Category: General News

By Itohan Laserian

The League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) is set to discuss sustainable aviation financing and investment models to foster industry growth.

LAAC will discuss the issue at its 29th annual conference to hold in Ikeja.

The Chairman of the conference committee, Mr Wole Shadare, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

According to him, the conference will be a platform for constructive dialogue and a rallying point for shaping the future of aviation.

“The conference will cover a wide range of issues central to Nigeria’s aviation development, including: airport infrastructure development, aircraft leasing and financing mechanisms.

“The others are Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) funding, aviation fuel supply and pricing, regulatory reforms and consumer protection, navigational infrastructure and airspace management, insurance, risk management and sectoral investment strategies.

“In recognition of the critical role of financing in sectoral growth, leading Nigerian banks and financial institutions have confirmed their active participation in this year’s conference.

“The event has garnered significant support from state governments that own and operate airports, affirming their commitment to the sustainable development of aviation infrastructure across Nigeria,” Shadare said.

He said that industry players, who had contributed to aviation development over the last two decades, would be honoured at the event.

He added that regulatory bodies, domestic and international airlines, ground handling companies, travel agencies, and allied service providers in the ecosystem had pledged support for the event.

The conference with the theme: “Aviation Financing in Nigeria: The Risks, Opportunities and Prospects”, will hold on Aug. 7.

The conference will also feature launch of a commemorative publication entitled “Celebrating Champions of Aviation Development” to recognise those who played significant roles in transforming the sector since 1999.

By Taiye Olayemi

Enterprise Life Assurance Nigeria (ELAN) has appointed Mr Nelson Akerele as its new Managing Director.

Daniel Larbi-Tieku, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise Group, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Larbi-Tieku said that Akerele’s appointment came after Mrs Funmilayo Omo stepped down after five years of service.

He noted that since Omo led Enterprise Life Nigeria through a defining period of growth, the company had been established as a digitally-driven, customer-focused insurer with a strong national footprint.

He said her leadership saw the introduction of innovative life planning solutions tailored to meet the needs of Nigeria’s underserved markets, as well as a significant push toward digital accessibility and customer empowerment.

Larbi-Tieku, “Mrs Omo’s legacy is deeply rooted in innovation, resilience, and service to our customers.

“She has laid a solid foundation, and we are confident that Mr Nelson Akerele will build on that legacy to take us into our next chapter.

“Nelson Akerele is a proven leader who understands both the opportunities and challenges of the Nigerian insurance landscape.

“His forward-thinking mindset, strong executional ability, and people-centred approach make him the right person to steer Enterprise Life Nigeria into a future defined by innovation, growth, and customer trust.”

Akerele brings over two decades of experience in financial services, with a reputation for driving strategic growth, business development, and operational excellence.

Speaking on his appointment, Akerele said, “I am honoured to lead Enterprise Life Nigeria at this exciting time.

“I look forward to building on the incredible work done by Mrs Omo and the team, and to working closely with our stakeholders to make insurance more accessible, inclusive, and impactful for all Nigerians.”

GESA 2025 Unveiled: Lagos Set to Host Global Leaders

By Adewale Owoade

The prestigious Global Excellence Summit & Awards (GESA) 2025 was officially launched at a press conference in Lagos.

The two-day event is scheduled for May 23rd and 24th, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

GESA 2025 is organised in partnership with prominent organisations, including the African Union Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly,  the International Society of Diplomats, the African Chapter Of the United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC AFRICA),

The Nigeria-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Inc., GESA 2025 aims to spotlight diplomatic brilliance, investment opportunities, innovation, and leadership across Africa and the diaspora.

The Convener, Amb. Dr. Fatoumatta Gaye, emphasised the importance of GESA 2025 as “a celebration of excellence and a platform for collaboration, continental progress, and meaningful partnerships across diplomacy, business, and governance.”

The summit’s theme is “Global Excellence in Diplomacy & Leadership: Africa’s Path to Prosperity.”

The event will feature keynote speakers, awardees, and dignitaries including: Sen. Adeyemi Raphael Adaramodu, Senate Spokesperson and Chair, Senate Committee on Youths & Community Engagement, Sen. Prince Ned Nwoko, Senator Representing Delta North.

Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Justice Mainasara Ibrahim Kogo Umar, Chairman, Code of Conduct Tribunal, H.E. George Muhali Imbuwa, Zambian High Commissioner to Nigeria.

H.E. Mohamadou Musa Njie, Gambian High Commissioner to Nigeria, and several captains of industry, development partners, ambassadors, governors, and policy influencers

Day 1 (May 23rd): Global Diplomacy & Business Summit, featuring panel sessions, deal-making forums, and bilateral engagements.

Day 2 (May 24th): Global Excellence Awards & Gala Night, celebrating global change-makers with networking, entertainment, and recognitions.

Interested individuals can visit (www.gesawards.com/nomination-participation) for participation, tickets, and reservations.

By Taiye Olayemi

Shareholders of the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) have expressed satisfaction with the company’s impressive financial performance and the declaration of a N1.76 dividend payment for the 2024 financial year.

The shareholders expressed their satisfaction during the company’s 31st Annual General Meeting in Lagos, where the 2024 financial report was presented.

The shareholders commended the company’s management team for their dedication to driving growth and increasing returns on investment.

Mr Boniface Okezie, Chairman of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, described the company’s financial result as excellent despite the economic headwinds.

Okezie tasked the CSCS on extending its operations to other African countries, considering its status as the biggest security depository registrar in West Africa.

He also commended the CSCS for being able to improve on curtailing fraud and forgery within the Nigerian Exchange Ltd.

He advised on reducing costs, particularly those related to expenses incurred by the board.

Also, Mrs Adetutu Shiyanbola, President of the Highly Favoured Shareholders Association of Nigeria, lauded the company’s 2024 financial performance.

She noted that CSCS’s impressive performance, marked by a 44 per cent growth in the company’s operating income, a 24 per cent rise in its profit before tax, a 37 per cent increase in gross earnings, and a 22 per cent growth in total assets, showcased the company’s significant responsibility and stewardship.

She encouraged the company to further enhance its gender balance policy, promoting greater diversity and inclusion within the organisation.

A member of the Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mrs Juliet Mbaka, commended the CSCS for the dividend paid and urged the company to look toward improving it in the current year.

Mbaka also urged the management of the company to consider giving some bonus to its shareholders.

Responding, Mr Temi Popoola, Chairman of the Board of Directors for CSCS, said the board would look critically into increasing dividends in the coming years.

He said one of the biggest projects the board was working on had to do with expanding the reach of the CSCS.

He explained that the CSCS is also working on embracing the African Exchange Linkage Programme as a way to extend its operations.

He said, “We are also taking intentional steps toward gender balance, embracing women with the right character and expertise on the board.”

Also, Alhaji Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Managing Director of CSCS, attributed the high cost of operation of the company to inflation, adding that the company continues to work on optimising costs.

He said the CSCS had achieved remarkable growth in combating cybercrime as it continues to invest hugely in cybersecurity infrastructure.

“We are scaling up our cybersecurity infrastructure, and this is one of the reasons we are incurring more costs. We are building KPIs and engaging Artificial Intelligence.

“Also, for our Corporate Social Responsibility, we are being strategic to embrace initiatives that, in turn, build our business,” he said.

By Taiye Olayemi

The African Insurers Organisation (AIO) is deepening collaboration with Nigeria’s insurance market while pledging greater value for insurance companies in its member countries.

AIO Secretary General, Mr Jean Baptiste, made this known during an official visit to Nigeria, accompanied by the AIO’s Communications and Public Relations Officer, Mr Charles Moki.

The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) hosted the AIO delegation in Lagos from May 5 to 7.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit began with a meeting between AIO team and the NIA Chairman, Mr Kunle Ahmed.

Earlier on Monday, NIA Director-General, Mrs Bola Odukale, led the delegation, followed by a meeting with CEOs of AIO member firms in Nigeria.

This followed with the team engaging with other industry arms on Tuesday. A closing dinner was hosted on Wednesday by NIA for key sector leaders and AIO officials.

Baptiste praised the Nigerian insurance market’s growth, stating that Nigerians have led the AIO for over 13 consecutive years.

He said, “This shows strong system support and a deep connection with the organisation.

“Nigeria consistently sends the largest delegation to AIO events. We’re here to listen and improve our service delivery.”

Baptiste expressed confidence in Nigeria’s insurance potential, highlighting the market’s resilience and progress in recent years.

He said with appropriate backing, Nigeria’s insurance sector could significantly shape Africa’s economic future.

He also highlighted the AIO’s progress in securing recognition from the AfCFTA Secretariat as the industry’s official voice.

NAN reports that AIO is conducting a regulatory harmonisation study across Africa with the UNDP, funded by Africa Reinsurance Corporation.

According to Baptiste, this initiative could allow insurers licensed in one country to operate across borders without new approvals.

He highlighted the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), developed by Afreximbank, as a key opportunity for insurers.

He encouraged stakeholders to attend the AIO General Assembly later this month, focused on Africa’s debt and insurance impact.

He said, “This theme is highly relevant to Nigeria. Insurers must be present where Africa’s financial future is debated.”

Speaking for Nigerian companies, NIA Chairman, Ahmed, welcomed the visit and the AIO’s plans to increase member benefits.

He pledged continued Nigerian support for the AIO’s goals and broader collaboration across the industry.

Ahmed urged AIO to assist Nigeria in developing a mortality table, actuarial talent, and fully exploring AfCFTA opportunities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Taiye Olayemi

In celebration of Women’s Month, AXA Mansard Investments Ltd., has expressed commitment to continue to empower women financially in the country.

The company said this at its third edition of its flagship webinar series, ‘Achieve Much More’, held virtually.

This special Women’s Day edition, themed “Women’s Wealth: How to Start from Where You Are”, was designed to equip Nigerian women with practical knowledge and tools for achieving financial security regardless of their life stage or income level.

The virtual session featured seasoned financial advisor and Chief Executive Officer of MoneyStart, Mrs Ibi Ibru, as the guest speaker.

A respected content creator and influencer in the personal finance space, shared actionable strategies for saving, diversifying income, and getting started with investing—even with minimal capital.

Throughout the session, participants learned how to plan and adjust their finances across different life phases – singlehood, relationships, marriage, and parenting.

The session demystified a range of investment vehicles, from traditional savings to beginner-friendly options in the Nigerian financial landscape, helping women identify how to take control of their journeys towards financial freedom.

Speaking about the initiative, Mrs Adebola Surakat, Chief Marketing Officer of AXA Mansard Investments, emphasised the company’s dedication to fostering a financially literate population

She said, “At AXA Mansard Investments, we strongly believe that financial education is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.

“Empowering women with financial knowledge not only transforms individual lives but strengthens families, communities, and the broader economy.

“This webinar reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring all Nigerians, regardless of gender, income, or background, have access to the tools they need to make informed financial decisions.

“The ‘Achieve Much More’ webinar series is part of AXA Mansard Investments’ broader efforts to provide accessible financial education through interactive sessions, expert-led discussions, and simplified investment tools tailored to everyday Nigerians.

“As 2025 progresses, AXA Mansard Investments remains dedicated to its mission of advancing financial literacy and supporting Nigerians on their journey to financial independence.

“By placing even greater emphasis on educating the public about smart money habits, we aim to empower more Nigerians to take charge of their financial future.”