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The Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank) has identified the South-South region as the emerging strategic hub for export diversification.

It said the South-South has access to infrastructure like ports and proximity to export corridors.

Managing Director of NEXIM Bank, Abba Bello, stated this in Benin City at the opening session of a one-day NEXIM SME Export Finance Sensitization Forum.

Bello noted that the South-South offered offers immense potential for trade following successful agro-processing clusters in oil palm, cassava, cocoa, rubber, solid minerals projects and in the petro-chemical industries in Rivers State.

He said industrial hubs in the region were home to MSMEs along value chains that produced high-quality food products, chemicals, building materials and servicing oil companies.

The NEXIM bank boss said the industrial hubs provided products and services that would shape Nigeria’s non-oil export future.

Represented by Mr. Flaring Tianiyu, Bello noted that improved access to finance, robust infrastructure, and effective trade facilitation would help the South South region continue to be a strong contributor to Nigeria’s non-oil export growth.

He said the NEXIM Bank was working with partners such as GIZ, to address challenges faced by the over 41 million MSMEs in the country.

Bello explained that the EXCEL Programme was designed to identify, strengthen, and finance export-ready MSMEs across the country, by leveraging digital tools, providing targeted-training, and enhancing financial-inclusion strategies.

His words, ‘The EXCEL Programme enables small businesses to scale up their operations, improve quality standards, and trade seamlessly within regional and international markets.

‘This initiative falls within the NEXIM Bank’s mandate of promoting diversified, non-oil exports, through inclusive financing models that empower women, youth, and small businesses to participate effectively in trade.

‘In addition, through the Nigeria Export Academy (NEXA), a digital platform, the Bank is expanding export capacity, providing export advisory and enabling MSMEs to operate with greater transparency and efficiency. We are also onboarding SME clients onto the African Trade Gateway (ATG), a digital ecosystem powered by Afreximbank, which integrates risk management tools (MANSA) payment systems (PAPSS), trade documentation, and logistics support to facilitate seamless cross-border trade for SMEs within Africa’, Bello further explained.

GIZ Trade Advisor, Raymond Dangana, said major objective of the event was to sensitize participants on export financing.

Bank of Industry (BoI) has identified limited access to finance and lack of technical capacity as the biggest challenges preventing Nigerian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from adopting Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices – a global standard increasingly shaping investment and sustainability trends.

This was revealed in the bank’s new report titled: ‘Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Adoption by Nigerian MSMEs’, launched yesterday in Lagos at the BoI’s inaugural ESG Conference which had: ‘Advancing ESG Adoption’ as theme.

According to the report, 78 per cent of MSMEs surveyed cited financial constraints as the major barrier to ESG adoption, while 65 per cent highlighted lack of technical expertise. Other challenges include limited policy-linked incentives (65 per cent), inadequate knowledge (45 per cent), and low customer demand (20 per cent).

The nationwide survey captured over 300 valid responses from MSMEs across the six geopolitical zones, covering key sectors such as agro-processing, ICT, manufacturing, creative industries, hospitality, healthcare, construction and financial services.

Speaking at the event, BoI’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, said MSMEs remain critical to the economy, accounting for over 80 per cent of businesses, contributing nearly half of the GDP, and employing millions of people.

‘Many still face barriers in understanding what ESG means in practice and how to embed the principles in their daily operations. These barriers make enterprises more vulnerable, less competitive, and less future-ready,’ Olusi said.

He explained that BoI is working to bridge these gaps by equipping MSMEs with the tools and financing needed to operate sustainably and competitively in a changing global economy.

‘Our goal is to help MSMEs grow, compete and prosper sustainably and profitably. ESG principles will help us align our industrial ambitions with national and global climate goals, while enabling us to attract green capital, spur innovation and build industries that can compete globally,’ he added.

Olusi noted that the report aligns with Nigeria’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the Energy Transition Plan (ETP), particularly in achieving the country’s 47 per cent conditional emission reduction target by 2030.

He said that embracing ESG practices would enhance MSMEs’ access to finance, as global investors and development finance institutions (DFIs) increasingly prioritise sustainability-linked projects.

‘ESG adoption will improve access to finance, help businesses manage risks, reduce costs, attract talent, and comply with emerging global standards,’ Olusi said.

The report recommended targeted financing instruments, capacity-building programmes, and gender-focused ESG credit schemes to close adoption gaps. It also called for the development of ESG-compliant loan products, regional hubs for technical training, and blended finance models to expand access to sustainable capital.

Delivering the keynote, Director-General, National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Dr. Tenioye Majekodunmi, said climate realities and changing investor expectations are reshaping global business environments.

‘The transition to a low-carbon future will profoundly affect how businesses compete, attract finance and build resilience. Global investors are redirecting trillions of dollars towards sustainable assets, while consumers now demand transparency and ethical sourcing,’ she said.

Majekodunmi stressed that for MSMEs in the country, adopting ESG principles is no longer optional but strategic.

‘Enterprises that adapt early by embedding ESG principles into their operations will become the preferred partners for global trade and finance,’ she noted, describing BOI’s ESG framework as ‘a blueprint for directing finance towards inclusive and responsible industrial growth.’

Deputy Country Director of Agence Française de Développement (AFD), Mahamadou Diarra, commended BoI’s leadership in promoting responsible and sustainable financing within Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.

‘BoI’s proactive steps will position it as a trusted partner for international financiers,’ Global development partners, including the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, are harmonising ESG frameworks and due diligence standards,’ Diarra said.

He reaffirmed AFD’s commitment to supporting the BoI in strengthening its ESG management systems and promoting climate-linked investments nationwide.

‘As a key development partner, AFD places great emphasis on ensuring that institutions it supports maintain the same level of environmental and social diligence required in its own operations,’ he added.

With the launch of the ESG report, stakeholders say BoI has positioned itself at the centre of the nation’s sustainable industrialisation drive. Those at the event agreed that integrating ESG principles into MSME operations will not only boost competitiveness but also ensure Nigerian businesses remain viable in an economy increasingly defined by sustainability, accountability, and global market alignment.

Rivers United have received a major boost ahead of the CAF Champions League group stage as the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo has been approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for use as the only pitch with the facilities to host CAF games.

The approval comes after CAF’s latest round of stadium inspections aimed at ensuring facilities across Africa meet international standards for safety, broadcast quality, and infrastructure.

This development means Rivers United will host their home fixtures in Uyo after their traditional ground, the Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, was declared unfit to stage CAF matches.

The Uyo arena-widely regarded as one of the finest in Africa-has consistently met CAF’s evolving requirements and has hosted several high-profile international and continental fixtures in recent years.

According to CAF’s updated list of approved venues, Morocco tops the continent with 12 approved stadiums, followed by South Africa (10), Algeria (7), Ivory Coast (6), and Egypt (5). Tunisia, despite its football pedigree, has only one approved venue, while several countries-including Sierra Leone, Sudan, and Zimbabwe-currently have none.

CAF officials are expected to continue inspections across the continent, with more venues to be added once they meet the confederation’s strict compliance standards.

The inclusion of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium highlights Akwa Ibom State’s consistent investment in world-class sports infrastructure and stands as a boost to Nigerian football’s continental image.

Oyo State governorship hopeful on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Adewale Kareem (AKK), has announced plans to present copies of his new book, Our Realistic Tomorrow, to prominent traditional rulers in Oyo State by December.

The announcement follows the hosting of his Town Hall Meeting, Book Launch, and Fundraising in Doonside, Sydney, Australia – an event that drew Yoruba leaders, professionals, and community figures from New South Wales.

Kareem lauded Nigerian Association of New South Wales, Odua Group, Newcastle Muslim Brothers, and other community bodies for support. He said the gathering is a blend of cultural pride, intellectual dialogue, and shared vision.

According to him, the book, his roadmap for sustainable development and people-centred governance, will be presented to Olubadan, Alaafin of Oyo, Soun of Ogbomoso, and others ahead of Oyo State AKK Town Hall Meeting and Book Launch, in January.

‘Our mission is not only politics; it’s about purpose, vision, and unity,’ he said. ‘Our fathers will be first to get my book because their blessings and guidance are central to the progress of the state and realisation of our dream.’

Dr. Kareem also revealed that following the success of the Sydney event, similar engagements would be held in Western Australia, the United States, and Canada before June 2026, targeting members of the Oyo and Nigerian diaspora to further strengthen the movement.

The Doonside event, characterized by rich cultural displays and robust discourse, also served as a rallying point for supporters of the ‘Oyo 2027 Project,’ with participants pledging moral and financial commitment to the cause.

Dr. Kareem, widely respected for his humility and vision, reaffirmed that the slogan ‘Aseyori ni tiwa’ – meaning Success is Ours remains the driving spirit of his campaign for a more united, progressive, and prosperous Oyo State.

About Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)

Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem is a scholar, community leader, and development advocate with a record of excellence in both public service and the private sector. A native of Oyo State, he is deeply committed to promoting education, innovation, and inclusive governance.

His book, Our Realistic Tomorrow, presents a comprehensive blueprint for Oyo State’s socio-economic transformation. As the APC’s 2027 gubernatorial aspirant, Dr. Kareem’s campaign is anchored on accountability, infrastructure renewal, job creation, and human capital development – guided by his conviction that ‘good governance must be felt, not just promised.’

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has dismissed reports suggesting that it disbursed $1.259 billion to major oil sector operators for the importation of refined petroleum products and related items, describing such claims as inaccurate and misleading.

In a statement yesterday, the CBN clarified that the figure referenced in its first quarter 2025 Sectoral Utilisation of Foreign Exchange data did not represent direct CBN disbursements.

Instead, it reflected the total foreign exchange transactions conducted by participants in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) under the willing buyer, willing seller framework.

According to the bank’s spokesperson, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, ‘Since the unification of exchange rates in 2023, the NFEM has operated as a market-driven system, where foreign exchange is sourced and supplied by market participants, not allocated by the CBN. Accordingly, the Bank has not sold foreign exchange specifically for the importation of refined petroleum nor any other products.’

She explained that the figure of $1.259 billion merely represents aggregate utilisation by authorised dealers and end-users who independently sourced foreign exchange through the market in compliance with existing regulations.

‘The data cited in the report only captures legitimate market transactions and does not reflect any form of direct CBN intervention in the oil sector,’ she stated.

Sidi Ali noted that the willing buyer, willing seller system allows for transparency and fair price discovery in the foreign exchange market, reinforcing the CBN’s commitment to maintaining a market-based framework.

She further assured the public that the Central Bank remains committed to transparency and stability in Nigeria’s financial system.

‘The CBN continues to promote a transparent, market-based foreign exchange regime that supports efficient price discovery, economic stability, and confidence in the Nigerian financial system,’ she said.

The Bank therefore urged the media and the public to verify information before publication, especially when it concerns sensitive economic data, to avoid creating false impressions about government policies or the management of the nation’s foreign exchange market.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Zamfara Chapter, says it remains unshaken in spite of defections from the party to All Progressives Congress (APC).

This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Gusau by Mr Halliru Andi, the Publicity Secretary of the party.

While the PDP is the ruling party in the state, APC holds sway at the federal level.

The party was reacting to the defection of Maharazu Faru, representing Maradun II constituency in the State House of Assembly.

Faru, who joined the APC together with PDP executives in the five wards among others, hinged his defection on Gov. Dauda Lawal’s inability to meet his campaign promises.

‘Dauda failed to address challenges ranging from insecurity which is the main reason people voted for him,’ the lawmaker said.

However, the PDP said it was not perturbed by Faru’s excuses for his action.

‘The PDP under the able leadership of Dr Jamil Jibo Magayaki has noted the defection of Hon. Marahazu Faru, member representing Maradun II Constituency in the State House of Assembly, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

‘While we respect his personal choice, we are not surprised.

‘History has shown that those who put personal interest above the collective will of the people often find themselves on the wrong side of history.

‘The PDP remains the only party with genuine commitment to the rescue and rebuilding of Zamfara State,’ he said.

He said Gov. Dauda Lawal’s leadership was steadily restoring hope, rebuilding institutions, and securing the lives and livelihoods of the Zamfara people.

‘The ongoing reforms and development initiatives are clear proof that the PDP is the party of progress and compassion.

‘We are confident that Hon. Faru will soon regret his decision, as the people of Zamfara have already made up their minds to stand firmly with the PDP.

‘Come the next elections, our party will win overwhelmingly at all levels -from the wards to the national stage because the PDP remains the true party of the masses.

‘We call on our members and supporters to remain steadfast and proud. No defection can shake our foundation or stop the will of the people.

‘The PDP remains strong, united, and deeply rooted in the hearts of Zamfara people,’ the statement said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the PDP still maintains majority with 14 members while the APC now has 10 lawmakers in the State House of Assembly.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Coca-Cola Nigeria has reignited its Share-A-Coke campaign, with a launch in Lagos .

The event, welcomed media professionals, content creators, and fans as well as customers to celebrate the values of sharing, personalisation, and community that have made Share-A-Coke a cultural phenomenon around the world.

The launch brought the campaign’s essence to life through interactive installations, creative personalisation zones, and performances by artists like Wande Coal, Odumodublvk, Falz, Shody, D.J Shawn, and Rybeena. Guests located and personalise Coca-Cola bottles to bear their names or those of loved ones, creating moments of joy and connection captured in photos and videos.

Mariam Kaham, general manager, said the launch was return of a most endearing campaigns, but with a focus on Gen Zs.

‘Today marks the comeback of the world’s most loved campaign, in Nigeria. Nigerians have done this in the past and now it is bigger, better, bolder, here for you. So, we have crafted this for the Gen Zs,’ she said.

She noted that the campaign is more than just names on bottles, but about creating real connections.

‘When you hand someone a Coke with their name on it, you are giving them something deeply personal: their identity, their moment, and their story and that’s what makes Share A Coke so special,’ Kaham said.

The event also featured an engaging digital activation where attendees scanned QR codes on specially marked bottles to generate personalised ‘Share-A-Coke Memory’ digital keepsakes. The experience seamlessly blended nostalgia with innovation, showcasing Coca-Cola’s ability to evolve with its audience while preserving the emotional connection that defines the brand.

Yusuf Murtala, Senior Director and Head of Marketing at Coca-Cola Nigeria, highlighted the campaign’s strategic relevance in reconnecting the brand with younger audiences.

‘We’re reintroducing a campaign with global heritage and giving it a modern Nigerian pulse. By combining personalization, digital interactivity, and community storytelling, we’re creating experiences that people want to share, not just products they want to buy,’ he said.

Valerie Odubogun, Director of Frontline Marketing at Coca-Cola Nigeria, emphasised the importance of authentic engagement in every aspect of the campaign.

‘Our goal is to ensure that Share-A-Coke resonates at every touchpoint, from retail shelves to social spaces. It’s about sparking conversations, creating smiles, and celebrating the joy that comes from sharing a Coke with someone you care about,’ she noted.

Originally launched globally more than a decade ago, Share A Coke became a defining marketing movement by replacing the iconic Coca-Cola logo with popular first names on bottles and cans. In Nigeria, the campaign has enjoyed enormous success, strengthening emotional ties to the brand and inspiring a culture of connection among young people. Its return in 2025 marks a renewed commitment by Coca-Cola Nigeria to celebrate individuality while fostering a sense of togetherness across communities.

Following the Lagos launch, Share-A-Coke will roll out nationwide with personalised bottle drops, interactive pop-up stations in major cities, and a series of influencer-led digital activations under the hashtag #ShareACokeNG.

There are over 1,000 names on the bottles, while gifts items would be won during the campaign season that runs till the end of December.

The campaign will continue to spotlight everyday stories of friendship, love, and celebration, reminding Nigerians that a simple act of sharing can create moments that last.

‘As we relaunch this iconic campaign, we’re not just reintroducing a product experience; we’re reviving a movement,’ Kaham concluded. ‘Share A Coke is about joy, connection, and community. We want every bottle shared to represent a story, a smile, and a moment that brings people closer together.’

‘share a coke isn’t about the can or your bottle. It is about the personalized connections, you make, it’s about having your dinner party with all your friends with personalised names on the table, or you like to go to the big parties and you get the baddies with the besties. So, I invite all of you to go out there, try your favorite Coca-Cola products in the can in the bottle. Look for the names that vibe with you, whether it’s the name, whether it’s the mood, whatever energy you want.

She thanked her company’s various partners, including Nigerian Bottling Company, for working tirelessly to bring the campaign back to life.

Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has said the state government would continue to encourage the Edo Queens Football Club for greater successes.

Idahosa spoke in Benin City when he received the team in Benin City after their impressive third-place finish at the maiden Governor Douye Diri Women’s Preseason Football Tournament in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The Edo Deputy Governor, who received the team’s third-place trophy, praised the players for their determination and exceptional performance throughout the week long football fiesta.

He said: ‘We are here as a government to always encourage you, and we appreciate this cup you have presented to me on behalf of my principal.

‘The Edo Queens FC have made us proud again. On behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, I congratulate you all. You are great ambassadors of our state,’ he added.

The Deputy Governor also lauded Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Desmond Amadin Enabulele and Head Coach, Moses Aduku, for guiding both Edo Queens and Bendel Insurance FC to prominence.

He expressed optimism that the Bendel Insurance would achieve greater achievements in the current season.

In his remarks, Enabulele said the Bayelsa pre-season tournament served as a valuable testing ground to assess and strengthen the squad ahead of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season.

‘Team Edo did very well. We were the only side that did not concede a goal throughout the tournament,’ he noted.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed instruments of clemency and pardon, completing the formal process of exercising his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy to grant relief to selected individuals convicted of various offences.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the move follows consultations with the Council of State and wide public opinion on the subject.

However, the President ordered a comprehensive review of the earlier approved list, invoking his discretionary powers under Section 175 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The review led to the deletion of persons convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession or dealing in firearms.

Others, previously listed for full pardon, had their sentences reduced or commuted.

Here’s the new full list of those granted clemency by President Tinubu:

Pardons:

1. Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia

2. Barr. Hussaini Alhaji Umar

3. Ayinla Saadu Alanamu

4. Hon. Farouk M. Lawan

5. Herbert Macaulay

6. Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa

7. Ken Saro Wiwa

8. Saturday Dobee

9. Nordu Eawo

10. Daniel Gbooko

11. Paul Levera

12. Felix Nuale

13. Baribor Bera

14. Barinem Kiobel

15. John Kpuine

List of individuals whose death sentences have been commuted to life imprisonment:

1. Emmanuel Baba

2. Abubakar Usman

3. Khalifa Umar

4. Mohammed Umar

The list of those granted clemency:

1. Oroka Michael Chibueze

2. Adesanya Olufemi Paul

3. Daniel Bodunwa

4. Hamza Abubakar

5. Buhari Sani

6. Mohammed Musa

7. Muharazu Abubakar

8. Ibrahim Yusuf

9. Saad Ahmed Madaki

10. Ex-Corporal Michael Bawa

11. Richard Ayuba

12. Adam Abubakar

13. Emmanuel Yusuf

14. Chinedu Stanley

15. Johnny Ntheru Udor

The Service Chiefs-designate yesterday met with Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu ahead of their screening today by the Senate.

Chief of Defence Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede led Chief of Army Staff Maj.- Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Naval Staff Rear Admiral Idi Abbas and Chief of Air Staff Air Vice Marshal Sunday Aneke on the visits.

There was no statement from the NSA’s after the visit, but spokesman of the Defence Minister Mati Ali in statement said the visit underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to building cohesive defence leadership anchored on trust, collaboration and shared purpose.

On Monday, 72 hours after they were named, the Service Chiefs met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced yesterday in plenary after reading the correspondence for the President, that the Service Chiefs will be screened for confirmation today.

President Tinubu’s letter urged the Senate to give ‘expeditious consideration’ to his request for clearance of the new security chiefs.

The Senate President referred the letter to the Committee of the Whole, which he chairs.