Unity Bank Boosts Entrepreneurship Development Initiative

 Unity Bank Boosts Entrepreneurship Development Initiative

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering startup capital and amplifying support for emerging young entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Unity Bank Plc has recently announced a significant increase in the prize money allocated to winners of its esteemed Entrepreneurship Development Initiative, known as the Corpreneurship Challenge. This initiative has been pivotal in fostering entrepreneurial growth within the country.

The revised prize structure now offers a substantial total prize money of 16 million Naira per stream. Winners of the business pitch competition will now receive enhanced grants, with the first, second, and third place winners securing N800,000, N500,000, and N300,000 respectively. This noteworthy adjustment represents a significant boost compared to previous editions, underscoring Unity Bank's unwavering commitment to nurturing and empowering aspiring business leaders.

Launched in 2019, the Corpreneurship Challenge initiative initially piloted in four states, including Lagos, Edo, Ogun, and Abuja. Since then, it has expanded its footprint to encompass ten states by 2020. This expansion has been made possible through a strategic partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program.

The cornerstone of the Corpreneurship Challenge is the business pitch presentation, providing participants with a platform to showcase their innovative business concepts and vie for coveted business grants. The recently concluded edition for the 2024 NYSC Batch A, Stream 1 witnessed the emergence of 30 winners from diverse sectors such as poultry farming, fashion, and pastries, among others. These winners exhibited exceptional entrepreneurial acumen during the rigorous business pitch sessions conducted across ten NYSC Orientation Camps situated in various states including Rivers, Delta, Anambra, Abia, Oyo, Ogun, Kebbi, Niger, Sokoto, and Zamfara.

At the Delta State NYSC Orientation Camp, Folorunsho Kolade emerged as the overall winner with a poultry farming business plan, clinching the grand prize of N800,000. Similarly, at the Nonwa Gbam Tai camp in Rivers State, Dan Betobong Samuel's food production business plan secured the top spot, earning him the same grand prize. Other notable winners included Samuel Ayodotun J. and Udoji Chibuike Peter, who impressed the adjudicators with their innovative business concepts in footwear ventures.

Mrs. Adenike Ambimbola, the Divisional Head of Retail and SME Banking at Unity Bank, commended the participating Corps Members for their ingenuity and pledged the bank's unwavering support for the Entrepreneurship Development Scheme. She emphasized Unity Bank's dedication to fostering youth empowerment and driving positive economic change through strategic interventions and financial assistance.

Dr. Opeyemi Ojesina, Head of SME Banking at Unity Bank, expressed delight at the growing prominence of the Corpreneurship Challenge as a premier business incubation platform and catalyst for entrepreneurship development in Nigeria. He highlighted the program's innovative approach, which combines financial backing, mentorship, and skill development to nurture aspiring entrepreneurs towards success.

Unity Bank's sustained investment in the Corpreneurship Challenge has yielded remarkable results, with over 369 winners produced since its inception in 2019. The bank's commitment to youth empowerment was further underscored when it was honored with the prestigious "Icon of Youth Empowerment" award by the NYSC leadership in 2021, in recognition of the initiative's impactful contributions to society.

The Corpreneurship Challenge continues to attract widespread interest among NYSC corps members, with each edition witnessing a surge in applications and active participation. Unity Bank remains resolute in its mission to empower the next generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs, driving innovation, job creation, and economic prosperity across the nation.

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Fidelity Bank Extends CEO's Contract: Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe to Lead Till 2026

Fidelity Bank Plc has recently made a significant decision regarding the tenure of Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, extending her role as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (GMD/CEO) from 2024 to 2026. This announcement, conveyed through a notice to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), signifies the board's deep trust in Onyeali-Ikpe's capabilities and highlights her exceptional performance since assuming office on January 1, 2021.

The official confirmation of this decision came during the board meeting convened on February 12, 2024, as attested by Ezinwa Unuigboje, the Company Secretary. This extension of tenure is in line with Fidelity Bank's strategic objectives and serves as a recognition of Onyeali-Ikpe's significant contributions to the bank's growth and transformation, particularly evident throughout her tenure.

Drawing on her extensive experience spanning over three decades in the banking sector, Onyeali-Ikpe has held key positions in renowned institutions such as Standard Chartered Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, and Enterprise Bank Plc. Since joining Fidelity Bank's board in 2015, she has played a pivotal role in reshaping the bank's operations, notably within the Lagos and Southwest Directorate.

Under her leadership, Fidelity Bank has witnessed commendable financial performance over the past five years, showcasing her unwavering commitment to excellence and strategic acumen. Notably, her academic background from esteemed institutions like the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Kings College London, coupled with professional certifications from prestigious business schools globally, further validates her expertise.

This announcement reaffirms Fidelity Bank's dedication to maintaining continuity and stability, positioning the institution for sustained growth and expansion under Onyeali-Ikpe's adept leadership. With her extended tenure, stakeholders are optimistic about the bank's future trajectory, anticipating continued progress and the successful execution of strategic initiatives, including international expansion efforts.

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Firstbank rewards customers with N170 Million worth of cash prizes in its Win Big Promo

 FirstBank, Nigeria’s premier financial institution and a leading provider of financial inclusion services, has introduced the Win Big promo to express appreciation and reward its esteemed customers. The four-month promotion, initiated on October 23, 2023, and scheduled until February 23, 2023, promises a total cash reward of N170 million to numerous new and existing customers.

Throughout the promo's duration, 1,240 customers—both new and existing—will be gratified with N100,000 each, with monthly draws selecting 310 winners. Customers reactivating dormant accounts have the chance to win free airtime, as 10,000 customers monthly will receive this reward for reactivating their accounts.

The grand finale draw will see six customers winning N1 million each. The promo is open to both new and existing savings and current account customers. To open a FirstBank account, customers can use the USSD code *894*0#, visit the bank’s website, or go to a nearby branch.

To qualify for the N100,000 monthly draw, customers need to deposit and maintain a minimum of N5,000 monthly and transact at least five times on the bank's digital channels. Customers eligible for the N1 million prize must maintain a deposit of N50,000 monthly for four consecutive months or uphold a minimum deposit of N200,000 for four months, coupled with a minimum of five transactions on the digital channels.

Reactivating dormant accounts is also rewarding. The first 10,000 customers depositing N1,000 and transacting on the bank’s digital channels will receive free airtime. Reactivated account holders can also participate in the monthly draw and the grand finale draw by fulfilling specified criteria.

To reactivate an account, customers can use the USSD code *894*7# or visit a FirstBank branch. Ms. Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, expressed excitement about the promo, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing the banking experience through various digital services.

The promo aligns with FirstBank's tradition of providing opportunities and platforms for a memorable homecoming experience. Customers are encouraged to actively participate by following the bank’s social media handles for updates: Facebook - First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Instagram - @firstbanknigeria, and X (formerly Twitter) - @FirstBankngr.

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Ecobank Nigeria Launches MySME Growth Series ....to Empower Over One Million SMEs

 

RALD NEWS MEDIA brings you the latest development from Ecobank Nigeria, a key player in the pan-African banking sector. In an effort to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the bank has unveiled a groundbreaking training initiative called MySME Growth Series. This ambitious program aims to impact over 1 million SME operators throughout Nigeria in 2024.

Osahon Akpata, Head of SME & Partnerships at Ecobank Nigeria, highlighted the program's significance, aligning it with the bank's dedication to fostering the success of SMEs across diverse sectors. He emphasized the pivotal role SMEs play in Nigeria's economy, contributing nearly 50% to the GDP and accounting for 90% of job opportunities. In pursuit of growth, Ecobank is unwavering in its commitment to the prosperity of SMEs.

The inaugural phase, named MySME Growth series, will kick off with a series of virtual bootcamps led by expert facilitators. The overall theme, "Scaling up your SME in 2024," reflects the forward-looking nature of the initiative. The first weekly webinar, scheduled for Thursday, February 1, will focus on 'Growing your business online,' with Ijeoma Arum, Chief Commercial Officer of Jumia Nigeria, serving as the distinguished facilitator. This insightful webinar series is set to continue every Thursday throughout the year.

Mr. Akpata delved into the comprehensive coverage of the MySME Growth series, outlining key topics crucial for small businesses. These include accounting, credit, sales & marketing, taxation, and inventory management. Furthermore, Ecobank is gearing up to launch an SME Mentorship program, fostering collaboration between budding entrepreneurs and seasoned industry leaders.

The bank is not stopping there – it plans to arm SMEs with essential tools for business success, offering budget templates, scenario simulators, and links to government forms. The training will encompass resources for starting a business, covering aspects such as registration processes, industry statistics, and essential considerations for business operations. Ecobank's commitment extends to providing informative articles on diverse topics, including sales enhancement tips, advertising ideas, business management practices, case studies, and guides to leveraging technology.

In essence, Ecobank's MySME Growth Series stands as a beacon of support for SMEs, offering not only training and mentorship but also practical tools and resources crucial for navigating the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship. RALD NEWS MEDIA will keep you updated on the unfolding success stories and developments arising from this impactful initiative.

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Fidelity Bank Supports Temile Development Company To Boost Nigeria’s Gas Revenues

 In a comprehensive report by RALD NEWS MEDIA, it has been revealed that Temile Development Company Ltd., a prominent indigenous participant in the oil and gas industry, has recently achieved a significant milestone in Nigeria's domestic gas sector. The company has successfully commissioned a state-of-the-art 23,000 cubic meters Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Carrier, named "Alfred Temile 10." This achievement is not only a testament to Temile Development Company's prowess in the industry but also a noteworthy advancement for Nigeria's energy landscape.

The inauguration ceremony for the ultramodern LPG Carrier took place at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in Ulsan, South Korea, underscoring the global collaboration involved in such major undertakings. Fidelity Bank Plc, a distinguished Nigerian financial institution, played a crucial role in this venture by providing partial sponsorship for the project. This underscores the collaborative efforts between the private sector and the financial industry to foster advancements in vital sectors like energy.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, highlighting the significance of this achievement. Notable personalities present included Mallam Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC); Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc; Hon. Ekperikpe Luke Ekpo, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas); Ambassador Ferdinand Nwonye, Charge d'Affaires Ad Interim, Nigerian Embassy in South Korea; and Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

Mallam Mele Kyari commended the company for its remarkable achievement, acknowledging the global shift towards cleaner energy sources. He stated, "Today, clean energy is everything because the whole world is transitioning to cleaner fuel. In our country, biomass is the major source of energy, and I know that the efforts we are making collectively and with this effort by Temile Group will enhance our ability to produce cleaner energy."

Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the commissioned vessel in supporting Nigeria's commitment to cleaner energy sources. She noted, "This commissioning is a landmark achievement for Nigeria as the vessel would further support the nation’s drive to utilize cleaner energy sources, especially as the world transitions to environmentally friendly energy options."

Fidelity Bank Plc's continued support for such projects was highlighted during the event. This marks the second instance of the bank providing partial financing for a venture of this nature, showcasing its commitment to fostering growth in the energy sector.

Mr. Alfred Temile, the CEO of Temile Development Company, expressed his elation and sincere gratitude for the substantial support and cooperation received from NNPC Ltd. and other stakeholders throughout the project. This accomplishment not only reflects the success of a private entity but also signifies collaborative efforts towards sustainable and cleaner energy solutions in Nigeria.

In conclusion, RALD NEWS MEDIA's detailed coverage brings to light the significance of Temile Development Company's achievement, emphasizing the collaborative efforts and financial support from entities like Fidelity Bank Plc. This commissioning not only marks a milestone for the company but also contributes to Nigeria's broader goals in advancing its domestic gas industry and promoting cleaner energy alternatives.

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IMO APC SET TO EMBARK ON GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA'S SECOND TERM INAUGURATION

IMMERSIVE COVERAGE: IMO APC SET TO EMBARK ON GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA'S SECOND TERM INAUGURATION

Imo State, January 14, 2024

In a groundbreaking announcement, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State, under the leadership of Hon. MacDonald Ebere, PhD, enthusiastically extends a warm welcome to dignitaries, party enthusiasts, and well-wishers ahead of the highly anticipated second-term swearing-in ceremony of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, scheduled for Monday, January 15, 2024. This event not only signifies the continuity of democratic ideals but also stands as a testament to the people's recognition of Senator Hope Uzodimma's steadfast commitment to Imo State's progress and prosperity.

The forthcoming ceremony is set to host distinguished figures, including President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, GCFR, APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR, and the entire National Working Committee. Other notable attendees will include Senate President Senator Godswil Akpabio, National Assembly members, state governors, industry leaders, traditional rulers, and clergy, emphasizing the significance of Governor Hope Uzodimma's leadership on the national stage.

As we approach this momentous occasion, we reflect on the transformative governance, infrastructure development, and social welfare initiatives that characterized Governor Hope Uzodimma's first term. The APC, Imo State, extends gratitude to the people for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared commitment in achieving sustained progress and development.

This event symbolizes a significant opportunity for the APC to reiterate its dedication to transparency, accountability, and service to the people. The party encourages active citizen participation in the democratic process, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the growth and prosperity of Imo State.

In conclusion, the APC, Imo State, renews best wishes to His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma and his Deputy, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, on the commencement of their second term. As the state embarks on this renewed chapter, prayers are extended for even greater achievements, unity among the people, and a shared vision for a prosperous Imo State.

APC.....A Governor Chosen by Providence!

Signed

CAJETAN DUKE, JP

State Publicity Secretary

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Unity Bank Customer Wins N1m in CashToken Rewards Promo

From Left: Eghomwanre Iyamu, Head, e-Business; Aisha Lawan Gana, Regional Manager, Kano North; Mahmoud Ibrahim, Regional Manager, Kano South; Prize Winner, Musa Dayyabu; Patricia Irhegbe, e-Business Sales, North West; and Aminu Moyi, Zonal Head, North West 1 during the official cheque presentation to the winner in Kano recently. 

A Unity Bank customer, Mr. Musa Dayyabu, has emerged winner of One Million Naira in the ongoing cash reward Promo by Unity Bank Plc and CashToken Rewards Africa. CashToken Rewards Africa is a Cash-Reward-as-a-Service company that rewards customers for patronage and loyalty.

From Left: Eghomwanre Iyamu, Head, e-Business; Aisha Lawan Gana, Prize Winner, Musa Dayyabu; and Aminu Moyi, Zonal Head, North West 1 during the official cheque presentation to the winner in Kano recently. 

Mr. Dayyabu, a customer of the Bank from Bello Road Branch, Kano, won the cash prize after he activated his Unity Bank Verve card and having carried out transactions, received CashTokens and qualified for the weekly national consumer draw. It was in this draw, he emerged as the lucky winner of One Million Naira cash.  

The Unity Bank and CashToken Rewards promo launched in November 2023, is a cash reward program that offers guaranteed instant cash and a life-changing opportunity designed to reward loyal customers of the Bank who onboard and transact on any of the Bank’s electronic payment platforms, including the Unifi mobile banking application, the *7799# USSD platform. 

The program, which will run until the end of February is open to all customers. Each card transaction earns customers CashTokens, which qualifies the customer to enter into the weekly national consumer draw where they stand a chance to win from N5K -N100M Naira.

The winner, Mr. Musa Dayyabu poses with his cheque after presentation. 

Presenting the cheque to the winner in Kano on Tuesday, Unity Bank’s Head of E-Business, Eghomware Iyamu congratulated the winner and reiterated the Bank’s commitment to create a sustainable loyalty platform for customer engagement and satisfaction.

Iyamu said, “We celebrate our customers for their loyalty to the Unity Bank and for being part of the ongoing Unity Bank and CashToken Rewards promo. The cash prize being presented today is just the beginning, we, therefore, look forward to having more winners from this programme. Let more and more people get on the Unity Bank's digital banking, transact on the different platforms and they will equally be rewarded.”

He added, “The collaboration between Unity Bank and CashToken Rewards Africa will continue to create an unmatched customer experience. By tapping into CashToken Reward's exceptional reward platform, Unity Bank customers can continue to anticipate generous cash rewards, transforming every interaction with the bank into a truly rewarding experience.”

Also commenting on the development, the Chief Business Development officer for CashToken Rewards Africa Africa, Simi Adeoye commended the customers of Unity Bank for the impressive number of onboarding and transactions in the build-up to the weekly draw held in the campaign period, adding that "with opportunities to win life-changing cash of up to N100M, the assurances of the transparent process will constantly be upheld to spread the benefits of the reward scheme to deserving customers".

"The prospects of having more winners in the ongoing exercise is keeping the steam in the collaboration between the Bank and CashToken Rewards Africa," Simi quips.

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