FirstBank To Launch Financial Services For Blind, Physically Challenged Customers

FirstBank, the premier West African bank and a leading financial inclusion service provider, is set to introduce tailored financial services for blind, partially sighted, and physically challenged customers across its operations.

This initiative is part of FirstBank’s broader continuous commitment to promoting Financial Inclusion and Diversity, which is shown in its policies, partnerships and initiatives such as its employees’ ratio of female to male (about 41 per cent,:59 per cent; and 37 per cent women in management roles) as well as the FirstBank Women Network, an initiative that seeks to address the gender gap and increase the participation of women at all levels within the organisation. 

In addition, the Bank’s membership of the UN Women is an affirmation of a deliberate policy that is consistent with UN Women’s Women Empowerment’s Principles (WEPs) ─ Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Nondiscrimination.

Commenting on the proposed launch, the Chief Risk Officer and Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, Patrick Akhidenor, said, “Everyone deserves access to financial services whether physically or digitally.

“We recognise this, and we are providing financial services that are both accessible and affordable to visually impaired and physically challenged customers at all our touchpoints. We are making it possible for them to manage their accounts independently and securely, the bank said.”

The initiative will be implemented in phases across all subsidiaries and locations of the FirstBank Group. Transaction documents will be made available in braille, audio, large print, and digital formats. ATMs will be upgraded with high-contrast screens and voice-prompt commands, while cards issued will feature tactile motifs and braille inscriptions for easy recognition. Already existing soft PINs and tokens would be enhanced to boost secure access to banking channels. Product brochures will also be made available in braille and audio formats to support customer understanding and engagement.

FirstBank’s efforts align with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which advocate equal access to financial services.

With this initiative, FirstBank is shaping a future where every individual, regardless of physical ability, can manage their financial affairs without third-party assistance. By embedding accessibility into its core operations, the Bank is setting a new standard for ethical, inclusive, and impactful banking.

 

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Rebranding: 9mobile Is Now T2

Nigerian telecoms operator 9mobile has rebranded to T2 as part of a strategic push to revive its market position, expand its reach, and compete more aggressively in the country’s fast-growing digital economy.

The move marks the “Transformation” stage of the company’s four-phase recovery plan: Stabilisation, Modernisation, Transformation, and Growth, which was introduced following the 2023 acquisition of 9mobile by Lighthouse Telecoms, led by businessman and investor Thomas Etuh.

Since the takeover, the operator has overhauled its leadership team, reconstituted its board, and signed a landmark three-year national roaming agreement with MTN Nigeria in July. The deal, the first of its scale in the market, has allowed 9mobile subscribers to roam seamlessly on MTN’s nationwide network, improving coverage, capacity, and service quality in areas where 9mobile’s own network had been limited.

At the unveiling of the new brand identity in Lagos on Friday, Chief Executive Officer Obafemi Banigbe said the rebrand represented “a total evolution of who we are, why we exist, and how we deliver value” rather than a cosmetic exercise. “T2 is a symbol of our renewed commitment to innovation, resilience, and a deepened focus on customer experience,” he noted in a statement.

Etuh described the transition as a “rebirth” for the company after years of legal and operational challenges, crediting “faith and love for country” as his motivation for acquiring the business. He thanked the Nigerian Communications Commission and the company’s customers for their patience during a period marked by multiple litigations and operational difficulties.

“To our amazing customers, please accept my profound gratitude for believing in us,” he said. “We are rising together again. Together, with you, we are reclaiming all lost grounds.”

The Minister for Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, welcomed the rebrand but urged the company to translate it into concrete service improvements.

“Let this rebrand be more than a change of colours or new logo,” he said, calling for a “renewed commitment to innovation, to service excellence and to the millions of Nigerians whose lives and businesses depend on your network every single day.”

The Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said T2’s focus on digital innovation aligned with the state’s ambitions for a robust and inclusive digital economy.

The transition to the T2 identity will be rolled out in phases to ensure uninterrupted service, with the new brand anchored on four pillars: Speed, Smart Living, Digital Lifestyle, and Trust. The company aims to position itself as a bridge between connectivity and culture, infrastructure and impact, as Nigeria’s telecoms market enters a new decade of transformation.

 

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FirstBank Wins 2025 Euromoney ESG Award

FirstBank has retained the title of Nigeria’s Best Bank for Environmental, Social, and Governance at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2025.

This marks the second consecutive win in the ESG category for FirstBank, affirming its leadership in sustainable finance and responsible banking across Nigeria, the organizers said in a statement.

The Euromoney Awards for Excellence are regarded as one of the most coveted accolades in the global financial industry. The highly competitive selection process involves rigorous analysis and assessment, measuring performance against strategic and impact-oriented criteria.

FirstBank said that it earned the award through its deepened sustainability commitments embedded across its operations and community initiatives. In 2024, FirstBank screened 237 transactions worth over N3tn for sustainability risks, integrating ESG considerations into its credit framework.

Highlighting some of its initiatives, the bank said that it commenced a tree planting campaign in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation, planting over 30,000 trees in 16 locations across Nigeria. This was the first phase of its 50,000-tree initiative, projected to absorb approximately 720 tonnes of CO2 by the end of 2025, contributing to climate resilience and supporting biodiversity preservation.

A statement by the lender read partly, “FirstBank has been proactive in gender inclusion through the Gender Market Strategy, disbursing over N43bn in FirstGem loans to women-led businesses in 2024.

The bank’s commitment to inclusive banking saw a significant increase in the worth of transactions facilitated by FirstMonie agents to over N9tn.

“The bank prioritises ESG/sustainability capacity building, evidenced by the training of over 9000 employees, and its webinars and workshops reaching over 2,000 SMEs and corporates. The bank’s investment in leadership for over 2,000 female employees through the FirstBank Women Network has demonstrated a dedicated structural commitment to cultivating a knowledgeable and diverse workforce catering to the dynamic ESG landscape.”

Commenting on the award, the Chief Risk Officer of the Bank/Chairman of the FirstBank Sustainability Committee, Patrick Akhidenor, said, “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award for the second time in a row, which is a validation of our efforts to create a sustainable and inclusive future for all our stakeholders. Our approach to sustainability is hinged on three pillars: education, health and welfare; diversity and financial inclusion; and responsible lending, procurement, and climate initiatives.

“We remain focused on driving impact through purposeful initiatives and inclusive growth, ensuring that our ESG efforts continue to create meaningful change in communities across Nigeria and beyond.”

 

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Nigerian Marketing Awards Adds New Categories As 2025 Entries Open August 15

Entries for the 2025 edition of the Nigerian Marketing Awards (NMA) will officially open on Thursday, August 15, and close on Monday, September 30, 2025.

In its fourth year, the annual event celebrates excellence, innovation, and impact across Nigeria’s dynamic marketing landscape. This year’s theme is ‘Driving Impact, Inspiring Change.’

According to the organisers, early bird submissions completed by Thursday, September 5, 2025, will receive a 15% discount on entry fees.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Jewel Aeida, Lekki, Lagos.

Two new categories have been introduced in the 2025 edition: Best Use of AI in Marketing and Best Spice Brand, reflecting current industry trends and consumer interests.

The full list of 31 categories includes:

1. Brand of the Year

2. Campaign of the Year

3. Best Rebrand of the Year

4. Brand Innovation of the Year

5. Excellence in Experiential Marketing

6. Digital Agency of the Year

7. PR Agency of the Year

8. Advertising Agency of the Year

9. Experiential Agency of the Year

10. Out-of-Home Agency of the Year

11. Financial Institution of the Year

12. Telecom Company of the Year

13. Best Use of Social Media

14. Best Alcoholic Brand of the Year

15. Best Non-Alcoholic Brand of the Year

16. Best Dairy Brand of the Year

17. Best Public Sector Marketing of the Year

18. Best Reputation Management of the Year

19. Best Social Responsibility Campaign of the Year

20. Best Influencer Marketing of the Year

21. Best Personal Care Brand of the Year

22. Best Use of Social Media in Food and Beverage

23. Best Food Delivery Marketing Campaign

24. Best Use of AI in Marketing(‘New’)

25. Best Spice Brand(‘New’)

26. Rising Star of Marketing

27. Marketing Student of the Year

28. Marketing Educator of the Year

29. Brand Manager of the Year

30. Marketing Journalist of the Year

31. Inspirational Marketing Leader of the Year

‘The Nigerian Marketing Awards 2025 promises to be bigger, bolder, and more impactful,’ the Awards Secretariat said. ‘We are excited to spotlight the ideas, campaigns, and individuals pushing the boundaries of excellence in marketing across Nigeria.’

 

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MTN Unveils "Next Afrobeat Star" To Discover, Groom Musical Talents

MTN Nigeria has unveiled a new reality television show called, “Next Afrobeats Star”, to groom musical talents by providing a lifetime opportunity to turn their dreams and aspirations into reality.

Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Saturday night, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, said the show would feature a competition and grooming sessions to discover and elevate the next global icon of Afrobeats.

According to her, the winner of the show will receive a record deal valued at 100,000 dollars, which is N155 million.

She explained that the top four finalists will also be rewarded with deals ranging from 25,000 dollars  to 75,000 dollars, to support the production of their debut projects.

She said: “Tonight, we are not just launching a show, we are launching a dream. A dream that will rise from the streets of Lagos, echo through the valleys of Jos, and reach the furthest corners of Nigeria.

“At MTN, we believe in progress, not just as a brand stance but a purpose. We believe that every Nigerian, regardless of background, location, or education, deserves a chance to be connected, seen, heard, and celebrated.

“That is why we are taking this message to every corner of Nigeria from the bustling cities to the most remote villages so that no youth is left behind, because talent knows no boundaries, and neither should opportunity.

“It is a platform where raw talent meets real opportunity. Where the rhythm of Nigeria meets the reach of the world.”

According to Ikenna-Emeka, the initiative also aligns with the Federal Government’s bold vision to transform Nigeria into Africa’s creative capital.

She said through the Destination 2030 strategy, the government was working to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for creative excellence by the year 2030.

“This vision is about more than economic growth; it’s about cultural pride, global influence, and national identity.

“It is about creating an enabling environment for artistic brilliance, promoting diversity and creativity, and preserving the rich heritage that makes Nigeria unique.”

She called on the youth to embrace the opportunity to make a difference on the global stage.

According to her, the “Next Afrobeats Star” is a bold initiative by MTN Nigeria, in partnership with Ultima Studios and ONErpm.

Also, Temilolu Salako, Senior Manager, Youth Segment at MTN Nigeria, noted that renowned afrobeats producers would be engaged as judges and mentors during the show.

“Today, we’re not just launching a talent search, we are kicking off a movement. The Next Afrobeats Star is more than a campaign. It’s a spotlight.

“It is a microphone, a stage for the next voice that will shake the charts and shape the sound of Nigeria and beyond, and powering this bold journey is a brand that’s all about youth empowerment, creativity, and self-expression, that is MTN Pulse.”

Alexander Uwaifo, known professionally as Andre Vibez, a music producer who is one of the judges for the show, said: “I am excited to showcase my experience in helping to discover the crop of stars in the Afrobeats business.”

Another judge for the show, Femi Ayeni, Chief Executive Officer of Ultima Studios said, “Nigerians should expect that this will be different from other talent shows.”

 

 

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Golden Penny commits To quality nutrition At Food Fest

Golden Penny Foods, a Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc brand, has pledged to nourish Nigerian families with quality food products, following real-time feedback from consumers during its debut food festival in Enugu.

According to a statement, the event, held at Ngwo Park, Uwani, drew hundreds of residents, families, students, and food lovers who participated in live cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and interactive brand experiences. The company noted that the event was to deepen its regional presence, particularly in the Southeast.

Managing Director of Golden Penny Foods, Devlin Hainsworth, said the food fest exemplified the brand’s focus on producing nourishing and innovative products that meet consumer expectations.

Hainsworth said, “The Golden Penny Foods festival is a celebration of our wide range of superior quality and nourishing food products produced as an innovative response to the consumers’ need for tasty nutrition.”

He described the turnout as “applaudable,” noting that it reflects the brand’s “established trust over the years between the Golden Penny brand and our consumers, a journey marked by the organisation’s unwavering commitment to delivering excellence across various generations.”

Marketing Director, Illyas Kazeem, explained that the food festival builds on earlier efforts such as the Semovita Soup Festival, noting, “We started this journey two years ago with the Semovita Soup Festival across some regions, and this is a step further, bringing it to a full food fest. You can see the wide variety we have here, from pasta to noodles, cereals, oil, and many more.

“The goal is to let consumers experience our brand directly and get acquainted with our endless brands of tasty nutrition.” Golden Penny Foods added that it also designed the festival to connect more meaningfully with consumers by offering product sampling, experience centres, and cooking education that showcase the versatility of its product lines.

Associate Marketing Director, Pasta and Noodles, Foluke Makinde, emphasised the strategic importance of the region, remarking, “The South East is a very important part of the country, and as a company, it is a strategic focus for us to win here and win strongly.”

She noted that the brand wants consumers to associate food with enjoyment and not just sustenance. “We want people to know that food can be fun, and that nutrition can be enjoyable. Beyond just the products, we are giving people a full brand experience,” Makinde stated. “They are not just tasting pasta or noodles but learning new ways to enjoy them and leaving with new memories.”

Golden Penny noted that it gathered consumer insights that will shape future product development and marketing strategies from the event.

Associate Director for New Product Development, NTW & RS, Oluwatooni Odewole, said the feedback mechanism is central to the brand’s innovation drive. She said, “Feedback is a major part of how we ensure that our products are directly responding to our consumers’ nutritional needs. From social media to in-person surveys and direct interactions like this, we are always listening and using those insights to serve our consumers better and reach more communities across Nigeria.”

 

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Goldberg Salutes Super Falcons On Historic 10th WAFCON Title Win, Reaffirms Commitment To Women’s Football

Goldberg Lager, one of the flagship brands of Nigerian Breweries, has congratulated the Super Falcons of Nigeria on their hard-fought victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where they lifted their record-extending 10th continental title.

According to a statement from the brand, the Super Falcons' 10th WAFCON win truly aligns with the ongoing #GoldStandard campaign, showcasing the rest of the continent's best in beauty, fashion, and style on and off the field of play.

The Nigerian women’s team edged past hosts Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Saturday night, capping off a remarkable campaign that showcased their strength, unity, and experience.

In its congratulatory message on Saturday, Goldberg hailed the Super Falcons’ journey as a “true symbol of Naija resilience and pride,” celebrating a team that continues to inspire millions of Nigerians and football fans across the continent.

 “The Super Falcons have once again shown why they are the pride of Africa,” the statement read. “Their courage, discipline, and unity reflect the true spirit of champions. We are proud to celebrate this achievement with them and with all Nigerians,” the Brand Manager, Goldberg, Titilayo Famodimu stated.

Nigeria kicked off their campaign with a 3-0 thrashing of Tunisia before edging out South Africa in the semi-finals after a fierce contest. 

Beyond matchday cheers, Goldberg and Nigerian Breweries have been fuelling the rise of women’s football in Nigeria through consistent brand partnerships, grassroots engagements, and national team support campaigns.

From spotlighting female athletes in their advertising to backing platforms that promote the women’s game, the brand has stayed committed to breaking barriers and opening more opportunities for Nigerian women in sports.

Goldberg noted that this WAFCON title is not only a victory for the Super Falcons but for every girl who dreams of wearing the green and white.

 “We believe in the power of women, and we’re proud to be part of this journey. This win is for all of Nigeria, and we look forward to doing even more to support the women’s game,” she concluded.

The Super Falcons had truly aligned with the brand’s ongoing campaign at #GoldStandard, showcasing the rest of the continent's best in beauty, fashion, and style on and off the field of play.

 

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Union Bank Rewards Customers With N5 Million Each In Save And Win Palli Z Season

The Union Bank of Nigeria has proudly concluded the fourth edition of its acclaimed Save and Win Palli Promo, awarding three fortunate customers a life-changing ₦5 million each at the grand finale. Since its inception, this transformative campaign has disbursed over ₦330 million in cash and gift prizes, touching the lives of more than 5,000 customers nationwide and elevating their financial prospects.

The grand prize winners, representing diverse regions across the country, emerged through transparent electronic draws supervised by regulatory authorities. The celebrated recipients, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Isah (Zaria Branch, North), Atilabor Seikemefa Friday (Sapele Branch, South-South), and Oluranti Ogunluyi (Ilaro Branch, South-West), received their prizes at The Stallion Plaza, Union Bank’s Head Office, Marina, Lagos, in the presence of other winners, and the Bank’s executive leadership led by Managing Director/CEO Yetunde Oni.

Vivian Imoh-Ita, Head of Retail and SME Business, while reflecting on the enduring impact of the campaign, stated, “Over the past four years, the Save and Win Palli Promo has enriched the lives of thousands, providing crucial financial relief and rewarding diligent savers. We are unwavering in our commitment to empowering our customers so they may thrive and achieve their ambitions.”

Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Olufunmilola Aluko, highlighted the Bank’s broader mission: “Union Bank is delighted by the ripple effect our targeted savings initiatives have created. We have seen a significant boost in savings culture, allowing customers to reach their financial goals, while our innovative promotions continue to cushion economic challenges and foster responsible financial habits.”

Kicking off in December 2024 and concluding in May 2025, the latest season saw over 3,000 customers rewarded with gifts and cash, including motorcycles, tricycles, fuel vouchers, and substantial cash prizes, with total giveaways exceeding ₦131 million.

To qualify, customers maintained a minimum balance of ₦10,000 and completed at least five transactions monthly. Monthly draw winners received ₦100,000, while quarterly draws featured exciting prizes such as motorcycles and tricycles.

As Season 4 draws to a close, Union Bank reaffirms its dedication to nurturing customer growth and extending robust financial support nationwide. Through continued innovation, the Bank remains steadfast in its mission to empower Nigerians and foster sustainable wealth for all.

 

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