First bank targets 24/7 self-service banking nationwide

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to driving digital transformation in the nation’s banking sector with the unveiling of a state-of-the-art Digital Experience Centre in Abuja.

The initiative is part of the bank’s strategic push to achieve 24/7 self-service banking nationwide, enabling customers to carry out transactions seamlessly through cutting-edge technology and personalized digital solutions.

The facility, located in the Bolingo area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was officially inaugurated by Babangida Hussaini (Senator, Jigawa North-West) on Wednesday in Abuja.

Olusegun Alebiosu, managing director and chief executive officer of FirstBank Group, described the initiative as a major milestone in the bank’s digital transformation drive.

‘The future of banking is digital, and FirstBank is building that future today. Our customers can open accounts, collect ATM cards instantly, deposit or withdraw cash, and complete transfers, all without entering a traditional banking hall’, Alebiosu said.

The new experience centre is designed to function 24/7, providing secure, automated banking through biometric verification, instant card issuance, and artificial intelligence-enabled transaction authentication.

Alebiosu said the facility reflects FirstBank’s strategic commitment to convenience, innovation, and inclusion.

‘Our aim is to give customers faster, safer, and simpler ways to bank. If you can use a mobile phone, you can operate these machines,’ he added.

He disclosed that the Abuja launch follows successful rollouts of similar centres in Nsukka and Benin, with another expected to open in Kano.

According to him, the bank plans to replicate the concept in high-traffic urban areas across the country.

‘Wherever we see high transaction volumes and demand for 24-hour service, we will bring the experience centre closer to the people,’ he assured.

Alebiosu emphasised that the initiative complements FirstBank’s vast network of over 600 branches and 300,000 FirstMonie agents nationwide, a structure designed to ensure no Nigerian is left behind in the digital banking era. He added that digital adoption is also transforming rural economies, as more traders, artisans, and small business owners embrace cashless transactions.

‘Traditional markets are evolving. As digital payments spread, people are realising they don’t have to keep money at home or depend solely on cash,’ he said.

The MD noted that customers can now access banking services at any hour, including deposits, withdrawals, and transfers, without human assistance.

Addressing concerns about cyber threats, Alebiosu assured customers that FirstBank has implemented some of the most rigorous fraud prevention systems in Nigeria’s banking industry. ‘Even as Managing Director, I do not have system access or passwords to customers’ accounts. Every transaction goes through multiple security layers, from biometrics to OTP verification. No one can impersonate a customer’, he said.

He disclosed that the bank uses artificial intelligence to flag suspicious activities in real time, ensuring that customer funds remain protected at all times.

At the unveiling, several dignitaries and customers lauded the initiative as a timely advancement in Nigeria’s financial landscape.

He admitted that insecurity in parts of Nigeria has affected branch expansion and operations. However, he said digital transformation has become a safer alternative for customers and staff.

‘When you lose policemen or customers to attacks, you think twice about opening physical branches. Digital banking reduces those risks,’ he explained.

Alebiosu also disclosed that FirstBank is finalising its recapitalisation process through a private placement, expressing confidence in the bank’s financial health and investor trust.

‘Our last rights issue was oversubscribed, and we expect the same strong response this time. FirstBank has always kept its promises,’ he said.

With over 131 years of consistent service, Alebiosu reaffirmed that FirstBank’s latest innovation represents more than just technology, it is a redefinition of customer experience and trust.

‘The bank of the future is already here – open, smart, secure, and built for every Nigerian,’ he concluded

On his part, Hussaini praised FirstBank’s foresight, noting that its emphasis on digital controls has helped curb fraud and boost customer confidence.

‘A few years ago, I thought the multiple verification steps were excessive. Now I understand why. With rising fraud cases, FirstBank’s systems are protecting people’s life savings.’

A customer, who had patronised the Bolingo branch for years, described the centre as ‘a refreshing innovation that shows how much the bank values customer comfort’, he said.

Idris Ado, group executive, retail banking North division, said the new centre would cut waiting times and improve overall service efficiency.

‘Customers can complete all transactions seamlessly, anytime, with zero queues and minimal human interaction,’ Ado stated.

Similarly, Chike Uzoma, head of strategy and corporate development, described the Abuja DXC as ‘a landmark in FirstBank’s journey to redefine convenience and strengthen customer loyalty.’

‘Whether the branch is open or not, customers can transact freely. We are building a system that keeps banking accessible 24 hours a day,’ Uzoma added.

Senate swears in two senators-elect

The Senate on Wednesday swore in two new lawmakers; Joseph Ikpea and Emmanuel Nwachukwu representing Edo Central and Anambra South Senatorial Districts, respectively.

Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, presided over the brief ceremony during plenary, while Emmanuel Ojo, the Clerk of the Senate, administered the oaths of office and allegiance to the new senators.

Their swearing-in followed the by-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fill vacant seats in both districts.

INEC had earlier declared the Edo Central seat vacant after its former occupant, Monday Okpebholo, emerged as Governor of Edo State, paving the way for Ikpea’s election.

Similarly, the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who previously represented Anambra South, prompted a by-election contested by 12 political parties on August 16, resulting in Nwachukwu’s victory. In his remarks, Akpabio congratulated the new lawmakers and described the Senate as ‘one of the most elite clubs in the world.’ He urged them to stay focused and prioritize actions that will advance national development. ‘You are no longer a Senator of your political party.

‘You are a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Once you step into this chamber, you drop your party outside and come in here as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the intention of carrying out and contributing to debates and other functions here as a nationalist and keeping Nigeria constantly in mind.’

He added, ‘Your colleagues who have been here will continue to assist you so that you get used to the nuances of proceedings of lawmaking. I must say that we are giving you two items today. One is the Nigerian Constitution, which you must try to imbibe the contents.

‘It’s not just a ceremony. It’s to let you know that that’s the ground law and that all authority in this hallowed chamber comes through the Nigerian Constitution. The second one that we are giving you, which you must start reading from today, is the Senate Standing Orders 2023 as amended.’

Among those present at the ceremony were James Ibori, former Delta State Governor; Philip Shaibu, former Edo State Deputy Governor; Lee Ikpea and Samson Osagie, among others.

Akpabio also acknowledged the presence of female guests, jokingly adding, ‘Including the women, so that they will not say that I do not like women.’

FG mulls to stop deduction of ‘cost of collection’ by revenue collecting agencies

The federal government has disclosed plans to stop the deductions for cost of revenue collection, which is usually paid to revenue collecting agencies, including Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian Customs, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) among others.

Wale Edun, the minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy stated this in Abuja on Wednesday, during the launch of the National Development Update (NDU).

According to the report, while the government’s gross revenues has been on the rise, a huge sum is also being paid as deductions to revenue collecting agencies, without corresponding impact on national development.

Edun in his remarks said that the government is making effort and work is in progress in terms of the review of the different deductions.

He said, ‘Funds have flowed to the federation account, but the point is this, efficiency of that spending is critical, and we have been mandated by his excellency, Mr. President, to take a look at deductions, not just the deductions for cost of collection, but deductions generally.

‘When you look at the gross figure, you see all kinds of deductions before you get to the net distributable figure, which goes to the federal state and local governments. And I must inform that even during the last FAAC allocation, most of those deductions have been removed once and for all.’

He said that the government is focused on achieving stronger fiscals, through greater transparency, efficiency, and funding for development at the federating units, both at the federal government and states.

The NDU report also indicated a higher spending by both federal and subnational governments. Subnational governments recorded increase in their capital expenditure (capex), which accounts for almost 60-65 percent of their spending. It also rose from almost one percent of GDP in 2022 to 2.7 percent of GDP projected in 2025. However, in the period under review, wages and salaries account for around 70 percent of the spending of the federal government which doesn’t leave too much space for capex.

The report also showed that despite the government’s reform aimed at stabilizing the economy, 139 million Nigerians were still living in poverty. It stated that Nigeria must reduce inflation particularly food inflation, ensure effective use of public funds and expand safety nets, to address the high rate of poverty in the country, and ensure that citizens enjoy the gains of reforms.

However, Edun explained that issue of social safety net, which speaks to bringing home the reform gains, was a promise from the start by the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu.

He noted that reforms are painful elevating the cost of living and leaving the poorest and most vulnerable at risk. ‘The promise was they would not be left to their own, they would not be left behind. But you know, it takes resilience, determination.

‘We made sure that each person that benefits is biometrically and uniquely identified by their name. Kudos to the management of the Nigerian identity management company. And likewise, those on the social register, we also made sure that they had a digital methodology for giving them the funds so that you had the transparency there, you had the accountability there.

‘And once we had put in place the right technology and the right methodology, it started to zoom such that we are still implementing the first stage of the social safety net, the direct benefit transfers. By the end of October, we’ll have done about 10 million households covering 50 million Nigerians. Long before the end of the year, the commitment is to have completed 50 million households.’

He added that in effort to ensure that the gains of the government’s reforms reach all citizens, especially the vulnerable, the National Economic Council has approved a world-based development program throughout the 8,809 wards.

‘So that is where the connection will be to bringing the gains home, drilling down to make sure all Nigerians get a chance to participate in a growing, in a stable, and in a very positive trajectory of the Nigerian economy,’ he added.

Certificate forgery: Atiku calls for transparent investigation of FEC members, others

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a comprehensive and transparent investigation of all officials serving under the President Bola Tinubu administration, including cabinet ministers.

Atiku stated that the investigation is necessary, adding that ‘Nigerians deserve to know the truth about those who preside over their lives and resources.’

The former vice president, while reacting to Tuesday’s resignation of Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, on his X handle, said the incidence has ‘brought to light the deep moral crisis at the heart of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.’

Atiku who faulted President Tinubu’s refusal to sack the Minister, added that Nnaji should have been sacked and prosecuted by law enforcement agencies.

‘Let the truth be told: Uche Nnaji should not have been allowed the courtesy of resignation. He should have been summarily dismissed and prosecuted for deceit and falsification.

‘What should ordinarily be a matter of national shame is now being disguised as a ‘voluntary resignation’, an attempt to whitewash yet another scandal that typifies the forgery-ridden character of this government.’ He noted that by permitting him to quietly exit through the backdoor, the Tinubu administration has once again demonstrated that ‘it is an assembly of forgers, impostors, and morally bankrupt individuals masquerading as public servants.

‘What makes this even more embarrassing is that the same Department of State Services (DSS) which screened out Mallam Nasir el-Rufai for alleged ‘security concerns’ is the very agency that cleared this same character, Uche Nnaji. ‘The DSS truly deserves our flowers for this national disgrace. Their failure of due diligence has made Nigeria an object of ridicule before the world and raises the question: how many more of such individuals are occupying sensitive positions in this government?’

The former vice president while also noting that the episode is not isolated, said it is a reflection of a pattern, a rot that begins from the very top.

According to him, ‘The man who occupies the office of President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has for decades been enmeshed in controversies surrounding his identity, age, and academic records.

‘From the Chicago State University saga to multiple contradictory claims under oath, the world has seen ample evidence that Nigeria today is led by a man who himself has been unable to credibly defend the authenticity of his own certificates.

‘When a man of questionable identity leads a country, deception becomes the standard of governance. Tinubu’s personal history of alleged forgery and perjury has effectively institutionalized falsehood in public service’.

Atiku noted that it is unsurprising that his ministers and aides have taken after his example by falsifying documents, inflating records, and desecrating the moral foundation of our nation.

‘I, therefore, call for an independent, transparent, and comprehensive investigation into the academic and professional credentials of all members of the Federal Executive Council, beginning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu himself.

‘Until this cleansing is done, Nigeria will continue to sink deeper into moral decay, economic ruin, and global embarrassment. The time has come to rescue our country from the grip of deceit and restore integrity to public life.’

Reps condemns US bill alleging mass killings of christians in Nigeria

The House of Representatives has rejected a United States legislative proposal seeking to hold Nigerian government officials accountable for ‘facilitating the mass murder of Christians,’ insisting there is no state-sponsored religious persecution in the country.

The lower chamber passed a resolution on Wednesday during plenary, following a motion sponsored by Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House.

The proposed legislation, introduced by US Senator Ted Cruz and titled the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, aims to impose targeted sanctions on Nigerian officials enforcing Sharia and blasphemy laws, require the US Secretary of State to designate Nigeria as a ‘country of particular concern,’ and maintain Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa on the list of entities of particular concern.

The bill emerges amid international concerns about ‘rising anti-Christian’ incidents in Nigeria-a narrative repeatedly rejected by the federal government.

Speaking during the debate, Kalu highlighted that the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) had recently recommended Nigeria for designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), citing persistent violations and alleged state failures to protect citizens from non-state actors. He emphasised that Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of thought, conscience and religion, prohibits the adoption of a state religion, and that successive administrations, security agencies, faith leaders, and civil society continue to protect worshippers and prosecute offenders, a position supported by the US Department of State’s 2023 country chapter and earlier reports. Kalu noted that Nigeria’s security challenges are complex, encompassing insurgency, criminal banditry, farmer-herder conflicts, separatist agitation, and communal violence, affecting citizens of all faiths. International reporting attributes a significant portion of fatalities to terrorist groups and criminal gangs rather than state policy or a single religious dynamic.

He warned that external legislative actions ‘based on incomplete or decontextualised assessments’ risk undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty, misrepresenting facts, straining strategic relations, and unintentionally emboldening violent actors.

Julius Ihonvbere, the House Majority Leader cautioned that the bill, which has passed second reading in the US Senate, could compel Nigeria to expend considerable resources to reverse its effects if enacted.

He said Nigerians are more concerned with economic, social, and security challenges than with religious persecution, and warned of an underlying agenda targeting the country’s democratic progress.

The House subsequently rejected narratives framing Nigeria’s security crisis as a singularly religious conflict or as state-sanctioned persecution, reaffirming the nation’s constitutional protections for freedom of religion and belief.

The House instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian embassy in Washington, D.C. to lodge a formal complaint with the United Nations. They also called on interested US legislators to propose a joint Nigeria-US fact-finding mission and dialogue.

The Committee on Legislative Compliance is tasked with ensuring the resolution’s implementation and reporting back within 28 days.

GICL to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure with 600 rural sites, 16,000km fiber rollout

Global Independent Connect Limited (GICL), a subsidiary of IHS Towers Nigeria, has reiterated its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s digital infrastructure through the deployment of over 600 rural connectivity sites and the installation of more than 16,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables.

Speaking at the Design Workshops – Building Productive Sectors: Investing in the Digital Economy during the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NESG) on Tuesday in Abuja, Olabode Ojo, vice president of GICL, outlined the company’s efforts to expand access to mobile networks and digital services across the country.

‘At GICL and IHS, our goal is to provide the infrastructure needed to support Nigeria’s digital economy,’ said Ojo.

‘This includes building and maintaining fiber networks that support technologies like 4G and 5G, which enable services such as financial inclusion, e-health, education, and agriculture.’ Ojo noted that GICL has deployed over 600 sites in 26 states, providing 2G, 3G, and 4G connectivity to underserved and rural communities. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and improve access to essential services.

‘People in these areas now have access to education, healthcare, and digital financial tools,’ he said. ‘This supports broader economic and social development.’ He also referenced recent government initiatives, including plans by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to deploy 90,000 kilometers of fiber and establish 7,000 rural telephony sites.

‘These plans are ambitious but achievable,’ Ojo said. ‘We are ready to collaborate with the government to help make them a reality.’

Although agriculture is not GICL’s core focus, Ojo acknowledged its role in the digital value chain and the potential for infrastructure to support agricultural services and data access.

‘These goals are attainable with collaboration from all stakeholders,’ he said. ‘We must stay focused and work together to achieve them.’

With continued investment from both the public and private sectors, Nigeria’s digital economy is expected to grow, with GICL’s rural connectivity projects playing a key role in that development.

Sustainable practices and financing solutions for the Nigerian Construction Sector

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As Nigeria’s construction and real estate sectors evolve, the call for sustainability has never been louder. At MKH Properties Limited, we believe that sustainable building is not just a trend but a responsibility, a commitment to creating spaces that uplift communities, preserve the environment, and drive economic growth.

With the Nigerian construction industry facing unique challenges, such as high material costs, limited financing, and regulatory gaps, innovative practices and creative funding solutions are crucial for building a greener, more resilient future. Drawing on our experience as a trusted real estate developer, this article examines sustainable practices and financing models that can transform Nigeria’s construction landscape while sharing our journey toward ethical and impactful development.

The Imperative for Sustainable Construction in Nigeria

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Nigeria’s construction sector is a powerhouse, significantly contributing to the country’s GDP and urban development. Yet, it grapples with inefficiencies, including the use of energy-intensive materials, high waste, and environmental degradation. The sector’s reliance on imported materials strains foreign exchange reserves, while weak regulatory enforcement often sidelines sustainability. These challenges are personal to us at MKH Properties. Our Chairman, Dr Muibi Kehinde Hammed, has seen firsthand how poorly planned developments could burden communities with flooding and inadequate infrastructure. This inspired our mission to build differently, creating nature-friendly estates and smart buildings that prioritise people and the planet.

Sustainable construction offers a path forward. By adopting energy-efficient designs, renewable materials, and waste-reducing technologies, we can lower costs, enhance property value, and improve quality of life.

Sustainable Practices Shaping the Future

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At MKH Properties, sustainability is woven into our DNA. Our projects, from commercial estates to affordable housing, reflect practical strategies that others in the industry can adopt:

1. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Integration: We incorporate solar panels and energy-efficient lighting in our developments, reducing reliance on Nigeria’s strained power grid. For example, our smart estate in Lagos features solar-powered streetlights, cutting operational costs for residents. Studies show that energy-efficient buildings can reduce operating costs by up to 30%, boosting long-term affordability.

2. Local and Sustainable Materials: Sourcing materials like locally produced bricks and recycled aggregates minimises environmental impact and supports Nigerian businesses. Our commitment to this practice aligns with global trends toward circular economies, where waste is reused in construction.

3. Smart Technology for Resource Management: We leverage proptech solutions, including smart home devices such as smart doors and AI assistants, to optimise resource use. These innovations enhance sustainability while appealing to tech-savvy investors.

4. Community-Centric Design: Our estates prioritise green spaces, pedestrian-friendly layouts, and access to amenities, fostering social cohesion. We’ve seen how these designs improve mental health and property desirability, creating lasting value for residents.

These practices are ideal and profitable. Our data-driven approach shows that sustainable properties attract premium buyers and tenants, with some estates achieving 20% higher occupancy rates than conventional developments. Yet, scaling these practices across Nigeria demands overcoming financial hurdles.

Financing Solutions for a Sustainable Future

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Access to finance remains a weak link in Nigeria’s construction industry. With interest rates on the rise, few long-term lending options, and a mortgage system that’s yet to mature, developers face significant roadblocks. But at MKH Properties, we’ve found ways to move forward despite these hurdles. Our CEO, Dr. Muibi, shared some of these strategies during his session at the BusinessDay Sustainable Building Conference 2025, highlighting how more sustainable and structured financing models can empower developers to thrive, even in tough economic conditions.

Here’s what works:

1. Adequate Planning Starts with Equity: Before you start any project, make sure you’ve secured at least 30% equity contribution. This upfront capital gives you a strong foundation and makes it easier to access additional funding.

2. Create Alternative Cash Flow Projects: Don’t rely on one stream. Introduce alternative projects such as sites and services schemes – these can generate revenue to fund your core development without overrelying on loans or unstable income projections.

3. Secure Off-takers: Having committed off-takers, buyers or subscribers who pay a 10-20% deposit, ensures steady cash flow. It also builds confidence with investors and lenders, knowing there’s market demand backing your development.

4. Build a Minimum of Three Financing Options: If you’re relying on a single funding route, you’re setting yourself up for pressure. A minimum of three options (e.g. equity, offtakers, and alternative projects) gives you flexibility and protection against inflation, cost surges, or unforeseen delays. Without this, developers are more likely to cut corners, a dangerous path that often ends in building collapse or project abandonment.

5. Instil the Right Internal Culture: If your internal team accepts money from contractors, it undermines your entire quality control process. This leads to contractors cutting back on material quality to recoup losses, and again, increases the risk of structural failure. At MKH, we enforce zero tolerance for undeclared gifts or bribes. Integrity in procurement is non-negotiable.

6. Focus Resources on One Project at a Time: It’s tempting to juggle multiple developments, but spreading your resources too thin invites shortcuts. It’s better to execute one project excellently than run several poorly-funded ones that compromise on material quality and execution.

7. Hire Competent, Not Just Popular, Professionals: A flashy brand name doesn’t always mean quality work. Ensure you’re working with competent hands, not just familiar ones. The right technical team is key to translating sound financing into a safe, lasting structure.

By combining these practices, we’ve learnt how to build beyond inflation and maintain quality without compromising standards. Financing may remain tough, but with the right strategies, it doesn’t have to be a roadblock.

MKH Properties: Leading by Example

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Our journey at MKH Properties reflects the challenges and opportunities of sustainable construction. When we rebranded in 2021, we doubled down on innovation and ethics, aiming to be Africa’s preferred real estate partner. Our flagship project, MKH City-a nature-friendly estate in Ibadan, integrates solar energy and local materials, reducing its carbon footprint compared to traditional developments. This project wasn’t easy-high upfront costs and regulatory delays tested our resolve. But by partnering with local artisans and securing impact investment, we delivered a community that’s both sustainable and profitable.

Dr Muibi’s vision drives this work. ‘Real estate isn’t just about buildings,’ he says. ‘It’s about creating a legacy with spaces where families thrive and the environment flourishes.’ This human-centred approach has earned us trust, with over 1,000 clients served and a growing reputation for transparency. Our participation in the Sustainable Building Conference 2025, hosted by BusinessDay, underscores our commitment to thought leadership. We’re honoured to share our insights and learn from global peers.

A Call to Action

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Nigeria’s construction sector stands at a crossroads. Sustainable practices and innovative financing can unlock its potential, creating jobs, reducing emissions, and improving living standards. But this requires collective effort. Policymakers must prioritise green regulations and incentives. Developers must embrace technology and local resources. Investors must back sustainable projects with patient capital. At MKH Properties, we’re doing our part, building a legacy of trust, innovation, and impact.

Redefining Wealth Creation: TenTrade Charts a New Course for Africa’s Financial Future

As Africa’s financial markets mature and digital trading gains momentum, a new class of wealth creators is emerging – ambitious, data-driven, and globally connected. At the heart of this transformation is TenTrade, a multi-asset brokerage firm positioning itself as a catalyst for financial empowerment across the continent.

This October,11th 2025. TenTrade is taking its commitment a step further with the TenTrade Africa Partner Conference, a strategic gathering of thought leaders, traders, and financial influencers designed to redefine how Africans approach wealth creation in today’s complex economy.

Turning Market Volatility into Opportunity

For many professionals navigating Africa’s fast-moving markets, the challenge is no longer about access – it’s about knowledge. Understanding how to interpret volatility, manage risk, and build sustainable income streams has become the key differentiator between survival and success.

TenTrade’s upcoming conference is built on that very principle. Themed ‘The Blueprint for Wealth,’ the event aims to move beyond entry-level trading and affiliate concepts, focusing instead on advanced, high-yield strategies that drive consistent results.

Sessions will explore topics such as:

Building resilient Introducing Broker (IB) portfolios that generate recurring revenue.

Leveraging MetaTrader 5 (MT5) for smarter, faster, and more efficient trades.

Aligning with a globally regulated brand to strengthen credibility and long-term growth.

A Gathering for Africa’s Next-Generation Leaders

Scheduled for October 11th, the conference will bring together TenTrade’s high-performing partners and industry experts for a day of practical dialogue, mentorship, and collaboration.

More than just a networking event, it represents a meeting point for Africa’s most ambitious minds – people determined to shape the next decade of financial independence and innovation.

For fund managers, financial content creators, traders, and entrepreneurs, this is more than an invitation – it’s a signal to align with an ecosystem designed for impact.

TenTrade: Empowering Growth Through Partnership

With operations spanning several global markets, TenTrade has earned a reputation for combining cutting-edge technology with regulatory trust. The brokerage operates under the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA), ensuring transparency and investor protection.

It’s popular Partnership Program offers multiple reward models – including CPA, Rebates, and Hybrid structures – tailored to empower affiliates and introducing brokers. Meanwhile, its Funded Trader Program gives qualified traders access to company-backed capital, reducing barriers to market participation.

Building Africa’s Financial Future, One Partner at a Time

In a region where opportunity often meets uncertainty, TenTrade is quietly laying the foundation for a more inclusive trading future – one built on knowledge, partnership, and trust.

531 new police recruits to strengthen security, address manpower gaps – Mutfwang

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has commended the passing out of 531 newly trained police constables from the Police Training School Jos, describing their deployment as timely in addressing the security challenges confronting the state.

The governor made this known on Tuesday, during the passing-out parade ceremony, where he was represented by Hamisu Hanani, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Plateau and Chairman of Wase Local Government.

Mutfwang noted that, ‘the deployment of the new officers would significantly strengthen the security architecture across the state by boosting police manpower and enhancing the ability of the force to respond to criminal threats, unrest, and other security breaches’.

He stressed that the state, like many others in the country, faces multifaceted security issues, and the arrival of the new batch of well-trained officers would contribute to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of lives and property in Plateau. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies through collaboration, logistics support, and community partnerships, emphasising that peace and security form the foundation of meaningful development and good governance.

Mutfwang also praised Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of Police, and the management of the Police Training School for their professionalism and dedication to producing disciplined and capable officers fit for modern policing demands.

The governor urged the new officers to uphold discipline, honour, and patriotism in the discharge of their duties, assuring them of the state government’s continued support.

BusinessDay reports that the ceremony featured vibrant parade displays and drills, attended by government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers, and families of the graduating constables.

Sanwo-Olu inaugurates occupational safety cadets in Lagos

Protection of the workers from risks that can cause permanent injury at their workplaces was the central point of discussion at the third Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health Conference (LASOSH) held on Tuesday.

The state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the conference, inaugurated Safety First Campaign and Occupational Safety Cadet, which he described as ‘first of its kind’ in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Stakeholders at the summit called for the adoption of best practices across sectors and organisations, which would make workers in Lagos fully protected from occupational hazards as they toil to contribute towards the economic growth and prosperity of the State. The event organised by the Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC) with the theme: ‘Occupational Safety and Health as a Catalyst for Nation Building’, was held at Lagos Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the summit reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to build a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Lagos for the workforce, noting that the event underscored the critical role that safety played in driving sustainable development, economic growth, and societal progress.

Sanwo-Olu stressed that a society that aspires to prosper must first safeguard the lives of its people, pointing out that workers deserved to leave their homes with dignity, arrive at their workplaces safely and return to their families in the same condition without occupational injury. This understanding, the governor said, underpinned his Government’s policies and actions taken daily. He said: ‘We pioneered the signing of the first-ever Lagos State Safety Policy, which is a document that continues to guide our strategies, strengthen accountability, and demonstrate our government’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.

According to him, through the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lagos jas designed and implemented practical, results-driven interventions across critical sectors of our economy. ‘This intervention has resulted in a drastic reduction of incidents in construction, manufacturing, education, hospitality, events management, and the food industry, amongst others. Our approach is driven by routine and impromptu safety audits and inspections, while ensuring that lessons learned are swiftly translated into policy and practice.

‘I must commend the Commission for the strides it has made in significantly fulfilling its mandate by proactively making Lagos safer for us all.’From its operation base in Alausa, the LSSC, which was established in 2011, had opened zonal offices across the state, bringing safety governance closer to our people,’ he noted.

Sanwo-Olu said the Commission’s grassroots presence had enabled quicker response times, wider sensitisation and a stronger safety culture within communities.