Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

Cornerstone Insurance Plc, one of Nigeria’s leading insurance providers has taken over the annuity business of defunct Niger Insurance Plc, and will continue to pay its customers on the scheme.

Niger Insurance Plc’s operational license was cancelled in June 2022 by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and handed over to liquidators following the Company’s insolvency and inability to meet its contractual obligations.

Stephen Alangbo, group managing director/CEO of Cornerstone Insurance Plc made the disclosure while addressing annuitants and stakeholders at the Company’s Annuity Forum held in Abuja.

He noted that Cornerstone Insurance Plc has successfully taken over the annuity payments of former Niger Insurance Plc customers, following regulatory approval. Speaking on the Company’s Annuity Program, Alangbo reassured Nigerian retirees of its unwavering commitment to reliability, transparency, and service excellence.

He emphasized the company’s solid financial standing and its readiness to continue delivering on its promises. He stated, ‘Our annuitants represent the trust our customers continue to place in us, the commitment of our people, and the strength of our vision. We are building a future-ready business, one that remains relevant to individuals, families, and businesses across Nigeria.’

Alangbo also spoke on the implications of the recently signed Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA 2025), which requires significant recapitalization across the industry. He assured annuitants that Cornerstone remains financially secure and ahead of the curve:

‘Subject to confirmation from NAICOM, Cornerstone Insurance Plc does not need to raise additional capital under NIIRA 2025. We are solid, we are transparent, and we are fully able to continue paying your claims without interruption.’

Appreciating the presence of retirees, guests, and members of the press, the CEO reiterated the company’s philosophy of keeping promises and putting customers first:

‘At Cornerstone Insurance Plc, we are not like any other insurance company. We are unique. We are transparent. We keep our promises, and your trust is the foundation of everything we do.’

With over three decades of operations, strong subsidiaries in FIN Insurance and Hilal Takaful, and a reputation for integrity and customer focus, Cornerstone Insurance continues to lead with integrity, innovation, empathy, team spirit and professionalism; reassuring Nigerian retirees that their future remains in safe hands.

The event, which featured health checks, entertainment, quizzes, gifts and refreshments, provided a platform for honest conversations on enhancing customer experience and reaffirming Cornerstone’s leadership in the annuity space.

Cornerstone Insurance is licensed and re-certified by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) to provide both general and life insurance services. As the first insurance company in Nigeria to offer customers an online platform for insurance transactions, its services are driven by cutting-edge technology, making them easily accessible via the internet and mobile platforms.

Infidelity may capture gossip, but the deeper scandal is this: women are being erased from the wealth story. It doesn’t matter if you are a wife, a partner, or a breadwinner. The lesson remains the same: protect yourself.

When I wrote about Side Chick Economics in Part 1, the goal was not sensationalism. I wasn’t positioning myself as the moral police. My lens was, and remains, practical: helping women understand power, secure wealth, and prepare for legacy, whether in the home, the boardroom, or the marketplace.

Because here’s the hard truth no one wants to admit: you can be a wife, a side chick, or even the breadwinner and still lose.

The feedback I received:

The responses were explosive. Women nodded in agreement. Men argued fiercely. Some laughed and called me a troublemaker. A few warned that I might lose business because certain men felt attacked. Others admitted they were sharing the article in their WhatsApp groups.

Several men pushed back with conviction:

‘We have agency. As long as I provide for my family, I can choose how else I spend my money: philanthropy, alternative households, or otherwise.’

‘Some side chicks contribute more than wives, supporting ventures or taking risks wives might avoid.’

‘Why single-sided chicks out? Side chicks are women, too, right? And together with their children, form families. Perhaps not the traditional type, but no less deserving or valid in my opinion. So why is diverted wealth to them considered ‘lost’? Lost how? They are intelligent women, too.’

I don’t dismiss these perspectives. They reveal the complexity of how money moves and who benefits. Some see it as redistribution. Others see it as erosion. Both can be true.

Why this matters

Here’s the sharper lesson: if you don’t know where the wealth comes from and how it flows, you are already a side note in the story of your own family’s legacy.

Too many women are ‘wives’ in title but ‘side chicks’ in practice, shut out of the real financial structures of their own households. Assets are hidden. Wealth is syphoned. Inheritance is decided in secrecy.

And it isn’t only wives at risk. Many women who carry more than their fair share as breadwinners watch men quietly take liberties with the little they do earn, spending it elsewhere, often unaccounted for. This isn’t just unfair. It’s destabilising.

The wider circles of leakage

The leakage doesn’t always stop with a single relationship. Money often flows into extended circles. In some cases, side partners themselves become breadwinners, channeling resources to their own families and funding parents, siblings, or even spouses and children elsewhere.

In other words, secrecy creates hidden economies of obligation, ‘families within families’, syphoning resources away from the very structures meant to secure a family’s future.

And beneath it all lies the trap of complacency. Too many financially dependent women settle for surface comfort: school fees paid, fridge stocked, travel or shopping allowance here and there, without contributing or asking harder questions about where the real assets sit. Comfort isn’t the same as security. Complacency isn’t safe. It’s being quietly written out of the ledger.

The unspoken sacrifice

One story still lingers with me. At a gathering, a man propositioned a woman who would ordinarily have dismissed him. When she resisted, he replied chillingly, ‘Can’t you take a bullet for your family?’

That line captures the unspoken pressure many women live with: to accept indignities, compromises, or side roles in the name of survival. It may feel like a sacrifice. But in truth, it is surrender, and the cost is unbearable.

The Alpha Woman paradox

Even the strongest women are not immune. Some of the so-called ‘alpha women’, successful breadwinners carrying entire households, still find themselves exposed. Why? Because fragile egos often look elsewhere for affirmation. Outsiders feed needs that capable wives no longer indulge.

This is not a justification. It’s a paradox women must confront. Strength without strategy is vulnerability. Power must be paired with protection.

Acknowledging culture

We must also acknowledge the cultural and societal practices that shape these realities. In many African communities, polygamy remains a recognised structure. In others, ‘families accepted as families’ exist outside formal marriage, particularly once children are involved.

This is not about judgement. These practices are woven into our history and, in some contexts, function as accepted social systems. But even here, the lesson is the same: clarity matters. Respect matters. Structures matter. Whether polygamous, blended, or single household, secrecy breeds confusion, while transparency protects posterity. The real victims aren’t just spouses. They are the children and generations left to fight inheritance wars.

Practical lessons

So, what do we take from all this? Whether you are a wife, partner, breadwinner, or even ‘the other woman’, this is not about morality but about power and protection:

1. Ownership matters. If your name isn’t on the title, don’t assume love will protect you. If you’re the breadwinner, don’t assume generosity alone secures you either. Document what you’ve built.

2. Transparency is protection. Asking about money isn’t nagging. It’s leadership.

3. Preparation isn’t paranoia. Death, divorce, and blended households aren’t always hypothetical. They are certainties you must plan for.

4. She-Money is non-negotiable. Keep funds and assets in your own name. Not hidden. Not secret. Just sovereign and safe.

5. Beyond low-hanging fruit. Don’t stop at trading, trips, or consumption. Build assets, equity, and strategy. Sustenance will not save you.

6. Knowledge is leverage. Complacency thrives in ignorance. Financial literacy, wealth circles, and trusted advisers are essential. The more you understand where the money comes from and where it goes, the harder it is for anyone to quietly write you out of the story.

A final word

This conversation is not about deriding wives, side chicks, or anyone else. It is not even about morality. It is about power, clarity, and preparation.

Because at the end of the day, the real scandal isn’t infidelity. The real scandal is when women, whether wives, partners, side chicks, or breadwinners, allow themselves to be written out of the wealth story.

The old days of relying fully on the breadwinner are gone. The new reality demands vigilance, strategy, and unapologetic involvement in financial decision-making.

The city is buzzing with anticipation as Lagos Talks 91.3 FM announces ‘Conversations on Boards,’ a groundbreaking event set to bring some of Nigeria’s most influential personalities together for a series of high-stakes board game duels. The event, slated for October 2nd at the Muson Centre, is an effort aimed at showcasing a different side of prominent public figures as they engage in fierce but friendly competition.

The star-studded lineup promises an electrifying atmosphere, with each game offering a unique clash of strategy and wit.

One of the most anticipated matchups is the checkers contest between two prominent political figures, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, a visionary known for his architectural and political ambitions and Mobolaji Ogunlende, the determined Commissioner for Youth and Social Development. This duel goes beyond simple moves on a board; it’s a symbolic clash of political vision versus grassroots energy, a strategic contest for every square.

In a match that merges the worlds of football and media, former Super Eagles midfielder and sports icon Mutiu Adepoju, ‘the Headmaster,’ will go head-to-head with legendary sports broadcaster Charles Anazodo in a game of Whot cards. This is a battle where on-field genius meets on-air expertise, promising a test of nerve and quick thinking as these two legends vie for victory.

Laughter will be the main event in the Ludo showdown featuring two comedic giants, Acapella and Seyi Law. This match is set to be a spectacle of witty banter, hilarious jabs, and pure entertainment, proving that even in competition, the best of Nigerian comedy shines through.

‘Conversations on Boards’ is an innovative platform designed to provide a fresh perspective on these celebrated Nigerians. It’s a chance for the public to witness these leaders and icons in a relaxed, competitive environment, sparking meaningful dialogue and celebrating the art of conversation.

The General Manager, Deji Awokoya posits that ‘Lagos Talks 91.3fm has been at the forefront of innovation in talk station. In spite of the reality that many Nigerians are suffering from news fatigue, it is important that we present the news to the Nigerian people in a manner that is attractive to them.’

Chris Ubosi, Group Managing Director of Megalectrics Limited is excited that Lagos Talks is once again charting the course in innovative citizens engagement. He says, ‘we understand that Nigerians need to be informed about events happening in the country though often times, you hear a lot of complaints on our airwaves.

At Lagos Talks, we are committed to rebuilding the interest of the average Nigerian in governance by creating platforms such as this that allow for interaction between the people and the leaders.

It is also important to us that we remind the people that in spite of our political differences, we need to be friends to move the nation forward and our politicians do understand this. That is why we have Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, two people with different ideologies play a game together.

The event is free but to secure a spot at this exclusive event, interested attendees are required to register by sending their name, age, location, profession, and phone number to [email protected].

The event, which begins at 2 pm, is a must-attend for anyone eager to see their favorite public figures in a thrilling and unexpected light.

This event is put together in celebration of Lagos Talks 91.3fm’s 9th anniversary and commemoration of Nigeria’s independence.

If independence means anything in 2025, it’s the power to build at home. Not just to import headlines, but to make the machines that carry us to work, school and markets. Over several weeks of desk research, site visits, and conversations with operators and engineers, one thread kept repeating: NEV Electric now sits at the centre of Nigeria’s push to manufacture electric vehicles locally.

NEV Electric’s approach starts with the realities of Nigerian cities: tight corridors, variable road quality, and high passenger throughput. Solving for mass-transit vehicles, every product is tuned for durability, visibility and safe operation. Bright, high-efficiency LEDs increase driver awareness; modular interiors speed cleaning and turnaround; and battery packs are configured with thermal safety and serviceability in mind.

According to the C.E.O. Mr Mosope Olaosebikan, ‘We don’t copy-paste global assumptions. We design for Nigeria first, then scale across West Africa’.

A worker at NEV Electric’s factory

Here’s the bottom line first. Based on factory footprint, visible roll-outs, and corroborated operator use, NEV Electric emerges as Nigeria’s largest locally manufactured EV player. The company also maintains what our review indicates is the largest fleet of manufactured electric buses in Africa as at the time of writing. Those two facts set the stage for everything else.

NEV Electric’s bus depot, Abuja

The public reveal that tied these strands together was the NEV T6 launch in Abuja – a compact, 20-seater electric bus built for city corridors and campus shuttles. The T6 isn’t a concept parked under spotlights. It’s a production platform with the sort of details operators actually ask about: visibility, quick-clean interiors, robust lighting, and predictable running costs.

Minister of State for Industry -Mr John Owan Enoh launches the NEV T6 fully electric bus, March 2025

NEV T6 Bus Launch

What the T6 tells us about the factory behind it

Under the skin, the T6 points to a manufacturer that understands Nigerian duty cycles. Battery capacity sits in the circa-100 kWh band, optimised for intra-city routes. Charging strategy is depot-first with DC fast charging, not scattered plugs that look good in photos but fail at uptime. Telemetry feeds maintenance decisions before an issue sidelines a bus. And by building around open standards, operators aren’t trapped in proprietary boxes.

‘Made in Nigeria’ can be a slippery phrase. In NEV’s case, the evidence lines up with real assembly happening in Abuja using SKD/CKD processes today, and a parts-localisation plan that targets seats, harnesses, body panels and selected electronics next. The practical upside is clear: faster lead times, fewer customs surprises, and after-sales support that doesn’t involve shipping a vehicle back across an ocean.

Walk the shop floor and the human side comes into focus – welders, machinists, harness technicians, software engineers and quality inspectors. That mix is what turns press releases into buses that leave the depot at dawn and return after the evening peak.

NEV engineers coupling the NEV T6 bus interior

Service first: how the economics start to work

Two numbers matter most to transport managers: energy cost per kilometre and uptime. NEV’s pitch is unapologetically service-led – multi-year maintenance agreements, guaranteed response times, committed spares, and route-based pilots that generate the data needed to budget with confidence. That is what shifts an EV from experiment to fleet tool.

Why this matters beyond one company

Nigeria’s EV conversation has matured. The question is no longer ‘Can it be done?’ but ‘Who is actually doing it at scale, and who stands behind the warranty?’ On current evidence, NEV Electric holds the clearest answer inside Nigeria, and a meaningful one on the continent.

Transport is one of the fastest ways to make Nigeria’s cities more liveable. Electric vehicles-especially electric buses and last-mile fleets-cut noise, reduce tailpipe emissions, and deliver predictable running costs for operators.

Predictable total cost of ownership (TCO): Electricity as a fuel can be managed, budgeted and, with smart charging, optimised off-peak.

Depot-centric charging: We design charging around actual routes, not wishful thinking-starting where it matters most for uptime.

Data-driven operations: Live telemetry helps operators plan routes, charging windows and maintenance before issues become costs.

What to watch next (2025-2026)

Deeper parts localisation across interiors, body and electrical systems.

Long-term service and charging agreements with uptime commitments.

Data-rich pilots with municipal and private operators in Abuja, Lagos and other corridors.

Technician pipelines through polytechnics and universities, with on-the-line safety culture baked in.

Anonymised operational insights shared with city planners to improve route design and charging siting.

If Nigeria is serious about green independence, the evidence now points to a workable model: build here, service here, keep fleets moving here. With the T6 on the road and an expanding assembly footprint, NEV Electric isn’t just part of the story – it’s writing the chapter headline.

Irrespective of the time of the year, the social media in Nigeria is abuzz with conversations about the housing conditions in the country. From complaints about the rising cost of house rents across the country, to many sharing some sour experiences in the hands of shylock landlords, and greedy agents.

When the rainy season arrives, as it has already, another question arises. How does the money paid for rents translate into security from the impact of the rains and their attendant floods? BusinessDay’s September TalkExchange Poll aims to capture the reality behind the social media conversations around housing in Nigeria. What is the real cost of housing in Nigeria, and what are the biggest challenges to housing in Nigeria?

Can you discuss your experience in the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and how it has influenced your professional network?

My involvement with the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been instrumental in gaining deeper insights into bilateral economic opportunities. It’s allowed to engagine with key stakeholders across industries and foster collaborations that support the development of both Nigerian and French businesses. Heading the most active bilateral chamber of commerce in Nigeria offers the opportunity to support the development of collaboration between our two countries across multiple industries and use the instrument of the chamber to bring solutions and connections where and when needed.

In your experience, what are the biggest challenges in the supply chain for energy services, and how does your organisation address them?

Supply chain disruptions are a significant challenge in the energy sector. From material shortages to logistical issues, the industry must be resilient. At SPIE, we’ve adopted a proactive approach by diversifying our supply chain, maintaining strategic partnerships, and leveraging digital tools to streamline operations. We also invest in local talent and resources, which enhances our operational flexibility.

How do you evaluate and implement emerging technologies in your company’s operational strategies?

We evaluate emerging technologies based on their potential to improve efficiency, safety, cost and sustainability. Our approach is rigorous, after conducting feasibility studies, we run pilot projects to assess real-world applic;ations. If successful, we scale these technologies across our operations. This process has allowed us to integrate innovations like AI-driven solutions and digital maintenance strategies into our workflows.

How does SPIE navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the energy sector across different countries?

The energy sector is highly regulated, and navigating these frameworks requires both global expertise and local knowledge. We work closely with local governments and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance while advocating for policies that support innovation and sustainability across borders. By maintaining transparency and fostering open communication, we’ve been able to operate smoothly across multiple jurisdictions.

How is SPIE adapting to the increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility in energy production?

At SPIE Global Services Energy, sustainability is at the forefront of our strategy. We’ve adopted advanced technologies that optimise energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions across our operations. We actively support clients in their energy transition goals by offering tailored solutions that integrate renewable energy sources and improve environmental performance.

Our commitment is evident in our investments in sustainable practices, which are now central to our operational models as well as our growth strategy, which largely focuses on offshore winds as well as solar energy.

The global shift toward renewable energy is seen as a challenge by many players; how do you envision the future role of traditional energy companies in evolving?

Traditional energy companies will play a crucial role in the global energy transition. While renewables are growing rapidly, fossil fuels will continue to be a major part of the energy mix for the foreseeable future. Companies like SPIE are positioning themselves by embracing new technologies, reducing their carbon footprint, and fully integrating renewable energy into their portfolios. The transition will be led by the industry and we are a key player in enabling and supporting it.

With your experience at TotalEnergies, how do you see the balance between maintaining traditional energy sources and transitioning to renewable energy?

I believe the transition to renewables will be a phased approach. Traditional energy remains vital for meeting current global demand, but the industry is investing heavily in renewable technologies and energy efficiency solutions to drive a sustainable future. The transition will allow the sector to adopt cleaner technologies while gradually shifting toward low-carbon energy sources.

What operational challenges have you encountered in the exploration and production sectors, and how have you addressed them?

The energy sector presents numerous challenges, from fluctuating market prices to geopolitical instabilities. In exploration and production, our main hurdles have been ensuring operational efficiency and performance while managing environmental risks. We address these by leveraging digitalisation and advanced monitoring systems that allow us to be proactive rather than reactive. Safety is also a top priority, and we’ve implemented stringent protocols to minimise disruptions and maximize output while ensuring the safety of our workforce and those operating around us.

How do you foster innovation and growth within your teams?

At SPIE Global Services Energy, we encourage a culture of continuous learning and experimentation. We’ve created a robust internal structure that promotes cross-functional collaboration, and we invest heavily in training programs and partnerships with startups to keep our teams agile and forward-thinking. We also focus on mentorship and leadership development to train talent capable of driving the company’s growth.

What trends do you see shaping the future of the oil and gas industry, and how is SPIE positioned to adapt?

The energy sector is undergoing profound changes. Decarbonization, digital transformation, and the shift toward renewables are major trends that will shape the future. SPIE Global Services Energy is positioned to adapt by offering hybrid solutions that combine traditional and renewable energy services. We’ve also expanded our digital offerings, helping clients improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions through real-time data analytics and automation. In a constantly evolving environment, we are clearly part of the solution, helping our clients be ahead of the curve.

How do you approach risk management when it comes to energy projects?

Energy projects inherently come with uncertainties. At SPIE, we follow a comprehensive risk management strategy in line with the ISO 31000 that involves thorough risk assessments at each project stage, constant monitoring, and the implementation of mitigation plans. We also collaborate closely with our clients to ensure that all stakeholders are aligned on risk-related matters, which allows us to address uncertainties proactively.

What are some key lessons you’ve learnt from your role as chairman of the board at Lycée Français Louis Pasteur?

Serving as chairman of the board at Lycée Français Louis Pasteur has been a great honour. It has taught me the importance of adaptability and the value of building a community-focused vision. Education is a powerful tool in shaping future generations, and I’ve learned that fostering an inclusive environment where both students and educators can thrive is key to long-term success. We can be collectively very proud of our achievements and especially of the recently completed construction project that makes LFLP one of the most functional and beautiful schools on the continent.

From your experience, how can the private sector better support educational initiatives in host communities?

We operate in an environment where it is left to the private sector to play a significant role in education. It is both a big responsibility and a great opportunity. At SPIE, we support educational initiatives through scholarships, vocational training programs, and partnerships with educational institutes at different levels. By investing in education, we’re contributing to the development of the next generation of professionals who will shape the future of the energy industry. It is also a way for us to detect talents and train them to high standards adapted to our operations. As a matter of fact, we inaugurated our very own training center in Port-Harcourt in 2021, offering a wide range of technical training and certification in areas close to our core businesses.

We leverage this training centre to offer vocational training to the communities in our area of operations in order to build local capacity and increase gender inclusion (we have a strict 50/50 gender diversity policy for our community training). This is also a way for us to be more competitive commercially, as we have access to skilled local resources available to join our workforce.

What are your future goals, both for SPIE Global Services Energy and personally as a leader in the industry?

For SPIE Global Services Energy, our goal is to be the go-to leader in energy transition by continuously improving our service offerings and sustainability practices. Personally, I am committed to driving innovations in the industry and mentoring the next generation of leaders. My focus is on fostering a corporate culture that is adaptable and resilient, preparing the company to navigate the changes ahead.

How do fluctuations in global oil prices impact your strategic decisions at SPIE?

Fluctuations in global commodity prices directly impact the business of our clients. It is our responsibility to support them and help them navigate these uncertainties. Accordingly, we’ve developed a flexible business model that allows us to adjust to these fluctuations without compromising on long-term goals. Helping our clients diversify their portfolio with renewables and energy services helps mitigate the risks associated with volatile commodity prices.

Finally, how do you foresee the role of global service providers evolving in the energy landscape over the next decade?

In the next decade, global service providers will need to evolve by offering more integrated and sustainable solutions. At SPIE, we are expanding our capabilities to include services that support both traditional and renewable energy. This involves investing in technology, upskilling our workforce, and strengthening our presence in emerging markets where the energy demand is growing.

Peace has finally returned to the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the National Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI) after a protracted leadership crisis that lasted for years.

Iniobong Ekong, commissioner for trade and investment, brokered the truce during a meeting with the warring factions in Uyo, the state capital

At the meeting, which lasted for more than four hours, Ekong stressed that a strong and vibrant NASSI was key to the success of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda on entrepreneurship and small business growth.

He expressed the hope that the peace would be sustained to enable the association to benefit from the credit facilities intended to boost small businesses in the state.

Speaking also, Solomon Vongfa, the National President of NASSI, commended the commissioner for being a ‘peacemaker’ whose maturity and commitment restored harmony to the association.

Meanwhile, tree planting has been described as a sustainable solution to the environmental challenges confronting the state. Kufreabasi Edidem, deputy speaker of the state House of Assembly, stated this during an open forum on environmental issues organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Uyo.

Edidem, who also chairs the House Committee on NDDC and Regional Development, said tree planting was a simple but powerful practice that every citizen can embrace to restore ecological balance.

‘We will continue to align with the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to make laws that promote a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment,’ he said.

‘Everyone can cause a change from their little corner for a better environment.’

He commended Chiedu Evie, Chairman of NDDC, for inaugurating new projects across the region since assuming office, and applauded the commission’s effort in bringing together diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, academia, civil society, communities, and schools, to reawaken the culture of tree planting..

Continental Civil, a leading Nigerian engineering and construction company, and Qshelter, a premium real estate services firm, have announced the groundbreaking of Lagos 2004 Estate, a transformative residential development poised to redefine urban living in Lagos. Inspired by the iconic 1004 Estate in Victoria Island, this modern replica project combines innovative design, strategic accessibility, and flexible financing to deliver sustainable, community-oriented housing.

Strategic Location Meets Modern Convenience

Strategically positioned along Monastery Road near Novare Mall, Lagos 2004 Estate offers residents exceptional connectivity with just a 23-minute drive to Victoria Island via the Coastal Road. This prime location combines suburban tranquility with urban accessibility, making it an ideal choice for discerning homebuyers both locally and in the Diaspora.

Breaking Down Barriers to Homeownership

Recognising the financing challenges facing prospective homeowners, Lagos 2004 Estate offers innovative payment solutions designed to make quality housing accessible:

Flexible Payment Plans: 50% initial deposit with the remaining balance due upon delivery

Long-term Mortgages: 20-year financing options with competitive single-digit interest rates

Government-backed Programmes: Access to 6% rates through the National Housing Fund and 9.75% through the MREIF programme

Customised Solutions: Tailored payment structures to meet individual financial circumstances

A Legacy Reimagined for Modern Living

Drawing inspiration from Lagos’s iconic 1004 Estate, this development combines prestige with contemporary design principles. Lagos 2004 Estate will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure, comprehensive security systems, and community-focused amenities that foster neighbourly connections while maintaining modern lifestyle standards.

‘Lagos 2004 Estate represents more than a housing development; it’s our commitment to building sustainable, thriving communities that honour the prestige of the original 1004 Estate while addressing the evolving needs of today’s urban residents,’ said Dare Makinde, Chief Commercial Officer of Qshelter.

Makinde further emphasised Qshelter’s comprehensive approach: ‘Our role extends far beyond traditional sales and marketing. We’re committed to ensuring a seamless homeownership journey through affordable financing solutions and exceptional customer service that supports buyers from initial inquiry through move-in and beyond.’

Proven Expertise, Exceptional Results

This partnership brings together two industry leaders with demonstrated track records:

About Continental Civil – Continental Civil stands as Nigeria’s foremost construction company, currently serving as lead developer for the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates initiative. The company’s portfolio includes:

2,800 housing units under construction in Karsana, Abuja

1,000 housing units in Janguza, Kano (60% complete)

Partnership with Nigerian Army Properties Limited on a 120-hectare development in Asokoro Extension, Abuja, delivering nearly 2,000 residential units and service plots for the Army officers, men and general public

About Qshelter – Qshelter operates as Nigeria’s leading digital real estate platform, connecting homebuyers with verified properties and affordable financing options. The company specialises in serving both domestic and Diaspora Nigerian markets through transparent, professional service delivery.

Setting New Standards for Nigerian Real Estate

Lagos 2004 Estate represents a new paradigm in Nigerian residential development – one that prioritises community building, financial accessibility, and sustainable urban planning. This model development aims to establish benchmarks for future residential projects across Nigeria.

For additional information about Lagos 2004 Estate, investment opportunities, or to schedule a site visit, please contact the development team using the information provided below.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC (Sterling Holdco), the parent company of The Alternative Bank, Sterling Bank, SterlingFI, and a number of other novel business solutions, has witnessed a very positive response to its public offer, as investors rally for a stake in the company’s future.

The public offer, launched on September 17, 2025, has quickly become one of the most talked-about opportunities in the Nigerian financial market, with analysts predicting that the offer will prove to be amongst the most lucrative in the sector’s investment landscape.

The Sterling Public Offer has sparked widespread interest, with market experts noting that the price, which is about 6% below its current trading price, presents an attractive entry point for both institutional and retail investors. The offer is set to close soon, but the rapid pace of interest has led many to speculate that the full subscription has already been reached or even exceeded much earlier than expected.

According to leading financial analysts, Sterling Holdco’s strategic expansion plans, solid market position, and innovative financial products have positioned it as a major contender in Nigeria’s banking sector. The public offer is widely regarded as an exciting proposition for investors looking to capitalise on a company with strong fundamentals and an ambitious growth trajectory. With a price point set at a discount to current trading prices, the offer is seen as a compelling opportunity for both long-term and short-term investors.

Sterling Holdco has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. One of the most compelling indicators of the company’s underlying strength is the impressive growth of its share price. In the past year, the Holding company’s share price has grown steadily from N4.00 to nearly N8.00 per share. This increase in the company’s stock price speaks volumes about the underlying value and confidence in its business model, leadership, and growth trajectory.

Sterling Holdco, known for its strategic ownership of two banks, a wealth management company, and a number of innovative consumer businesses, is seeking to raise additional capital through the issuance of 12.58 billion ordinary shares at N7.00 per share. The proceeds from the public offer will be strategically deployed to further strengthen Holdco’s capital base and fund its growth initiatives over the next 36 months.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC (Sterling HoldCo) is a leading Nigerian financial services group committed to enriching lives through innovation and impact with a diversified portfolio that includes Sterling Bank Limited, The Alternative Bank Limited, SterlingFI Wealth Management among others. As a HoldCo, Sterling provides strategic direction, governance, and resources across its subsidiaries, enabling each to focus on its core mandate while benefiting from group-wide expertise, technology, and oversight.

With a heritage of trust built over six decades, Sterling HoldCo is committed to financial innovation, advancing inclusion, and shaping sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy. The group champions customer-focused solutions and socially responsible initiatives while creating value for shareholders, employees, and the communities it serves, and continues to pioneer offerings across its core businesses in banking, payments, and technology-driven financial services.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of new heads for three key Federal Government agencies.

This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government.

Tinubu appointed Bello Bawa Bwari as Director-General of the National Biosafety Management Agency, for an initial four-year term, effective from Sept. 18, 2025.

The President also appointed Aminu Junaidu as Chairman of the Investment and Security Tribunal, for a five-year term, beginning on Sept. 18, 2025.

Similarly, Olayiwola Nurudeen Awakan was appointed Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, for an initial four-year term, effective from Sept. 2, 2025.

Imohiosen stated that the appointments underscored Tinubu’s resolve to strengthen key sectors and institutions in the country.

He added that the President urged the appointees to apply their expertise towards advancing the growth and development of their agencies for national progress.