Author: Anuoluwapo Ige

The African Development Bank has approved a $100 million loan to enhance access to finance for youth and women-led small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the Nigeria Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB) initiative. The Nigeria YEIB is a pioneering institution designed to drive economic growth and job creation by acting as a central hub that connects financial and non-financial stakeholders to support youth entrepreneurship. This initiative fosters collaboration to effectively address the needs of young entrepreneurs across the country. The Bank is spearheading coordination among key Nigeria YEIB investors and partners, including the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Ministry of…

Oluwashola Bello stands out as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s business and taxation sectors, known for her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As a Deputy Manager at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Bello plays a crucial role in the assessment, collection, and accounting of tax revenues for the Federal Government—a pivotal function that directly contributes to Nigeria’s economic development. Bello’s career is a testament to her exceptional abilities and drive. Holding a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Ladoke Akintola University of Science and Technology, she initially made her mark in the banking industry. Starting as an…

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced plans to enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector through the implementation of two key initiatives: the Advance Cargo Declaration Solution and the Engineering Audit of Upstream Measurement Equipment and Facilities. In a statement, the Commission emphasized that these initiatives aim to track the movement of crude oil exports to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the sector. These efforts are being executed in partnership with P-Lyne Energy and PE Energy Limited. P-Lyne Energy will oversee the implementation of the Advance Cargo Declaration Solution, while PE Energy Limited…

In a historic move aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s agricultural financing sector, the Federal Government has unveiled plans to privatize the Bank of Agriculture (BOA). This decision is set to attract private sector investment, broaden access to credit, and enhance operational efficiency, marking a significant shift in the bank’s management and ownership structure. The Bank of Agriculture, established to provide financial support to farmers and agribusinesses, has long struggled with inefficiencies, inadequate funding, and administrative challenges. The proposed privatization seeks to address these issues and reposition the bank as a more dynamic and inclusive institution capable of better serving Nigeria’s agricultural…

High Chief Michael Onuoha, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ailes Group, has made a significant mark as an entrepreneur, business coach, and philanthropist. Renowned for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication, Onuoha has consistently developed impactful platforms that empower individuals to pursue their ambitions. Through Ailes Group, he has created a network of opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs and professionals, fostering an environment where talent thrives and dreams are realized. His commitment to empowerment has served as the cornerstone for countless successful careers. A trained economist from Nwangele Local Government Area of Imo State, Onuoha oversees a diversified portfolio of…

Rotimi Awofisibe is the Managing Director of VFD Microfinance Bank. In this interview with SEGUN KASALI, he delves into the challenges and opportunities within Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem, alongside his personal journey and the strategic vision for his bank. WHAT was life like for you after university? After completing my university studies, I began my career at Sterling Bank’s Oju Iwoye branch, where I focused on deposit mobilization. The experience was tough—sometimes, we had to go into markets to collect cash, including handling large sums, like the N400,000 on my first day amidst a bustling market. It wasn’t the kind of…