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WIRA Demo Day: DBN, AFD, Sterling One Foundation Set to Showcase Women Entrepreneurs

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WIRA Demo Day: DBN, AFD, Sterling One Foundation Set to Showcase Women Entrepreneurs

The Development Bank of Nigeria, DBN, in partnership with Agence Française de Développement, AFD, and Sterling One Foundation, will on November 21, 2025, host the landmark Women Investment Readiness Accelerator, WIRA Demo Day.

This platform is designed to spotlight innovative, high-growth women-led enterprises across the country.

The Demo Day marks the culmination of the WIRA programme, which has equipped women entrepreneurs with intensive business development training, mentorship, and investment readiness support over several weeks.

During the event, participating founders will pitch their businesses to investors, development finance institutions, and key ecosystem stakeholders positioned to support their growth. WIRA was launched to address the persistent capacity and financing barriers facing women-led businesses in Nigeria.

Despite their critical role in economic productivity and job creation, many women entrepreneurs continue to struggle with access to capital, quality advisory services, market linkages, and networks required to scale.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Tony Okpanachi, Managing Director/CEO of the Development Bank of Nigeria Plc, underscored the importance of investing in women-led MSMEs.

“The WIRA programme represents a strong step toward unlocking the potential of women entrepreneurs who, for too long, have been underserved. At DBN, we recognize that empowering women-led MSMEs is essential for achieving inclusive economic growth,” he said.

“The upcoming Demo Day is an opportunity to showcase the innovation and resilience that these women bring to the Nigerian economy, and to connect them to partners who can help bring their ideas to scale.”

Similarly, Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, noted that the event reflects the Foundation’s long-term commitment to women’s economic empowerment.

“Our goal with WIRA has been to not only build business capacity but to expand the pathways to funding and visibility for women entrepreneurs,” she said.

“The Demo Day is more than a pitch event; it is a platform that elevates women’s voices, celebrates their innovation, and links them with opportunities to grow their impact. We look forward to showcasing the remarkable progress these entrepreneurs have made.”

The event is expected to draw impact investors, commercial and development finance institutions, private sector leaders, and key players in the women entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Lagos Deepens Investment in STEAM Education to Build Innovation-Driven Economy

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Lagos Deepens Investment in STEAM Education to Build Innovation-Driven Economy

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transitioning the state from a consumption-driven economy to a productive and innovation-led one through the expansion of its Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, STEAM initiatives.

This commitment was highlighted at the second edition of the Innovate Eko STEAM Day, held at the Education Resource Center, Ikeja, where the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Basic and Secondary Education organized a sensitization programme to advance creativity, critical thinking, and skill acquisition in STEAM education.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, emphasized the importance of collaboration, accessibility, career guidance, and teacher support in empowering students to become problem solvers equipped for the future.

“Our focus in Lagos State is on having science-oriented students. In the past three years, we have prioritized recruiting science-oriented teachers because we believe that the future starts now,” the Commissioner said. He added that the state aims not only to improve teaching and learning outcomes but also to nurture confident students capable of defining their career paths early.

Highlighting progress recorded so far, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, revealed that the ministry has achieved a 25 percent increase in enrollment in STEAM subjects across participating schools.

She noted that Lagos students have continued to excel nationally, securing top positions in the National Engineers and Scientists Competition organized by the Federal Ministry of Education.

She further disclosed that in the 2024 High State Assessment, 70 percent of tracked primary school girls scored 70 percent or above in STEAM-related subjects, an achievement she described as evidence of the state’s success in breaking gender barriers and encouraging more girls to pursue science and engineering.

Dokunmu-Adegbite added that since 2021, Lagos has supported the development of over 100 student-led innovations, including green energy prototypes and AI-powered tools, with about 30 percent advancing to the patent stage through funding from the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council.

These innovations, she said, reflect the readiness of Lagos youth to address global challenges such as climate change and digital advancement.

She attributed the achievements to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, which positions education and technology as central pillars for sustainable development.

Earlier, the Senior Special Assistant on Basic and Secondary Education and convener of the event, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, said the programme demonstrates Lagos State’s determination to prepare its children for the future.

He noted that Innovate Eko STEAM Day provides a platform for students to showcase groundbreaking inventions, cutting-edge research, and bold ideas.

This year’s theme, “Recycle, Rethink and Innovate,” guided panel discussions focused on recycling, upcycling, and creative problem-solving. The sessions encouraged students to explore science and technology as tools for developing practical solutions to real-world challenges, further cementing Lagos State’s vision of building a dynamic, innovation-driven economy.

NIMC, Immigration Service Deepen Collaboration as NIS Comptroller General Pays Courtesy Visit

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NIMC, Immigration Service Deepen Collaboration as NIS Comptroller General Pays Courtesy Visit

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, Engr. (Dr.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, on Thursday, received the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, Kemi Nana Nandap, who led a delegation of senior officials on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters.

The visit reinforced the growing partnership between NIMC and NIS, two strategic agencies under the Federal Ministry of Interior, aimed at strengthening national security, enhancing identity management systems, and improving service delivery to citizens.

Welcoming the delegation, Dr. Coker-Odusote reaffirmed NIMC’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the Immigration Service to enhance data integrity, streamline operational frameworks, and support Nigeria’s border security architecture through a robust national identity infrastructure.

She noted that closer cooperation between both agencies is essential for building a secure and efficient identity ecosystem capable of supporting national development.

In her remarks, CG Nandap stressed the importance of sustaining the long-standing relationship between the two institutions. She highlighted the critical role that integrated identity verification systems and coordinated operational procedures play in safeguarding the nation’s borders and promoting internal security.

Both organisations pledged to continue working together to advance policies and innovations that will strengthen Nigeria’s identity and border management systems.

Enterprise Lab: NYSC Edition Graduates 32 Corps Members, Awards Grants to Top Young Entrepreneurs

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Enterprise Lab: NYSC Edition Graduates 32 Corps Members, Awards Grants to Top Young Entrepreneurs

EGO Foundation, in partnership with Access Holdings, has graduated 32 young entrepreneurs from the 2025 Enterprise Lab: NYSC Edition, an intensive business accelerator designed for serving and former National Youth Service Corps,NYSC members.

The two-week hybrid programme, held from November 5 to 14, equipped participants with practical skills in business modelling, financial management, digital strategy, and investment readiness.

The initiative featured daily virtual classes, weekend in-person clinics, expert mentorship, and real-world assignments aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of young business owners.

Speaking at the graduation and hybrid pitch day, the Executive Director of EGO Foundation, Mr. Toluwase Olaniyan, said the programme was created to help young Nigerians move from ideas to viable, investment-ready enterprises.

“We set out to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for our youth. The success of these 32 entrepreneurs, who have moved from ideas to investment-ready pitches, validates our approach. They are now equipped not just to seek jobs, but to create them,” he said.

Commitment to inclusion was evident in this year’s cohort, with women leading 18 of the participating businesses. The programme concluded with a competitive pitch session where three outstanding ventures received seed grants to launch or scale their operations.

In addition, 10 participating businesses were supported to complete their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration, advancing their formal entry into the marketplace.

A representative of Access Holdings said the collaboration reflects the organisation’s mission to strengthen Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and empower young innovators. The representative noted that the outcomes, including strong participant engagement, improved financial literacy, and measurable business development, show the impact of combining capacity-building with funding support.

The Enterprise Lab: NYSC Edition has also established an alumni network to provide continued mentorship and growth opportunities for participants, reinforcing the programme’s contribution to job creation and long-term economic development.

Customs FCT Command Trains Officers on Fire Prevention, Emergency Response

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Customs FCT Command Trains Officers on Fire Prevention, Emergency Response

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, FCT Area Command, has organised a one-day intensive training programme on fire prevention and attack strategies to strengthen safety awareness and emergency response capacity among its personnel.

The training, held on 18th November 2025 at the Command Headquarters in Abuja, is part of the Command’s ongoing efforts to improve workplace safety and enhance officers’ readiness to manage fire-related incidents both at work and at home.

Declaring the session open, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Victoria Chinwe Aliboh, said safety consciousness is essential for all officers, noting that fire emergencies can occur unexpectedly with devastating consequences.

She stressed that with proper knowledge, vigilance, and preparedness, many fire incidents can be prevented.

Comptroller Aliboh reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to equipping its workforce with the skills required to safeguard lives, facilities, and critical assets under its care. She encouraged officers and men to put the knowledge gained into practice, both on duty and at home, to prevent avoidable losses and ensure the protection of lives and property.

The training featured expert presentations and practical demonstrations led by Chief Superintendent of Fire, CSF, Akam Chinweuba of the Federal Fire Service, FCT Command.

Key areas covered included identifying common fire hazards, proper use of fire extinguishers, strategies for early detection and containment, evacuation procedures, and home fire-safety tips.

Participants engaged in hands-on sessions, learning the correct application of fire-fighting techniques and response protocols.

In his remarks, CSF Chinweuba commended the leadership of the NCS FCT Command for prioritizing officer safety, urging continuous capacity-building across Customs formations to maintain a safe operational environment.

Transport Stakeholders Demand Urgent Reforms at CIoTA 7th National Transport Conference

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Transport Stakeholders Demand Urgent Reforms at CIoTA 7th National Transport Conference

Key stakeholders in Nigeria’s transport sector have renewed calls for urgent reforms to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure and governance systems, including the adoption of a National Integrated Transport Policy, NITP to harmonize air, land, and marine transport operations.

The demand formed part of a communiqué issued at the 7th National Transport Conference organized by the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration, CIoTA in Abuja.

Presenting the communiqué during a virtual briefing, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Professor S. G. Odewumi, said the conference brought together federal and state transport officials, security agencies, industry leaders, unions, and experts to examine persisting gaps in the nation’s transport architecture and to propose workable solutions.

According to Odewumi, delegates at the conference urged the Federal Government to complete ongoing and abandoned rail projects, strengthen port–rail connectivity, revive the Eastern ports, and invest in modern passenger terminals across the country.

Stakeholders also emphasized the need for multimodal integration, linking road, rail, air, maritime, and inland waterways, to reduce logistics costs and strategically position Nigeria to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA.

Given that roads currently account for over 90 percent of national mobility, the communiqué recommended the establishment of a Road Transport Management Authority to enhance planning, regulate operations, and improve safety nationwide.

The conference also highlighted the importance of technological modernization, with CIoTA advocating the adoption of Smart Mobility and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) such as GPS tracking, digital ticketing, biometric identification, and strengthened cybersecurity across transport modes.

On maritime and livestock logistics, delegates called for improved systems to reduce losses, enhance efficiency, and strengthen the national livestock value chain.

The communiqué further underscored the need for better driver education and licensing, the establishment of more driver training institutes, and closer collaboration with transport unions to enhance professionalism and operational standards.

In addition, participants urged the government to rehabilitate aging pipelines and expand petroleum distribution infrastructure to ensure secure and sustainable energy transportation, in line with national development goals.

In his remarks, CIoTA President, Prince (Dr) Segun Ochuko Obayendo, said: “Our transport sector is the backbone of the economy. We must modernize infrastructure, integrate all transport modes, and adopt smart systems to meet global standards.”

Blacktalker reports that over 450 transport professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders converged on Abuja from 4th to 6th November for the 7th National Transport Conference, Fellowship Investiture, ConTransp Certification, and Annual General Meeting.

The conference focused on the theme: “Repositioning Nigeria’s Transport Infrastructure and Governance Models for Global Competitiveness.”

Vybing, Connected and Happy Customers; Echoes of FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe

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Vybing, Connected and Happy Customers; Echoes of FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe

American branding consultant and CEO of Brandstream, Scott Bedbury, said, “In today’s experience-driven marketplace, the brands that endure are those that move beyond products and services to connect with the passions, lifestyles, and emotions of their customers.

The most successful businesses don’t just serve, they engage, delight, and become part of life’s memorable moments”.

FirstBank is deeply entrenched in that truth. Having long established itself as a symbol of resilience, trust, heritage, excellence, and innovation in banking, the 131-year-old institution is taking customer connection to a new dimension, transforming from a financial service provider into a joy-giver that understands culture, family, and celebration.

Every year, FirstBank keeps customers satisfied with seamless banking experiences, then raises the bar by the end of the year, turning up the festive energy through its DecemberIssaVybe campaign, a season-long fusion of entertainment, rewards, and shared happiness.

From premium access to top-tier concerts and musicals, to theatre nights, comedy shows, and fashion showcases, DecemberIssaVybe keeps customers vibing, grooving, and smiling, proving that for the premier West African bank and a leading financial inclusion service provider, engagement is not a slogan, it’s a lifestyle.

For FirstBank, entertainment has become more than an add-on; it’s an extension of customer experience. Through DecemberIssaVybe, the bank transforms the festive season into a celebration of music, art, theatre, and culture, where customers enjoy premium access to some of the most sought-after shows, concerts, and plays in Nigeria. The initiative connects the brand with the rhythm of its people, the laughter of families at stage plays, the energy of fans at mega concerts, and the joy of togetherness that defines the December spirit.

By curating these experiences, FirstBank positions itself not just as a bank that understands finance, but as one that understands feeling, a brand that celebrates the Nigerian way of life. The campaign has featured exclusive access to headline shows, theatre performances, comedy nights, and lifestyle events that highlight the nation’s vibrant creative scene. Customers not only enjoy the fun; they experience a sense of belonging and appreciation that strengthens their emotional connection with the brand.


DecemberIssaVybe also reflects FirstBank’s growing influence in supporting Nigeria’s creative and entertainment industries, vital sectors that provide jobs, nurture culture, and export the Nigerian story to the world. By sponsoring and amplifying these platforms, the bank fuels a chain of value that extends from the stage to the streets, from creators to consumers. It’s more than a seasonal celebration; it’s a strategic cultural investment.

Beyond the lights and music, there’s a deeper rhythm to what DecemberIssaVybe represents — connection, loyalty, and legacy. It mirrors FirstBank’s understanding that banking today isn’t only about transactions; it’s about touchpoints that make life richer. It’s about being present where the customer laughs, loves, and lives. By blending entertainment with appreciation, the bank turns every December into a statement of gratitude — rewarding loyalty, strengthening relationships, and reminding customers that they are at the heart of everything.

As one of the nation’s most enduring institutions, FirstBank continues to evolve with the times while holding firm to its promise of putting customers first. And through DecemberIssaVybe, it gives that promise a new sound, a festive melody of joy, togetherness, and cultural celebration. Because for FirstBank, happiness isn’t just seasonal. It’s part of the brand’s legacy, a rhythm that plays all year long and peaks beautifully every December.

For FirstBank, DecemberIssaVybe is a deliberate strategy to deepen emotional connections with its customers. Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, explained that banking today is not only about financial transactions; it’s about creating moments that matter moments where families, friends, and communities come together to celebrate life and culture; through this initiative, FirstBank can reward customers in ways that resonate with them personally — from live concerts and theatre to comedy and lifestyle events.

He noted that the bank’s goal remains to ensure that every Nigerian feels connected, valued, and appreciated. The bank sees the joy, excitement, and energy that DecemberIssaVybe brings, and it’s incredible to witness customers sharing those experiences with friends and family.

Through these initiatives, FirstBank delivers on its promise of rewarding loyalty while keeping customers entertained and engaged. The campaign brings premium access to highly sought-after concerts, plays, musicals, comedy festivals, and fashion showcases, giving customers front-row experiences with Nigeria’s most beloved performers and platforms.

Whether it’s a VIP ticket to a Burna Boy or Wizkid concert, a night at Kakadu the Musical, or an exclusive fashion showcase, customers enjoy experiences that are memorable and rare — moments that connect the bank to life’s joyful milestones.

A core feature of DecemberIssaVybe is the premium access it affords customers. Social media and brand platforms regularly highlight the exclusive tickets, backstage passes, and VIP privileges distributed as part of the campaign. From sold-out concerts and comedy shows to family theatre nights, the initiative ensures that customers feel celebrated in style.

Ijabiyi explained further that FirstBank takes pride in offering experiences that customers would be thrilled to have access to. “DecemberIssaVybe is about bringing people closer to the cultural heartbeat of Nigeria, live music, theatre, comedy, fashion, and lifestyle events, while connecting them directly with the FirstBank brand. It’s our way of making loyalty tangible, memorable, and joyous.”

By combining banking excellence with cultural engagement, FirstBank ensures that its customers don’t just transact; they experience life’s excitement with the bank as a partner in celebration.

The annual campaign has generated widespread enthusiasm among customers and social media followers. Excited feedback from Toyin Ojo on Facebook illustrates the impact of DecemberIssaVybe: “FirstBank made my December unforgettable! I got VIP access to see my favourite artist live, I still can’t believe it!”

Segun Ibiyemi, another customer, shared on X: “I’ve never felt so connected to a brand. DecemberIssaVybe isn’t just about the show; it’s about the memories we made as a family.”

And yet another enthused: “It’s amazing how FirstBank takes banking beyond numbers. They gave me and my friends experiences we’ll remember forever. That’s loyalty rewarded!”

From families laughing together at theatre nights to friends grooving at sold-out concerts, the campaign creates moments that customers cherish and share. The excitement online, from Instagram stories to X (formerly Twitter) posts, amplifies the sense of community and joy that the initiative fosters.

Beyond entertaining, FirstBank’s DecemberIssaVybe has a broader cultural impact. By sponsoring concerts, theatre, comedy, and lifestyle events, the bank fuels the creative economy while providing Nigerians with experiences that connect them to their heritage, friends, and family.

The success of DecemberIssaVybe is measured not only in ticket distributions or sold-out events, but in the smiles, the laughter, and the sense of belonging it creates. FirstBank is not just facilitating transactions but memories. It is giving customers joy, access, and connection in ways that touch their hearts and enrich their experiences during the yuletide season.

By combining entertainment, premium access, and thoughtful engagement, the campaign strengthens FirstBank’s bond with customers and positions the bank as more than a financial institution; it becomes a lifestyle brand that touches lives and creates lasting joy.

Through DecemberIssaVybe, FirstBank has turned a seasonal initiative into a cultural phenomenon, blending entertainment, lifestyle, and premium experiences to keep customers rewarded, happy, and connected. In doing so, the bank has shown that loyalty goes beyond accounts and cards; it is about shared memories, emotional connection, and being part of life’s most joyful moments.

For FirstBank, the message is clear: banking is more than numbers; it’s about being part of the moments that make life vibrant. And every December, through DecemberIssaVybe, the bank hits the high notes, keeping customers vibing, grooving, rewarded, and deeply connected to the rhythm of joy.

Rite Foods Marks International Men’s Day, Celebrates Men’s Contributions to Society

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Rite Foods Reiterates Commitment to Clean Energy

Rite Foods Limited has joined the global celebration of International Men’s Day 2025, highlighting the role of men as leaders, mentors, and changemakers in society.

Under this year’s theme, “Celebrating Men and Boys,” the company recognized men’s contributions both in the workplace and in communities, emphasizing health, well-being, and work-life balance.

Speaking on the occasion, Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, said: “We honour the resilience, hard work, and positive influence of men across our workforce and the communities we serve. Rite Foods champions a culture where men feel seen, supported, and empowered to lead healthy, meaningful lives.”

Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, added that the company values the dedication of its male employees, fostering collaboration and teamwork to drive organizational and societal progress.

Rite Foods’ celebration also underscores its commitment to excellence through its portfolio of products, including Bigi Carbonated Soft Drinks, Bigi Table Water, Sosa Fruit Drink, Fearless Energy Drink, and its range of Bigi Flex, Rite, and Bigi Beef Sausages.

The company has recently received multiple recognitions, including Outstanding FMCG Corporate Brand of the Year at the 2025 Edge Awards and Food Company of the Year 2024 at the Independent Awards.

Through its people, products, and initiatives, Rite Foods continues to promote a healthier, more progressive society.

Ogun Police Arrest Cultist in Igbesa, Launch Manhunt for Accomplices

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Ogun Police Arrest Cultist in Igbesa, Launch Manhunt for Accomplices

The Ogun State Police Command has made a breakthrough in curbing cult-related activities with the arrest of a suspected Aiye confraternity member in Igbesa.

The 24-year-old suspect, Sulaiman Laja, known for terrorizing the area, was apprehended by operatives from the Igbesa Division. A search of his hideout yielded a serviceable single-barrel gun, believed to have been used in criminal activities.

Laja confessed to being an active cult member and provided information on other gang members, prompting a manhunt for their swift capture.

Both the suspect and the recovered firearm have been handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID for further investigation and prosecution.

The Ogun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating criminal elements and restoring peace across communities.

Health Minister Lauds Nigeria’s Tobacco Control Gains at COP11

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Health Minister Lauds Nigeria's Tobacco Control Gains at COP11

Nigeria has recorded significant progress in tobacco control over the past decade.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, told global delegates at the ongoing 11th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in Geneva.

Addressing more than 1,400 participants at the high-level meeting, Dr. Salako said new national data shows a continued decline in adult tobacco use, strengthened enforcement, and impactful regulatory actions that demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to public health.

The minister highlighted the successful completion of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2025), which confirms further drops in daily smoking and a sharp rise in smokers considering quitting after seeing graphic health warnings, from 26.7% in 2012 to 43.3% in 2025.

He noted that exposure to secondhand smoke has also fallen across homes, public buildings, restaurants, transport systems, schools, and tertiary institutions.

Despite the gains, he warned that sustaining progress requires stronger nationwide enforcement and vigilance against industry interference.

Dr. Salako outlined key policy documents guiding national implementation of the Tobacco Control Act and Regulations, including the National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (2024–2028), the Communication Strategy (2024–2028) and the Enforcement Plan (2024–2028), describing them as tools that ensure a coordinated, multisectoral approach.

One of Nigeria’s most notable achievements, he said, is its advancement of Article 19 of the WHO FCTC, which encourages holding tobacco companies accountable. He pointed to the $110 million fine recently imposed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on British American Tobacco Nigeria for multiple violations.

The minister also praised new regulations by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) banning tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship (TAPS) across films, TV, music videos and digital platforms, a move he said strengthens protection for young people in line with Article 13 of the WHO FCTC.

However, he noted that challenges persist, including increased marketing of new nicotine products and industry interference, calling for deeper global cooperation and technical support.

Other sessions at COP11 included a Belgian-led ministerial roundtable on rising nicotine addiction among young people, especially through e-cigarettes, and national experiences in regulating these products.

COP11, themed “20 Years of Change-Uniting Generations for a Tobacco-Free Future,” continues ahead of the Fourth Meeting of Parties to the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products scheduled for November 24–26.

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