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EGO Foundation, Access Holdings to Empower NYSC Members, Graduates Through Enterprise Lab

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EGO Foundation, Access Holdings to Empower NYSC Members, Graduates Through Enterprise Lab

EGO Foundation, in strategic partnership with Access Holdings, has launched the Enterprise Lab to equip National Youth Service Corps, NYSC members and recent graduates across Nigeria with the skills to build sustainable enterprises.

Through an intensive four-week online programme, between 150 and 200 participants will receive practical training on entrepreneurship, business management, and access to finance, laying the foundation for youth-led businesses by the end of 2025.

“Enterprise Lab represents our commitment to converting youth potential into economic productivity, regardless of location,” said Mr. Toluwase Olaniyan, Executive Director of EGO Foundation.

“By providing practical business education, mentorship, and access to finance through a virtual platform, we’re creating a pipeline of job creators across Nigeria. This digital approach ensures that every corps member, whether in Lagos or Maiduguri, has equal access to transformative entrepreneurship training.”

The training modules cover key areas such as Business Ideation and Opportunity Mapping, Financial Literacy and Business Registration, Marketing, Sales, and Branding, as well as Pitching, Fundraising, and Investment Readiness. Participants will benefit from mentorship, startup kits, business formalization support, and direct financing opportunities through Access Bank.

According to the organisers, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) ecosystem by equipping young people with market-ready and investor-attractive business skills.

The partnership with Access Holdings underscores the shared vision of both organisations to drive youth entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth across Nigeria. Access Holdings’ involvement has been instrumental in providing resources, digital platforms, and technical support to ensure nationwide impact.

“This collaboration is a testament to the power of partnership in driving sustainable development,” Mr. Olaniyan added. “Together, we’re empowering a generation of young Nigerians who will shape the future of our economy.”

EGO Foundation and Access Holdings reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the reach of the Enterprise Lab initiative in subsequent editions, ensuring that more young Nigerians can access opportunities to transform their ideas into thriving businesses.

EGO Foundation, Kwara Government Empower 30,000 Students Through Young Innovators Programme 2.0

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EGO Foundation, Kwara Government Empower 30,000 Students Through Young Innovators Programme 2.0

EGO Foundation, in partnership with the Kwara State Government, has launched the Young Innovators Programme 2.0, an entrepreneurship education initiative designed to equip 30,000 secondary school students across the state with vital business and innovation skills.

The four-week programme, which will take place across five centres and selected public and private schools, will feature interactive workshops, hands-on learning sessions, mentorship opportunities, and business pitch competitions aimed at inspiring students to become future business leaders and innovators.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Toluwase Olaniyan, Executive Director of EGO Foundation, described the program as a timely intervention that prepares young Nigerians to thrive in an evolving economy.

“Entrepreneurship education is critical in preparing young Nigerians to navigate future economic challenges,” Olaniyan said.

“The Young Innovators Programme is designed to nurture innovative thinking and problem-solving skills from an early age. We are equipping the next generation with the mindset and tools to become successful entrepreneurs and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”

The six-module curriculum covers key areas including; Introduction to entrepreneurship, Idea generation and feasibility analysis, Business planning and development, Marketing and sales strategies, Financial literacy and management and Business pitch preparation.

Participants will develop viable business ideas, pitch them in competitions, and establish Young Innovators Clubs (YIC) in their respective schools. In addition, a train-the-trainer workshop will be held for Business Studies teachers to ensure long-term sustainability of the program’s impact.

According to EGO Foundation, the initiative is expected to not only instill entrepreneurial competence but also enhance creativity, foster innovation, and create pathways for future job creation and economic growth within Kwara State.

The Young Innovators Programme aligns with EGO Foundation’s broader mission to foster economic stability and inclusive development at the grassroots through enterprise and innovation.

Operation Whirlwind Hands Over Truck Laden with 60,000 Litres of PMS to NMDPRA

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Operation Whirlwind Hands Over Truck Laden with 60,000 Litres of PMS to NMDPRA

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, through Operation Whirlwind, has handed over a truck loaded with 60,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS to the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA.

This is part of efforts to enhance transparency and inter-agency synergy in regulating petroleum products.

The handover, which took place on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Kebbi Area Command Headquarters in Birnin Kebbi, was conducted by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mahmoud Matawalle Ibrahim (fdc), on behalf of the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs and National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Kola Oladeji.

Representing NMDPRA at the ceremony was Deputy Manager, Mr. Adamu Jamilu, who received the consignment on behalf of the State Coordinator for Sokoto and Kebbi States. The event was also attended by the Commander Zone B, Operation Whirlwind, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Ntongha Okoi Edet, and senior officials of both agencies.

Speaking during the handover, Comptroller Matawalle explained that the action reflected the vision of the National Coordinator to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, promote accountability, and ensure proper investigation and disposal of petroleum products seized under suspicious circumstances.

He revealed that the truck, bearing registration number NSR 26 ZL, had been detained on suspicion of diversion, and that investigations later confirmed the product was originally designated for delivery in Borno State.

Receiving the consignment, Mr. Jamilu commended the Customs Service for its vigilance and consistent partnership under Operation Whirlwind, describing the exercise as a “commendable example of effective inter-agency synergy.”

He also acknowledged the earlier handover of two trucks containing 105,000 litres of PMS to the NMDPRA in Sokoto on October 17, 2025, emphasizing that such collaboration strengthens national oversight and accountability in the downstream petroleum sector.

The event concluded with the physical transfer of the vehicle and documentation to NMDPRA officials at the Kebbi Command premises.

Polaris Bank restates support for SMEs growth in Nigeria

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Polaris Bank restates support for SMEs growth in Nigeria

Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small and medium-scale enterprises, SMEs and driving economic growth in Nigeria’s South-South region with the commissioning of the new ‘Everyday Supermarket’ Yenagoa Store.

The grand opening, which took place yesterday at Bay Bridge Junction on the Kpansia-Epie Expressway, Bayelsa State , marks the retail chain’s entry into the Bayelsa market and a significant milestone in the region’s business expansion efforts.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Raphael Abaziem, Directorate Head, Polaris Bank, South-South, described the launch as a testament to growth, resilience, and the power of strategic partnership.

“This milestone represents more than the opening of a new outlet. It speaks to our shared vision of economic expansion, local enterprise development, and improved access to quality goods and services for the people of Bayelsa State,” Abaziem stated.

He further noted that the new outlet builds on earlier successes, including Polaris Bank’s financing of the Everyday Group’s flagship shopping complex in Port Harcourt in February, 2025.

“When we partner, we empower, expand, and raise the bar for retail development across Nigeria. Polaris Bank is proud to have supported this journey and to stand with ‘Everyday Supermarket’ as it extends its footprint and impact. We look forward to deepening our collaboration and continuing to support businesses that are creating opportunities, empowering communities, and driving sustainable development across the country,” he added.

In his remarks, Mr. Yemi Osindero, Chairman of ‘Everyday Supermarket’, expressed delight at the brand’s expansion into Bayelsa, noting that the group continues to grow from strength to strength.

“Everyday Group is 28 years old, with 15 stores across the South-East and South-South, including Owerri, Asaba, and Abakaliki. We are excited to be in Yenagoa for the first time and look forward to opening more stores in Bayelsa. Plans are also underway to expand into Aba, Benin, Uyo, Enugu, and Abuja,” Osindero said.

Fidelity Bank Extends GAIM 6 Promo, Raises Prize Pool to ₦189m

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Fidelity Bank Extends GAIM 6 Promo, Raises Prize Pool to ₦189m

Fidelity Bank Plc has extended its flagship Get Alert in Millions, GAIM Season 6 savings promo by an additional three months, raising the total prize pool from ₦159 million to ₦189 million.

The extension, announced in September 2025, is aimed at deepening savings culture and rewarding customer loyalty at a time when Nigeria’s economy is undergoing critical reforms to stabilize growth and promote inclusive banking.

According to the Divisional Head of Product Development, Fidelity Bank, Osita Ede, the decision to extend the promo was a direct response to customer feedback.

“They asked for more opportunities to benefit from the promo, and we listened. With management and regulatory consent, we’re thrilled to keep the excitement going for another three months,” Ede said.

The bank explained that the GAIM 6 extension aligns with the Federal Government’s financial inclusion drive and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Payment System Vision 2028, both of which emphasize digital access, inclusion, and economic empowerment.

The timing also coincides with World Savings Day 2025, themed “This is not a savings account”, which advocates responsible financial habits and long-term wealth creation. Fidelity Bank noted that extending GAIM 6 during this period reinforces its message of smart saving and sustainable prosperity.

Unlike many savings promos that target high-value depositors, GAIM 6 allows customers to participate with deposits as low as ₦2,000, making it one of the most inclusive savings campaigns in the country.

Through electronic draws supervised by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), the promo maintains transparency while reaching diverse groups such as NYSC corps members, market women, children, and low-income earners.

Each ₦5,000 saved qualifies customers for the monthly and grand draws, where winners receive life-changing cash prizes, including ₦2 million, ₦5 million, and ₦10 million in the final draw.

So far, 20 customers have won ₦1 million each in recent monthly draws, while ₦47 million remains available to be won in upcoming rounds, ₦30 million in monthly draws and ₦17 million in the grand finale scheduled for the festive season.

Ede emphasized that the promo’s impact goes beyond cash rewards: “A million Naira is a life-changing amount. Through our financial advisory support at the Fidelity SME Hub, we guide winners on how to grow their winnings through smart investments and business ventures.”

Industry observers note that the GAIM 6 extension reflects Fidelity Bank’s strategic approach to balancing customer engagement, economic empowerment, and national development goals.

By tying the initiative to World Savings Day and expanding participation across demographics, the bank continues to position itself as a trusted driver of inclusive banking and financial literacy in Nigeria.

UNILAG Debunks Fee Hike Rumours, Clarifies Consolidation of Charges

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UNILAG MANAGEMENT INSISTS EXAMINATIONS WILL CONTINUE AMID ASUU DISPUTE

The University of Lagos, UNILAG has dismissed claims circulating on social media suggesting that the institution has increased tuition or other payable fees for the 2025/2026 academic session.

In a statement signed by the Head of the Communication Unit, Mrs. Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, the University clarified that there has been no fee hike, but rather a consolidation of existing dues that students had previously paid separately at the faculty and departmental levels.

According to the statement, the move aligns with a directive from the Federal Ministry of Education, mandating all universities whose students benefit from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to unify their fee structures.

The consolidation ensures that all legitimate dues are paid once through the central student payment portal, eliminating multiple collections at the faculty or departmental level.

“The system of consolidating approved dues in one place enables NELFUND to capture and pay all fees accruing to students,” the University explained.

The management further clarified that differences in the total amounts displayed on students’ portals across various programmes are due to programme-specific academic requirements, not any increment in tuition or new charges.

UNILAG reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, appreciating the understanding of students, parents, and other stakeholders as it continues to uphold its legacy of excellence and integrity in administration.

Lagos Celebrates Young Creative Talents at Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition Grand Finale

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Lagos Celebrates Young Creative Talents at Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition Grand Finale

Vibrant colours, imagination and ingenuity of Lagos students took centre stage at the grand finale of the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition, as nine young artists emerged as winners of the competition organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

The competition, championed by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, was convened to celebrate the state’s next generation of creative champions.

Delivering the keynote remarks, Ayinde-Marshal described the initiative as “a movement of discovery, innovation, and cultural preservation,” rather than just a contest.

“In our journey to celebrate, empower, and showcase the next generation of Lagos creative champions, our goal was clear: to identify young gifted individuals whose artistic expressions could tell the story of Lagos, shape the future of our creative economy, and inspire others to embrace their talents,” she said.

According to Ayinde-Marshal, the competition received 153 entries from students across secondary and tertiary institutions, surpassing expectations and reflecting the “courage, imagination, and vibrant spirit of Lagos youth.”

She attributed the success of the initiative to the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, whose T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, particularly its fifth pillar on entertainment and tourism, continues to drive the state’s creative policies.

“Mr. Governor understands that a city that celebrates creativity is a city that grows in innovation, identity, and economic prosperity. That is why initiatives such as these are essential they help us harness the potential of our young people and give them a platform to shine,” she said.

She urged the young participants to see themselves as winners regardless of outcome: “You have dared to dream, to create, and to express yourselves. The future belongs to those who can imagine and innovate — and Lagos State will always support you on that journey.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Adeniran Kasali, described the competition as an essential platform for nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, the key skills required to thrive in the 21st century.

“For us to excel and contribute meaningfully to our environment, we must possess certain qualities, and one of them is creativity,” Kasali said.

He stressed that programmes like the Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition are vital for developing creative minds, adding that “the 21st century is about creativity and innovation, and this initiative exposes students to that reality.”

Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Solomon Bonu, commended Ayinde-Marshal and the Ministry for providing a platform that encourages youth participation in the creative sector.

He noted that beyond oil, Nigeria’s next major economic frontier lies in entertainment and the arts.

“Aside from oil, the next spinning sectors are entertainment, arts, and creative industries,” he said. “By creating a platform like My Lagos, My Art, you are preparing these young people for the future.”

Bonu expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for supporting such youth-oriented programmes and assured continued legislative backing for initiatives that promote creativity and cultural development.

Earlier, one of the judges, Dr. Fola David, commended the exceptional quality of submissions, noting that each work reflected effort, originality, and passion.

“This is not just a programme; it’s a celebration of your efforts,” he told the participants. “We received many impressive entries, and it wasn’t an easy task to judge. The diversity of materials from beads, papier-mâché, and woodwork to acrylic and oil paintings showed remarkable creativity.”

Dr. David revealed that the judging process considered several factors, including the materials used, relevance to the theme ‘My Lagos, My Art’, the story behind each artwork, and the quality of the submissions.

Winners received recognition and scholarship awards to further develop their artistic journeys. They are Israel Adedoyin from Government Junior Model College, Ikorodu (Crochet work), Jubril Kolawole from Ikorodu Junior Grammar School( Tie and Dye) and Desmond Awatefe from Tobvic College, Badagry ( Coconut shell crafts) in the junior category.

In the senior secondary category are Alexis Aghenta from Sqaure College, Lekki( Bead Work), Usa Pascal from Birrel Avenue Senior High School, Yaba (Painting), and Owolewa Mariam from Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu (Bead Work).

For the Tertiary category, Goodness Popoola (Painting and Craft) and Alaba Paul (Wood Work) from Lagos State University of Education, Oto-Ijanikin and Azeez Aderibigbe from Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Ikorodu (Painting).

GTCO Plc Releases 2025 Q3 Unaudited Results, Reports Profit Before Tax of ₦900.8billion

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GTCO Raises ₦10bn Through Private Placement After Securing Regulatory Approvals

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, GTCO, has released its Unaudited Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements as of September 30, 2025, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and London Stock Exchange (LSE).

The Group posted profit before tax of ₦900.8billion on the back of strong performance on the core earnings lines of interest income and fee income which grew y-o-y by 25.6% and 16.8% respectively.

The strong core-earning performance continued to narrow the y-o-y dip in PBT to 26%, thereby cushioning the impact of the ₦523.2bn fair value gains recognised in Q3-2024, which did not recur in Q3-2025.

The Group recorded growths across all its Asset lines and continues to maintain a well-structured, healthy liquid and diversified balance sheet in all the jurisdictions wherein it operates a Banking franchise, as well as across its Payments, Pension and Funds Management business verticals.

Group’s total assets and shareholders’ funds closed at ₦16.7trillion and ₦3.3trillion, respectively. Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) remained very robust and strong, closing at 36.5%, likewise asset quality improved as evidenced by IFRS 9 Stage 3 Loans which closed at 3.3% and 4.4% % at Bank and Group level in Q3-2025 (Bank 3.5%, Group 5.2% in December 2024).

Cost of Risk (COR) also improved to 2.2% from 4.9% in December 2024. In specific terms, the Group’s loanbook (net) grew by 16.5% from ₦2.79trillion as of December 2024 to ₦3.24trillion in September 2025. Similarly, deposit liabilities grew by 16.0% from ₦10.40trillion to ₦12.06trillion during the same period.

Commenting on the results, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje, said: “Our third quarter performance underscores the consistency and resilience of our business model, as well as the continued strength of our diversified financial services ecosystem.

”We are seeing steady, sustainable growth across our banking and non-banking businesses, supported by disciplined execution and a strong focus on operational efficiency. The improvements we have made to our digital and payments infrastructure are enhancing customer experience, deepening engagement, and driving greater integration across our ecosystem.”

He further stated: “Looking ahead, our focus remains on advancing our competitive edge through innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to superior customer outcomes. With a clear growth trajectory and strong organizational alignment, we are well-positioned to sustain performance momentum and deliver another year of industry-leading results.”

Overall, the Group continues to post one of the best metrics in the Nigerian Financial Services Industry in terms of key financial ratios i.e., Pre-Tax Return on Equity (ROAE) of 39.5%, Pre-Tax Return on Assets (ROAA) of 7.6%, Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 36.5% and Cost to Income ratio of 28.8%.

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc is a leading financial services group with operations across Africa and the United Kingdom. Renowned for its strong corporate governance, innovative financial solutions, and customer-centric approach, GTCO Plc provides a wide range of banking and non-banking services including payments, funds management, and pension fund administration. The Group is committed to delivering long-term value to stakeholders while driving growth and development across its markets

WAEC Debunks Directive Restricting Subjects for 2026 WASSCE

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WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has debunked media reports suggesting that it directed schools to restrict Senior Secondary students to specific subjects ahead the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE for School Candidates.

In a statement released on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, by its Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adeshina, WAEC described the reports as false and misleading, stressing that the Council has not issued any directive limiting students’ subject choices for the forthcoming examination.

According to the statement, WAEC emphasized that the development and regulation of school curricula in Nigeria fall solely under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, not the Council. It explained that WAEC’s role is limited to the implementation of government-approved educational policies through assessments.

“The Council did not issue any such directive(s) nor restrict the choice of students to offer any particular subject(s) for WASSCE (SC) 2026 as alleged,” the statement read.

Reaffirming its adherence to due process, WAEC clarified that any introduction or modification of curriculum in Nigeria follows Federal Government procedures, not arbitrary decisions by the examination body.

“As a law-abiding organization, WAEC operates strictly within the established legal and operational frameworks of its host country,” the Council stated.

It therefore urged schools, parents, and the general public to disregard the misleading reports and rely only on official communications from WAEC for accurate information regarding examination guidelines for the 2026 WASSCE.

WAEC further assured stakeholders of its continued commitment to professionalism, transparency, and fairness, guaranteeing that all candidates sitting for the 2026 examination will be given equal opportunities for assessment.

APGA Confident of Landslide Victory Ahead Anambra Guber Election

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APGA Confident of Landslide Victory Ahead Anambra Guber Election

As the electorates prepare for the Anambra State November 8th governorship election, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Ejimofor Opara, has strongly affirmed that the party will secure a landslide victory at the polls.

This, he said, is due to the remarkable achievements of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, which has transformed key sectors of the state’s economy, a development that has received commendation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the commissioning of landmark projects in Anambra, which has set a record in the Southeast region.

Opara said APGA is fully prepared for the election, as its campaign strategy focuses on grassroots mobilisation and direct engagement with voters.

“Our target is not just to win the 21 local governments but all 5,720 polling units in Anambra. On a scale of one to ten, our opponents are still struggling to reach one, while Governor Soludo is already on a perfect ten,” he stated.

He dismissed as baseless the claims on the N50 million criticism by the All Progressives Congress (APC) on campaign signage fee, stating that Anambra State Advertising and Signage Agency was established by law to regulate outdoor advertisements and ensure compliance with public standards.

“If the APC has issues with the amount stipulated, they should engage the agency involved instead of crying wolf,” he added.

Referring to the APC’s claim of victory in the election, Opara said everybody is entitled to their dreams, even bad ones. “The APC in Anambra is a toothless bulldog. Their candidate lacks the backing of their national leadership, including President Tinubu. If they claim to exist, let them show their ward, local government, and state structures,” he asserted.

Responding to allegations that campaign donations received by the governor were sourced from local government funds, Opara said there was no evidence to support such claims. “Has any local government said their allocations were withheld? The people donating to the governor are real individuals showing genuine support for his leadership. If the APC believes otherwise, it should petition the EFCC. He who alleges must prove,” he maintained.

The APGA’s National Publicity Secretary noted that Soludo’s candidacy enjoys broad public endorsement. “Soludo is not just APGA’s candidate; he is the consensus candidate of the people of Anambra,” he said.

While commenting on the accusations that the governor is attempting to distract the APC candidate by questioning their qualifications, Opara insisted that eligibility is a serious matter. “If your certificate is genuine, why call it a distraction? Anyone whose qualification is questionable should step aside. The integrity of the electoral process must be protected,” he concluded.

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