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As digital technology becomes increasingly central to education and daily life, experts have called for the responsible adoption of digital literacy in Nigerian schools to curb students’ abuse of technology integration in learning across the country.

They emphasise that beyond access to devices and the internet, students must be equipped with the skills to navigate the digital world safely, ethically, and effectively.

Obianuju Onuorah, deputy director at the National Library of Nigeria, speaking at the commemoration of International Literacy Day organised by the National Library of Nigeria and the Zacchaeus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Library on Tuesday, September 30, said that in today’s digital world, literacy encompasses not only traditional reading and writing skills but also digital literacy.

‘It is essential to equip everyone, including students, with the skills to navigate, evaluate, and create digital content,’ she said.

Onuorah, who is also the head of the National Library of Nigeria, Lagos branch, said their institutions serve as a hub for knowledge innovation and community engagement.

‘We are committed to supplying literacy initiatives and providing resources that empower Nigerians to achieve their full potential in the digital era,’ she noted.

She emphasised that the International Literacy Day is observed annually on September 8, and that it was first held in 1967 by UNESCO to remind the world that literacy is a foundational human right and a pathway to dignity, opportunity, and equality.

Literacy, she explained, opens the door to education, creativity, and lifelong learning for children and lays the foundation for inclusion, sustainability, and progress.

The theme for 2025 International Literacy Day (ILD) is ‘Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era’, which highlights the importance of literacy in the digital age and the need to harness technology to promote education and socio-economic development.

Ifeoma Esiri, chairperson at Zacchaeus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Library, said that digital learning is something that has come to stay, and that Nigerians must embrace the truth of modern education, which is digital.

Esiri emphasised there is no two ways about the exposure a child can have, but by sensibly using the internet to gather information about all sorts of things, stressing that AI is a tool that, when used responsibly, is empowering.

‘Technology has taken over the way people learn, and it has come to stay. So it’s for us to understand it and empower our children to know how to use it responsibly.

‘If they use it responsibly, they will be able to acquire the knowledge and learn from it,’ she said.

She applauded the collaborations with Book Aid International, a UK-based charity organisation that works with UK publishers to supply brand-new books to libraries and communities in need, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa.

She said collaborations with Book Aid International and the National Library of Nigeria have been very impactful in her organisation’s literacy drive.

Agbaje Daniels, a staff member of the Mainland Local Government Education Authority, urged the students not to use digital tools in negative ways. ‘The one thing that I love about this digital literacy is the fact that it augments our learning.

‘Digital tools expand our knowledge and add more speed to our learning. But I implore you as a student, make use of those tech tools wisely,’ he said.

Olatunbosun Taofeek anchored the panel discussion session on ‘Blending Books and Digital Tools: How Technology is Transforming Learning.’ He told the students that their ability to blend books and digital tools will distinguish them.

‘Strive to always read from both sides, read your books, and at the same time use your digital devices,’ he emphasised.

Bisola Bilewu, head of catalogue at the National Library of Nigeria, took the students through a digital treasure hunt session.

The event had over 100 students from different primary and secondary schools across Lagos State in attendance.

Nigeria’s fashion and creative industry is fast becoming the sectors that contribute to the growth of the economy because players in these sectors are constantly leveraging new trends to empower creatives to grow their brands.

To create a platform for leading voices in the Nigerian fashion ecosystem, fashion entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders can brainstorm on new ideas. The Community Collective (TCCo), in collaboration with MTN Nigeria and the British Council, have organised a Venture Stack 3.0 event to explore how desirability, value chains, and market access can be leveraged to grow the industry.

The one-day venture stack event with the theme, ‘Designing Desirability: Unlocking Value Chain and Market Assets for Fashion and Beauty Products and Brands’, Lagos, brought together leading minds in Africa’s creative and entrepreneurial space, who shared actionable insights on building with resilience and consistency, adopting scalable operations models, and positioning brands for market growth.

Speaking at the event, award-winning style icon Mai Atafo highlighted the importance of excellence and the need for constant learning, adding that creatives need to learn in every single way possible, being hungry to learn.

Dare Aliu, founder of TDA Group Africa, emphasised that despite the dearth of human capacity development across Nigeria, it is still possible to have good hands if entrepreneurs are willing to pour themselves into their staff.

According to him, the fashion and creative industry has fewer and fewer people who are willing to work; however, in the rot organisation and entrepreneurs can still find gold.

On her part, Moremi Dare-Aliu, founder of Pink Perfection Accessories, encourages entrepreneurs to start small and stay consistent regardless of the circumstances.

‘You can start small with whatever business endeavour you identify, but you only need to stay consistent and build through the silent days’, she said.

Imogie Immanuel, founder, The Community Collective (TCCo.), said the organisation focused on building a culture where entrepreneurship in Africa thrives through collaboration, partnership and trust.

According to him, creators, founders, and innovators stand a better chance of success when connected through linkage systems that facilitate resource sharing and access to valuable networks.

‘Our vision is a thriving, inclusive ecosystem that delivers support and inspires individual growth, with the potential to transform society at large. With Venture Stack, we bridge the gap between industry leaders and the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders to build smarter and scale stronger as a collective,’ he said.

Commenting during the fashion showcase, special guests Debie Mangut, a creative strategist and market conversion expert, and Franklin Ozekhome, a pop-culture strategist, spoke to the importance of leveraging business data and consumer understanding in developing strategies for brand connection and growth.

In addition to the fireside chat, the first edition of the Venture Stack marketplace was launched, spotlighting curated style brands that showcased their made-in-Nigeria fashion and beauty pieces.

Featured vendors included: House of GDI; Laurens and Co; Imani; The Good Girl Fit; Sassy by Etty; Style by Empress Express; Noga Stephen; House of Xtyna; Esit and Bon Plaisir

Venture Stack 3.0 attendees engaged in robust QandA sessions and benefited from mentorship in real-time, receiving candid and intentional advice from panellists who drew on years of industry experience.

The day combined education and commerce, from vendor stands to wisdom nuggets on unlocking distribution, pricing for desirability, and building market-ready products.

Me Cure Industries Plc shareholders were rewarded with a dividend payout of N600 million, translating into 15 kobo per share.

The company grew its revenue by an impressive 45 percent in the financial year ended December 31, 2024, increasing from N31.7 billion in 2023 to N46 billion, although profit before tax (PBT) declined moderately by 8.3 percent to N3.3 billion, down from N3.6 billion in 2023 due to tough operating environment.

Despite significant macroeconomic headwinds, including inflationary pressures and high interest rates, the revenue growth was driven by a strong focus on cost optimisation, product innovation, and regional market expansion.

Similarly, profit after tax (PAT) decreased by 20 percent, from N2.9 billion to N2.3 billion.

‘This performance underscores the dedication, innovation, and adaptability of our management and staff in navigating a challenging business landscape. During the year, we launched 10 new products and commenced exports to neighbouring West African markets, further deepening our regional presence. In line with our growth strategy, we continued significant investments in facility upgrades to meet global Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Our Lagos industrial complex now houses six standalone, NAFDAC-approved production plants, enhancing output capacity across tablets, capsules, and syrups.

‘On the innovation front, our in-house Research and Development team continued to develop new products, several of which are now awaiting regulatory approval from NAFDAC. We remain committed to the highest standards of corporate governance, transparency, and ethical conduct. Throughout the year, the Board worked closely with management to strengthen internal controls, ensure regulatory compliance, and manage emerging risks.

‘In alignment with the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance and international best practices, our governance structure continues to evolve. We are prepared to take advantage of emerging opportunities,’

Samir Udani, chairman, Me Cure Industries said at the company’s Annual General Meeting in Lagos at the weekend.

Shareholders commended the performance against the backdrop of the inclement operating environment.

Bisi Bakare, coordinator, Pragmatic Shareholders Association said: ‘Despite the challenges in the economy, Me Cure was able to grow its revenue by 45 percent. This shows resilience. The company also rewarded the shareholders with 15 kobo dividend per share. This is also commendable. Itsinvestment in 10 new products will boost revenue in the nearest future.’

Another shareholder also noted that the decision of the founder of Me Cure Industries to invest in Nigeria would encourage more foreign investors to do the same.

He commented the initiative and advised shareholders to patronise the company’s products as a way of supporting its operations. The shareholder urged the company to take advantage of the new government policy on tariffs to boost its operations and expand activities to more African countries.

Sixty-five years after independence and decades of investment in infrastructure, Nigeria’s transport system remains a key barrier to economic growth.

Experts say the sector is approaching collapse, unable to meet the needs of a growing population or support development goals.

Despite allocating billions of naira to roads, railways, airports, and waterways, Nigeria continues to grapple with a fragmented, underperforming network that increases business costs and hampers productivity.

Samuel Odewumi, a former dean of the Faculty of Transportation and Logistics at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), told BusinessDay that transport policy remains reactive and poorly coordinated across all levels of government.

Odewumi said, ‘Nigeria’s population has more than doubled since 1990, but our infrastructure has not kept pace. This gap creates bottlenecks, slows economic activity, and raises logistics costs.’

He warned that without urgent reforms, the system could face long-term breakdown.

Odewumi identified overreliance on roads as a central issue. While a small fraction of Nigerians use air travel, most depend on road transport, much of which is deteriorating.

‘Our roads are not only overused, but misused. Trucks often carry 90 tons on roads designed for 30. That causes rapid damage, and repairs are often ineffective,’ he said.

He noted that seasonal rainfall compounds the problem, eroding road surfaces and worsening infrastructure already under strain.

He also criticised the state of rail transport, pointing out that only a few lines – Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna, and Warri-Itakpe – are functional, and even those operate below capacity.

‘The Warri-Itakpe line has been down for over two months. A single locomotive has served the route for years with limited maintenance. That’s not viable,’ he said.

He expressed concern over Nigeria’s reliance on Chinese loans for rail development, warning that maintenance and repayment are becoming difficult.

He also cited the lack of coordination among federal, state, and local governments as a persistent challenge.

‘Responsibility is often unclear. State and local governments frequently wait for federal action. As a result, many feeder and rural roads are neglected,’ he said.

Odewumi called for stricter freight regulations and a shift toward rail and inland waterways for moving goods. He emphasised the need for a multimodal system that integrates road, rail, air, and water transport and for policies that prioritise efficiency over political optics.

‘We can’t build enough roads to meet demand. Cargo from Lagos to the East should move by rail or sea, not trucks,’ he said.

He noted that transport inefficiencies raise operating costs, discourage investment, and reduce national competitiveness.

Odewumi also criticised the prevalence of tricycles and mini-buses in urban centres, describing them as indicators of underdevelopment.

‘When small vehicles dominate city transport, it reflects poor planning. One train can move thousands. A mini-bus moves a dozen – with greater risk. We must invest in safer, more efficient systems,’ he said.

He argued that sustainable solutions lie in clear policy, effective leadership, and private sector involvement.

‘Transport can be self-financing. Government should focus on creating an environment that supports private investment and long-term planning,’ he said. ‘At 65, Nigeria should not still be struggling with basic transport issues.’

Isa Emoabino, a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and former chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers, echoed similar concerns.

He said that despite policy reforms and budgetary allocations, including N256.8 billion in the 2025 federal budget, Nigeria’s transport system remains inadequate.

‘At 65, our transport sector should be enabling growth. Instead, it’s holding us back,’ Emoabino said.

He pointed out that road infrastructure has not kept pace with population growth or economic targets.

‘There’s a significant infrastructure gap, and existing assets are poorly maintained,’ he said.

He also questioned the proposed 5 percent fossil fuel tax for road maintenance, urging transparency and clear application of funds.

‘People will only support taxes when they see how the money is spent. The process must be accountable,’ he said.

He linked poor road conditions to rising insecurity. ‘Most kidnappings and robberies happen on bad roads, where vehicles are forced to slow down,’ he said.

He added that improved infrastructure would lower logistics costs, ease food distribution and help stabilise inflation.

While acknowledging progress in rail development, he said it is still insufficient.

‘From 1960 to 1990, we neglected rail. Everything shifted to roads – and that’s why they deteriorate faster,’ he said.

He called for bulk cargo and petroleum to be moved via pipelines and rail, rather than by trucks.

‘Transporting petroleum by road damages infrastructure and increases risks. We have alternatives but don’t use them effectively,’ he said.

He also urged the government to implement the National Road Fund and Federal Roads Authority laws, already passed but not yet operational.

‘The frameworks are there. What’s missing is action,’ he said.

He linked transport failures to food insecurity, saying many farmers cannot move their produce, leading to waste and higher prices.

‘If transport doesn’t work, food can’t move – and that affects both availability and cost,’ he said.

He called for a national transport strategy focused on sustainable funding, consistent maintenance, and integration across modes.

‘We need less talk and more execution. Fixing transport is key to fixing the economy,’ Emoabino said.

However, Chris Itsede, executive chairman of Polar-Afrique Consulting, said road construction is already contributing to economic activity.

He cited shorter travel times, lower transport costs, and improved access to markets, healthcare, and education as indicators of progress.

‘Road projects are enhancing regional connectivity. Farmers can reach markets faster and reduce post-harvest losses,’ he said.

He noted that construction creates jobs across sectors – for engineers, technicians, and suppliers – and stimulates local economies.

‘Better roads attract investment, support small and medium businesses, and help drive growth,’ Itsede said.

He acknowledged that road infrastructure is expensive but said long-term benefits outweigh the costs.

‘Efficient logistics improve productivity. Roads connect people and goods,’ he said. ‘As Nigeria continues to invest in infrastructure, road development will remain central to inclusive growth.’

Still, many experts agree that roads alone cannot deliver the impact needed.

Roads account for more than 90 percent of internal cargo transport, yet many are in poor condition. Rail services remain limited, and inland waterways are underused.

Without coordinated reforms and integrated planning, Nigeria’s transport system may not only fail to support growth – it could actively hinder it.

Leading digital wealth management platform, Zedcrest Wealth, has launched its most ambitious initiative yet – the ‘Make Accounts Great Again’ campaign. This three-month initiative reimagines how Nigerians save and invest in a high-inflation economy and is designed to make investing more rewarding, relevant, and accessible for everyone.

With the country’s inflation rate hovering around 20.33% and food costs contributing to over 40.1% of that figure, the ‘Make Accounts Great Again’ campaign arrives at a critical moment. Rather than offering traditional investment solutions alone, Zedcrest Wealth has developed a financial ecosystem that grows wealth and gives users practical, real-life benefits, simultaneously.

The campaign introduces a blend of high-yield investment options and lifestyle rewards through strategic partnerships, bringing a fresh approach to wealth management in 2025 and beyond.

Core Benefits of the Campaign

Through the ‘Make Accounts Great Again’ campaign, Zedcrest Wealth offers the following perks:

Meal Rewards for Smart Investing: Through a partnership with Chowdeck, new users receive a meal voucher to enjoy Double Chickwhizz for ?1,500 after they sign up and verify their BVN.

Free Premium Entertainment: Zedcrest Wealth has partnered with Circuits – a virtual cinema and digital streaming platform. Users earn zedcoins for every action taken on the Zedcrest wealth app, and these zedcoins can be exchanged for Circuits vouchers in the Gift Shop. Circuits feature premium African storytelling, movies, series, comedy specials, and curated digital experiences.

‘Telling people to invest for the future while inflation erodes their present purchasing power is an outdated model,’ said Adetayo Jinadu, Head of Marketing, Zedcrest Wealth. ‘We envision a future where every Nigerian feels empowered and rewarded for their smart financial decisions. Therefore, we are pioneering a model where your money works twice as hard to generate competitive yields for tomorrow, while also delivering immediate value and rewards for today. This is why we are ‘Making Accounts Great Again.”

How Zedcrest Wealth Is Making Accounts Great Again

Zedcrest Wealth eliminates the friction that keeps Nigerians out of wealth-building opportunities. They offer the following:

1. Higher Returns that Beat Inflation: Zedcrest Wealth consistently offers the highest yields in the market across its product lineup. Therefore, users can earn more from their savings and investments. The Zedcrest Money Market Fund outperforms the national average, helping investors grow wealth in real terms.

2. No Hidden Charges or Withdrawal Penalties: Unlike other platforms that impose delays or penalize early withdrawals from users’ capital, Zedcrest Wealth ensures full liquidity and transparency without compromise. Investors can access their funds instantly and anytime, without incurring penalties on their capital.

3. Real-Life Rewards for Investing: Zedcrest Wealth rewards users with tangible benefits for taking simple financial actions. Through strategic partnerships with Uber, Chowdeck, and now, Circuits, users can save on the things they are already spending money on, such as food, transportation, and entertainment.

4. Access a wide range of investment options: With a range of accessible investment products, individuals can choose the investment paths that best align with their financial goals, risk appetite, and long-term strategies. Whether seeking steady growth, high returns, or something in between, they can build a complete, diversified portfolio with Zedcrest Wealth.

5. Investing is Simple, Fun, and Rewarding: When people understand money, they make better decisions, and better decisions build wealth. The Zedcrest Wealth app provides built-in financial literacy content, goal-based investing, and personalized recommendations and insights. Through gamified features, users also earn rewards for every action taken on the app.

Join the Movement – Go Make Accounts Great Again

Take advantage of these offers and start building wealth on your terms. Download the Zedcrest Wealth app today on Google Play Store or the App Store, open an account, and start investing with benefits that go beyond just returns.

About Zedcrest Wealth

Zedcrest Wealth is a leading digital wealth management platform offering a range of investment products, including Money Market Funds, Treasury Bills, Corporate investments, and other fixed-income securities, designed to help customers build wealth efficiently.

Known for its commitment to transparency, trust, and growth, Zedcrest Wealth continues to set the standard for financial products that are as dynamic as the individuals and businesses they serve. Zedcrest Wealth is a subsidiary of the leading financial powerhouse, Zedcrest Group.

The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) began trading on June 5, 1961, just seven months after Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960.

Although the market was incorporated in September 1960, formal trading did not begin until the enactment of the Lagos Stock Exchange Act No. 14 of 1961. At inception, the market opened with just three equities, six Federal Government bonds, and ten industrial loans.

By 1974, when the exchange was renamed the Nigerian Stock Exchange, the number of listed equities had grown to 36. This figure peaked at 217 in 2010 before declining to the current 148.

Today, 26 equities listed on the NGX predate Nigeria’s independence. This tally excludes companies such as Flour Mills of Nigeria, which delisted in early 2025, and United Bank for Africa, incorporated in 1961. It also excludes Sterling Holdco, whose roots trace back to Nigeria’s first merchant bank, NAL Merchant Bank, founded in 1960.

Among these 26 pioneer companies, there are six financial services firms, six industrial goods companies, four consumer goods players, three conglomerates, and one services company.

African Alliance Insurance

African Alliance Insurance (AFRINSURE) was incorporated on May 9, 1960, becoming the first indigenous life assurance company in Nigeria. Founded by Shafi Edu, Talabi Braithwaite, and M.E.R Okorodudu, AFRINSURE listed on the NGX in September 2009.

In 2005, the company co-founded PAL Pensions in a joint venture with FSDH. As of September 2025, Leadway Holdings has acquired PAL Pensions. However, AFRINSURE shares remain suspended from trading due to missed regulatory filings since 2023.

Berger Paints

Berger Paints was established in 1959 as British Paints (West Africa), initially importing paints from Newcastle, England. In 1962, it built its first factory in Nigeria.

Following the 1973 indigenisation decree, 60 percent of its shares were listed on the exchange. In H1 2025, Berger Paints posted its best half-year performance, with revenue of N6.2 billion and net income of N945.8 million, reflecting a 15 percent profit margin.

Chellarams

Founded by Kishinchand Chellaram in 1923, the company was incorporated in Nigeria in 1947 and listed on the NGX in 1977. Originally a textile merchant, Chellarams expanded into department stores in 1947.

Over time, it moved into industrial chemical production, winding down its consumer goods division. Today, its subsidiaries include Chelltek Industries, Dynamic Industries, and United Technical and Allied Services.

Coronation Insurance

Incorporated in 1958 as the West African Provincial Insurance Company (WAPIC), Coronation Insurance listed on the NGX in August 1990. The company rebranded in 2020, reflecting its affiliation with major shareholders Coronation Capital and Coronation Asset Management.

It is now controlled by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings Plc.

First Holdco

First Holdco traces its roots to the British Bank of West Africa, established in 1894. Following acquisitions and name changes, it became First Bank of Nigeria in 1979. The bank listed on the NGX in 1991, adopted a holding structure as FBN Holdings in 2012, and rebranded as First Holdco in 2025.

As of June 2025, First Holdco is Nigeria’s fourth-largest banking group by assets, with total assets of N27.2 trillion.

Guinea Insurance

Guinea Insurance began as the insurance department of British West African Corporation (BEWAC) in 1948 before being incorporated in 1958 as a non-life insurance company.

Initially foreign-owned, with foreigners holding 51 percent, the 1976 indigenisation decree increased Nigerian ownership to 60 percent. Though its exact listing date is unclear, the decree likely necessitated its NGX debut.

Guinness Nigeria

Guinness Nigeria was incorporated on April 29, 1950, though the brand had been sold in Nigeria earlier by UAC. Initially an importer, the company established the first Guinness brewery outside Ireland and Britain in Ikeja, Lagos, in 1962 through a joint venture with UAC.

Guinness Nigeria listed on the NGX in 1965 with about 1,200 shareholders. Today, it is majority-owned by the Tolaram Group, which licenses the Guinness brand from Diageo Plc. It is Nigeria’s second-largest alcoholic beverage company.

Industrial and Medical Gases Nigeria

Founded in 1959 by the British Oxygen Company as Industrial Gases Limited, the company began operations in 1960 and listed on the exchange in 1979.

It became BOC Gases Nigeria Plc in 1997 and later fell under Linde Group after its acquisition of BOC Holdings in 2006. In 2020, Theophilus Danjuma’s TY Holdings acquired Linde’s 60 percent stake. The company rebranded as Industrial and Medical Gases Nigeria in 2021.

Lafarge Africa

Lafarge Africa’s origins lie in West Africa Portland Cement (WAPCO), a joint venture established in 1959 between Blue Circle, UAC Nigeria, and the Western Region Government. WAPCO commenced operations in 1961 at its Ewekoro plant and was listed on the NGX in 1979.

Blue Circle, later acquired by Lafarge in 2001, was a key UK cement supplier to Nigeria. Lafarge subsequently acquired Ashaka Cement in 2014 and UNICEM in 2015, consolidating its market dominance.

May and Baker Nigeria

May and Baker Nigeria was established in 1944 as the country’s first pharmaceutical company. Initially importing drugs, it opened its factory in 1976 and listed on the NGX in 1994.

Meyer Paints

Originally Hagemeyer Paints in the 1940s, Meyer was incorporated in 1960 and listed on the NGX in 1979.

During the 1990s, Dunlop was its controlling shareholder under the name DN Meyer. After Dunlop’s 2003 divestment, the company rebranded as Meyer Plc in 2010.

Morison Industries

Incorporated in 1955, Morison Industries had operated since 1947 as an agent for foreign manufacturers. It became one of Nigeria’s earliest producers of disinfectants, sanitisers, and methylated spirit.

Following the 1976 indigenisation decree, 60 percent of its foreign shareholding was sold to Nigerians. By FY 2024, however, the company had accumulated losses of N916 million, raising concerns about its viability.

NCR (Nigeria)

Incorporated in 1949 as National Cash Register (West Africa), the company was renamed NCR (Nigeria) Limited in 1974 and listed on the NGX in 1979.

It underwent multiple rebrandings, eventually adopting the name NCR (Nigeria) Plc in 1996. The company introduced Nigeria’s first ATM in 1989 and is currently 61.76 percent owned by NCR Voyix Corporation of Atlanta, Georgia, making it the only American-owned company on the NGX.

Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals

Founded as Pfizer Nigeria in 1957, the company established its first factory in Aba in 1962 and listed on the NGX in 1979.

In 1997, its management bought out Pfizer’s stake and renamed the company Neimeth in honor of Robert Neimeth, a former Pfizer country manager. Today, Neimeth derives most of its revenue from proprietary drugs developed in-house.

Nigerian Breweries

Established in 1946 through a joint venture of UAC, John Holt, CFAO, and UTC, Nigerian Breweries partnered with Heineken as its technical partner. Its Iganmu plant produced the first STAR Lager in 1949.

By 1960, it expanded its product portfolio with Gulder, Roses, Schweppes, and Heineken, listing on the NGX in 1973. Today, it is Nigeria’s largest brewer by assets and sales.

Nigerian Enamelware

Incorporated in 1960, Nigerian Enamelware listed on the NGX in 1979. The company produces a range of kitchen utensils.

For FY ending April 30, 2025, it returned to profitability with a net income of N15.5 million, compared with a N2.6 billion loss the previous year.

Nigerian Exchange Group

Incorporated on September 15, 1960, as the Lagos Stock Exchange, it commenced trading in June 1961. In 2021, the exchange was demutualised and reorganised into a for-profit group structure.

PZ Cussons Nigeria

Paterson Zochonis (PZ Cussons) began operations in Nigeria in 1899 but was incorporated locally in 1948. In the 1950s, it set up a soap factory in Aba.

PZ listed on the NGX in 1972 and raised its floated shares to 60 percent in 1977. In 1973, it began producing Thermocool refrigerators, later rebranded as Haier Thermocool in 2001.

RT Briscoe

Incorporated in 1957 and listed in 1974, RT Briscoe operates across automobiles, industrial equipment, power, and real estate. It distributes Toyota, Ford, Manitou Forklifts, and Elgi Compressors in Nigeria.

Royal Exchange

Royal Exchange began operations in 1918, initially through Barclays Bank DCO, before becoming a full branch of Royal Exchange Assurance, London, in 1921.

For decades, it was Nigeria’s sole insurance provider, shaping the local industry. It listed on the NGX in 1990 and in 2007 merged with African Prudential Insurance and Phoenix of Nigeria Assurance. In 2008, it reorganized as a holding company with interests in insurance, funds management, finance, and banking.

Thomas Wyatt

Incorporated in 1948, Thomas Wyatt became Nigeria’s first paper conversion and printing company. Listed in 1978, it operates two factories in Kaduna and Port Harcourt, producing iconic brands like the ‘Olympic Exercise Book.’

TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria

TotalEnergies entered Nigeria in 1956 as Total Oil Products, opening its first Yaba petrol station. It rebranded as Total Nigeria in 1967 and merged with Elf Oil in 2001 to form TotalFinaElf Nigeria before reverting to Total Nigeria in 2003. In 2021, it adopted its current name.

UAC Nigeria

Tracing its roots to the Royal Niger Company of 1879, UAC Nigeria adopted its current name in the 1920s. UAC Motors was incorporated in 1931.

Unilever once held a 40 percent stake but divested when UAC listed on the NGX in 1991. Today, UAC operates through UAC Foods, Livestock Feeds, Grand Cereals, CAP Plc, UAC Restaurants (Mr Biggs), and MDS Logistics.

Unilever Nigeria

Unilever Nigeria Plc, one of Nigeria’s oldest consumer goods companies, began as Lever Brothers (West Africa) Ltd in 1923. It opened its first factory in 1925 and later expanded into brands such as Omo, Royco, Blue Band, and Lipton.

Listed since 1973, the company strengthened its local supply chain through backward integration. Following a 1995 merger with Unilever Nigeria Limited, it became majority-owned by Unilever and rebranded in 2001.

Wema Bank

Founded in 1945 as Agbonmagbe Bank Limited, Wema Bank was acquired by the Western Nigeria Marketing Board and rebranded in 1969. Today, it is Nigeria’s longest-surviving indigenous bank.

Listed on the NGX in 1990 under the symbol WEMABANK, the bank is now the country’s 12th-largest by assets.

Hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in prison after being convicted on two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution.

The sentence, handed down by Judge Arun Subramanian, was less than the 11-year term prosecutors had sought but more than the 14 months Combs’s defense team requested.

The sentencing follows a series of high-profile legal battles and public accusations against Combs. The initial federal indictment in May 2024 detailed a series of allegations, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and other sex-related crimes.

The accusations stemmed from a lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend, singer Casandra ‘Cassie’ Ventura, in November 2023. Ventura’s lawsuit, which was settled out of court, accused Combs of a decade of abuse, including physical and sexual assault.

During the trial, prosecutors presented a surveillance video from 2016, which showed Combs assaulting Ventura in a hotel hallway. This footage, widely circulated online, became a key piece of evidence. In July, a jury acquitted Combs of the most serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering, but found him guilty of the lesser charges related to transporting individuals for prostitution.

During the emotional, day-long hearing, both sides presented their arguments. Combs’s legal team, led by attorney Nicole Westmoreland, argued for a lighter sentence, portraying him as a ‘changed man’ and a ‘social justice crusader’ who had already served over a year in custody. They presented letters from his six adult children, who pleaded for leniency, emphasising his positive impact on the Black community.

Conversely, prosecutor Christy Slavik argued for a longer sentence, stating that Combs showed a lack of genuine remorse and believed he was ‘above the law.’ She pointed to his pre-sentencing plans to book speaking engagements, which she described as the ‘height of hubris.’ Ventura also submitted a powerful victim impact statement, describing the years of abuse she endured and urging the judge to consider the ‘many lives that Sean Combs has upended.’ She said she continues to suffer from nightmares and flashbacks.

Ultimately, Judge Subramanian handed down the 50-month sentence, which is just over four years, citing the seriousness of the convictions while also acknowledging the time Combs had already spent in custody.

President Bola Tinubu has commended Governor Otti for the quality of work executed so far, as well as his commitment to infrastructural renewal across Abia State.

President Tinubu, made the commendation Friday, while inaugurating the remodelled Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, by Governor Alex Otti-led Administration.

The iconic structure, originally built decades ago, has long served as the epicentre of official state functions and civic engagements in Abia State.

Governor Otti, upon assumption of office, ordered its complete facelift to restore its grandeur and reposition it as a befitting venue for governance, cultural events and socio-political gatherings.

President Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, described the remodelling as a ‘miracle of transformation’ and noted that the edifice is a befitting honour to Michael Okpara, the late Premier of the Eastern Region.

‘I lived and worked here in Umuahia. The water project, I was part and parcel of it, as a young engineer. And I know how that route was, all the way from the tower going to Umuahia.

‘But today, I saw a miracle taking place. And I thought that was a miracle. But when I crossed the tower, I saw a more miraculous infrastructure.

‘I’m told that we are going to be seeing wonders. Some are federal projects constructed by the Governor, others are state projects. But projects, whether they are federal or state, the important thing is to touch the lives of the people of our state’, Umahi said.

The Minister, who conveyed President Tinubu’s goodwill to the people of Abia State, explained that the President was unavoidably absent, due to the passing of the mother of the APC National Chairman, whose burial is scheduled for tomorrow.

He, however, assured that the President would personally visit the State later in December and emphasised the President’s recognition of the South-East in national politics.

‘And let me bring greetings of our dear leader, our father, our President. President for all.

‘The President that has recognised the Southeast people. The President that has reintegrated us in the affairs of the nation. The President who has love for the people of Southeast and other regions.

‘Mr. President asked me to let you know that he will be with you later this year, sometime in December. He would have been here himself, but unfortunately, our National Chairman lost his mother, and she is being buried tomorrow.

And it’s right that the President is there, that’s why he has asked me to stand in for him and to commission the numerous projects’, the Minister disclosed.

He urged the people to emulate the late Michael Okpara’s style in politics, adding that the late Okpara reintegrated the people of the South East to the government at the Centre.

‘I was with the President, and he said something that touched me so much. He has respect for His Excellency the late Michael Okpara.

‘He said to me, Dave, ask your people to play the kind of politics that His Excellency the late Michael Okpara played. He played to the centre. He integrated the people of Southeast to the centre. That’s what he told me.

‘And I’m happy that he’s been honoured by the reason of this edifice being renovated in his name’, Umahi said.

Earlier, while handing over the facility for inauguration, Governor Alex Otti recalled the poor state of the auditorium before its reconstruction, noting that the facility was in a dilapidated state before his administration commenced its reconstruction in 2023.

‘This is the Michael Okpara Auditorium, which was left in a dilapidated state. Towards the end of 2023, we started working on it.

‘I am glad that today it is a standing edifice worthy of beholding, and by the time we take a step inside, Your Excellency, you will be happy with the quality of work that is done’, Otti stated.

Major roads in Jos and Bukuru were closed to traffic Saturday morning as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Plateau State for the burial of Nana Lydia Yilwada, mother of Nentawe Yilwada, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Joyce Lohya Ramnap, commissioner of Information and Communication in Plateau State, had earlier announced traffic diversions starting from 7 am on October 4, to ensure smooth movement of the presidential entourage and maintain public safety during the high-profile visit.

Affected routes included the Mararaban Jama’a-Bukuru expressway, Dadin-Kowa through Old Airport to Plateau Hospital roundabout, and Hillstation roundabout to COCIN Headquarters/Central Bank road. Commuters were advised to use alternative routes to avoid delays.

A heavy security presence was observed across the Jos metropolis, with personnel from various security agencies stationed at strategic points to control movement and prevent any disruptions during the presidential visit.

The burial event, attended by top political and traditional leaders, drew significant attention as residents lined nearby streets to catch a glimpse of the president and other dignitaries.

Ramnap appealed for public understanding, stating the measures were temporary and aimed at preserving public peace and security during the solemn occasion.

The presidency had earlier said President Bola Tinubu will, in continuation of his tour of states, on Saturday, visit Jos, Plateau State, where he will meet a cross-section of religious leaders.

Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said the President, while in the Plateau State capital, will also attend the funeral prayers in honour of Nana Lydia Yilwatda Goshwe, mother of the APC National Chairman, Nantewe Yilwatda.

The President’s meeting with Church Leaders across the North is expected to take place at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nigeria, COCIN, in Jos.

Onanuga said that President Tinubu will return to Lagos on the same day after the visit.

Technology is transforming the customer experience by reinventing every interaction or touchpoint between your brand and customers. Prospective customers might hear about your company from a friend, visit your website, or see social media posts.

In other words, it’s no longer enough for companies to have only offline interactions with their customers. Today’s customers have access to brands through various digital channels, which means they can easily compare one brand with another. These changes in customer behaviour have forced companies to find new ways to encourage customer loyalty.

What is a brand touchpoint?

A brand touchpoint is a way for brands to connect with customers. It could be a product you’re trying to sell, an advertisement, a TV commercial, or even a tweet. The goal of any touchpoint is to make it easy for people to learn about your product or service and potentially become customers.

Brand touchpoints are also valuable because they provide insight into your customer base and how people engage with your brand. By understanding your customer’s experience at each touchpoint, you can determine where to focus your marketing efforts to build trust and increase sales.

What is brand identity?

A brand identity is a collection of visual and verbal symbols you can use to build and maintain trust in your business. It can include logos, colours, fonts, slogans, and more. It impacts how consumers perceive you as a company. Setting a consistent brand identity across all touchpoints, online and offline, is essential.

Another essential part of creating a solid brand identity is ensuring that every touch point offers something unique and valuable for customers. If you use multiple channels to sell products or services, it’s crucial to prioritise the ones where customers spend the most time and money.

What is a customer journey map?

A customer journey map represents a customer journey from the first point of interaction with your brand to conversion. It shows all the brand touchpoints that lead to a conversion and helps you guide your marketing efforts.

A customer journey map can include critical events such as first contact, landing page visit, checkout process, and post-purchase actions. Another benefit of mapping customer journeys is that it helps you understand where visitors bounce between pages and how to optimise your website for conversions.

Finally, customer journey mapping helps you understand who your customers are, where they come from, and what they need to make a purchase. It allows you to provide them with the right content at the right time while ensuring they have a positive experience throughout their whole journey. By doing so, you will be able to drive more conversions and increase your revenue.

Brand touchpoints and the customer experience

The goal of every business is to create a memorable and authentic customer experience. It means tailoring everything from the design of your website to the way you interact with customers when at your store. It helps you develop strong emotional connections and improve customer relationships.

Brand touchpoints must all be consistent and convey the same message to customers. They are vital because they influence how customers engage with your business and impact their satisfaction with your brand.

For example, suppose a company’s phone call center is slow or unreliable. In that case, it could result in bad customer experiences and low satisfaction scores, and a company can lose some of its customers. Therefore, brand touchpoints are an essential part of any organization’s strategy.

How brand touchpoints impact customer loyalty

Brand touchpoints, whether an email or a social media post, can be subtle or to the point, but they impact loyalty in one way: they can increase or decrease trust. Customers who see an ad for your product or service might get a warm, fuzzy feeling of desire. However, if they afterward read a negative review about your product or service, it can discourage them from making a purchase.

Businesses need to keep in touch with customers and provide them with engaging experiences. According to one source, 88 percent of consumers say that an experience a company offers is equally crucial as the company’s products or services, while 69 percent of customers also expect a connected customer experience when they engage with a company.

By regularly engaging with your customers through various brand touchpoints, you can build a loyal following that will continue to support you long after their first purchase of your product or service.

Four tips for defining your brand’s touchpoint strategy

The first step to creating a successful touchpoint strategy is to define your brand’s identity. You can do this by developing an overarching theme that all of your brand touchpoints and marketing campaigns can align to. It is also essential to determine which of your existing products and services will be the focal point of your new brand vision.

Once you have defined your brand’s identity and vision, it is time to define your brand touchpoints. The touchpoint strategy aims to create pathways for customers to interact with your brand in the most natural and meaningful ways possible.

There are several essential things to keep in mind when designing your brand’s touchpoint strategy:

Make sure customer touchpoints are easy to find and easy to understand

Keep them consistent so that customers can recognise your brand identity

Make sure they look nice and feel welcoming

Personalise touchpoints for each customer, if possible, as 82% of customers have a more positive view of a brand after engaging with personalized content.

Last line

Brand touchpoints help build customer loyalty by providing a consistent brand experience throughout the customer journey. A positive brand experience will motivate your customers to purchase from your company again.