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NAFDAC: NIVEA Black & White Roll-On Manufactured in Nigeria is Safe

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Nigeria’s food and drugs regulatory body, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed that the NIVEA Black & White Roll- On manufactured in Nigeria is safe for public use.

This is contained in the update it issued on its initial Safety Alert Notification of October 31, 2024, regarding NIVEA BLACK & WHITE Invisible Roll-on deodorant (50 ml) batch number 93529610, in relation to the general European Union (EU) Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products (RAPEX).

In the latest update on the issue on its website dated November 2, 2024, the agency confirmed the safety of the NIVEA BLACK & WHITE Invisible Roll-on deodorant (50 ml) manufactured in Nigeria.

“A recent investigation shows that the Black and White Nivea Roll-on deodorant manufactured in Nigeria does not contain the non-compliant ingredient (BMHCA)”, NAFDAC said in the updated alert notification.

It would be recalled that following the release of the notification by the agency, the manufacturers of the product, Beiersdorf, had issued a statement in which it assured its esteemed customers that the Batch No. 93529610 in question has not been marketed in Nigeria and thus was never recalled by Beiersdorf, the owner of NIVEA brand, as the legal manufacturer.

It added that the batch in question had, in fact, expired in January 2022 and was hence at the time fully compliant with the then valid European cosmetic regulation. The company also pointed out that based on current European legislation, the use of ingredient 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl propionaldehyde (LilialTM) in cosmetic products has been banned from the European markets as of March 1, 2022.

“As a responsible corporate citizen, Beiersdorf is working collaboratively with NAFDAC to safeguard the interest of the Nigerian consumers by ensuring that our locally manufactured product meets the global quality standards”, the company said, adding that the safety of its consumers remains its highest priority, consistent with its ethical philosophy as a business.

“In pursuit of this commitment, Beiersdorf’s entire NIVEA product portfolio formulations have been reformulated to be Lilial-free formulas in full compliance with the EU Regulation on cosmetic products well ahead of its Lilial ban coming into effect as far back as March 1, 2022. For instance, the formulation of NIVEA BLACK & WHITE Invisible Roll-on deodorant has been Lilial-free since at least 2020 across the globe, including Nigeria”, the company further said.

It said it had informed its trade partners ahead of time and reminded them of their responsibility to remove the outdated Lilial-containing products within the legal timeframe to fulfill their obligations with the European Cosmetic Product Regulation.

Kyari Outlines Vision for Nigeria’s Energy Future, Insists NNPC Not Sabotaging Domestic Refineries

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GCEO, NNPC Limited, Mr. Mele Kyari speaks at the opening ceremony of the 42nd Nigeria Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) Annual International Conference and Exhibition themed: “Resolving the Nigeria Energy Trilemma: Energy Security, Sustainable Growth and Affordability” in Lagos on Monday.

The Group CEO of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari has reiterated the company’s commitment to resolving Nigeria’s energy trilemma, by ensuring energy security, sustainable growth and energy affordability.

Kyari disclosed this at the opening ceremony of the 42nd Nigeria Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) Annual International Conference and Exhibition themed: “Resolving the Nigeria Energy Trilemma: Energy Security, Sustainable Growth and Affordability” in Lagos, on Monday.

The GCEO, who was Special Guest of Honour at the occasion, also said the company has perfected plans to deliver 12 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Stations and Mini LNG Plants soon, as part of efforts to boost the existing 1.6bscf of gas supply for domestic market.

“The energy trilemma is a profound responsibility we shoulder as stewards of Nigeria’s energy future. NNPC Limited is working tirelessly to improve our supply chain, develop new refining capacities and expand our retail network,” Kyari stated.

According to him, NNPC Limited is set to collaborate with private refineries to ensure affordable and sustainable petroleum products supply; Naira-for-crude transactions in order to stabilise the local currency and regulate forex markets.

This, he added, will bring about expansion of gas infrastructure such as the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipelines projects and the development of cleaner energy options, such as Liquiefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

“Currently, NNPC Ltd supplies over 1.6 billion standard cubic feet (bscf) of gas per day to the domestic market through infrastructure we either own outright or operate with partners. This distribution network is entirely managed on NNPC’s balance sheet,” Kyari added.

Explaining that the Company is expanding its efforts to enhance domestic energy access, the NNPC helmsman said the next 3-6 months will see significant project launches, including CNG mother stations, mini-LNG plants, and additional CNG daughter stations.

Kyari, who commended President Tinubu’s efforts to relieve forex pressures by reducing fuel imports and strengthening Nigeria’s local refining capacity,  emphasised the need for collaboration, innovation, and technology in achieving Nigeria’s energy goals.

“Resolving the energy trilemma requires bold ideas, shared knowledge, and collective determination. Together, let us build a Nigeria where energy is secure, sustainable, and affordable for all.”

On NNPC’s mandate to guarantee energy security as stipulated by the Petroleum Industry Act, Kyari said the Company has fostered partnerships and investments aimed at enhancing local production and generating revenue for economic diversification.

Reacting to claims that NNPC is sabotaging the efforts of domestic refineries, Kyari said the NNPC Limited is part-owners of the Dangote Refinery, stressed further that such investment is a strategic move aimed at strengthening domestic fuel supply.

 

 

African Alliance Files Lawsuit against NAICOM over Dissolution of Board, Management

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African Alliance Insurance Plc has filed a lawsuit against the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the interim management established by the Commission over the dissolution of the company’s board and management by the regulator.

The Minister of Finance is also joined in the suit as defendant.

In a suit (FHC/L/CS/2008/2024) filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, African Alliance is praying the court to declare that the dissolution of its board and management by NAICOM on October 29, 2024 is unlawful, null and void.

African Alliance through its lawyer, Mr. Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, wants the court to determine whether NAICOM acted in compliance with provisions of the Insurance Act, 2003 and the Prudential Guidelines for Insurers and Reinsurers in Nigeria 2015 in taking its regulatory action against the company.

The company also contends that the action of NAICOM in seeking approval from the Minister of Finance to take-over its board and management while its application for consent to sell its 49 percent assets in Pension Alliance Limited (PAL) is pending with the Commission is unreasonable, unlawful and ultimately in bad faith.

African Alliance Insurance therefore urged the court to nullify the dissolution of its board and management by NAICOM.

No date has been fixed for hearing of the suit.

NDIC Commences Auction of Landed Properties, Chattels of Defunct Heritage Bank

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In a bid to ensure timely declaration of liquidation dividends to uninsured depositors of the failed Heritage Bank (In-Liquidation), the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced process for the auction of landed properties and chattels of the failed bank.

This exercise is in pursuant of the Corporation’s statutory powers as the Liquidator of failed banks under section 62 (1)(d) of the NDIC Act, 2023. This is another follow up action sequel to disposal of physical assets and chattels belonging to the defunct bank at its leased locations nationwide

Therefore, the auction of the landed assets shall be by competitive bidding in sealed bids schedule to take place at the six (6) selected locations of the Corporation across the country, for the affected 36 branches of the failed bank beginning from Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

Buyers who wish to participate in the auction are expected to follow laid down guidelines purposely aimed at ensuring transparency, fair competition, equity and accountability to enable recovery of commensurate values from the exercise. This is critical for the payment of liquidation dividends to eligible claimants.

The Corporation shall give preference to financial institutions who are willing to buy at the highest auctioned value in order to allow for continuation of provision of banking services to the Nigerian public at the designated locations.

This is desirable towards bolstering financial inclusion as envisaged by the financial system regulatory authorities.

However, Corporate bodies and Private individuals willing to compete are equally eligible to compete in the process without prejudice, as the auction shall be open and competitive to all bidders.

Furthermore, bidders will be given opportunity to inspect the properties and chattels across all locations one week prior to date of disposal.

All interested parties are to make available 10% bid security of the value of their sealed bids to be dropped in the bid box provided at the specific centre out of the six locations of the Corporation as contained in the published advertisements.

All interested bidders are advised to submit their bids only at the designated NDIC offices covering their choices amongst Abuja, Lagos, Bauchi, Kano, Enugu and Port Harcourt.

 

 

5G: Gwandu Tasks African Countries to Harness $130bn Economic Value

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Dr. Bashir Gwandu, former Acting Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and former EVC/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has called on African countries to harness the potential of low-band spectrum for fifth generation mobile technology (5G), which will account for an estimated economic value of $130 billion by 2030.

The telecom expert made a presentation on the session: “The shape of Post-WRC spectrum ecosystems”, on the third theme: “From WRC-23 to WRC-27- Emerging Landscapes & Technologies and the Path Ahead” at the just concluded 9th Sub-Sahara Spectrum Management Conference 2024, held in Nairobi, Kenya on 6-7 November, organised by Forum Global.

Gwandu who held various chairmanship positions at the both the ITU and Commonwealth including the ITU Radiocommunications Advisory Group (the RAG), The Joint Task Group, and Commonwealth ITU Group (CIG), made the call during his opening remarks on the 600MHz spectrum discussions.  He also played a key role in founding the ATU (African Telecommunications Union) WRC coordination meetings.

According to GSMA Mobile Economy Report 2024, sub-Saharan Africa has 160 million unconnected alone, and there is 50 per cent urban-rural coverage divide in Africa. Gwandu urged African delegates at World Radiocommunications Conferences (WRCs) should thus be leading the work to surpass this economic projection, and must never-again block another African country from joining footnote 5.307A that allocates 600MHz to mobile on a primary status.

In addition, he urged the Africa Union Commission (AUC) representatives to take it as a project, and ensure that AUC comes up with a resolution that will encourage all African nations to join en-masse the footnote 5.307A at WRC-27. Radio regulations footnotes are used to make spectrum allocation for a country or some countries.

As regulators, we must always design markets to encourage competition. If we structure markets into three competing operators across the sub-1000 MHz bands (900, 800, 700, and 600 MHz), and an operator potentially acquires 2×10 MHz in each band, they could combine these to have three telcos each with a 40MHz duplex assignment, delivering very higher speeds.

While not truly 5G, this would provide adequate or meaningful speeds for rural schools, hospitals, and communities covered with low capital expenses, due to the strong penetration of the low-frequency bands.

Gwandu frowned at the action of some African countries working against Other African countries at the last WRC-23. He argued that this action went against the ATU’s rules, which state that when eight or more countries oppose a proposal, it should not receive recognition under the AFCP (African Common Proposals) framework.

At the WRC-23 conference, a controversial decision allowed Egypt to move forward with its 600 MHz primary mobile allocation while Rwanda, Guinea, Benin, and Cameroon, blocked requests from 10 other African nations with similar aspirations.

The 10 countries that were blocked include Nigeria, Senegal, Mauritania, Libya, Chad, Gambia, Sudan, Namibia, Somalia, and Tanzania. He posited that fighting for status quo to remain or ‘No Change’ in this case is akin to refusing an available front seat and fighting for a back seat.

Gwandu posited that fighting for status quo to remain or ‘No Change’ in this case is akin to refusing an available front seat and fighting for a back seat.

 

Sovereign Trust Insurance Holds 2025 Budget & Strategy Session in Lagos

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L-R: Lead Consultant, Quick Projects, Dr. Victor Dike, Kayode Adigun, Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services, Emmanuel Anikibe, Executive Director, Technical, Olaotan Soyinka, MD/CEO, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Ugochi Odemelam, Executive Director, Marketing & Business Development Division, Sesan Awonoiki, Lead Consultant/MD, Universal Anchor Limited, Lucas Durojaiye, General Manager, Northern Region Operations and Sanni Oladimeji, General Manager, Risk Management & Compliance at the company’s 2025 Budget & Strategy Session held in Lagos.

Insurance, Aviation Leaders Seek Synergy for Market Growth

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A high-level stakeholders follow up meeting of the insurance and aviation sectors was convened recently in Abuja to consider synergy for the growth of both sectors.

The meeting which was chaired by the Honorable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Mr. Festus Keyamo, also had in attendance the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking,  Insurance and other financial institutions, Senator Munkhail Abiru, Chairman, House Committee on Insurance and Actuarial Matters, Hon. Ahmed Jaha, representatives of the Nigeria Civil Authority, PEBEC, Nigeria Insurers Association, Nigeria Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, Airline Operators of Nigeria amongst other stakeholders.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace in his opening remark appreciated all stakeholders for accepting the invitation and stated that the meeting was crucial for the progress of the operations of airline operators and growth of the Nigerian insurance market.

It was agreed that a wider meeting of the Nigerian delegation with the international lessors and financiers is going to be held early next year.

NLNG Receives FIRS’ Most Compliant Taxpayer Award

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NLNG’s representative, Titi Horsfall (2nd left) receives the FIRS’ most compliant taxpayer award conferred on NLNG from Dr. Lovette Ononuga and Mr. Olurotimi I. Akingbade, Director, Lagos Mainland East, State Co-ordinator in Lagos. With them are representatives from NLNG and FIRS.

NLNG has received the prestigious award of Most Compliant Taxpayer by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) at the 2024 FIRS Day, which took place during the Lagos International Trade Fair.

This recognition is part of the FIRS Compliant Taxpayer Award and Recognition Programme, designed to acknowledge companies that consistently meet their tax obligations, contributing to the development of Nigeria’s economy.

This award marks a significant achievement for NLNG, following the Company’s receipt of the FIRS Most Supportive Taxpayer Award in 2021. The 2021 recognition was conveyed by FIRS, commending the top-performing taxpayers for their compliance, which helped the service surpass its tax collection target.

In a statement, the FIRS commended NLNG for its consistent and exemplary adherence to tax laws, emphasising the Company’s contributions to national development. The service highlighted NLNG’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its tax responsibilities, recognising the Company’s exceptional compliance with tax regulations and its role in the broader economic growth of the country.

The award was received by Titi Horsfall, Head of Editorial and Digital Content, on behalf of the Company.

Speaking on the announcement, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, noted that the recognition coincides with a milestone for NLNG, marking its 35th anniversary of incorporation and the 25th anniversary of successful LNG production in Nigeria. He reaffirmed that this award is a testament to NLNG’s long-standing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development, particularly in the energy sector.

“We are honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from the Federal Inland Revenue Service. It reflects the dedication of our Board, management, and staff, who work tirelessly to ensure that NLNG remains a responsible corporate entity. This award also reinforces our ongoing commitment to contributing to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s economy.”

He further emphasised that NLNG’s commitment to compliance is integral to the Company’s mission to be a global leader in energy, driving not only Nigeria’s energy sector forward but also contributing to the improvement of lives through responsible business practices.

Continental Re Seeks Entries for 10th Pan African Re/Insurance Journalism Awards 2025

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Continental Reinsurance Plc, a leading Pan-African reinsurer, is proud to announce the launch of the 10th edition of the Pan African Re/Insurance Journalism Awards (2025), marking a decade of recognising journalistic talent and excellence within the re/insurance industry.

The longest-running award program dedicated to excellence in re/insurance journalism across Africa is now open for entries.

These prestigious awards celebrate the critical efforts of journalists who highlight key issues and developments in the insurance industry across the continent.

The awards are open to print, online and broadcast journalists from across Africa who have published articles or features related to insurance and reinsurance in English, French, and Arabic languages.

Entries will be accepted in the following categories:

  • English Print
  • English Broadcast
  • English Online
  • French (Print/Broadcast/Online)
  • Arabic (Print/Broadcast/Online)

Why Enter?

This year’s edition marks a decade of honoring journalistic excellence, cementing its place as the premier platform recognising talent in the industry. By participating, journalists have the opportunity to:

  • Gain Pan-African recognition
  • Win attractive cash prizes
  • Showcase their work to a wider audience across diverse platforms
  • Overall winners will network in-person with leaders in the re/insurance sector at the awards ceremony

What You Will Win

Winners will receive certificates, cash prizes, trophies, and recognition for their exceptional work in bringing critical insurance-related issues to the forefront.

 

Submission Guidelines

Deadline for submission of entries: 31st January 2025.

Submissions must be original, published works from February 15, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

Entries should focus on any insurance or reinsurance topic, with preference given to pieces that provide in-depth analysis, uncover new trends, or explore innovative solutions in the industry.

For full details on how to enter and submission guidelines, visit: https://www.continental-re.com/awards-2025/

Cloud Energy Unveils 200 Watts Street Light Bulbs, Rooftop Panel Campaign

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Nigeria’s foremost indigenous Renewable Energy Company, decorated by industry partners as the most Outstanding Energy Provider, Cloud Energy Solar, living true to its appellations, is focusing its renewable energy competencies beyond the home and office.

Cloud Energy has increased its impact in street lighting with the design and production of the 200 Watts Street lighting bulb. The 200 Watts bulb consolidates the reputation of brightness and long lasting for the Cloud Energy range of energy saving bulbs, in the homes and offices.

Spurred by the abundance of the sun, the Cloud Energy Solar Company seems challenged to never let the sun set.

The Managing Director of Cloud Energy, Mr. Theophilus Nweke, launching the 200 Watts bulb observed that the times are dangerous in terms of security. Therefore, the brilliance of the street lighting will eliminate all lurking shadows from the streets and security posts.

It is an answer to a call to duty for all patriots to deploy their competencies to enhance national security. The renewable energy boss said that citizens must be prepared to make sacrifice to give Nigeria its deserved place as the giant of Africa. These sacrifices can come from the kind of opportunities that OEMs give to Nigerians.

For example, Cloud Energy, a leading solar practitioner is currently offering rooftop solar panels with a flexible payment plan up to two years or more. Property owners can now design their buildings with solar panels on the roof and keep paying long after they have completed and moved into the houses.

This flexible payment consideration, the Cloud Energy Boss explains, extends to the entire range of Cloud Energy Solar products – Energy storage products, Inverters, Batteries; Lifestyle products, Fridges, Freezers, Fans Television sets, and solar accessories.

These offers are conveyed in a campaign entitled Bridge the Energy Gap, a clear departure from the traditional way of presenting offers in the market. The bridge has been used as a symbol to convey a sense of professional support, assistance, and partnership.

The bridge beyond meaning a make-up for a shortfall also provides a thorough fare to the energy transition, without bottlenecks. It deletes all doubts and gives a sense of certainty for a transition.to Solar. The bridge is the fact that Cloud Energy in partnership with its finance partners offers different kinds of payment plan to ensure a done deal, in electricity, without tears.

Cloud Energy, founded in 2015 has earned respect by installing Solar and Inverter systems for discerning clients, mainly academic, research institutions and multi-nationals across the nation. In less than a decade Cloud Energy has foot prints in the Banking and Finance sector with ATM installations; Homes and Public buildings with Solar Systems; and is a viable partner to governments through the Rural Electrification Project.

Awele Elumelu Seeks Increased Female Leadership in Insurance Sector

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L-R: Lady Margaret Moore, President, Africa Insurance Women Association and Dr. Awele V. Elumelu OFR, Chairperson, Heirs Insurance Brokers and Avon HMO.

At the recently concluded International Conference for Women in Insurance, Dr. Awele V. Elumelu, OFR, Chairperson, Heirs Insurance Brokers (a member of Heirs Insurance Group) and Chairperson Avon HMO, joined other female business leaders in the call for gender parity and more women in leadership in Nigeria’s insurance industry.

Held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, the conference was organised by the African Insurance Women Association (AIWA) and gathered industry professionals, policymakers, and advocates to discuss ways to advance women’s participation in insurance and at the helm of leadership.

Heirs Insurance Group played a key role as lead sponsor as part of its vision to drive gender inclusion across all levels.

In her keynote address, “The Future of Insurance: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities,” Dr. Elumelu emphasised that female leadership is both a strategic advantage and an ethical imperative.

She said: “The urgency to bring more women into this field is clear. Women bring fresh perspectives and empathy, and these are essential for designing inclusive, people-centred solutions.”

Dr. Elumelu highlighted the low insurance penetration of the African insurance industry, currently below 3%, as a significant growth opportunity. She stressed the potential of digital solutions and microinsurance to enhance accessibility and inclusion.

She said: “With our young, tech-savvy population, we have a unique chance to build products that truly resonate with Africans, especially through mobile technology, which can help reach underserved communities and foster financial literacy among younger generations.”

She concluded by calling for stronger public-private partnerships to foster regulatory innovation and enhance customer trust, saying: “A collaborative approach between industry players, regulators, and local communities will set the stage for a resilient and inclusive insurance sector that can drive economic growth across Africa.”

Speaking on the conference, Lady Margaret Moore, President of the Africa Insurance Women Association, stated, “This landmark event, the first of its kind, brings together African women in insurance to empower and inspire one another. The conference aims to foster connections, share knowledge, and promote collaboration across the industry.”

Heirs Insurance Group is the insurance subsidiary of Heirs Holdings, the leading pan-African investment company, with investments across 24 countries and four continents. With a rapidly expanding retail footprint and an omnichannel digital presence, Heirs Insurance Group serves both corporate and individual customers across Nigeria.

NCDMB ES, Lagos Gov Commission Bell Oil and Gas’ Pipe Threading, Valve Assembly Plant

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A multi-million-dollar pipe threading and valve assembly facility built by Bell Oil & Gas was commissioned on Tuesday at Lekki Free Zone, Lagos State by the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe and the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary hailed Bell Oil & Gas for its foresight and commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, noting that the company had invested in a key infrastructure that will meet a growing demand in the industry.

He stated that Bell Oil & Gas’ areas of operations, which include piping and threading as well as valves manufacturing are critical components in the oil and gas industry. He added that “the need for quality piping and threading services cannot be overstated.”

He assured that “with major projects such as the Dangote Refinery, the Total energies Ubeta gas project, AKK Gas Pipeline, and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, the demand for these services continues to grow. Bell Oil & Gas is positioning itself well to meet this demand, reducing our dependence on imported materials and services and ensuring that we retain the economic benefits within our borders.”

The Executive Secretary also lauded Bell Oil & Gas for honoring its commitment to the Nigerian Content Equipment Certificate (NCEC) issued by NCDMB a few years ago.

The certificate is issued to original equipment manufacturers that commit to and or set up a factory for manufacturing or assembling of components utilized in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Such companies get priority considerations during the contracting process in the sector.

In his welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer, Bell Oil & Gas, Dr. Kayode Thomas described the facility “is yet another evidence that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010 is working,” thanking the Board for driving local companies towards real capacity building.

He recalled that the firm recorded its first major success in the deepwater space when it won the contract for the installation of Composite Pipes on the Bonga FPSO with Shell in 2004.

The company, he noted, won contracts and delivered major line pipe and OCTG contracts with several key players in the industry including Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Total, Agip, Addax, Afren and Seplat, between 2005 and 2010.

Providing details of the investment, Thomas stated that the facility was started during the COVID-19 pandemic and the operations are currently being handled by Nigerians, despite being the first of its kind in Lagos State.

He added that the plant will provide “50,000 tons of capacity for OCTG threading, machining, repairs and the production of pup joints, cross overs and other accessories for drilling operations.”

On how the company secured funding, Thomas revealed that the project was developed without support from any local bank. He lamented the reluctance of commercial banks to support the investment. He beckoned on banks to support such oil and gas projects, without which it will be difficult to grow at the required pace.

Dwelling further on funding, the CEO pleaded with NCDMB to review the structure of the Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) and make it more accessible to local companies.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem. He commended Bell Oil & Gas for investing in the Lekki Free Trade Zone and creating employment opportunities in the state. He said the vision for establishing the free zone was being realised through investments like Bell Oil & Gas.

He promised that the state government will continue to provide critical infrastructure that would it easy for investors to set up their projects and flourish in the free zone.

 

 

Polaris Bank Clinches “Best Mobile App” Award at Digital Jurist Awards 2024

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Polaris Bank’s commitment to digital innovation and excellence has once again been recognised, as the Bank was awarded the prestigious “Best Mobile App” award for its renowned digital banking platform, VULTe, at the Digital Jurist Awards held October 31 at Eko Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos.

This honor comes less than a week after Polaris Bank was named Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year for the fourth consecutive year, further solidifying its status as a leader in Nigeria’s digital banking landscape.

At the event, attended by representatives from all nominated companies, Polaris Bank’s VULTe app stood out among its peers, winning the hearts of users and the recognition of industry experts.

The Digital Jurist Awards Committee had nominated Polaris Bank in three categories: Best Website, Best Web Portal, and Best Mobile App. The Bank’s innovative approach and customer-centric digital solutions have made it a formidable contender in each category, with VULTe’s win affirming the Bank’s continued drive to redefine digital banking in Nigeria.

Commenting on the award, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated the Bank’s commitment to providing seamless, reliable, and secure digital solutions. “This award continuously shows our dedication to delivering the best digital experiences to our customers. We will continue to push the boundaries of innovation to ensure that our platforms remain intuitive, accessible, and impactful,” he said.

Polaris Bank’s VULTe app has gained widespread acclaim for its user-friendly design, robust security features, and diverse functionalities, enabling customers to manage their banking needs from the comfort of their devices. Winning the “Best Mobile App” award is yet another milestone in the Bank’s digital journey, reinforcing its position as a digital pioneer in Nigeria’s banking sector.

The Bank extends its gratitude to the Digital Jurist Awards Committee and its loyal customers for their continued trust and support. Polaris Bank is committed to advancing digital banking in Nigeria, creating convenient, modern, and secure solutions that cater to the evolving needs of its customers.

Polaris Bank was adjudged Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year in 2024,2023, 2022 and 2021 and MSME Bank of the Year 2022, 2023 and 2024 in Business Day’s Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Veritas Kapital Assurance Reports 117% Profit Growth in Q3 2024, Underscoring Resilience, Strategic Excellence

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Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc has announced a remarkable financial performance in the third quarter of 2024, achieving a 117% year-on-year increase in profit after tax, growing from ₦697.8 million in Q3 2023 to an impressive ₦2.339 billion this year 2024.

This substantial growth reflects the company’s focused strategy on enhancing operational efficiency, shareholder value, and delivering an exceptional experience for its customers.

The results highlight Veritas Kapital’s robust financial foundation, with significant year-on-year growth in key metrics. Net insurance and investment results increased by 168%, reaching ₦4.030 billion, while insurance revenue expanded by a notable 425%, moving from ₦3.068 billion to ₦16.099 billion. Gross Premium Written (GPW) also saw an impressive uptick, climbing from ₦4.087 billion in Q3 2023 to ₦18.540 billion in Q3 2024, marking a positive trajectory in the company’s financial health and market standing.

Dr. Adaobi Nwakuche, Managing Director/CEO of Veritas Kapital Assurance, attributed this success to the company’s continuous efforts to adapt to industry demands and prioritise customer and stakeholder satisfaction.

“Our impressive Q3 results demonstrate the strength and resilience of our strategy in delivering value to our stakeholders, even amid challenging economic conditions,” she said.

Nwakuche, echoed these sentiments, noting a 69% increase in the group’s total assets, reaching ₦41.580 billion, and an 18% rise in shareholders’ funds, now at ₦19.235 billion. These results reinforce Veritas Kapital Assurance’s standing as a stable and trusted player in the Nigerian insurance sector.

With its strong financial footing, Veritas Kapital Assurance remains dedicated to maintaining its leadership in the market while continuing to secure the interests of its clients and stakeholders.

As the company builds on these achievements quarter on quarter, clients can expect steadfast dedication to excellence and commitment to sustainable growth.

SUNU Nigeria’s Free Mammogram/Breast cancer Screening Receives Positive Feedback

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SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc, a leading insurance company and SUNU Health Nigeria Limited, a reputable health maintenance organisation (HMO) in Nigeria, has received overwhelming positive feedback from beneficiaries of its recent free 3D mammogram-breast cancer screening initiative.

The program was launched to raise awareness about breast cancer and provide early detection services, was widely lauded by participants.

As gathered, SUNU Nigeria remains committed to promoting preventive healthcare and empowering women. Through the offering of free breast cancer screenings, the company aims to reduce the burden of breast cancer and improve the overall health and well-being of Nigerian women.

The initiative, which took place at DIAMED Centre, located at heart of Lekki, Lagos, attracted a large number of women from diverse backgrounds. The screening process, which included mammograms and clinical breast examinations, was conducted by experienced medical professionals.

Mrs Ajayi Funmilola, one of the 100 women who benefited from the screening exercise expressed her gratitude to the company. “I’m so grateful to SUNU Nigeria for providing this free advanced mammogram screening. Of course, early detection is key, and this initiative has given me peace of mind. Thank you for prioritizing women’s health.”

Another beneficiary, Arogudade Feyisayo said, “The 3D mammogram screening offered by SUNU Nigeria was a game-changer. It was a quick, painless, and thorough experience. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to benefit from this initiative, I hope the company continue to be productive as they continue and increase the tempo in the future.”

“I’m incredibly happy to have had the opportunity to undergo a free 3D mammogram screening. It’s heartwarming to see a company like SUNU Nigeria prioritizing women’s health. May God continue to bless and prosper your organization,” commented Mrs. Olabisi Ajayi.

Commenting on the initiative, Mrs. Yusuf Japari, Head of Corporate Services at SUNU Assurances Nigeria Plc, highlighted the importance of corporate social responsibility, stating that the free mammogram screening is just one example of the company’s commitment to improving public health.

Mrs Yusuf stated, “At SUNU Nigeria, we believe in giving back to the community. By providing free 3D mammogram screenings, we’re not just offering healthcare; we’re empowering women to prioritize their health and well-being. We are committed to continuing these initiatives to improve public health.”

Dr. (Mrs.) Abiola Olorode, CEO of Diamed Centre stated that her facility is proud to partner with SUNU Nigeria to offer free breast cancer screenings during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“By joining forces, we aim to promote early detection, educate women about breast cancer prevention, and ultimately save lives. We thank SUNU Nigeria for their commitment to improving public health and for sharing our vision of a healthier future.”

SUNU Nigeria, encompassing SUNU Assurances and SUNU Health, is dedicated to improving as well as adding comfort to the lives of Nigerians. SUNU Assurances offers reliable insurance coverage, while SUNU Health provides cost-effective healthcare solutions.