Author: Gift Ifeanyi

In a strategic move to boost its digital economy and solidify its place on the global tech map, Nigeria will host its first-ever GITEX Nigeria from September 1–4, 2025, in Abuja and Lagos. Organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in partnership with KAOUN International, the landmark event is expected to welcome over 20,000 participants, including 1,000 startups and 100 investors, offering a powerful launchpad for Nigeria’s small and medium-sized tech enterprises to showcase innovations, attract investment, and expand internationally. Theme: “Forging the Rise of Digital Nigeria” Themed “Forging the Rise of Digital Nigeria,” GITEX Nigeria 2025 will…

In a bold move to combat the growing STEM talent shortage and position Nigeria for the future of work, Product Hub Africa (PHA), through its Stem-A-School initiative, has successfully trained over 3,000 students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). At the recently concluded 2025 STEM Conference held at Nile University, Abuja, the initiative connected students with experts in robotics, aerospace, and artificial intelligence (AI). The event was a powerful reminder of the critical role STEM plays in Africa’s global competitiveness. “Africa Can’t Afford to Be Left Behind” — Victoria Oladosu Founder of Stem-A-School and PHA, Victoria Oladosu, emphasized the…

Lagos, Nigeria – The 2025 Vanguard Economic Discourse held in Lagos brought together top economists and industry stakeholders who painted a sobering picture of Nigeria’s economic future, forecasting a year marked by turbulence and uncertainty. With the theme, “Nigeria’s Economic Outlook 2025: Hardship and Pathways to Sustainable Recovery,” the event served as a national wake-up call, urging immediate structural reforms and strategic planning. Global Instability, Local Vulnerabilities Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Yemi Kale, former Statistician General of the Federation and current Group Chief Economist at the African Export-Import Bank, emphasized that Nigeria sits at a precarious intersection of global…

Nigeria is on the brink of exiting the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, thanks to the recent incorporation of cryptocurrency and digital asset regulations into the Investments and Securities Act (ISA 2025). This new law, signed by President Bola Tinubu, addresses deficiencies in the country’s anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) frameworks, a key reason Nigeria was placed on the FATF grey list in February 2023. A Path to Reform The Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, highlighted that the inclusion of digital asset regulation in ISA 2025 is a strategic move…

MTN Group is gearing up for its second public retail offering in Nigeria as part of its drive to deepen local ownership and rebound from recent macroeconomic headwinds. The telecom giant plans to reduce its stake in MTN Nigeria from about 76% down to 65% through a public offer—a move that aligns with its longstanding commitment to localize ownership and boost investor participation. Key Points: Strategic Sell-Down:Ralph Mupita, President of MTN Group, revealed at an editors’ roundtable (as reported by ITWeb) that MTN has long stated the need for increased local ownership. The Group now intends to sell down approximately…

Afreximbank has disbursed an impressive $50 billion into Nigeria over the past decade, making substantial contributions across various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, healthcare, transport, and financial services. This investment underscores the bank’s strong commitment to Nigeria’s development, helping expand the country’s non-oil economy. Key Highlights: Significant Investments:Afreximbank President Prof. Benedict Oramah revealed that the total disbursements to Nigeria amounted to $50 billion, with $19 billion directed towards Nigeria’s financial services sector, which has seen notable growth over the years. Afreximbank Africa Trade Centre (AATC):The commissioning of the Afreximbank Africa Trade Centre (AATC) in Abuja marks a major milestone in the…

In a significant move that will ease the financial strain for many Nigerians, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the ex-depot price of premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The price has been cut from over N930 per litre to N865, marking a N65 decrease. This reduction comes at a time when global crude oil prices, particularly Brent crude, have been experiencing a downturn. On Wednesday, Brent crude prices dropped below $60 per barrel, reaching $62.08 per barrel, which is the lowest level since February 2021. This decline has been attributed to mounting trade tensions and…

🗓️ Date: May 20–22, 2025📍 Venue: Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State🎯 Theme: Strategic Solutions for a Thriving Nigerian Blue Economy The highly anticipated Sustainable Nigerian Blue Economy – Strategy Conference 2025 has been rescheduled to May 20–22, 2025, according to organizers, Alfe City Institution. The new dates were chosen to ensure full participation across religious holidays, reflecting the inclusive nature of the event.  From Advocacy to Action This Uyo edition marks the culmination of a national advocacy journey that began in 2021 with the inaugural Nigeria Blue Economy Stakeholders Conference held in Lagos. Over the years,…

Mr. Christopher Uwakwe, a lecturer at Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNI), Enugu, has earned international recognition by becoming the first STEP-S Master Trainer in West Africa. His achievement comes under the Students Training for Entrepreneurial Promotion – Sustainability (STEP-S) initiative, a four-year international project running from 2024 to 2027. What is STEP-S? STEP-S is a collaborative project between: Godfrey Okoye University (Nigeria) Leuphana University (Germany) Mount Kenya University (Kenya) University of Venda (South Africa) Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the initiative aims to integrate sustainable entrepreneurship principles into academic programs across Africa, focusing on tackling unemployment and encouraging…

Dr. Chima Anyaso is not just a business magnate—he is a dynamic force in Nigeria’s corporate, political, and philanthropic spaces. With over 15 years of hands-on leadership experience, Anyaso has built a flourishing conglomerate and earned recognition both at home and abroad as one of Nigeria’s most impactful young leaders. From corporate boardrooms to grassroots communities, his influence runs deep and wide. Early Life & Educational Background A native of Igbere in Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, Chima’s entrepreneurial journey began in childhood. Despite being the last child in a well-to-do family, he demonstrated a strong business sense from…

For years, Nigeria’s hardware startup scene has been riddled with challenges — from skyrocketing component costs and inadequate infrastructure to a severe lack of specialized talent. Many promising ideas have withered at the ideation stage, never making it past a pitch deck or a press release. A perfect example is the University of Ibadan’s Humane team, whose innovative assistive tech for the visually impaired won Microsoft’s Imagine Cup in 2017 — yet never saw the light of day due to zero funding and nonexistent prototyping support. But in recent years, two companies have emerged to challenge the status quo: NEV…

In a bold move to empower Nigerian youth and drive self-employment, the Federal Government is set to unveil a ₦300 billion Graduate Entrepreneurship Fund, according to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. Speaking at the 28th Convocation Lecture of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Dr. Alausa revealed that each graduate may access up to ₦10 million, with potential for higher sums based on need. The initiative aims to transition Nigeria from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy, supporting young graduates in launching and sustaining their own businesses. Supporting Education as a Catalyst for Nation-Building Delivering a lecture titled “Patriotism,…

The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has issued a stern warning to courier and logistics service providers operating illegally across the country, emphasizing the need for registration and compliance with federal regulations. At the 36th Enugu International Trade Fair, Dr. Chris Ashiedu, NIPOST’s Enugu State Postal Manager, made it clear that any company or individual offering courier services without proper registration will face fines, imprisonment, or both. Illegal Operators Under Scrutiny “We are determined to bring all courier and logistics providers in Enugu State under our regulatory guidance,” Ashiedu said. So far, 29 companies have been registered under NIPOST in the…

…Sterling Bank Receives $50m Credit Line to Empower SMEs In a significant push to stimulate economic growth and regional integration across West Africa, the Board of Directors of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) has approved €230 million and $10 million in new financing commitments. These approvals were made during the 91st Ordinary Board meeting held virtually on April 3, 2025, and chaired by EBID President, Dr. George Agyekum Donkor. Key Approvals and Projects $50 Million Credit Line to Sterling Bank (Nigeria) Sterling Bank will receive $50 million to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in vital sectors…

In a renewed effort to foster a more competitive and business-friendly environment in Nigeria, the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to enhance trade, drive inclusive economic growth, and streamline customs operations. During a courtesy visit to the Customs headquarters in Abuja, NECA President Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye emphasized that collaboration between the public and private sectors is key to advancing national development. “With over 4,000 member-companies and 30 industrial associations, NECA remains steadfast in its mission to champion a more enabling and competitive business environment,” Okoye stated. Commendation…

Despite a reduction in fuel pump prices and the Federal Government’s promotion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an affordable alternative to petrol, Nigerians continue to face steep transportation costs, sparking widespread frustration among commuters and drivers alike. Across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states, commuters lamented that transport fares have remained unaffordable and disproportionate, even as fuel prices dropped and new cost-saving energy options were introduced. Fares Still 400% Higher Since Fuel Hike According to interviews with 31 passengers, the surge in transportation costs began when the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) price skyrocketed to ₦1200 per litre following President Bola…

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has encouraged businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors to take full advantage of the simplified export processes now available through the Authority in order to unlock new business opportunities and enhance economic development. Speaking during the NPA Special Day at the 36th Enugu International Trade Fair, themed “Developing Nigeria’s Industrial Sector/SMEs for Economic Advancement and Global Recognition,” Dantsoho emphasized the importance of trade in driving economic growth and global competitiveness. Simplifying Export to Empower Business The NPA MD revealed that the agency has launched Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) to streamline…

The President of the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria (ASBON), Dr. Femi Egbesola, has raised serious concerns over the ineffectiveness of current government policies in supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly nano businesses, which make up the vast majority of Nigeria’s informal sector. Speaking during the Vanguard Economic Discourse, Egbesola criticised the federal government for not involving private sector stakeholders in the formulation and execution of economic policies. According to him, this top-down approach is a major reason many policies fail to make the desired impact on grassroots businesses. “Policies fail because they are not co-created with…

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to a strategic partnership with Swedish tech giant Ericsson, signaling a renewed push to accelerate the country’s digital transformation. During a recent meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima pledged swift action on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier in 2024. The MoU aims to deepen collaboration on key technology-driven initiatives between Nigeria and Ericsson. Ericsson: A Foundational Partner in Nigeria’s Tech Journey Speaking during a courtesy visit from Ericsson executives led by Mr. Patrick Johansson, Senior Vice President and Head of Market Area for Europe, the Middle East, and…

Augustine Epere, famously known as BG Wellington, is an inspiring embodiment of innovation, style, and enterprise. With a background in Computer Science from the University of Port Harcourt, BG Wellington seamlessly integrates tech-savviness with creativity, leaving an indelible mark on both the fashion and real estate landscapes in Nigeria and beyond.  Championing Smart Real Estate Through Shortlet Innovation As the founder of the Shortlet Elders Community, BG Wellington has become a leading voice in Nigeria’s growing short-term rental ecosystem. The community is a thriving hub connecting agents, hosts, and investors, promoting shared growth, transparency, and collaboration. Taking innovation a step…