Author: Gift Ifeanyi

Omonike Fowowe, a dynamic Nigerian entrepreneur known for her innovative ventures and transformative leadership, is now setting her sights on a new horizon—public service. As she celebrates her birthday, not only does she mark another year of personal and professional achievement, but she also embraces the possibility of stepping into the political arena. Fowowe’s journey is a story of grit, passion, and relentless ambition. On the morning of her birthday, she took a moment to reflect on the extraordinary path that brought her here. Once a budding entrepreneur, she has grown into one of the most prominent Nigerian business figures…

At the 2022 Annual Business Luncheon of the Capital Market Solicitors Association (CMSA), thought leaders and capital market stakeholders gathered to address one of the biggest hurdles facing Nigeria’s economy—limited access to funding for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Delivering the keynote address, Temi Popoola, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), emphasized that technological innovation holds the key to bridging the financing gap that has long hindered SMEs from reaching their full potential as drivers of economic growth. Speaking on the event’s theme, “Capital Market, Startup Financing and Syndicate Funding: Ability of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises to Access…

The parent company of Nigerian logistics platform Kwik, Africa Delivery Technologies Holding based in the Netherlands, has been officially declared bankrupt by an Amsterdam court. The court’s decision, however, does not disrupt Kwik’s core operations in Nigeria, where the company continues to thrive, recently raising $1 million to fuel its growth and serving a robust network of over 300,000 merchants. The bankruptcy case was triggered by a legal battle with Adam Grant, a former sales executive at Kwik, who filed a lawsuit over alleged wrongful dismissal and unpaid earnings. Although a Dutch court initially awarded Grant $120,000 in unpaid wages,…

The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc has unveiled a bold five-year growth agenda aimed at propelling its turnover beyond ₦300 billion, as the company seeks to solidify its market dominance and expand into new sectors. This ambitious projection was announced during NAHCO’s recent Annual General Meeting, where the board highlighted the company’s steady rise as Nigeria’s leading aviation ground handling service provider. The leadership emphasized that the implementation of a robust strategic blueprint would be key to unlocking significant growth opportunities in the years ahead. As part of its 2024 financial performance, shareholders approved a cash dividend payout of…

In a major push to boost intra-African trade and support Nigerian exporters, the Federal Government has inaugurated the Nigeria-East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor in partnership with Uganda Airlines and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The corridor, launched on Africa Day at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, is designed to significantly reduce logistics costs and accelerate regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. Announcing the launch, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, described the initiative as a transformative step for Nigerian exporters, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The corridor will connect…

Nigeria is preparing to commission two significant lithium processing facilities within 2025, signaling a strategic move away from raw mineral exports toward local value creation, the country’s Mining Minister, Dele Alake, announced on Sunday. The first of these plants—a $600 million lithium processing factory—is located near the Kaduna-Niger border and is expected to be operational by the end of this quarter. Meanwhile, a second facility, a $200 million lithium refinery near Abuja, is in the final stages of completion. In addition, two more processing plants are planned for Nasarawa state, adjacent to the capital, with commissioning expected before the third…

The European Union (EU) has launched an investigation into the widespread circulation of counterfeit goods entering West Africa, with Nigerian seaports flagged as critical transit points in this illicit trade that extends to international markets. According to the 2025 EU Report on the Protection and Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights in Third Countries, Nigeria ranks among the “Priority 3 countries” facing major challenges in enforcing intellectual property (IP) rights. The report singles out Nigerian seaports as major hubs for the importation and re-exportation of counterfeit products including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and fashion items. This raises serious concerns about consumer safety, public…

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revealed that Nigerian companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. (NGX) declared a total of N1.1 trillion in dividends to shareholders during 2024, with N1 trillion already paid out, signaling growing investor confidence and rewarding market returns. Dr. Emomotimi Agama, SEC’s Director-General, shared these highlights in a statement on Sunday, emphasizing the robust performance of Nigeria’s capital markets over the past year. Capital Market Issuances and Investor Confidence From January to December 2024, the SEC approved new issuances valued at N3.68 trillion, comprising: N59.82 billion in fixed income securities N3.62 trillion in equities This…

The Ebonyi State government has called on investors in the mining sector to strictly adhere to established business guidelines while ensuring the protection of host community rights. Governor Francis Nwifuru made the appeal during a one-day conference held in Abakaliki themed “Solid Minerals Ebonyi: The Government and the People.” Represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, and Business Development, Oguzor Offia-Nwali, the governor emphasized the importance of investors stepping up their social responsibilities. “Solid minerals remain a key driver for sustainable development. We are committed to harnessing our abundant mineral resources in ways that bring blessings rather than curses to…

An esteemed group of experts is set to speak at a management consulting conference scheduled for October 16–17 at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos. The event is convened by Lewis Partners Consulting (LPC) in collaboration with the Institute of Management Consultants of Nigeria (IMCON), established in 1979 by the Centre for Management Development (CMD) — the federal agency responsible for regulating and developing management consulting practices in Nigeria. Prof. Epiphany Azinge will chair the conference, with notable speakers including Dr. Tunde Adekola (World Bank Specialist), Dr. Nosike Agokei (Governance Professional), Mrs. Kemi Ogunmefun (Board Member, Access Bank), Mrs. Ayo Olojede (Group…

Nigeria’s vibrant event industry is gearing up for a transformative international gathering as top professionals converge for the fifth edition of The Event Industry Conference (TEIC 5.0), a groundbreaking summit aimed at expanding horizons and sparking innovative thinking within the sector. Slated for September 27–28, 2022, the two-day experience will unfold across two major venues in Ikeja, Lagos — Sheba Centre on Mobolaji Bank-Anthony Way and Whitestone on Billings Way. Themed “Globalisation: See Outside the Box to Think Outside the Box”, the conference invites attendees to challenge traditional boundaries and adopt a global mindset in their approach to event management.…

Asamaka Industries Ltd Nigeria is proud to announce its official induction as a Corporate Firm Member of the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NIEEE)—a notable achievement that underscores our dedication to excellence, innovation, and leadership in the engineering field. This recognition is a testament to our ongoing pursuit of high standards in Nigeria’s electrical and electronics engineering space. At Asamaka, we’ve consistently embraced forward-thinking solutions, dependable service, and the continuous evolution of engineering practices. Securing this membership highlights our resolve to not only meet but exceed the expectations set by the industry. Becoming part of the NIEEE community…

Nigeria is preparing to host the 2023 edition of the West African Insurance Association (WAICA) Educational Conference, scheduled to take place from May 7 to 9, 2023, at the renowned Eko Hotel & Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. The Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by Mrs. Bola Odukale, has begun laying the groundwork for what promises to be a transformative event for the region’s insurance industry. Odukale emphasized that insights and takeaways from this high-level gathering are expected to equip West African underwriters with the tools and strategies needed to operate effectively on a global stage. In her remarks during…

Dettol, Nigeria’s trusted name in hygiene solutions, has reaffirmed its long-standing dedication to public health by partnering with the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) for the 65th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference. The event, which recently took place in Katsina State, gathered medical experts, health administrators, and policy influencers under the theme: “Universal Standards of Patient Care and Healthcare Provider Well-being.” Discussions centered around improving healthcare delivery through consistent clinical standards and stronger health systems. As a key sponsor, Dettol took the opportunity to align its mission with that of Nigeria’s medical professionals—placing emphasis on the critical role of hygiene…

Prominent figures in Nigeria’s SME sector have reiterated the urgent need for government-driven support systems that empower local businesses to grow and compete on a global scale. At the recent Business Engagement Forum and Press Conference for MINE FEST 2025, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ikeja, industry leaders emphasized the transformative role of Made-in-Nigeria goods in national development. Dr. Olubunmi Kole-Dauda, founder of Naijapreneur.com, along with other key advocates such as Tito Phillips, emphasized the importance of building a robust local economy by encouraging patronage of domestically manufactured products. They maintained that such support would…

Fifty trailblazers shaping the future of Nigeria’s digital landscape were recently celebrated at an award ceremony hosted by Knowhow Media. The prestigious event, which took place in Lagos, highlighted the impact of top innovators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs in propelling the country’s digital transformation. Under the theme “Consolidating Progress – Addressing New & Emerging Challenges in Nigeria’s Digital Economy,” the gathering drew notable attendees from across government, private enterprise, and the tech sector. The initiative, organized by Knowhow Media—publishers of IT Edge News Africa—recognized the 50 Most Valuable Personalities (50MVPs) of 2025 for their significant contributions to the digital ecosystem. Delivering…

The Nigeria Hotel Association (NHA) has called on the federal, state, and local governments to provide financial grants to hotel operators across the country. The appeal comes as the hospitality industry grapples with mounting debt, operational challenges, and repeated demands from revenue agencies. At a press briefing in Bauchi, NHA National President, His Highness Eze Dr. Patrick Anyanwu, emphasized the vital role hotels play in Nigeria’s economic landscape, including employment generation, tourism development, and national revenue growth. Dr. Anyanwu, reflecting on resolutions from the NHA’s recent delegates’ meeting in Lagos, stressed the urgent need for government-backed support. Many hotel owners,…

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced the temporary closure of the Port Harcourt Refinery for a scheduled month-long maintenance exercise, raising fresh concerns among fuel marketers over possible supply disruptions and price surges. In an official statement released on Saturday, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed that the shutdown will commence on May 24, 2025. According to Soneye, the move is part of a planned sustainability and performance optimization program. “The Port Harcourt Refining Company will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown starting May 24. This is a scheduled sustainability assessment to ensure long-term operational efficiency,”…

Dangote Cement Plc has clinched the “Dividend Paying Company of the Year” award at the prestigious 2025 Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards, held on May 23, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria. This year’s ceremony, themed “Capital Market as a Catalyst for Nigerian Economic Transformation,” honored companies driving economic growth through market excellence and shareholder value. Dangote Cement stood out among heavyweights, surpassing notable contenders such as Nigerian Aviation Company and Airtel Africa, for its remarkable consistency and generosity in rewarding shareholders. A History of Strong Returns Renowned for its reliable dividend payments, Dangote Cement has solidified its reputation as a top…

About 250 Nigerian business interests are poised to take part in the upcoming African Business Forum in Sochi, Russia, scheduled from October 23 to 25, 2025, the Presidency has announced. Malam Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, shared this update in Abuja on Tuesday, highlighting the strategic importance of the forum, which will run alongside the inaugural Russia–Africa Summit. The event aims to boost Russian investments across Africa while promoting African business opportunities within Russia. According to Shehu, this forum comes at a time when major global economies are deepening ties with Africa, following…