Category: International News

  • NIHOTOUR Begins Hospitality Governance Overhaul With National Committee

    NIHOTOUR Begins Hospitality Governance Overhaul With National Committee

    The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has inaugurated a National Committee on Industry Professional Bodies Recognition and Governance as part of a far-reaching reform programme aimed at strengthening professionalism, institutional governance and stakeholder collaboration across Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.

    The committee was inaugurated at the Institute’s headquarters in Abuja by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NIHOTOUR, Aare Abisoye Fagade, who described the initiative as a strategic milestone in building a more credible, accountable and globally competitive hospitality sector.

    Fagade said the committee would develop a comprehensive national framework for the recognition, regulation and collaboration of professional bodies operating within the hospitality, tourism, travel and allied sectors.

    He noted that the industry is home to numerous professional associations, making it necessary to establish a unified governance framework capable of promoting transparency, professionalism, ethical conduct and institutional accountability.

    According to him, stronger institutions remain the foundation of every successful profession, stressing that the committee has been entrusted with the responsibility of laying a credible governance structure that will command national acceptance and international respect.

    The NIHOTOUR boss explained that the assignment aligns with the provisions of the NIHOTOUR Establishment Act, 2022, which empowers the Institute to regulate standards, promote professional development and strengthen institutional capacity within Nigeria’s tourism ecosystem.

    He said the committee has been given three months to submit practical recommendations that will shape the future governance architecture of professional bodies in the sector.

    Its terms of reference include developing objective criteria for recognising professional associations, recommending governance and accountability standards, proposing ethical guidelines, strengthening collaboration with government institutions and eliminating areas of institutional overlap.

    The committee is also expected to recommend strategies for improving coordination among industry organisations while preserving their individual mandates and enhancing investor confidence and global competitiveness.

    Fagade emphasised that the initiative is not designed to restrict the activities of legitimate professional organisations but to establish standards that promote excellence, integrity and public trust across the industry.

    He urged members of the committee to discharge their responsibilities with fairness, professionalism and patriotism, adding that their recommendations must be inclusive, legally sound and capable of delivering lasting institutional reforms.

    Chairman of the committee, Professor Wasiu A. Babalola, Esq., thanked the NIHOTOUR management for the confidence reposed in the members and pledged that the assignment would be carried out with integrity, objectivity and transparency.

    Babalola said the committee would engage extensively with practitioners, regulators, investors, academics and professional associations to ensure its recommendations reflect global best practices while addressing Nigeria’s unique industry realities.

    The committee comprises respected professionals representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, including Dr. Muhammad Nasir Yusuf, Suleiman A. Ahmad, Dr. Elizabeth Babagale, Mr. Aniyikaye Adebayo Samuel, Mr. Bashir Abiodun Bello, Ms. Ajibola Olubiyi and Mrs. Uloma Egbuona, bringing together broad regional representation and industry expertise.

    The inauguration forms part of NIHOTOUR’s broader reform agenda to deepen professional standards, improve institutional governance, enhance quality assurance and position Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry as a stronger driver of economic diversification, investment, employment generation and sustainable national development under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

  • Favour Comprehensive College Clinches Afeni 2026 Inter School Football Title

    Favour Comprehensive College Clinches Afeni 2026 Inter School Football Title

    The inaugural Afeni Inter-Secondary School Football Tournament officially came to a thrilling conclusion on 24 July, 2026, with Favour Comprehensive College emerging as the champion of the 2026 edition following a standout performance in the finale match

    According to a press statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, ANIPR, on July 25, 2026, ​the tournament, sponsored by Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller Afeni in partnership with the Jonnyyeko College of Health Science and Technology, brought together 12 secondary school teams from across the border region. Designed as a key Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the competition utilized the power of sports to engage local youths productively, foster community unity, and combat illicit border smuggling.

    At the closing ceremony, the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, Deputy Compt Afeni emphasized that the program leverages football to mentor students, advocate for their growth, and unlock their potential beyond regional boundaries.

    ​Favour Comprehensive College claimed the top spot after navigating through a competitive field of 12 secondary schools.
    ​
    Over two weeks of competition (July 13–24, 2026), hundreds of students were engaged as players, student officials, and spectators.
    ​
    Educational authorities, youth associations, and border community leaders rallied behind the initiative to promote education and steer young individuals away from dangerous smuggling activities.

    Grand prizes, including cash awards, educational materials, and sports gear, were presented to the champions, runners-up, and outstanding individual performers.

    ​The successful completion of the 2026 tournament marks a major milestone for youth development and sports diplomacy in the Idiroko border area, setting the stage for future annual editions.

    Delivering the high caliber of play expected from the tournaments, the competition crowned its standout performers. Okanlawon Al-Amin of S.S. International School finished as the highest goal scorer with four goals, Olawale Saoban of Favour Comprehensive College won Best Goalkeeper, and Holy Childhood Academy’s Rigobert emerged as the tournament’s Best Player
    ​
    The Afeni Inter-Secondary School Football Tournament is a grassroots sports initiative established in Idiroko, Ogun State. It aims to nurture young athletic talent, promote education, and leverage sports as a tool for crime prevention and social transformation among youth along the border corridor.

  • Boat Safety Gets Major Boost as NIWA, NSIB Strengthen Partnership

    Boat Safety Gets Major Boost as NIWA, NSIB Strengthen Partnership

    The National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, says it will deepen collaboration with the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, to improve safety and reduce boat accidents across the country’s inland waterways.

    The Acting Managing Director of NIWA, *Malam Umar Yusuf Girei*, gave the assurance on Tuesday when he received the Director General of NSIB, *Captain Alex Sabundu Badeh Jnr*, on a courtesy visit at the NIWA Headquarters in Lokoja, Kogi State.

    Girei said the partnership would focus on collaboration, information sharing and joint operations to tackle the persistent challenge of boat mishaps.

    According to him, effective cooperation among relevant stakeholders is critical to ensuring safer navigation and the protection of lives and property on Nigeria’s waterways.

    “NIWA is dedicated to strengthening partnerships with sister agencies to improve safety standards and enforce regulations for safer water transportation in Nigeria,” he stated.

    The Acting MD further assured the NSIB delegation of NIWA’s readiness to provide relevant information, technical expertise and operational support. This, he said, will facilitate timely investigations into marine incidents and help develop preventive measures to reduce future occurrences.

    Earlier, the NSIB Director General, Captain Badeh, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between both agencies and exploring areas of collaboration in accident investigation, data sharing and safety standards.

  • Ghana Eyes Surge in Nigerian Visitors After NANTA Safari Valley Retreat

    Ghana Eyes Surge in Nigerian Visitors After NANTA Safari Valley Retreat

    Ghana has restated its commitment to deepening tourism and cultural relations with Nigeria, with the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, *Mr. Yusif Jajah*, describing Nigeria as a critical partner in growing visitor numbers to Ghana.

    The Minister spoke on Tuesday night at an executive dinner held at *Safari Valley Resort, Adukrom*, in honour of the National Executive Council of the *National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, NANTA*. The Nigerian travel trade body was in Ghana for a retreat and familiarisation tour of *Safari World*, one of Ghana’s leading leisure, tourism and entertainment brands.

    *NIGERIA DRIVES GHANA’S TOURISM NUMBERS*
    Mr. Jajah told the gathering that Nigeria continues to rank among the top countries feeding tourists into Ghana.

    “This executive dinner is an important platform for strengthening collaboration between our government, tourism stakeholders, and travel trade partners. Nigeria, our big brothers, remains one of Ghana’s most important tourism markets,” he said.

    Quoting from Ghana’s 2025 Tourism Report, the Deputy Minister disclosed that the country recorded *over 1.3 million international arrivals in 2025*.
    “In other words, out of that 1.3 million, America is the first international arrival, and our big brother Nigeria is the second largest with over *176,000 international arrivals from Nigeria* in the year 2025.

    “We appreciate that, but despite this number, we know it’s more than this number, but at least, it’s an indication about over 176,000 in the year 2025 international arrivals from Nigeria to Ghana. Thank you. We will be more than happy to also hear our Ghanaians who always visit Nigeria, so that we can synergise. This exemplifies a strong people-to-people connection between our countries.”

    *NANTA MARKS 50 YEARS, EYES PAN-AFRICAN GROWTH*
    In his remarks, NANTA President Yinka Folami PHD, stated that the association recently celebrated its *50 years* of existence with a membership strength of *over 4,000* across Nigeria.

    He said the bond between Ghana and Nigeria in tourism has always been strong and must be sustained.
    “One undeniable fact is that Ghana and Nigeria have always been on the positive side of Pan-Africanism. Every journey between Ghana and Nigeria will strengthen Pan-Africa,” Folami further stated.

    He added: “When I was in school, my geography teacher, a Ghanaian, would always tell us how Africa was partitioned. And that those maps are for administrative convenience. We are one continent, and it will be a sin for any Nigerian or African not to support or market Safari World.”

    Nanta president also called on Ghanaian tourism operators to reciprocate by marketing Nigeria as a destination to their clients.

    *SAFARI WORLD’S 15-YEAR DREAM MATERIALISES*
    The founder and Chief Executive of Safari World, *Mr. Samuel Afari, a forest scientist and conservationist said the visit by NANTA represented a major boost for regional cooperation in West Africa.

    He noted that hosting the Nigerian delegation was the fulfillment of a *15-year vision* to build a strong partnership between his company and the Nigerian travel market.

    Commending the investment,

    Folami described Mr. Afari’s work as extraordinary.
    “And what you have built is breath-taking. And I want to thank you. So, because we now know, I’m putting this challenge to my colleagues. We must convert this to commercial opportunities for our members.”

    To close the evening, NANTA presented certificates of appreciation to both the Deputy Minister and Mr. Samuel Afari in recognition of their roles in promoting Nigeria-Ghana tourism relations.

    The familiarisation visit is expected to translate into new tour packages that will bring more Nigerian travelers to Safari World’s destinations in Accra, Ada and Dawu.

  • Welcome To More: What Can You Really Do with 130GB? Probably More Than You Think

    Welcome To More: What Can You Really Do with 130GB? Probably More Than You Think

    When people hear 130GB, the first question that usually comes to mind is:
    “Is that enough?”
    The better question might be:
    “What can 130GB actually do?”
    The answer is simple—quite a lot.
    Whether you’re working, studying, running a business or simply relaxing after a long day, 130GB gives you the freedom to enjoy the internet the way it was meant to be enjoyed—without constantly worrying that every click is draining your data.
    Let’s take a look.

    Your Home Office Is Covered
    Working from home has become part of everyday life for many Nigerians.
    Video meetings.
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    A stable broadband connection isn’t just convenient anymore—it’s essential.
    With 130GB, you can stay productive throughout the month while focusing on your work instead of your remaining data balance.

    Learn Without Limits
    Students today rely heavily on the internet.
    Online lectures.
    Virtual classrooms.
    Assignments.
    Research projects.
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    Whether you’re in secondary school, university or learning a new professional skill, dependable internet helps you keep moving forward.

    Stream the Entertainment You Love
    Movie night?
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    Music playlists while you work?
    Streaming has become part of everyday life.
    With a generous data allowance, you can spend less time worrying about buffering or rationing your usage and more time enjoying the moments that matter.

    Power Your Business
    Thousands of Nigerian entrepreneurs now run their businesses online.
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    Reliable internet has become one of the most important business tools—and staying connected means staying competitive.

    Keep the Whole Family Connected
    Today’s homes rarely have just one connected device.
    Parents are working.
    Children are learning.
    Someone is streaming.
    Someone else is on a video call.
    Another person is browsing social media.
    A Smile Router helps bring everyone together on one reliable broadband connection, making it easier for the household to stay productive and entertained at the same time.

    And If You Finish Your 130GB Early…
    Here’s where Smile does something different.
    Life isn’t always predictable.
    Some months are busier than others.
    Perhaps you’re working on a major project.
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    Perhaps you’ve been streaming more than usual.
    Whatever the reason, if you use up your 130GB before your 30-day validity ends, Smile keeps you connected by giving you FREE 3GB of data every day until the end of your subscription period.
    That means your connection doesn’t suddenly come to a halt just because you’ve reached your initial allocation.
    It’s another way Smile is helping customers stay connected when they need it most.

    More Than Just Data. It’s Peace of Mind.
    The best internet experience isn’t measured only by gigabytes.
    It’s measured by confidence.
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    For ₦30,000, you’ll receive a Smile Router, 130GB valid for 30 days, and if you finish your 130GB before the month ends, you’ll continue enjoying FREE 3GB every day until your validity expires.
    You’ll also receive a 50% bonus on every Smile MIDI recharge for the next six months, giving you even more value as you continue your journey with Smile.
    Your Next Connection Could Be Your Best One Yet
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  • Idiroko Road Was Never Under Smugglers Control Says Ogun Customs

    Idiroko Road Was Never Under Smugglers Control Says Ogun Customs

    The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed reports alleging that smugglers barricaded the Idiroko–Sango Ota road in Ogun State, describing the claims as false and a misrepresentation of an unfortunate traffic incident.

    According to information made available to our correspondent, the traffic gridlock was caused by an accident involving a commercial trailer which broke down after falling into a badly failed section of the Atan Road, leading to a temporary obstruction of vehicular movement

    The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed reports alleging that smugglers barricaded the Idiroko–Sango Ota road in Ogun State, describing the claims as false and a misrepresentation of an unfortunate traffic incident.

    According to information made available to our correspondent, the traffic gridlock was caused by an accident involving a commercial trailer which broke down after falling into a badly failed section of the Atan Road, leading to a temporary obstruction of vehicular movement.

    The Command clarified that the vehicles trapped in the resulting congestion were legitimate commercial trucks conveying red palm oil to local markets and had no connection whatsoever with smuggling activities.

    The management through the Command Public Relations, Zakari Chado, a Deputy Superintendent of Customs explained that the sheer number of heavy-duty vehicles caught in the traffic mistakenly led some members of the public to conclude that smugglers had taken over the road, a claim the Command insists is entirely unfounded.

    “The reports that smugglers blocked the road are inaccurate. The disruption resulted from a road accident and poor road conditions. The vehicles involved were lawful commercial vehicles transporting red palm oil for legitimate trade,” Chado stated.

    The Command appealed to journalists, social media users and members of the public to exercise restraint and verify information before circulating reports capable of creating unnecessary panic or undermining public confidence in security agencies.

    Industry observers note that the allegation is inconsistent with the current security reality within the Ogun I Area Command, which has intensified anti-smuggling operations under the leadership of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.

    Since assuming office, Comptroller Afeni has sustained intelligence-driven surveillance, strengthened collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders, and maintained sustained pressure on economic saboteurs operating along the Ogun border corridors. These efforts have resulted in notable seizures of prohibited goods and reinforced the Command’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economy and territorial integrity.

    Maritime and border trade stakeholders have therefore urged the public to avoid spreading unverified claims that could diminish the achievements of security personnel or create a false impression of lawlessness in the border communities.

    They maintained that while the fight against smuggling remains a continuous responsibility, accurate reporting is equally essential to ensure that genuine operational successes are not overshadowed by misinformation.

    The Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining its anti-smuggling campaign while facilitating legitimate trade in line with the statutory mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.

  • Tourism Leaders Advocate Unified Governance to Boost Industry Competitiveness

    Tourism Leaders Advocate Unified Governance to Boost Industry Competitiveness

    Leading stakeholders in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry have endorsed a Hybrid Professional Governance Framework as a practical strategy for strengthening workforce development, improving regulation and boosting the sector’s global competitiveness.

    The recommendation emerged at the NIHOTOUR Stakeholder Engagement Forum held on July 15, 2026, where experts from academia, professional associations, government agencies, regulators and private sector organisations examined pathways for sustainable growth in the industry.

    Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare Abisoye Fagade, said building a globally competitive tourism workforce requires stronger collaboration among government institutions, universities, professional bodies and industry operators.

    Delivering the keynote address, Professor Wasiu Babalola, Professor of Hotel Management and Tourism at Atiba University, Oyo, legal practitioner and PhD candidate at the Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, presented a paper titled, Strategic Roles of Industry Associations and Professional Bodies in Workforce Registration, Certification, Licensing and Sustainable Human Capital Development.

    The presentation forms part of his doctoral research, Professional Recognition by Professional Practice: A Viable Alternative for Nigerian Tourism and Hospitality Professional Stability, which explores how statutory regulation and professional self governance can work together to strengthen the sector.

    Professor Babalola noted that while the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 marked a major milestone in the professionalisation of Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry, legislation alone cannot deliver long term institutional stability without active participation from recognised professional bodies.

    According to him, the industry continues to face fragmented regulation, overlapping institutional responsibilities, inconsistent certification standards, weak professional identity and inadequate workforce data, all of which require collaboration rather than institutional competition.

    Drawing lessons from the legal, medical, engineering, architecture and accounting professions, he explained that successful professional systems thrive where government regulators establish statutory standards while recognised professional bodies focus on ethics, competence development, continuing education and peer recognition.

    A major highlight of the presentation was the proposed Hybrid Professional Governance Structure under the Professional Recognition by Professional Practice framework, which seeks to balance statutory oversight with professional autonomy.

    Under the proposal, NIHOTOUR would retain responsibility for regulation, licensing, certification, national standards and workforce registration, while recognised professional bodies would oversee continuing professional development, ethical compliance, specialised training and practitioner engagement.

    The roadmap also recommends formal recognition of credible professional associations, clear delineation of practice areas, development of Standard Operating Procedures and operational manuals, competency based certification, a National Digital Tourism and Hospitality Workforce Register and stronger collaboration among government, academia and industry.

    Professor Babalola further explained that Section 4 of the NIHOTOUR Act 2022 already provides sufficient legal backing for strategic partnerships between the institute and professional bodies in areas such as training, certification, capacity building and other statutory responsibilities.

    Participants at the forum welcomed the proposal, describing it as a practical governance model capable of eliminating duplication of responsibilities, strengthening institutional cooperation and improving the quality of Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality workforce.

    The stakeholders also urged NIHOTOUR to sustain consultations with industry players to refine the framework and produce a governance model that enjoys broad acceptance across the tourism and hospitality sector.

    Closing his presentation, Professor Babalola said the future of professionalisation in Nigeria’s tourism industry depends on partnership rather than rivalry between regulators and professional bodies. He also commended the Faculty of Law, Lead City University, Ibadan, for providing the academic environment that enabled his doctoral research to contribute to national policy discussions and global best practices in tourism and hospitality development.

  • NANTA, Safari World Forge New Alliance to Strengthen Nigeria Ghana Tourism

    NANTA, Safari World Forge New Alliance to Strengthen Nigeria Ghana Tourism

    The National Executive Council of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies, NANTA, has arrived in Ghana for a 7-day retreat and familiarisation trip hosted by Safari World.

    Receiving the delegation at Safari World Homes in Accra, Chairman of the Safari World Group, Mr. Ernest Gyekye, expressed delight at the visit. He assured the NANTA executives of an unforgettable experience during their one-week stay.

    According to NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, the retreat and fam trip is a strategic move to build stronger partnerships and working relationships across Africa.

    “This mission is not a leisure trip,” Folami said. “It is a deliberate step to implement and expand our association’s marketing advocacy for Nigerian brands across borders.”

    “Nigeria and Ghana share history, culture, trade and people. The future of our tourism cannot be built in silos,” he added.
    “This retreat is about moving from policy to practice — creating real products, real partnerships, and real movement of travelers between Accra and Lagos.”

    During the visit, the NANTA excos will hold strategic B2B meetings with Ghanaian counterparts, visit key tourism sites under the Safari World brand, and participate in cultural exchange activities.

    The itinerary covers Safari World’s three flagship destinations:
    *Accra* – Safari Homes
    *Ada* – Aqua Safari riverfront experience, Safari Island Cruise, Safari Nautica, Safari Recreation & Sports
    *Dawu* – Safari Valley Eco Resort and Safari Eco Park

    Operating under the promise _“One World, Three Destinations, Over 20 Unique Experiences,”_ Safari World is using the visit to strengthen its presence in the Nigerian travel market while positioning Ghana as a leading destination for leisure, group travel, conferences, family holidays and premium tourism experiences.

    A major highlight will be the *Executive Dinner on 21st July at Safari Valley Eco Resort*, bringing together key tourism stakeholders with a shared vision of advancing Ghana’s tourism industry and deepening Nigeria-Ghana travel trade.

    The familiarisation visit is expected to equip NANTA’s leadership with first-hand knowledge of Safari World’s products, and to foster stronger travel packages and partnerships for Nigerian travelers.

  • Fidelity Bank Enhances Learning, Living Conditions for Children at Lagos Orphanage

    Fidelity Bank Enhances Learning, Living Conditions for Children at Lagos Orphanage

    Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to health and social welfare through a comprehensive intervention at Heritage Homes Orphanage in Anthony Village, Lagos.

    The initiative was executed under the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), Fidelity Bank’s flagship employee-led corporate social responsibility scheme which empowers staff to identify impactful community projects, raise funds towards their execution, and receive matching support from the Bank to execute the projects. The outreach was championed by the Bank’s Audacious Class of newly inducted employees and it addressed critical needs identified at the orphanage, including the replacement of damaged roofing and POP ceiling, fumigation of the facility, provision of essential food supplies, and payment of school fees for children.

    Speaking during the outreach, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, explained that the initiative reflects the Bank’s belief that meaningful impact is amplified when employees are empowered to support causes that matter to them and their immediate communities.

    “This is what the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme is about. It gives our employees the opportunity to contribute their time, resources and talents towards improving lives in the communities where we operate. The Audacious Class identified Heritage Homes Orphanage, assessed their most pressing needs and implemented three key interventions—Infrastructural renovation, food donation and payment of school fees,” he said.

    Nwagboh noted that the intervention demonstrates the kind of sustainable change the programme was designed to achieve, adding that the Bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that create lasting value in communities.

    “We are delighted to be a part of their journey. Today, these children have a secure roof over their heads, access to essential food supplies and the assurance that their education will continue. This is the kind of sustainable impact the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme was designed to achieve,” he added.

    Expressing appreciation on behalf of the orphanage, Irene Light, Assistant General Manager of Heritage Homes Orphanage, described the intervention as timely and transformative.

    “We sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank for this remarkable act of kindness. They completely renovated our roof, replaced the damaged POP ceiling, fumigated the home, provided food items and, most importantly, paid the school fees of some of our children. Their generosity has brought relief, comfort and renewed hope to everyone in this home,” she said.

    Light noted that the intervention would restore dignity to the facility, provide a safer and more conducive environment for the children, and significantly enhance their quality of life. She also offered prayers for the continued growth and success of the Bank, commending the institution for its commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international awards, including the 2025 Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Innovation Award for MSME support; Best Retail and SME Bank Award from Independent Newspapers; Best Bank for Export & Trade Finance and Most Innovative Bank of the Year at the 2025 BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; and Nigeria’s Best Private Bank at the 2025 Euromoney Awards.

    The Bank also received the inaugural Most Improved Commercial Bank of the Year award by Nairametrics, the SME Bank of the Year award by NewsDirect, and the Straight-Through Processing (STP) Excellence Award by Citi Group, in addition to recognition by Global Brands Magazine for Excellence in Community Empowerment.

  • NESCAFÉ Next Level Promo Rewards Over 41,000 Consumers, Supports Entrepreneurial Ambitions

    NESCAFÉ Next Level Promo Rewards Over 41,000 Consumers, Supports Entrepreneurial Ambitions

    NESCAFÉ, Nigeria’s leading coffee brand, has concluded the NESCAFÉ Next Level Promo, rewarding more than 41,000 consumers across the country through a nationwide campaign designed to celebrate consumer loyalty while supporting entrepreneurial ambition.

    Running from April to June 2026, the promotion invited consumers to purchase a promotional sachet of NESCAFÉ Original 3-in-1, uncover a unique code and enter for a chance to win airtime, cash prizes and entrepreneurial support. The promotion attracted over 240,000 entries and culminated in four Grand Winners receiving prizes to advance their entrepreneurial journeys.

    Reflecting the nationwide reach of the promotion, the four Grand Winners emerged from different parts of the country: Yusuf Najimdeen from Plateau State, Jennifer Sunday from Kaduna State, Nwojiji Chukwu Emeka from Ebonyi State, and Ani Ikechukwu Olalanya from Lagos State. The winners received business grants, professional tools tailored to their craft in in software development, make-up artistry, photograph and fashion design as well as access to specialized masterclasses designed to strengthen their skills and support the growth of their businesses.

    Speaking on the significance of the campaign, Wassim Elhusseni, Managing Director and CEO, Nestlé Nigeria Plc, said ” At Nestlé, our purpose is to enhance the quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come. While we deliver on this purpose through the nutritious, high quality products we provide, we also strive to create meaningful value for our consumers and the communities we serve. The NESCAFÉ Next Level Promo is one of the ways we express this commitment, rewarding the loyalty and trust of our consumers while supporting their aspirations with opportunities that can make a lasting difference.

    Echoing this commitment, Jean-Pierre Duplan, Category Lead, Coffee, Nestlé Nigeria, added “At NESCAFÉ, we understand that behind every cup is someone pursuing a goal, building a business or working towards a better future. The NESCAFÉ Next Level Promo was designed to reward the loyalty of our consumers while providing meaningful support that empowers them to take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey. It reflects our belief that when ambition is supported with the right opportunities, great things can happen.”

    For Jennifer Sunday, one of the four Grand Winners from Kaduna State, participating in the promotion required just a single sachet of NESCAFÉ. “When I bought a sachet of NESCAFÉ, I never imagined it would change my life. Today, I have received a business grant, a professional make-up kit and the opportunity to learn from industry experts through a masterclass. This experience has given me hope and renewed my confidence to keep building my business. I sincerely thank NESCAFÉ for this incredible opportunity.”

    As part of the grand finale experience, the winners also visited Nestlé Nigeria’s Agbara Factory, where they gained first-hand insight into the people, processes and quality standards behind every cup of NESCAFÉ, further strengthening their appreciation of the care and expertise that go into producing the brand they have come to know and trust.

    The conclusion of the NESCAFÉ Next Level Promo marks another milestone in the brand’s commitment to supporting the ambitions of Nigerians. Beyond rewarding consumer loyalty, the promotion forms part of NESCAFÉ’s broader youth empowerment efforts, including the My Own Business (MYOWBU) initiative, which equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence and opportunities to build sustainable businesses. Together, these initiatives demonstrate NESCAFÉ’s continued commitment to empowering young people and enabling them to pursue their ambitions with confidence.

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