Category: Business Day

Despite the oil wealth accruing to Nigeria yearly, the entrepreneurial class, and the vast majority of impoverished citizens are constantly improvising for survival.

Sancho Nwobuisi Chukwu, professor of Monetary Economics and International Finance at the Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, said the situation is made worse by the conflicts raging across the various geopolitical zones of the country.

Chukwu, while delivering the 119th Inaugural Lecture of the university, titled: ‘Dynamics of Ehianomic Economy, The Loses And Nigerian Experience,’ said greater investment in peace building mechanisms will guarantee effective national development and curb the various conflicts in the country.

He pointed out that economic crises, terrorism and other forms of conflicts in the country have brought unbearable consequences on the people, leaving fractured communities and stalled socio-economic development in their wake, while recommending the institution of peace building mechanisms to promote economic planning and development.

Chukwu noted that institutionalizing peace within the Nigerian economic framework ensures that development is built on strong foundations.

‘By treating peace as a public good essential to investment, productivity, and national cohesion, Nigeria can move from managing crises to prevention, turning potential conflict zones into engines of inclusive prosperity,’ he said.

The lecturer said that wars and other forms of conflicts impose costs on all sectors of the economy particularly those who depends on stability of investments, adding that the multiple episodes of conflicts has inflicted severe economic consequences on families, individuals and organisation.

Chukwu said wars, insurgency and other forms of national unrests leads to displacement of families, individuals and organisations and destroys critical national assets and infrastructure.

He explained that conflicts induced displacement has had devastating effects on labour markets, educational attainment and economic productivity, adding that the ripple consequences of dislocating families and fragmenting communities in the country. He further identified ordinary Nigerians, whom he described as the dispossessed majority, as the ultimate and greatest losers who he said bears the brunt of conflicts and macroeconomic instability in the country as against the political class, power brokers, contractors and urban elites among others who benefits from redistributed resources arising from the socioeconomic dislocations.

Chukwu pointed out that in the midst of several economic and social conflicts Nigerians has continued to devise and chart alternative resilient methodologies for survival and adaptations to prevailing situations in the country.

He described Ahianomics as not a mere terminology but a paradigm, an economic consciousness rooted in adaptability and survival, adding that it describes an ecosystem where households, entrepreneur and institutions are perpetually in the process of economic improvisation for survival.

‘In this model, resilience is currency and survival is strategic. It is an economy where formal structures often give way to informal ingenuity and where scarcity breeds not just innovations but a redefinition of value itself,’ he said.

Chukwu told newsmen that Ahianomics depicts the social ills in the Nigerian society, an invasion of the human society where everybody are in the search for means of survival, to make ends meet, due to the poor economic policies, infrastructure deficit, and the government’s inability to sustain equitable health care and lack of educational opportunities in the country.

He further called on the government at all levels to invest in employment generation urging local governments to build industries and factories with products of comparative advantage.

The lecturer who condemned the quality of empowerment programmes being initiated by the political class for the vulnerable in the society advised that people should be taught how to fish rather than giving them pieces meal as empowerment.

‘Politics is now the means of survival. Without politics, nothing comes on the table. So I urge our leaders to ensure that everything goes round. In a situation where one person accumulates more wealth than others is painful. Government should see how we can accommodate our brothers and sisters to be better of,’ he said.

A new logistic company, MS FastTrack has made a debut into the Nigerian market, promising to offer cutting edge and technology driven logistic services that will give clients maximum satisfaction and enhance growth for their businesses.

Speaking to Journalists during the media unveiling of the company in Lagos, according to a statement, Muoh Sylvia Onyedikachukwu, founder and Chief Executive Officer of MS FastTrack said the firm was established not only to change the game in logistic business but to give individuals, organisations and business owners a new experience.

According to the CEO, ‘A strong vision statement for a logistics company should outline its long-term aspirations, while a mission statement should describe its core purpose and how it will achieve its goals. For us at MS FastTrack, we have designed a long term brand architecture to position us to be the nation’s leading provider of sustainable and innovative supply chain solutions. Besides, as stated in our mission statement, we want to stand as the connecting rod to connect businesses and customers locally and globally through efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly logistics services’.

She further stated that the company was designed to be a leading global provider of supply chain solutions that will enable customers to succeed in a global marketplace. Speaking on measures being taken to make the brand the world’s preferred supply chain logistics company, that will connect people, businesses, and communities to a better future through logistics, applying insight and service quality, Silvia, pointed out that the organisation will prioritise customer service as well as preventing customer goods from being lost in transit.

‘MS Fasttrack Solutions is implementing a multi-faceted approach encompassing inventory control, security measures, and customer service excellence. This includes automating inventory tracking, using RFID technology, hiring loss prevention specialists, and providing exceptional customer service to address any concerns or issues that may arise’ she further stated.

Speaking on what informed the establishment of the company, she stated that passion and the spirit of entrepreneurship in her, right from her school days propelled her to establish the company.

To address issues related to loss items, Silvia said the company is implementing a multi-faceted approach encompassing inventory control, security measures, and customer service excellence. These, according to her include; automating inventory tracking, using RFID technology, hiring loss prevention specialists, and providing exceptional customer service to address any concerns or issues that may arise.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State chapter, has urged both policy makers and Nigerians to take responsibility for the progress of the country rather than blaming leaders.

CAN lamented that although the successive administrations have failed in implementing policies, leaving Nigeria behind in terms of infrastructure and governance.

Bishop John Bogna Bakeni, the State CAN Chairman made the remarks while addressing journalists shortly after the Independence Anniversary Thanksgiving organized by officials of CAN, in Maiduguri.

He noted that the policy of government will determine turnaround of Nigeria’s economic and political situation which depends on the deliberate actions and political wills of the leaders.

According to him, ‘As I said in my message on the pulpit, Nigerians must make the right choices. We must hold our leaders accountable at all levels, but we must also take responsibility.’

He added, ‘I commend what they are doing, but I think we still have a lot to do. Governance is a very complex issue, and leadership in particular so it is not a blame game. But I think where there is a will, there is always a way out. In a state like Borno, this gathering is very significant, especially to the Christian community and the unity of the state, having faced with so much of security challenges,’ Bakeni said.

Delivering his sermon titled ‘We should not lust after evil things as they also lusted,’ drawn from 1 Corinthians 10:6, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri said corruption, dishonesty, and social decay begin within individuals and families. He said many of the challenges facing Nigeria, including kidnapping, banditry, corruption, terrorism, and tribalism, arise from moral negligence and the failure of families to instill proper values in their children.

‘We cannot continue to blame the government alone. Parents must monitor their children and instill discipline and honesty in them. Evil thrives when families abandon their moral duties,’ he added.

The unity service, held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Maiduguri, brought together priests, pastors, church leaders, and worshippers from across the metropolis. It was jointly organised by Maiduguri Metropolitan CAN and the Borno State CAN leadership.

Also, Pastor Timothy Olanrewaju, the Maiduguri Metropolis CAN Coordinator, thanked members for attending despite the economic challenges. He said the annual gathering was meant to thank God for His mercy and to pray for peace in Borno and Nigeria.

‘We just came out of a devastating flood, and though it returned this year, God took control. That is why we gathered to praise Him and offer prayers for the land,’ Olanrewaju said.

He also commended the Borno State Government for its response to last year’s flood and its ongoing efforts to return displaced persons to their communities.

Reminiscent of President Bola Tinubu’s 2022 Abeokuta declaration, Adebayo Adelabu, Nigeria’s minister of power, has declared that it is his turn to become the next governor of Oyo State, setting the stage for what could be one of the most heated political battles in the state’s history.

Adelabu, who made the statement over the weekend, said he is confident that his time has come to lead Oyo, describing himself as the ‘most qualified and prepared’ to take over from the current governor, Seyi Makinde, when the state goes to the polls in 2027.

Speaking with supporters and party loyalists, the minister said his political journey and experiences both in business and government have positioned him to serve Oyo people better than anyone else. ‘I have paid my dues, I have waited my turn, and 2027 is my time to lead Oyo State to greatness,’ Adelabu reportedly said. Adebayo Adelabu is not new to the state’s political scene. He first came into the governorship race in 2019 when he ran under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, he lost to Seyi Makinde of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who won by a wide margin.

After the defeat, Adelabu remained active in politics and public service, and his appointment as Minister of Power by President Bola Tinubu in 2023 further strengthened his political influence. Many political observers see this position as an advantage that could help him build stronger grassroots support ahead of 2027.

The minister’s declaration is being interpreted as a signal that he will soon begin mobilising structures and loyalists across the state in preparation for the election.

Adelabu’s statement, ‘It’s my turn,’ has sparked conversations across Oyo State, especially as it mirrors a similar phrase used by President Tinubu ‘Emi lo kan’ before his own successful 2023 presidential election.

Political analysts believe Adelabu’s bold declaration is strategic. It not only signals his readiness but also rallies early support among APC members who are already gearing up for the next election cycle. According to political observers, Adelabu’s confidence may also stem from the current political strength of the APC in the South-West region, where the party maintains significant control. They say the minister is trying to ride on that momentum to reclaim Oyo for the APC after eight years of PDP rule under Makinde.

Adelabu’s announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the public and political circles in Oyo. Some residents see his ambition as legitimate and timely, noting that his business background and current position as Minister of Power make him a capable leader.

A resident in Ibadan, Akeem Salami, said, ‘Adelabu has been consistent. He lost once, but he didn’t give up. Many politicians disappeared after losing elections, but he stayed relevant. Maybe 2027 will really be his turn.’

However, others argue that Oyo needs a leader who connects more directly with the people rather than one who depends on political slogans or federal influence. ‘Being a minister doesn’t mean you automatically understand the people’s struggles at home. Oyo people are wise; they won’t be carried away by big titles,’ said a market woman in Ogbomoso.

Within the APC, some members have welcomed Adelabu’s ambition, while others warn that the race for the party’s ticket may not be easy. A few top members are said to be eyeing the same position, and the party may face internal wrangling if not carefully managed. Governor Seyi Makinde has not officially reacted to Adelabu’s declaration, but sources within the Oyo State Government say the governor and his team are closely monitoring developments within the APC.

Makinde, who is serving his second term, will complete his tenure in 2027 and is expected to play a major role in determining his party’s candidate. Political watchers say whoever emerges as PDP’s flag bearer will face a tough battle, especially if the APC unites behind Adelabu.

For now, Adelabu appears focused on strengthening his image both as a federal minister and a grassroots politician. His office has reportedly been holding consultations with community leaders, youth groups, and religious bodies across the state.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) says it has observed a resurgence in activity within the country’s upstream oil and gas sector, with the rig count rising from 8 in 2021 to 69 as of October 2, 2025.

The Commission in a statement to mark its 4th year anniversary, signed by Eniola Akinkuotu, the head of media and strategic communication, said that the increase shows a renewed investor confidence in Nigeria. The latest rig count according to the commission, comprises 40 active rigs, eight on standby, five on warm stack, four on cold stack and 12 on the move.

‘The number is expected to increase even further in the coming months. This shows a renewed investor confidence in Nigeria. The success aligns with the charge of President Tinubu that Nigeria is ready for business and that the right investment climate prevails now in the Nigeria upstream as daily actioned by the NUPRC,’ it stated.

Also among the activities of the commission, since its inception is the implementation of ‘Drill or Drop’ policy which prescribes that unexplored acreages are to be relinquished.

The policy which is in line with the PIA, 2021, is designed to ensure the optimal use of oil assets and prevent dormant fields from tying up potential reserves. With this policy, the Commission said it has identified 400 dormant oil fields and has also propelled complacent oil companies to take quick action.

As part of its achievements in past four years, the Commission said, ‘To give meaning to the intent of the PIA, 2021, the Commission in consultation with stakeholders has developed 24 forward-thinking Regulations. So far 19 have been gazetted while five await gazetting. These forward-thinking Regulations serve as tools for transparency and creation of enabling investment climate and benchmark best practices.

‘The Commission approved divestments running into billions of dollars in 2024. From the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) to Oando Energy Resources; Equinor to Chappal Energies; Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to Seplat Energies; and Shell Development Company Nigeria Limited to Renaissance Africa Energy. The divestment is about investor portfolio re-ordering to focus on deep-offshore development.

‘The NUPRC completed awards of flare sites to successful bidders under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP). The programme is aimed at eliminating gas flaring and attracting at least 2.5 billion dollars in investments.’ It also announced that the Host Community Development Trusts have remitted N122.34 billion, while dollar contributions stand at over $168.91 million as of October 2025. This translates to a combined remittance of over N358.67 billion based on the prevalent exchange rate.

‘Still on host community, the NUPRC is overseeing at least 536 projects at various stages of completion including schools, health centers, roads and vocational centers. These are being funded by the trust fund. The achievement has tremendously curbed crude oil theft.

‘In 2021, the average daily crude oil losses stood at 102,900 barrels per day or 37.6 million barrels per year. However, due to combined efforts of the General Security Forces and Private Security Contractors (TANTITA) as well as collaborative effort of the Commission this has reduced by 90 percent to specifically 9,600bpd in September 2025.

‘Furthermore, two pioneer regulations introduced by the Commission have also contributed to the success, namely: The Upstream Measurement Regulation and the Advanced Cargo Declaration Regulation respectively, have contributed as pioneer efforts at achieving transparency in hydrocarbon accounting.’

Highlighting transparent bid round as part of its achievements, the Commission explained that prior to its establishment, the licensing rounds were opaque and beclouded by political influence which made the process lack credibility.

It noted that with the support of President Bola Tinubu, the process has been transformed to be fully digital thereby enhancing transparency and credibility.

‘It was the most transparent bid round on record in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum history as it leveraged digital technology, devoid of any human interference, in a manner adjudged to be in line with global best practices which was even attested to by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI),’ it added.

The Made in the North Festival and Trade Fair is set to return for its second edition, with organisers promising a bigger platform to showcase Northern Nigeria’s cultural heritage, creative talent, and commercial potential.

Muhammad Ashraf Adam, convener of the festival, disclosed in Abuja that this year’s edition is designed not only as a cultural celebration but also a solution-driven initiative to ease economic challenges by creating opportunities for trade, partnerships, and empowerment.

‘This is more than a festival, it is a mission, a vehicle for change that, if well supported, can transform the face of Northern Nigeria and contribute significantly to the national economy,’ he said.

According to Adam, the event, which blends tradition with innovation, will position the North as a hub for fashion, film, art, trade, tourism, and technology. It will feature cultural parades, Durbar, poetry slams, film screenings, and fashion showcases, alongside exhibitions, tech showcases, and capacity-building programmes.

Unlike its inaugural edition, this year’s festival has scaled up in logistics, partnerships, and community participation, with over a thousand creatives, brands, and groups expected to participate. A headline musical act and a major talent-scouting initiative are also lined up to spotlight new voices from the region. The festival has attracted support from both government and private sector stakeholders, with endorsements from the Vice President, the Deputy Senate President, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Economy, as well as cultural institutions such as the National Gallery of Art.

Organisers said the long-term vision is to establish the festival as a global cultural brand by 2030, exporting Northern talent and attracting international investors.

‘Out of a projected 230 million Nigerians, over 100 million are from the North. We are a continent within a country, and this festival is about harnessing that potential and projecting it globally,’ Adam added.

Bayern Munich stretched their lead at the top of the Bundesliga to four points, following a 3-0 win away at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday.

Luis Diaz scored either side of Kane’s strike to secure a comfortable win for Vincent Kompany’s side that took full advantage of a slip from Borussia Dortmund.

Dortmund dropped points earlier in the day, as the second-placed side play out a 1-1 draw with RB Leipzig.

Both sides will meet in a top-of-the-table clash after the international break.

Bayern Munich will welcome Borussia Dortmund, their closest challengers in the Bundesliga, to Allianz Arena on Saturday, October 18, hoping to further extend their lead at the summit.

While Eintracht Frankfurt, will resume their campaign with a trip to Freiburg on Sunday, October 19. The reigning champions Bayern only took 15 seconds to find the breakthrough as Diaz stole in at the far post to convert Serge Gnabry’s cross for the fastest Bundesliga goal of the season.

Kane had an effort ruled out for offside and Frankfurt captain Robin Koch’s attempted clearance cannoned off his own crossbar as Bayern pressed to extend their advantage.

Dino Toppmoller’s men thought they had found a way back when Jean-Matteo Bahoya curled an effort into the top corner only for it to be disallowed after a video assistant referee (VAR) review for a handball by Ritsu Doan in the build-up.

Kane then settled Bayern’s nerves by giving them a two-goal cushion to take to the interval and also hit the woodwork in the second half but was withdrawn late on after picking up a knock to his ankle following a clash with goalkeeper Kaua Santos.

The Bayern defence stood firm against a Frankfurt side who had scored 17 goals in their first five league games before Diaz sealed a 10th consecutive win at the start of the 2025-26 season for the Bavarians with his second of the game.

When you think of London’s entertainment business, the spotlight often shines on artists in front of the camera or centre stage. Yet, behind the lights, a network of women is shaping the industry, building empires, and guiding creative talent. Among them is Duchess Letitia Kapuscinska, a multifaceted entrepreneur, singer-songwriter, and creative force whose journey weaves together music, business, and innovation.

Duchess Letitia Kapuscinska is more than an artist; she is a brand. She founded the Letitia Antoinette enterprise, spanning fashion, creative media, and mentorship, yet her heart beats strongest for entertainment. Drawing on her postgraduate studies in Innovation and Entrepreneurship Management, she transformed her vision into a business platform that nurtures creativity, empowers emerging artists, and delivers leadership training for those hoping to break into the industry.

At her core, Letitia is an award-winning singer-songwriter with a voice compared to legends like Billie Holiday and Nina Simone. Her versatility crosses genres, jazz, RandB, reggae, blues, and hip-hop, making her a rare talent who bridges audiences across cultures. Together with her husband, producer Daniel Kapuscinski, she has recorded more than 80 tracks and 200+ compositions, blending artistry with business acumen.

Her performances extend beyond the recording studio. From UK charity concerts and festivals to television and radio appearances, Letitia uses her platform to support causes and inspire audiences. She has collaborated with international artists and producers, including projects connected with Rick Ross, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Busta Rhymes, showing her reach across global entertainment networks.

Her upcoming projects, such as the single ‘Criminology’ featuring Derric Brock and a collaboration with artists like Lil Wayne and Trina, promise to cement her place on the international stage. ‘Music is therapeutic,’ she says. ‘It’s about telling real stories that resonate with real people.’ But what makes Letitia a true force is her role behind the lights. Beyond her own artistry, she mentors and coaches emerging creatives, teaching them how to navigate the entertainment industry with resilience and vision. She hosts the Letitia Antoinette Podcast, interviewing global voices in wellness, innovation, and the arts, offering a platform for diverse stories and perspectives.

Her business ventures in fashion, beauty, and media are not distractions but extensions of her creative identity, proof that in today’s London, entertainment is not just about performance; it’s about building ecosystems of influence and opportunity.

In an industry that often underestimates women behind the scenes, Duchess Letitia Kapuscinska is rewriting the narrative. She embodies what it means to be both artist and executive, performer and builder, storyteller and mentor.

Her journey reflects the evolving face of London’s entertainment business: diverse, entrepreneurial, and unapologetically female.

George Russell takes pole in Singapore for the first time in his career with a stunning lap in Q3, and is joined on the front row by Max Verstappen.

It was Mercedes’ first pole in Singapore since Hamilton set his famous lap in 2018 and came as a surprise as Russell gatecrashed Norris and Piastri’s fight.

Russell’s first pole since the Canadian Grand Prix in June, which he won, was achieved by 0.182 seconds from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

Russell finished second at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix two weeks ago.

McLaren’s championship leader Oscar Piastri took third place, with his title rival and team-mate Lando Norris fifth, behind Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli.

Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc took sixth and seventh. Verstappen and Piastri both failed to improve on their final laps – and the Dutchman blamed that on Norris going slowly in front of him in the final sector.

The incident happened on the run to the final corner, where Norris was on the inside coming into the pits as Verstappen sought to complete his lap. Verstappen, who looked angry about the situation in the immediate aftermath of qualifying, said: ‘Without that I think it would have been close for pole.’

Norris shrugged the incident off, saying ‘Ah, they always complain. They complain about everything. It’s Red Bull. I was like three seconds ahead or something.’

Asked whether his brush with the wall on his first lap was a kiss or a hit, Russell said: ‘A bit more of a snog.

‘When you’re on a really strong lap and you just touch the wall like that, you’re a little bit tentative going into the next corner.’

Also, Williams drivers disqualified from Singapore GP qualifying for technical breaches

Williams received some bad news after qualifying for the Singapore Grand Prix, with both Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz being disqualified.

Both Williams cars Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz failed post-qualifying checks on their rear wings.

Albon and Sainz placed 12th and 13th in Saturday night’s session at the Marina Bay Street Circuit but will lose those results after the team failed post-Qualifying checks.

‘The uppermost rear wing element adjustable positions were checked on car numbers 23 (Albon) and 55 (Sainz),’ read a note from FIA F1 Technical Delegate Jo Bauer. ‘Both cars exceeded the maximum limit of 85mm on both sides of the rear wing outer area.’

This violates Article 3.10.10 g. of the Technical Regulations, which covers the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and states that ‘at all points along the span, when the DRS is in the state of deployment, the two sections the rear wing profiles must have a minimum gap of between 9.4mm and 85mm.’

The Career, Business, and Skill Acquisition (CABSA) summit, where millions of naira are disbursed in grants, is a practical response to society’s needs, Olumide Emmanuel, Founder/General Overseer of Calvary Bible Church, Alimosho, Lagos, has explained.

The annual summit, organized by the church, also offers free career and business clinics to residents of the surrounding communities.

The 2025 edition, the 8th in the series, with the theme ‘The Alimosho Exhibition and Business Summit,’ began on Wednesday, October 1, and is concluding today, Sunday, October 5, 2025. It has turned the church premises into a hub of trade, learning, and empowerment amid economic hardship.

Emmanuel says the initiative is the core of his ministry’s mission, stressing that ‘the salt is useless if it remains in the bottle. Your impact is not in the four walls where you clap hands and dance. As a church, as a ministry, we are a kingdom church. We are doing this because that’s what Jesus called us to do.’

He explained that the initiative, which began nine years ago as a skill acquisition programme during Easter, has evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem for empowerment.

CABSA 8.0, he said, now features an exhibition hall for local businesses, a career clinic, a business clinic, a full business summit with panel sessions, and an ‘open market’ where essential goods are sold at factory prices.

The wealth coach revealed that the church will disburse ‘multiple millions of naira’ in grants at the end of the 5-day event, continuing a tradition that has seen hundreds of entrepreneurs receive funding over the years.

He emphasised that the success isn’t measured in financial returns but in transformed lives. ‘In the kingdom, you can spend N100 million to win one soul because one soul is more valuable than $1 trillion. We are seeing people now knowing what to do with their finances, starting businesses, employing other people,’ he explained.

This vision is embodied by exhibitors like Favour Ogedengbe, a fashion designer and cosmetics consultant.

‘CABSA 8.0 has really given me visibility,’ said Ogedengbe, a university graduate who turned to her business full-time after finishing school in August.

‘The kind of visibility I’ve gotten here is different. This one, you’re having one-on-one people. You’re seeing them face-to-face,’ she said, rediting a previous church exhibition for building her initial customer base.

The exhibition also attracted innovative startups. Assistant General Manager of Pertinence Group, Tolulope Oduselu, showcased a new fintech platform, ‘Genius by Pettisave’. He commended the church’s role.

‘The church has a significant role to play in society, and one of the most important roles is also to help people, and business is one of the critical pillars.

‘So allowing businesses to exhibit themselves and sell their products and services, and bring people together, is a symbol of unity, but it’s also a symbol of support for the community and the nation at large,’ Oduselu noted.

Another first-time exhibitor, Temitope Ayo-Joshua of Eagle Foods, participating in the wholesale open market, said: ‘We are here to sell, to make our people happy, and to get the goods as cheap as possible.’

She described CABSA as ‘an impactful programme’ that builds confidence and encourages businesses to ‘go the extra mile to make their business known to the world.’

Looking ahead, Emmanuel envisions continuous scaling. He projects that by CABSA 10.0, grant disbursements could reach tens of millions, impacting hundreds more businesses. However, he was clear about the role of government.

‘I’m not waiting for government,’ he stated, advocating for strong institutions over ad-hoc support. ‘Let the government do its job. Let them do what they were voted for. And we’ll do our own,’ he stated.

For Emmanuel, the ultimate motivation remains singular: To transform lives’.

‘Jesus came to die so that people can be saved. What we are doing is transforming lives, because our lives are being transformed by the sacrifice on the cross. Let us also transform the lives of people by sacrificing our time, our energy, our resources in the little way that we can,’ he added.