles, and millions of metres of piping, cabling, and electrical wiring among others.
“At peak, we had over 67,000 people on-site of which 50,000 are Nigerians, coordinating around the clock across hundreds of disciplines and nationalities. Then, of course, came the COVID-19 pandemic which set us back by two years and brought new levels of complexity, disruption, and risk. But we persevered,” he noted.
The refinery also required the construction of a dedicated seaport, as existing Nigerian ports could not handle the size and volume of equipment required. This included over 2,500 pieces of heavy equipment, 330 cranes, and even the establishment of the world’s largest granite quarry, with a production capacity of 10 million tonnes per year.
“In short, we didn’t just build a refinery—we built an entire industrial ecosystem from scratch,” he said.

Despite the refinery’s technical success, Dangote identified significant commercial challenges, particularly exchange rates which have gone from N156/$ at inception to N1,600/$ at completion, and challenges around crude oil sourcing. Although Nigeria is said to produce about 2 million barrels per day, the refinery has struggled to secure crude at competitive terms.
“Rather than buying crude oil directly from Nigerian producers at competitive terms, we found ourselves having to negotiate with international trading companies, who were buying Nigerian crude and reselling it to us—with hefty premiums, of course.
Logistics and regulatory bottlenecks have also taken a toll. Port and regulatory charges reportedly account for 40% of total freight costs, sometimes costing two-thirds as much as chartering the vessel itself.
“Refiners in India, who purchase crude oil from regions even farther away, enjoy lower freight costs than we do right here in West Africa because they are not saddled with exorbitant port charges,” Dangote said.
He added that, in terms of port charges, it is currently more expensive to load a domestic cargo of petroleum products from the Dangote Refinery, as customers pay both at the point of loading and at the point of discharge. In contrast, when they load from Lomé, which competes with them, they pay only at the point of discharge.
Dangote further criticised the lack of harmonised fuel standards across African nations, which creates artificial barriers for regional trade in refined products.
“The fuel we produce for Nigeria cannot be sold in Cameroon or Ghana or Togo, even though we all drive the same vehicles. This lack of harmonisation benefits no one—except, of course, international traders, who thrive on arbitrage. For local refiners like us, it fragments the market and imposes unnecessary inefficiencies.”

Dangote, stating the challenge with diesel production in Africa, noted, “to give one example, the diesel cloud point for Nigeria is 4 degrees. Without going into the technical details, this means that the diesel should work at a temperature of 4 degrees centigrade. Achieving this comes at a cost to us and limits the types of crude we could process. But how many places in Nigeria experience temperatures of 4 degrees? Other African countries have a more reasonable range of 7 to 12 degrees. This is a low hanging fruit which could be addressed by the regulators.”
He also cited the growing influx of discounted, low-quality fuel originating from Russia — blended with Russian crude under price caps and dumped in African markets.
“And to make matters worse, we are now facing increasing dumping of cheap, often toxic, petroleum products—some of which are blended to substandard levels that would never be allowed in Europe or North America,” he said.

Dangote called on African governments to follow the example of the United States, Canada, and the European Union, which have implemented protective measures for domestic refiners.

Access Bank Tanzania Honours President Samia Suluhu Hassan for Exceptional Leadership

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The Board and Management of Access Bank Tanzania, led by Chairman Protase Ishengoma, paid a courtesy visit to the State House to present the Power of 100 Africa Women Award to Her Excellency, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania.The award was presented in recognition of President Samia’s exceptional leadership, commitment to inclusive governance, and contributions to national and regional development.Speaking during the presentation, Protase Ishengoma, Chairman of Access Bank Tanzania, stated: “This award is a recognition of Your Excellency’s transformational leadership and your unwavering dedication to building an inclusive and prosperous Tanzania.

We are honoured to present this on behalf of Access Bank Group.”“We are proud to align with your excellency’s vision by expanding  access to finance, supporting local businesses, and empowering women and youth,” added Ishengoma.Access Bank Tanzania also used the occasion to highlight its milestones following its market entry through the acquisition of African Banking Corporation (BancABC) in 2024, and the Consumer, Private, and Business Banking portfolios of Standard Chartered Bank Tanzania in 2025. Key indicators include:  Total assets growth from TZS 270 billion to TZS 519 billion; Customer deposits increased from TZS 173 billion to TZS 370 billion; Loan portfolio expansion from TZS 160 billion to TZS 272 billion; Non-performing loans reduced from 4.3% to 3.7%; and Profit recovery from a TZS 2.4 billion loss to a TZS 1.6 billion profit in H1 2025.Access Bank Tanzania reaffirmed its commitment to the government’s development priorities, particularly financial inclusion, gender empowerment, SME growth, and youth engagement.Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries, Access Bank, added: “We are proud of the progress Access Bank Tanzania has made in such a short time.

Our growth reflects our strong alignment with national priorities and our mission to drive sustainable impact across the communities we serve.”Access Bank Tanzania also highlighted its flagship initiatives including the W-Initiative, Womenpreneur Pitch-a-Ton Africa, expansion of agent banking, digital financial services, and support for financial literacy through engagements such as Global Money Week.In line with its sustainability agenda, the Bank emphasized its role in job creation, SME financing, and support for local industries including partnerships with firms like Flight Link Limited, contributing to improved connectivity and economic integration.

The Power of 100 Africa Women Award is a Pan-African platform supported by Access Bank Group, celebrating female leaders advancing sustainable development. Past awardees include Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia; Her Honour Mutale Nalumango, Vice President of Zambia; and Her Excellency Judith Suminwa, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Zenith Bank Named Nigeria’s Best Bank At Euromoney Awards For Excellence 2025

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L-R: Former Economic Secretary to the Treasury of the United Kingdom, Ed Balls; Head of Multinationals and Financial Institutions, Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd, Natalie Andrew; Manager, Wealth Management, Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd, Noelia Pinto; Group Managing Director/CEO, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON; Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Mrs. Adobi Nwapa; CEO, Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd, Udu Ovbiagele; and Euromoney’s Head of Banking for US & Europe, Dominic O’Neill during the presentation of Nigeria’s Best Bank Award to Zenith Bank Plc at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025 at The Peninsula, London, recently

Zenith Bank Plc has been named “Nigeria’s Best Bank” at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025, emerging as Nigeria’s standout performer, and clinching the biggest and most coveted country award.

 

The award, which was presented to the bank on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at The Peninsula, London, is a testament to its commitment to delivering exceptional banking services, innovative products and superior value to its customers and shareholders.

 

Euromoney’s Awards for Excellence are one of the most highly coveted awards that matter to banks and bankers who matter.

 

The annual Awards for Excellence celebrates financial institutions that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and resilience in their markets, with this year’s edition seeing a record number of over 770 entries from world class financial institutions including HSBC, Morgan Stanley, CitiBank, Barclays, Standard Bank and Development Bank of Singapore (DBS), amongst others.

 

Commenting on the award, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON said:

 

“We are absolutely thrilled to be recognized as Nigeria’s Best Bank by Euromoney. This award is not just a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence, but also a validation of the unwavering trust and confidence our customers have placed in us.

 

“We are once again reminded that our success is not just about us, but about the impact we continue to have on the financial ecosystem. We will continue to work tirelessly to support the growth and development of our economy and uphold the highest standards of governance, integrity and transparency that has earned us this recognition”.

 

She dedicated the award to Zenith Bank’s customers across the globe for their loyalty, and to the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his visionary leadership and commitment to excellence which formed the foundation for the bank’s successes.

 

She also thanked the Board for their guidance, as well as the staff for their unwavering dedication to building a formidable and best in class global financial institution that will outlive generations.

 

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the sixteenth consecutive year in the 2025 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking, published by The Banker. The Bank was also awarded Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards for 2020, 2022 and 2024; Best Bank in Nigeria from 2020 to 2022, 2024 and 2025, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; and was listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023.

 

Further recognitions include Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria for five consecutive years from 2021 to 2025 in the World Finance Banking Awards and Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 and 2024 Banking Awards. Additionally, Zenith Bank has been acknowledged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards for four consecutive years from 2022 to 2025 and ‘Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa for four consecutive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom.

 

The Bank’s commitment to excellence saw it being named the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in The Banker’s Top 500 Banking Brands for 2020 and 2021, Bank of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024 at the BAFI Awards.

 

The Bank also received the accolades of Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria, in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.

 

Zenith Bank was also named Most Responsible Organisation in Africa, Best Company in Transparency and Reporting and Best Company in Gender Equality and Women Empowerment at the SERAS CSR Awards Africa 2024; Bank of the Year 2024 by ThisDay Newspaper; Bank of the Year 2024 by New Telegraph Newspaper; and Best in MSME Trade Finance, 2023 by Nairametrics. The Bank’s Hybrid Offer was also adjudged ‘Rights Issue/ Public Offer of the Year’ at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards 2025.

Reaction as Femi Fani-Kayode Marries 3rd Wife

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  Nigeria’s former Aviation Minister and well-known political figure, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has taken a third wife.   The recent ceremony marked the traditional marriage between FFK and Adaugo, a strikingly beautiful woman he has been dating for over two years.   Adaugo, 29, is from Abia State and owns a successful interior design business.   Exclusive: Femi Fani-Kayode Welcomes His Third Wife   She is a devout Pentecostal Christian and a graduate of one of Nigeria’s leading private universities. Those who know her describe her as kind, gentle, highly respectful, and someone who prefers to maintain a low profile, avoiding the spotlight.   Fani-Kayode’s first wife, Regina, a Ghanaian ex-beauty queen, resides in Accra where she manages her businesses and is deeply involved in Christian ministry. A strong evangelical Christian, she is said to wield significant influence over FFK, who reportedly consults her on every major decision. Together, they have a daughter.   Despite the physical distance, the couple maintains love, mutual respect, and a strong bond grounded in shared spiritual values and history.   His second wife, former beauty queen Precious Chikwendu, with whom he shares four sons, remains a prominent figure in his life. Although they are officially divorced, their relationship has evolved into one of uncommon cordiality.   She reportedly has unrestricted access to their sons and continues to be warmly welcomed within his inner circle.   The addition of Adaugo to the Fani-Kayode family has been embraced positively, with sources confirming an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect, and emotional maturity surrounding the former minister.   Insiders reveal that Fani-Kayode has made deliberate efforts to foster harmony among his wives—past and present—a rare but admirable approach that has earned him quiet praise from those close to him.

MY VISION FOR BENYBITE FOODS IS TO BECOME A GAME – CHANGER IN NIGERIA ‘S FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY 

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By Ebinum Samuel 

– Mr. Benjamin Kayode-Ojo( Managing Director and the CEO of Benybite Foods Nigeria Ltd )

 

Early in July, 2025 the Plateau state governor, Caleb Mutfwang commissioned Benybite Foods grains milling factory in Jos, described as the largest of its kind in Plateau state and the second most advanced food processing facility in Nigeria.

The plant has the capacity to mill 6,000 tons of maize monthly and clean over 10,000 tons of maize. The entire facility is built with stainless steel technology, making it one of the most food-processing–friendly environments in the country,

 

 

From all indications the plant could serve as a key supplier of raw materials to the nearby Jos International Breweries and other food and beverage industries nationwide.

 

 

According to the governor, Mutfwang: “We envision a future where Plateau state becomes the raw materials hub for industries across Nigeria. This factory is a strategic part of that vision,” he explained while pledging the Plateau state government in terms of stable electricity supply and good access roads. In fact, he commended the noble efforts of the brain behind the laudable project,Mr. Benjamin Kayode-Ojo. But who is this latest industrialist in town who is becoming a game – changer in boosting food security and job creation in the country ?

 

 

During a media interaction he provided answers to shed brighter light about his background, what inspired and motivated him to engage in the project, how he overcame the obstacles, his training programs and of course, his plans for the future.

 

 

” I am Mister Ajibola Benjamin Kayode-Ojo, born in Gwada, Niger State. I graduated from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, served at Grand Cereals Limited in 1999. I later started my working career in the same institution immediately after service. While there I rose to become the National Sales Manager before I resigned to start my business on February 4th, 2020. I attended several courses.

 

 

On what inspired him to actively engage in the project and the challenges faced he has this to say: ” It has always been my dream to start a personal business. That was why, despite several overtures from different companies, I rejected all the offers until the opportunity came in 2020 for me to start.

Funding was the biggest challenge, but with the goodwill built over the years, a greater chunk of the raw materials supplied were based on trust.”

 

 

Interestingly, according to him, most of the staff joined him from Grand Cereals Limited based on the trust that he has always delivered. “Some are even colleagues because of my track record in sales, and they believe that the new venture will succeed. They resigned voluntarily from Grand Cereals Limited to follow me.”

 

 

Basically, the company pills grains, beginning with maize for the processing. To succeed at that and get the Benybite Maize product he explained the nitty gritty of the partnership. “We invite experts in different fields to talk to us on different subjects that are related to our business. We also engage technical partners as consultants to work directly with our staff for skills acquisition. We do mostly B/B, but recently, we are going into FMCG as there is a growing need for our product.”

 

 

And for the government’s support he stated that: “We want the government to fix the road leading to the factory and also work in collaboration with us to resuscitate the Jos International Brewery as the factory is strategically located to the Brewery with the needed processed grains.”

 

 

Explaining how he felt during the commissioning of the factory by the Plateau state government, he gleefully stated that: “I am so excited, I give thanks to God for good upbringing, teaching us daily good values, and instilling in us the ‘CAN DO’ spirit. We believe we must remain resolute and focus our attention on the opportunities as we navigate through the tough terrain.”

 

As a leading light in food processing, he has some words of admonition for the current generation of Nigerian youths.”Pray and believe in yourself. Take away your fears. You don’t know how far you can go until you launch out. For every obstacle, there is always a way out.”

 

 

On his vision for the future he explained that: “Our plans for the future are to churn out more world-class products that can stand its ground in the global market through the promotions of local raw materials”.

 

In conclusion he was full of commendations to Governor Mutfwang for his support and leadership. The Benybite CEO said: “Your Excellency, this commissioning would not have been possible without your passion and commitment to industrial growth. We sincerely appreciate you for honoring our request despite your busy schedule.

 

“Benybite Foods Company in Jos places Plateau state at the epicentre of modern agricultural processing in the country “.