Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

President Bola Tinubu has lauded the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) for its strategic role in driving the nation’s human capital development, describing the Institute as a critical partner in Nigeria’s journey toward building a productive, future-ready workforce.

Speaking while declaring open the 57th International Conference and Exhibition of the Institute in Abuja, President Tinubu, represented by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, praised CIPM for its leadership in advancing people management practices and fostering dialogue on workforce transformation.

The conference, themed ‘Reimagining the New World of Work,’ aligns with the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to harnessing Nigeria’s demographic potential through digital innovation, skills development, and institutional reform.

‘Human capital development is central to our Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu stated,

noting that the government remains committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerians for global competitiveness.

He commended the Institute for its consistency in developing competencies that enhance national productivity, assuring that his administration will continue to partner with CIPM in strengthening the nation’s talent ecosystem.

In his goodwill message, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, commended CIPM for bringing together leading human resource professionals to shape the nation’s future of work.

He applauded the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, FCIPM, fnli, for his visionary leadership and steadfastness in promoting people management across both public and private sectors.

‘The theme of this year’s conference resonates strongly with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in areas of youth empowerment, enterprise development, and the Sustainable Development Goals,’ Dingyadi said.

He pledged the ministry’s continued collaboration with CIPM in promoting excellence in human resource management and urged professionals to apply insights from the conference to enhance workforce productivity and drive sustainable growth.

Earlier in his opening address, CIPM President, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, set an inspiring tone, describing the gathering as ‘a movement to reshape the mindset, skills, and culture of the Nigerian workforce for the realities of a rapidly changing world.’

‘The future will not reward the strongest or the smartest, but those brave enough to stay human in a digital world,’ he said, reaffirming CIPM’s commitment to equipping professionals with skills and values that ensure workplaces remain humane, inclusive, and adaptable to technological disruptions.

Gobir emphasised that Nigeria stands at a defining moment where leadership decisions will determine whether the country becomes a global talent hub or lags behind in innovation. ‘CIPM is determined to ensure that Nigeria becomes a net exporter of talent and innovation,’ he declared.

The event featured thought-provoking sessions from experts, including economist Dr. Tope Fasua, who highlighted the global economic trends shaping Africa’s workforce, and leadership coach Dr. Linus Okorie, who urged professionals to embrace transformational leadership and lifelong learning.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the launch of the CIPM Mobile App, designed to enhance members’ access to professional resources, improve conference participation, and promote continuous learning. The innovation, according to the Institute, reflects its commitment to blending tradition with technology in advancing the HR profession.

As the conference continues, the consensus among government and industry leaders remains clear, CIPM stands at the heart of Nigeria’s human capital transformation. Its collaboration with both the public and private sectors, they agreed, will be crucial in reimagining and realising the new world of work.

Established by Act of Parliament CAP I15 LFN 2004, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria is the only regulatory body for human resource management practice in the country. The Institute continues to drive excellence in people management through certification, training, research, and advocacy, shaping the future of work in Nigeria and beyond.

Nigeria International and African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, has expressed his ongoing struggle to find his scoring form with Atalanta, despite recently netting his first goal of the season during a 1-1 draw against AC Milan.

Although he played a crucial role by scoring the equalizer after AC Milan took an early lead through Samuele Ricci., Lookman admitted that he has not yet rediscovered his best form both physically and in front of goal.

The match at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo marked Lookman’s fifth appearance in Serie A this season. Following a summer transfer saga involving a failed move to Inter Milan, he clarified that he prefers not to dwell on past events and is focused on contributing to his team’s success.

In an interview with DAZN Italia, Lookman emphasized his commitment to helping the team and expressed optimism about improving his performance in future games.

‘It’s important to be available for the team, to help the team,’ Lookman told DAZN Italia as per Football Italia. ‘I’ve not been able to find form yet, physically or in front of goal, but I’ll get there eventually and this was a step forward in the right direction. Hopefully in the coming games we’ll be able to get some wins.’

He further made it abundantly clear he does not want to talk about the past or what happened in recent months when pressed if scoring his first goal of the season had brought back his happiness with Atalanta.

‘I think that when I’m on the pitch, the most important thing is to try to help the team win. We want to keep climbing up the table and that’s the most important thing, to win football games,’ he noted

Meanwhile, Atalanta’s coach, Ivan Juric, praised Lookman, calling him a ‘spectacular player’ while highlighting his determination to succeed.

Juric noted that their training approach aimed to enhance Lookman’s match fitness and that he expects more goals to come as the forward continues to perform well in training.

‘I think we pushed him to play more than perhaps he should’ve done because we wanted him to achieve match fitness,’ Juric equally told DAZN. ‘He is a special type of player – in training and on the pitch, he is a sight to behold. A winner with incredible determination, and I am very happy for him.

‘We were only talking yesterday, and he said if he keeps training like this, the goal will come – and today, it did.’

As Atalanta aims to climb higher on the Serie A table, Lookman’s contributions will be crucial as he looks to regain his scoring touch.

At a time economic hardship continues to push healthcare further out of the reach of many Nigerians, the Pistis Foundation has rolled out the 8th edition of its flagship UBOMI Medical and Surgical Outreach in Lagos. The programme, which commenced on October 27, is delivering more than 10,000 free medical interventions to vulnerable and underserved populations across the state. For five days, thousands of residents are receiving primary and secondary healthcare services – from surgeries and dental care to maternal health, health screenings, eye examinations, consultations, and community health education – all at no financial cost.

UBOMI, which means ‘life’ in the Ijaw language, has grown into one of the most impactful social healthcare interventions by The Elevation Church and its humanitarian arm, Pistis Foundation. Over the years, the initiative has evolved from a periodic outreach into a structured health-access system that continues to support patients beyond the initial touchpoint.

This year’s edition marks a major milestone with the commissioning of a newly equipped ward at the Hospital for Trauma and Surgery (HTS), donated entirely by the Pistis Foundation. The facility significantly expands access to free and subsidised consultations, diagnostics, pharmacy services, dental and eye care, maternity services, and surgical procedures for individuals who otherwise cannot afford treatment. The ward was officially opened during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by the Foundation’s leadership and healthcare partners.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Board Chair of Pistis Foundation, Godman Akinlabi, noted that the initiative underscores the Foundation’s mission to close the gap between the availability of healthcare and its accessibility. ‘UBOMI is designed to give vulnerable families access to the care they need without financial commitment,’ he said. ‘This new ward is more than infrastructure – it is an answer to a pressing need in our communities and a practical demonstration of compassion in action.’ The partnership with HTS ensures that UBOMI beneficiaries are not limited to a one-off outreach treatment model. Instead, patients requiring follow-up care, therapies, or surgeries can be attended to in a safe, well-equipped and professionally staffed environment. This marks a strategic shift from short-term relief to long-term community health support.

Executive Director of Pistis Foundation, Leonard F. Thomas, explained that UBOMI 8.0 focuses significantly on sustainability: ‘This year, our focus is not just on treatment but on continuity of care. Beyond the outreach window, patients will receive support through our partner facility here at HTS. We are building a health access pipeline that ensures long-term well-being – especially for underserved and underprivileged families who have little to no access to the healthcare system.’

The turnout for this year’s programme has been impressive. Each day, long queues form from dawn as residents seek medical attention for conditions ranging from hypertension and diabetes to eye problems, infections, maternal health concerns, and various untreated chronic illnesses. Many beneficiaries are encountering structured medical care for the first time in years. Dr. Audu Onechojo Joy, a volunteer with Pro Health, observed that a significant number of patients were unaware of their conditions prior to the screenings. ‘Many beneficiaries don’t even know what is wrong with them, and this initiative, with its attentive care, addresses that,’ she said.

Mental health also took a prominent place in this year’s outreach. Ayodeji Lawrence, lead consultant for Elcubed International, emphasised the need to understand the roots of mental health challenges, noting that they may stem from trauma, difficult childhoods, rape, family instability, addiction, or hereditary predisposition. She advocated treatment and rehabilitation rather than criminalisation or stigma for individuals experiencing mental distress or suicidal thoughts.

The scale of UBOMI 8.0 has been made possible by a workforce of more than 120 medical practitioners and over 300 volunteers offering administrative, medical, counselling, and logistical support. Still, like many NGO-driven social projects, funding remains a core challenge. Thomas acknowledged government structures such as SCUML and EFCC in enhancing accountability frameworks for NGOs, but reiterated that sustainable healthcare access must involve collaboration between government, the private sector, NGOs, and faith-based institutions. ‘Governments cannot do it alone,’ he said. ‘We must all partner to mitigate the challenges of limited healthcare access.’

For beneficiaries, UBOMI is not just a programme – it is a lifeline. Temitayo Akinwale, who was diagnosed with a medical condition four years ago but could not afford treatment, described the impact in deeply emotional terms. ‘Life before treatment was difficult,’ she said, fighting back tears. ‘But I got help here. A help for one is a help to the community.’

As the outreach continues through Friday, October 31st, the goal remains clear: to attend to at least 3,500 to 4,000 people and expand access to essential healthcare for those most in need. Yet beyond the numbers and commendations, UBOMI 8.0 tells a broader story – one of collective responsibility, human dignity and the transformative power of compassion backed by structure and continuity. In a country where many struggle just to be seen by a doctor, the initiative is not merely delivering healthcare; it is restoring hope and reminding people that their lives matter.

The Chief Lecturer in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Dr Abubakar Mobolaji Olaseni, has called on policymakers and planners to rethink Nigeria’s approach to urban and transport planning, urging a shift from the traditional focus on mobility to a more inclusive, sustainable, and accessible framework.

Olaseni delivered the 20th Inaugural Lecture of the institution, entitled: ‘Beyond Mobility’, held at the Yusuf Grillo Auditorium on campus. The lecture explored the complex relationship between urban planning, transportation systems, and sustainable development, emphasising the need to move beyond the mere movement of people and goods to ensuring accessibility, equity, and environmental stewardship.

A fellow of both the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners and the Nigerian Institute of Transport Management, Olaseni traced the evolution of urban development from ancient civilisations to modern smart cities. He stressed that transportation is not simply about movement but serves as the lifeblood of economic progress, social inclusion, and political empowerment.

Transportation is not merely about moving from one point to another. It determines access to opportunities, defines the structure of our cities, and shapes the destiny of our people,’ he said.

Highlighting the growing burden of transportation costs on Nigerians, now consuming over 80 per cent of average wages, Olaseni noted that the nation’s overreliance on road transport has led to inefficiency, congestion, and environmental degradation.

He, therefore, called for integrated transport systems that link seamlessly with urban planning strategies to create livable, equitable, and sustainable cities.

Drawing from his extensive research, the don presented insights from two key studies: the Oshodi-Isolo Model City Plan and the Locational Analysis of Intercity Passenger Terminals in Lagos.

He described the Oshodi-Isolo project as a model for transforming chaotic urban spaces into inclusive, well-structured communities, while the terminal study highlighted the importance of strategic location, safety, and accessibility in transport infrastructure.

Olaseni also reflected on international frameworks, referencing global declarations from the 1972 Stockholm Conference to the 2016 New Urban Agenda, and urged the country to domesticate these policies to drive national progress.

‘Mobility is not just about roads and vehicles; it is about accessibility, affordability, and dignity for every citizen,’ he said. He called on the government to prioritise affordable housing, green infrastructure, and people-centred transport systems.

Rector of YABATECH, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, commended Olaseni for his scholarly depth and commitment to academic excellence, describing the lecture as ‘a roadmap for building sustainable cities and inclusive development.’

The event, attended by senior officials, scholars, students, and industry experts, marked the third inaugural lecture at YABATECH’s Department of Urban and Regional Planning, reaffirming the institution’s leadership in technical and vocational education in Nigeria.

In today’s private universities, social media is no longer just a space for casual updates and entertainment-it has become a central part of students’ life. From academic discussions to entrepreneurial ventures, students are finding ways to integrate digital platforms into their daily routines, shaping the modern campus experience in both positive and challenging ways.

Academic resource in the digital age

For many students, platforms like WhatsApp, YouTube, and LinkedIn have become valuable learning tools. Departmental WhatsApp groups now serve as instant information hubs, where schedules, assignments, and urgent notices are shared within minutes

‘Our WhatsApp group is faster and more reliable than the school notice board,’ said Olajide Isaac, a 500-Level Civil Engineering student, in Caleb University. YouTube tutorials, online study forums, and LinkedIn connections further complement classroom learning, proving that social media has extended education beyond the lecture hall.’

Platform for creativity and enterprise

Beyond academics, private university students are embracing social media as an avenue for self-expression and entrepreneurship. Instagram thrift stores, TikTok skits, online poetry recitals, and digital marketing ventures are giving young people the chance to showcase their creativity while earning.

‘I sell fashion accessories through my Instagram page, and it helps me cover part of my living expenses,’ explained Bimpe Sarumi, a second-year Mass Communication student at Fountain University, Osogbo. For many, social media is not just an escape from stress but also a foundation for future careers in the digital economy.

Distractions and social pressure

Despite its advantages, social media also presents challenges. Students often find themselves distracted by endless scrolling, sometimes at the expense of their studies.

‘I go online to check class updates, but before I know it, I’ve spent two hours on TikTok,’ admitted Macus Chima David, a Mass Communication undergraduate.

The pressure of comparing lifestyles, appearances, and achievements online also weighs heavily on some students, fueling anxiety, low self-esteem, and, in some cases, strained relationships.

Balancing benefits and risks

Ultimately, social media in private universities remains a double-edged sword. It offers unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and entrepreneurship while posing risks of distraction and psychological pressure. For today’s students, the challenge lies in striking a balance, using the platforms to grow without allowing them to undermine academic and personal well-being.

On private university campuses, social media mirrors the students’ journey: a blend of knowledge, creativity, connection, and distraction. Its influence is undeniable, and its role will continue to shape the future of campus life.

IT was a day of nostalgia and laughter as members of the 1984-1990 set of the Federal Government College (FGC), Odogbolu, paid a heartfelt courtesy visit to their former principal, Mr. Adefolaju, recently as part of activities marking their 35th reunion celebration.

The reunion, a three-day celebration of enduring friendship and shared history, drew alumni from across the world, from America to Europe and Asia; as they all returned to rekindle memories of adolescence and honour the man who helped shape their destinies.

Leading the delegation was the President of the 84/90 set, Mr. Maduka Udeogaranya, accompanied by members of the reunion organising committee led by Mrs. Bolanle Abagun-Osisanya. They spoke glowingly of Adefolaju’s exemplary leadership and the fatherly discipline he instilled in them during their years at FGC Odogbolu, a foundation they say has continued to guide their lives and careers.

With visible excitement, the group presented gifts to their former principal, who could hardly hide his joy at seeing his students all grown and successful. His eyes glistened as he described the visit as ‘a memorable occasion that has brought fresh joy to my heart.’

‘Today’s visit is truly special and worth all my anticipation,’ he said warmly. ‘I sincerely thank you all for coming and for these wonderful gifts,’ he said.

The encounter was more than a reunion; it was a rekindling of old bonds and a celebration of the timeless teacher-student connection. Mr. Adefolaju, in his characteristic humility, used the moment to share profound life lessons and words of encouragement with the visiting team reminding them that integrity, hard work and gratitude remain the cornerstones of success.

Among the visiting alumni were Mr. Wale Soneye, Mrs. Tutu Jaiyesimi, Mr. Ahmed Mohammed, Mrs. Sade Tiamiyu, Mr. Bunabe Dalbadal, Mrs. Monsurat Adeoti, Mr. Segun Bankole, Mrs. Bukky Ogunade, Madam Sewa Adelaja, Dr. Abimbola Okusanya, and several others, each basking in the warmth of old memories and renewed camaraderie.

As they bade farewell, it was clear that this was more than just a visit. It was a homecoming of hearts, a reminder that the ties forged within the bricked walls of FGC Odogbolu have not dimmed with time but have only grown stronger with distance and years.

The Leventis Foundation Nigeria has announced plans to award up to N2 million in grants to outstanding young agribusiness owners during its upcoming 2025 Agricultural Youth Summit.

The organisation said that 10 young agribusiness owners who present viable business ideas and pitches will receive N2m each.

The Executive Director of the Foundation, Hope Usieta, made the announcement on Tuesday in Abuja during a press briefing ahead of the summit, which is jointly organised by the Foundation and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Usieta said the grants will go to young agripreneurs who present viable business ideas and pitches during the summit, describing it as a deliberate investment in ‘youth-led agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship.’

He said: ‘This initiative is not merely symbolic – it is an investment in the future of Nigeria’s agriculture. We are empowering young people to turn their ideas into thriving agribusinesses.’

The one-day summit, themed ‘Building Youth and Agripreneurs’ Resilience for Agribusiness through Targeted Upskilling and Innovative Agri-Finance,’ is scheduled for November 6, 2025, in Abuja.

It will bring together young farmers, policymakers, financiers, and development partners to discuss strategies for transforming Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

Participants will engage in workshops, panel sessions, and exhibitions focusing on practical agribusiness skills such as micro and backyard gardening, digital tools for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), product packaging, and business plan development.

Usieta noted that the foundation’s goal is to make agribusiness a viable and rewarding career path for Nigerian youth through training, access to finance, and innovative tools.

‘Agriculture holds promise. With the right mindset and support, young Nigerians can turn agriculture into a gateway to prosperity,’ he said.

Usieta called on public and private sector partners, donor agencies, and investors to collaborate in scaling youth-focused agricultural programs, stressing that collective effort is essential for achieving sustainable impact.

Director, Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, (SAED), NYSC, Kehinde Aremu, underscored the collaboration with Leventis Foundation to galvanise youth in agribusiness as they remain the foot soldiers of Nigeria’s food production and agribusiness.

Aremu said the NYSC has been seriously involved in developing entrepreneurial skills of youth over the years, therefore the Summit serves as a platform to boost youth-led agribusinesses.

‘For us in NYSC, we believe that the empowerment of young people for achieving the food security is so much more important, and that is why we are very grateful for the partnership.

‘We have so many success stories as an organisation of four members that got introduced, or young people that got introduced to our youth service for the first time in their encounter with NYSC’, he added.

Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has said the Federal Government had released N2.3 billion, representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears to universities across the country.

The fund is expected to be used to clear salary backlogs as well as promotion arrears of teaching and non-academic workers in public universities.

Alausa explained that the disbursements, processed through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), reflected President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to clear inherited backlogs and enhance the welfare of educators.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja by the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Folasade Boriowo, the minister said: ‘A total of N2.311 billion, representing Batch 8 salary and promotion arrears, has been released through the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation to universities. Beneficiary institutions should begin to receive payment alerts anytime from now.’

Alausa said the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Finance and the OAGF, was finalising the release of third-party non-statutory deductions and pension remittances to Nigerian University Pension Management (NUPEMCO), expected to be completed in the coming days.

The minister said the government had approved the full mainstreaming of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) into university workers’ salaries, beginning from next year.

He noted that this would ensure prompt, predictable, and sustainable payments going forward.

According to him, funds have also been released under the Needs Assessment of Nigerian Universities, with corresponding budgetary provisions made to sustain the initiative.

Alausa said these measures demonstrated the government’s strong commitment to improving academic workers’ welfare and addressing the challenges that have persisted for decades.

‘Within the last 26 months, the Federal Government has paid a significant portion of outstanding obligations while maintaining open communication with all academic and non-academic unions of tertiary institutions.

‘The Federal Ministry of Education assures that these engagements are being conducted truthfully and in good faith. However, while the government remains committed to improving workers’ welfare, it will only enter into agreements that are realistic and financially sustainable,’ he said.

The minister explained that the Yayale Ahmed Negotiating Committee continued to serve as a bridge between the Federal Government and the tertiary institutions’ unions, ensuring that all pending welfare-related issues are addressed through honest and mutually respectful dialogue.

‘Negotiations are being conducted sincerely, mutually, and respectfully.

‘Our priority is to ensure that all matters are addressed responsibly and in the best interest of our education system,’ Alausa said.

The minister stressed that all commitments must align with approved budgetary provisions to guarantee long-term stability.

He praised President Tinubu for his unwavering dedication to the education sector, noting that several challenges that had persisted for decades were being tackled decisively under his administration.

Alausa expressed optimism that the current wave of reforms and fiscal interventions would usher in lasting industrial harmony, restore confidence in Nigeria’s tertiary education system, and strengthen institutional capacity for national development.

President Bola Tinubu has pledged continued support to the informal sector of the economy, saying it is at the heart of the country’s story of resilience, creativity and enterprise, from market traders to artisans, service providers, and young digital entrepreneurs.

Speaking at the launch of the second edition of Nigeria’s Informal Economy Report powered by Moniepoint and the launch of ‘M’, the first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot dedicated to demystifying the informal economy, Vice President Kashim Shettima said millions of Nigerians power commerce daily in ways that are unseen yet indispensable to the economy.

Represented on the occasion by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Vice President commended the business payments and personal banking servicing platform, Moniepoint Inc, for its decade-long commitment to driving financial inclusion and business growth across Africa’s most populous nation

Sen Shettima said: ‘Millions of Nigerians power commerce daily in ways that are unseen yet indispensable to our economy. This report gives an important window into the challenges and opportunities within the sector. It provides a stronger foundation for inclusive, evidence-based policymaking.

‘The Tinubu-led administration places high priority on the informal sector, which has remained central to Nigeria’s economic resilience. I commend Moniepoint for its decade-long contribution to financial inclusion, supporting millions of informal businesses across Africa.’

To bring the report’s insights to life, ‘M,’ a friendly, AI-powered guide that helps users explore and understand Nigeria’s informal economy. Built on cutting-edge Large Language Model (LLM) technology, M provides conversational and easy-to-understand responses to complex queries. It represents Moniepoint’s belief that technology should serve people, especially the everyday entrepreneurs who keep the economy moving. ‘M’ is designed to make data on small businesses and informal trade accessible, useful, and actionable for everyone from policymakers and researchers to journalists and the general public.

In his welcome remarks, Managing Director, Moniepoint MFB, Babatunde Olofin, noted that the bank’s focus lies in providing millions of these informal operators with the tools they need to thrive sustainably.

‘This year’s report dives deeper into unemployment, taxation, savings behavior, and business operations within the informal economy, and what we’ve found paints a picture of both resilience and fragility. These insights remind us that the informal economy is not just a tool for survival but a living ecosystem of innovation and adaptation. We are determined to help shape a more inclusive and sustainable Nigeria, not just for today, but for generations yet unborn. The informal economy is not the shadow of our nation’s progress, it is its pulse. Our job is to make sure it beats stronger,’ he said.

The launch event also served to mark a significant milestone as Moniepoint commemorates 10 years of service to now over 10 million active businesses and individuals, processing more than one billion transactions monthly and facilitating payments exceeding $22 billion. The company aims to strengthen public-private collaboration in building a more data-driven, inclusive, and digitized economy aligned with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

Founded in 2015 by Tosin Eniolorunda and Felix Ike, Moniepoint has grown from building financial solutions and infrastructure for Nigeria’s major banks to becoming the nation’s largest business payments platform and leading merchant acquirer, providing an all-in-one banking platform offering payments, banking, credit, business tools, and cross-border payment solutions.

Hon. Ayodele Olawande, Minister, Federal Ministry of Youth Development represented by Mrs. Ebiho Agun, Technical Adviser commended Moniepoint for its commitment to understanding and illuminating the dynamics of a sector that, though often overlooked, remains the backbone of our national economy.

‘While Moniepoint has aptly drawn attention to the vast potential of the informal economy, largely powered by youth, it is clear that realizing this potential requires strong synergy among government, private sector players, financial institutions, and development partners.

‘Together, we must move from insight to action, designing and implementing strategies that will enable informal enterprises to access finance.’

During a panel session which was moderated by Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Moniepoint Inc, Didi Uwemakpan with the theme: Building an inclusive and sustainable economy for Nigeria, the panelists which included Uche Uzoebo, MD/CEO, Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities, SANEF, Chinasa Collins-Ogbuo, Head, Inclusion for All Initiative, Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access (EFInA); Charles Odii, Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria and MD, Moniepoint Microfinance Bank were emphatic about the need to increase access to finance, markets, and other structured interventions for the informal economy.

Speaking on its partnership with Moniepoint on the report, DG, SMEDAN expressed satisfaction that the report shows real progress with more businesses formalizing, accessing finance, and using digital tools, while acknowledging some challenges that persist, especially around rising costs and access to affordable credit.

‘We are working with our partners and under this administration’s economic agenda to close these gaps: free CAC registration for 250,000 small businesses, a partnership with SEC to list 1,000 SMEs on the capital market, and new shared industrial hubs that make it cheaper to run a business. We are also working with state governments to deepen access to affordable finance and complement efforts of the Federal Government to create a regulatory environment that supports the growth of small businesses,’ he said.

Some of the dignitaries who attended the event include Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSME, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital Media and Emergency Management (OVP), Ahmed Ningi, Registrar/ Chief Executive, The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Akin Morakinyo, Mohammed Bagudu, Special Adviser on Stakeholder Management and Finance, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Deputy Director, Digital Economy, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Dr. Amina Sambo-Magaji, National Coordinator of the Office for Nigerian Digital Innovation (ONDI), and Investment Officer. IFC. Meissa Gueye.

Moniepoint’s transformative impact has earned recognition on the Financial Times’ Africa’s Fastest-Growing Companies list, TIME100 Most Influential Companies list, and CNBC’s World’s Top Fintech Companies. The Central Bank of Nigeria honored Moniepoint as Financially Inclusive Fintech of the Year, while the company received SME Microfinance Bank of the Year awards at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards in both 2024 and 2025.

In a celebration of learning and youth empowerment, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, in partnership with its Joint Venture (JV) partners, recently hosted the 2025 Annual Book Reading and Open Day Programme at its corporate headquarters, Eko Towers II, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Themed, ‘Paragraphs, Pages, and Chapters: Unlocking the Secret of Success Through Reading,’ the event brought together senior secondary school students from across Lagos State to promote literacy, inspire creativity, and nurture the next generation of leaders.

This year’s edition featured ‘The Potter’s Wheel’ by renowned Nigerian author Chukwuemeka Ike as the Book of the Year, selected for its enduring lessons on discipline, personal growth, and self-discovery.

Delivering the keynote address, Engr. Victor Bamidele, Deputy Managing Director, Deepwater District, and Chief Host of the event, reaffirmed TotalEnergies’ longstanding commitment to education and youth development. He noted that the company has for over six decades, ‘been lighting up minds and empowering future generations through education.’

‘Through our various initiatives – including our scholarship programmes, which have benefitted over 30,000 youths between 2012 and 2020, the Empower the Teacher (ETT) scheme, the Institute of Petroleum and Energy Studies (IPES), and the donation of solar lamps and laboratory infrastructure – we continue to ignite potential and foster a culture of lifelong learning,’ he said.

He urged students to see reading as a lifelong habit and a tool for personal transformation.

‘May this event be a turning point. May The Potter’s Wheel and the opportunities we support inspire you to reach higher and dream bigger,’ he added.

The event featured engaging presentations from 10 participating schools, including Dairy Farm Senior Secondary School, Government Senior College, Unity Senior High School, Iju Senior Grammar School, Vetland Senior Grammar School, Meiran Community High School, Abesan Comprehensive School, Chrisland College, Ifolo International College, and Doregos Private Academy.

In the school presentation segment, students showcased their understanding of TotalEnergies’ impact and shared reflections on leadership and community service. Vetland Senior Grammar School clinched first position, followed by Doregos Private Academy in second place, while Abesan Comprehensive School took third place.

The programme also featured a lively Book Reading Competition, where students demonstrated comprehension, creativity, and communication skills. Participants later engaged in an Open Day session, interacting with professionals from the energy and technology sectors who shared insights on innovation, career development, and entrepreneurship.

The event concluded with the presentation of educational materials and gift items to participating students, alongside special recognition for the winning schools.