Author: Gift Ifeanyi

At just 25, Oghale Kadiri, the visionary behind Rattan By Sandrah, is one of Nigeria’s rising entrepreneurial stars. Her Lagos-based fashion brand, known for crafting elegant handbags using materials like faux leather, original leather, and traditional fabrics like Aso Oke and Ankara, has made impressive strides—over 12,000 bags produced and more than 5,000 satisfied clients since launching in 2019. Yet, Kadiri’s journey to global recognition hasn’t been without setbacks. From Passion to Product: The Birth of a Brand Driven by a deep love for her country and a belief in the creative potential of Nigerian youth, Kadiri turned her passion…

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is facing mounting pressure in Nigeria after being hit with a series of fines totaling $280 million. The penalties, upheld this month by Nigeria’s High Court, have triggered warnings from Meta about a possible shutdown of its services in the country — a move that could disconnect tens of millions of users and spark digital and economic consequences across West Africa. A Breakdown of the Fines In 2023, Nigeria’s regulatory bodies took a hard stance against the tech giant. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) fined Meta $220 million…

Nigeria’s private sector leaders have issued strong warnings that the Central Bank’s persistent high interest rate—currently at 27.5%—is undermining local industries and jeopardizing the ‘Nigeria First’ procurement policy. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and other business groups have expressed deep concern over the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) decision to maintain the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), saying it cripples industrial productivity and discourages domestic investment. Manufacturers Sound the Alarm Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General of MAN, described the current lending environment as “hostile” for manufacturers, warning that the Nigeria First initiative—designed to prioritize the…

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has introduced a bold new initiative titled ‘GROW Nigerian’, aimed at revitalizing the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by generating employment and increasing business revenue. Unveiled in Abuja by the agency’s Director-General, Mr. Charles Odii, the GROW Nigerian model is structured around four key pillars: Guidance, Resources, Opportunities, and Workforce Support. The framework is designed to offer holistic support that addresses the key barriers holding back small business growth. “This framework represents our vision for real change,” Odii explained. “With the right blend of mentorship, resources, market access,…

In a significant move to strengthen the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, Fidelity Bank Plc has entered into a strategic alliance with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to provide accessible funding, training, and market opportunities to Nigerian entrepreneurs. This collaboration, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Fidelity Bank’s headquarters in Lagos, is designed to offer low-interest loans to MSMEs identified and referred by SMEDAN, while also equipping them with the tools necessary to scale their operations. A Renewed Commitment to Small Businesses Speaking on the bank’s behalf, Dr. Ken Opara, Executive…

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s small and medium enterprise (SME) sector have urged both federal and state governments to put in place more business-friendly policies to help homegrown products flourish, emphasizing that this is essential for achieving economic diversification and sustainable growth. This appeal was made during the Business Engagement Forum and Press Conference for MINE FEST 2025, which took place at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Ikeja, Lagos. The forum served as a platform to promote dialogue on the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria. Promoting Nigerian-Made Innovation Tito Philips, the event’s convener, along with co-convener Mr. Bunmi…

Women business owners in Nigeria are being encouraged to harness the power of technology and innovation to expand their ventures and compete on a global scale in today’s fast-evolving digital economy. Judith Ojevwe Nwachukwu, Chairperson of the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Delta State chapter, delivered this message during her keynote address at the recent ‘She Can With ICT Graduation and Expo’ in Lagos. The event, organized by the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (W.TEC), celebrated the graduation of over 5,000 women who completed fashion and tech-focused training. Tech Tools for Growth and Global Reach Nwachukwu emphasized that…

Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group and Africa’s wealthiest businessman, has called on both federal and state authorities to prioritize and support homegrown businesses as a critical step toward drawing foreign investment into Nigeria. Speaking at the Taraba International Investment Summit held in Jalingo, which brought together a wide range of investors from Nigeria and abroad, Dangote emphasized that international capital only follows when domestic industries are thriving. Local Investment First, Then Foreign Interest Dangote cautioned leaders not to expect global investors to back an economy where local businesses are struggling or overlooked. According to him, the presence and…

Nigeria’s tech scene is making bold moves beyond fintech, stepping into the global iGaming arena with a creative and strategic edge. A new generation of Nigerian startups is reimagining classic casino games, giving them a localised makeover steeped in African culture, folklore, and aesthetics—an innovation that’s opening doors to international B2B markets. Rather than simply replicating Western models, these entrepreneurs are reskinning popular slots and casino content into culturally relevant experiences, tailored for African and diaspora audiences around the world. With the global iGaming market expected to surpass $120 billion by 2029, Nigeria is staking its claim as a rising…

The Nasarawa State Government has intensified efforts to create a more business-friendly climate by deepening its collaboration with the Federal Government through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). According to Governor Abdullahi Sule, who chairs the state’s own business reform council—NEBEC (Nasarawa State Enabling Business Environment Council)—this strategic alignment with federal reforms is aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape, stimulating investment, and supporting entrepreneurs across the state. Speaking during a recent PEBEC retreat, Governor Sule highlighted that syncing Nasarawa’s initiatives with national efforts is essential for building a seamless, transparent, and supportive business environment. He described the collaboration as…

Zikoko, a cultural publication under Big Cabal Media, has unveiled a powerful new docuseries titled “HER”, spotlighting the strength, resilience, and economic influence of Nigerian women across various industries. Directed and produced by award-winning journalist Aisha Salaudeen, the series delivers deeply personal narratives through rich storytelling and evocative visuals. “HER” explores how Nigerian women are claiming space and redefining success in fields like technology, beauty, and entrepreneurship. Real Stories of Grit and Growth The debut episodes feature two remarkable women. The first centers on Ibukun ‘IBK’ Akinola, co-founder and Payments Director at fintech giant PiggyVest. Akinola opens up about her…

In a major win for Nigeria’s marketing communications sector, X3M Ideas, one of the continent’s most prominent creative agencies, has been named among Africa’s Fastest-Growing Companies for 2025 by the Financial Times of London. The recognition places the agency at 31st position out of 130 listed businesses, marking a proud achievement for a sector usually overshadowed by fintech, energy, and finance. This year’s list, produced in partnership with global research group Statista, shines a light on businesses that have consistently recorded impressive growth amid Africa’s complex economic terrain. X3M Ideas’ inclusion highlights its steady upward trajectory over the last three…

In a major boost for economic reform and private sector growth, Nigeria has officially become a member of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). This development is expected to open new doors for international financing, support for local businesses, and technical expertise critical to Nigeria’s long-term development goals. The announcement was made during the EBRD 2025 Annual Meetings in London, where a Nigerian delegation led by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, participated in the formal admission proceedings. Strategic Partnership for Economic Reform Describing the move as a landmark moment, Edun highlighted…

In a renewed drive to foster youth-led businesses, Nestlé Professional has trained over 300 young entrepreneurs and street vendors in Lagos under its My Own Business (MYOWBU) initiative—part of a wider effort to tackle unemployment and promote economic inclusion across Central and West Africa. The MYOWBU program goes beyond street vending—it offers young Nigerians a pathway to financial independence through structured entrepreneurship. Participants sell affordable beverages like NESCAFÉ and MILO, but more importantly, they gain tools to build sustainable livelihoods and shape their future with dignity. A Platform for Growth and Skill Development At the recent workshop in Lagos, attendees…

11 Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to long-term growth and stability in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector, showcasing strong business performance and announcing a dividend distribution of ₦3.33 billion during its 47th Annual General Meeting. The meeting, chaired by Ramesh Kansagra and represented by Non-Executive Director Abdulkadir Aminu, served as a platform to express gratitude to the company’s key supporters—shareholders, employees, partners, and regulatory bodies—for their consistent backing. Steering Through Industry Challenges Throughout 2024, 11 Plc operated within a dynamic and often unpredictable energy market in Nigeria. The chairman highlighted the government’s role in laying the groundwork for growth through reforms…

Dele Kelvin Oye, President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), is leading efforts to attract international investment into Nigeria’s high-growth sectors during a key global business summit in Germany. Speaking as the keynote speaker at the third edition of the International B2B Conference hosted by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) in Giessen, Oye emphasized Nigeria’s untapped economic promise despite its complex market conditions. Held under the theme “The World Meets in Giessen,” the May 20–22, 2025 event brings together global executives, trade specialists, and policy shapers from across continents to…

Environmental advocate and Niger Delta native, Dr. Bolouowei Kurokeme, has appealed to the Federal Government and stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to formally acknowledge former Petroleum Minister Dan Etete as a key figure in Nigeria’s journey toward indigenous participation in its energy industry. Speaking in an interview with journalists, Kurokeme emphasized that Etete’s bold policy moves in the 1990s laid the foundation for Nigeria’s evolving local content success and current energy policies promoting economic nationalism. Legacy of Local Empowerment Dr. Kurokeme credited Etete’s vision for shaping a future where Nigerians could have direct involvement and ownership in their…

In a spirited celebration of national pride, innovation, and international engagement, Tripoint Travels—the official travel partner of GEN Nigeria—hosted a special pre-departure brunch in honor of Nigerian delegates heading to the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC). The event took place at Tripoint’s Lagos headquarters and welcomed a distinguished group of entrepreneurs, investors, policy advocates, and public sector leaders. Among those present were Dr. Peter Bamkole of Pan Atlantic University, GEN Nigeria’s Managing Director Dr. Olawale Anifowose, Dr. Babangida Ruma of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency, SANEF CEO Mrs. Uche Uzoebo, Nollywood actor and influencer Mr. Umar Gombe, and other…

Nigerian tech visionary and crypto trailblazer Gaius Chibueze—widely recognized as the “Bitcoin Chief”—is driving a new era of homegrown solutions aimed at reshaping Africa’s socio-economic future. From digital finance to sustainable farming, Chibueze is leveraging innovation to build a more self-reliant continent. After earning recognition as the first African to invest in Bitcoin as early as 2011—when it traded at just $35—Chibueze has transformed into a powerhouse entrepreneur whose initiatives span 26 countries. His latest ventures—Tech City Africa, ESV Capital, and Ohanaeze Farm—tackle core issues like brain drain, startup funding barriers, and agricultural conflicts. Tech City Africa: Building a Smart…

Credo, the SME-focused payment platform by eTranzact, is strengthening its presence in southern Nigeria through a strategic grassroots campaign aimed at transforming how small businesses manage transactions. As part of this push, the platform launched an on-the-ground activation in Port Harcourt, engaging traders and entrepreneurs in three key commercial zones: Garrison Computer Village, Rumukalagbor Market, and Rumuomasi Market. The campaign was executed in collaboration with Eligbam City, drawing hundreds of participants from the city’s informal business sector. Many of these attendees were being introduced to digital financial tools for the first time. Through live demonstrations, one-on-one training, and hands-on support,…