Banking
Entrepreneurs Learn Ways to Build Resilient, Profitable, Future-Ready Business in Nigeria
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Small business owners living in Abuja and Lagos recently had the opportunity to receive expert guidance and practical market insights on how to build a resilient, profitable and future-ready business in Nigeria from over 50 auditors, tax consultants, legal experts, and financial advisers.
This was made possible by Access Bank Plc in collaboration with global consultancy firm Deloitte via an SME Business Clinic.
The financial institution explained that it came up with this initiative in a strategic effort to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Participants learned how to address real-world issues like regulatory compliance, tax structuring, cash flow management, and expansion strategy with a focus on making SMEs resilient in a volatile economic climate.
“Access Bank has been guiding and supporting my business for over five years, and this clinic is just another example of that commitment.
“The initiative is a wonderful one, very impactful, and after today my business will go higher and better than what it is doing today,” one of the entrepreneurs at the programme, Ms Ogechi Eze of Oge’s Closet and Hair Hub, commented.
Also, the founder of Momoh International Services, Imomoh Kenedy, said, “Access Bank has opened my eyes to a lot of things. They have made me understand that there are an array of accounts to tap into as a business to be more strategic and ultimately more profitable. Access to finance is not just about loans; it’s about using the right tools to grow your business.”
The Group Head of SME Banking at Access Bank, Abiodun Olubitan, sid, “We understand that at different stages of growth, SMEs might not be ready for big borrowings; that’s why we offer collateral-free loans based on the cash flow we see in your business. We analyse your sales trend and profile you for funding accordingly.”
A Senior Banking Advisor at Access Bank, Mr Rob Giles, while speaking, said, “At Access Bank, we only win if you win. Our business grows when your business grows.”
“What you’ve told us is that you need three things: access to information and advice, access to markets, and access to finance. That’s what we’re here to provide,” he added.
On her part, the Partner for Tax and Regulatory Services at Deloitte, Ms Toluwalogo Odutayo, said, “Partnering with Access Bank on this initiative is significant because SMEs are a critical focus for us. You’ve likely heard it said many times that SMEs are the backbone of the economy.
“Last year alone, they contributed over 51 per cent to Nigeria’s GDP, a remarkable figure. But we know the potential is even greater. The challenge now is how to structure and strengthen SMEs to do better and that’s why we’re here today.”
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Stakeholders in the underwriting sector are currently discussing how the working group of Nigeria can plan for the rainy days, especially when they no longer have the strength to run around to make ends meet.
They are attending the second edition of Stanbic IBTC Insurance Annuitant Forum being held virtually with the theme Making the Most of Life in Retirement.
Retirement is often viewed as a new beginning, an opportunity to enjoy the fruits of one’s lifetime work.
The subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc organised this programme in line with its mission to support clients through every stage of life.
The virtual format ensures wider access, allowing retirees and those planning for retirement to engage in meaningful, interactive discussions on topics that matter most, ranging from health and wellness, estate planning, and expert insights on securing a fulfilling retirement.
Participants can look forward to discussions on long-term income strategies, the vital role of insurance in maintaining financial stability and how organisations can better support their staff’s retirement journeys. The event will also touch on lifestyle aspects such as wellness, leisure, and personal growth; reinforcing the idea that retirement is a time to thrive.
“Retirement is a significant milestone that should be embraced with purpose, security and fulfilment. Unfortunately, many are unprepared for the realities that come with this phase.
“Our goal with this forum is to provide both retirees and employers with practical guidance and holistic advice, helping them navigate this new chapter confidently,” the chief executive of Stanbic IBTC Insurance, Mr Akinjide Orimolade, stated.
The Stanbic IBTC Insurance Annuitant Forum has become an important platform for the organisation to connect with its retirees, strengthen relationships, and reaffirm its leadership in retirement planning solutions.
By hosting the event virtually, the company is committed to making this resource accessible to retirees nationwide, ensuring that no one is left behind in planning for a rewarding retirement.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Seven mortgage banks operating in Nigeria have been blacklisted by the National Pension Commission (PenCom) over non-compliance with housing loan guidelines.
In a circular dated August 11, 2025, signed by the Head of Benefits and Insurance Department, Obiora Ibeziako, the regulator directed the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs) to immediately stop accepting or processing equity contribution applications from the real estate banks.
It was learned that the lenders failed to generate the loans for which pension funds had been approved.
According to the notice, the affected institutions as Jigawa Savings & Loans Limited, FHA Mortgage Bank Limited, Delta Trust Mortgage Bank Limited, AG Mortgage Bank Limited, Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank Plc, First Trust Mortgage Bank Limited, and Mutual Alliance Mortgage Bank Limited.
“Following the cited letter, the commission instructs that Pension Fund Administrators, including Closed Pension Fund Administrators and Pension Fund Custodians, immediately stop accepting or processing equity contribution applications submitted by the following Primary Mortgage Banks,” a part of the disclosure stated.
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
Pioneer non-interest financial institution in Nigeria, Jaiz Bank Plc, has announced a change to its brand identity, adopting new colours and logo to reflect its vision for the future.
In a statement signed by its Company Secretary, Mr Mohammed Shehu, it was disclosed that the new colours are deep blue, yellow, and grey.
In the statement, Jaiz Bank noted that, “The rebranding reflects our renewed commitment to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities with smarter financial solutions.
The Islamic lender, which said it’s committed to innovation, trust, and customer-centric banking, said, “The new brand represents more than just a colour and logo change; it is a reflection of the bank’s evolution and aspirations building a future-ready bank that is agile, inclusive, and deeply connected to the needs of our customers.”
“The new colours and logo represent Trust, Stability, Professionalism, Energy, Optimism, Visibility, Balance, and Sophistication,” it emphasised.
While “inviting stakeholders, partners, and customers to join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter, Jaiz Bank noted that rebranding became effective today, Tuesday, August 19, 2025.”
It described the “strategic transformation” as a “significant milestone in the bank’s journey to better serve its customers, embrace digital innovation, and expand its footprint in the financial services industry.”
-
Feature/OPED6 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism9 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking7 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy2 years agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking2 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports2 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn
-
Technology5 years agoHow To Link Your MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile Lines to NIN