ACCESS HOLDINGS PLC ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF MR. AIGBOJE AIG-IMOUKHUEDE, CFR (PIONEER ACCESS BANK GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO) AS HOLDCO CHAIRMAN AFTER 10 YEARS

Access Holdings Plc (‘the Holdco’), is pleased to announce the return of Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR as its Non-Executive Chairman. Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR replaces Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, the erstwhile Chairman of the HoldCo who remains on the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

This visionary and accomplished leader is bringing an outstanding record of accomplishments, wealth of expertise and leadership to guide the Group into a new era of success.

In response to the untimely passing of the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR and following extensive consultations with key stakeholders, the Holdco Board unanimously decided to invite Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede to the helm of governance.

With an illustrious career spanning several decades in the banking and finance sector, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede has proven to be an exceptional and influential leader, having admirably laid a solid foundation for Access Bank’s success as Group Chief Executive Officer between 2002 and 2013 ably supported by his partner and deputy, the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR who later succeeded him.

Under Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s leadership, Access Bank experienced remarkable growth and established itself as a trusted financial institution within the community. The Bank transformed from a minor player into one of Nigeria’s top 5 banks with presence in 9 other African countries and the United Kingdom. Under his stewardship, Access Bank grew its customer base from ten thousand to over six million with more than 5,000 employees and an asset base of USD $12 billion, achieving numerous milestones and becoming a globally recognized name. His strategic vision, innovative thinking, and deep market insight were instrumental to shaping the Bank’s success.

Following his retirement as the Bank’s CEO in December 2013, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede cofounded the Tengen Family Office Limited which oversees a significant portfolio of investments and businesses in banking, finance, insurance, technology, real estate, and energy. Through the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, he is focused on building Nigeria’s next generation of government leaders, helping transform public sector effectiveness, and improving access to quality primary health care.

The decision to bring back Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede as the Group’s Non-Executive Chairman reflects the Board’s commitment to our core values and determination to build upon the strong foundation, he jointly established with Dr. Wigwe. With his return, Access Holdings aims to leverage his extensive experience, industry knowledge, and exceptional leadership skills to consolidate on the growth and accomplishments recorded under Dr. Wigwe’s leadership.

In his new role as Non-Executive Chairman, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede will collaborate with the Board of Directors to oversee strategy and provide guidance to the executive management team. His return is not only a testament to his unwavering dedication to Access Group but also a clear demonstration of the Board’s confidence in his ability to lead the Group to new heights.

Speaking about his return, Mr. Abubakar Jimoh past Chairman, Access Holdings expressed his excitement, stating:

“Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s appointment to the Board and subsequent election as Chairman is a landmark development for Access Holdings. All our board members are excited about our future’’.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, said:

“I am thrilled to be back in active service to the Access Group ecosystem. I am confident that working with our directors, our exceptional team of executives and our best-in-class banking and finance professionals, we will deliver outstanding value to our esteemed stakeholders. I am determined that our shared vision which Dr. Wigwe gave everything for, will be realized”.

The entire Access Group family, including employees, customers, and stakeholders, eagerly anticipates Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede’s return and looks forward to a promising future under his leadership. With his expertise, passion, and commitment, the Access Group is poised to embark on a new chapter of impact and sustainable success.

Invest in Yourself, Have a Business Structure, Female Entrepreneurs advise SMEs at UBA Business Series

Successful female business entrepreneurs, have advised Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) operators and would-be business owners to focus on meeting specific needs and self-development to create a path towards building prosperous brands in the short and long-term.

Speaking during the Women’s Day edition of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Business Series hybrid event at the bank’s Head office in Lagos on Thursday, the entrepreneurs emphasised the need for SMEs to invest in themselves and have a proper working business structure as tips that will help build and grow their businesses.

The co-founder and CEO of Good Hair Ltd, Chioma Ikokwu; Founder of African Naturalistas, Atilola Moronfolu; Founder of Hello Perfect, a leading skin aesthetics and laser clinic in Nigeria, Onyeka Michael-Ugwu and Actress/Founder and Chief Executive Officer, NOUA Skin, a luxury boutique skin studio based in Lagos, Oshuwa Tunde-Imoyo, were panellists at the special women’s edition of this quarter’s UBA Business series who spoke on the theme: Herstory.

Chioma who emphasised the need for meaningful partnerships and collaborations in business said, “It is important to start by solving a problem, you have to separate your lifestyle from your business and ensure that you are intentional about what you put out there. Also, get straight to the point about what you are offering your customers, no need beating about the bush,” she stated.

Buttressing Chioma’s point, Onyeka told business owners and would-be entrepreneurs to surround themselves with the right people as these are the people that will help tend to the growth of the business. “I always tell people, build a team that can give their best to your business. When you treat your team right, they will put their all into growing your business,” she said.

Atilola who was all about the advantage of a proper business structure to one’s business, said, “Get your structure right, you need to have a standard operating procedure that works whether you are physically present or not. Also, it is very important to separate your personal finances from your business finances, that way, your business learns to thrive on its own,” she explained.

On her part, Oshuwa spoke about education and investing in one’self, as she added that business owners need to hone their skills, and should not be afraid to ask for help when they need it. “I agree with Atilola and Onyeka about collaborations and I also subscribe to learning new things by investing in educating yourself, this will translate into better business decisions,” she said.

UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who commended the panellists for taking time off their busy schedules to share their knowledge, said UBA organises these business series frequently as they go a long way towards equipping customers, especially the women with the strategies to help build successful businesses.

“We believe that SMEs, especially those run by the females, are the engine of growth in any economy, and so, at UBA, we invest in educating our customers and Small business owners on tips that will help them run successful businesses that can impact the world,” Ladipo said.

United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees’ group wide and serving over 35 million customers globally. Operating in 20 African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.

Heirs Energies: Powering Nigeria’s Economy with Domestic Gas Supply

· Sole Gas Supplier to Geometric Power Plant

Heirs Energies, Africa’s leading integrated energy company, has announced a further expansion of its gas supply business, supplying the recently commissioned 188 MW power plant operated by Geometric Power Limited, located in Aba, Abia State.

Heirs Energies is a leading provider of gas to the Nigerian National Grid, and already supplies TransAfam Power Limited, with a capacity of 966MW, and First Independent Power Limited (FIPL), with a capacity of 541MW. Heirs Energies also supplies gas to local distribution companies, gas-based industries, and other industrial customers.

Founded in 2021, Heirs Energies operates OML17 and related infrastructure, with a mission to ensuring that Nigerian businesses and consumers derive direct and ongoing benefit from the country’s natural resources. All gas produced from OML 17 is supplied to the domestic gas industry.

Heirs Energies is pioneering a new era in Nigeria’s energy sector. With the operation of OML17 and its associated assets, the company has been pivotal in ensuring a reliable and sustainable gas supply, directly contributing to the nation’s industrial and economic growth. Heirs

Energies’ gas supplies to these critical power plants not only reinforce its major role in Nigeria’s energy sector, but also underscore its strategic vision in developing operational synergies throughout the energy value chain.

Creating a Nigerian champion in domestic gas supply represents a further example of Heirs Holdings role as a long-term strategic investor in the Nigerian energy sector, with interests in the recently listed Transcorp Power Limited, TransAfam, and Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc, and as an operator of oil-producing assets more than 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d). With a unique vision of ensuring Africa’s natural resources serve Africa’s interests, the Heirs Group is driven by founder Tony Elumelu’s Africapitalism philosophy of ensuring businesses deliver both economic and social benefits to stakeholders.

Osa Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, praised the company’s growing impact: “Our ability to supply these three major power plants demonstrates Heirs Energies’ dedication to lighting up Nigeria and supporting our country’s journey towards economic and social prosperity. We are not just participants in the energy sector; we are facilitators of growth and development, driven by a mission to ensure that Nigeria’s natural resources benefit its people.”

Heirs Energies’ gas plant in Agbada, Rivers State, produces over 80 MMSCFD (million standard cubic feet per day) of gas. 100 percent of this gas output is channelled into the domestic market to meet local demands, supporting Nigeria’s energy needs and exemplifying Heirs Energies’ commitment to powering thousands of homes, schools, hospitals, and industries, reinforcing its role in catalysing Nigeria’s industrialisation.

Heirs Energies Limited (formerly HeirsHoldings Oil & Gas Limited) is Africa’s largest indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs whilst aligning with global sustainability goals. With a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads the evolving energy landscape and contributes to a more prosperous Africa.

For more information about Heirs Energies and our projects, please visit www.heirsenergies.com.

Tony Elumelu in Global Academic Limelight as the Tony Elumelu Foundation Case Study becomes part of Harvard’s Curriculum

In an unprecedented move, the Harvard Business School, the graduate business school of Harvard University, is set to cast the spotlight on the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), recognising the Foundation’s extraordinary philanthropic achievement in a ground-breaking case study.

The case study, first of its kind on any philanthropic organisation in Africa, is to be launched on Thursday, February 29, 2024, before a class of graduate students in Boston, Massachusetts and will explore the Foundation’s unique approaches and transformative initiatives, showcasing how strategic philanthropy offered by TEF is driving positive change and elevating countries and communities.

This move by Harvard underscores the Foundation’s pivotal role in empowering young African entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries and places the Foundation at the forefront of global discussions on transformative and catalytic philanthropy, acknowledging its significant contributions towards fostering entrepreneurship in Africa.

In addition to delving into the foundation’s innovative approaches and the resultant impact it has garnered over the years, the event will also feature an exclusive acknowledgment of the Founder of TEF, Tony Elumelu’s economic philosophy of Africapitalism, which positions the private sector, and most importantly entrepreneurs, as the catalyst for the social and economic development of the African continent.

The Tony Elumelu Foundation is the leading philanthropy, empowering a new generation of African entrepreneurs, driving poverty eradication, catalysing job creation across all 54 African countries, and increasing inclusive economic empowerment.

Since the launch of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme in 2015, the Foundation has trained over 1.5 million young Africans on its digital hub, TEFConnect, and disbursed over USD$100 million in direct funding to 20,000 young African women and men, who have collectively created over 400,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Tony Elumelu who spoke on the impact of TEF on the African youth said, “TEF is creating economic hope and opportunity for African Entrepreneurs. We know that entrepreneurship is the antidote to poverty, youth unemployment and insecurity. Through the intervention of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, we are encouraging our young people, giving them hope through the seed capital we provide, capacitising them through the training and mentoring we provide and setting them up to create businesses that will succeed and create even more jobs. Collectively we are fixing the challenges that we have on the continent.

Continuing, he said, “the Tony Elumelu Foundation was set up to create more successful African business leaders. We want to replicate our own success and create entrepreneurs who will build more prosperity on the continent and for the continent. It’s all about transforming our society and making sure that we leave the society better than we met it. It is not about the money that we have in our bank accounts, it is about the legacy that we make and the impact we create. Prosperity for all is what will create the security, harmony and peace that we need.”

The Harvard Business School session will provide a platform for thought leaders, scholars, and business enthusiasts to engage in a meaningful discussion on the role of philanthropy in shaping sustainable and inclusive economies. As the world grapples with complex challenges, the Tony Elumelu Foundation stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing how strategic philanthropy can be a driving force for positive change.

ACCESS HOLDINGS PLC ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF MS. BOLAJI AGBEDE AS ACTING GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) has announced the appointment of Ms. Bolaji Agbede as the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of the Company following the unfortunate demise of its former Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, on February 9, 2024.

The appointment is subject to the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Until her recent appointment, Ms. Agbede was the Company’s most senior founding Executive Director in charge of Business Support.

She has nearly three decades of professional experience cutting across banking and business consultancy services. Ms. Agbede commenced her professional career in 1992 at Guaranty Trust Bank and served in various capacities within the Commercial Banking and Operations functions rising to the position of Manager in 2001. She subsequently served as the Chief Executive Officer of JKG Limited, a business consulting outfit in 2003.

Ms. Agbede joined Access Bank Plc (‘the Bank’) in 2003 as an Assistant General Manager and was responsible for managing the Bank’s portfolio of chemical trading companies. She served as the Bank’s Head, Group Human Resources between 2010 and 2022 and was appointed the Company’s founding Executive Director, Business Support in 2022. She has a track record in successful people integration in business combination and culture transformation.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Lagos (1990) and a Masters of Business Administration Degree from Cranfield University UK in 2002. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Management UK and the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria.

Ms. Agbede has attended several renowned leadership and professional development programmes including the High-Performance Leadership Programme organised by the IMD and the Strategic Talent Management Programme organised the London Business School.

Inflation to fall in 2024 – Cardoso

Inflation to fall in 2024 — Cardoso

The Central Bank of Nigeria’s governor Mr. Yemi Cardoso expects headline inflation to fall to 21.4 per cent in 2024.

The apex bank’s governor disclosed this during his keynote speech at the launching of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group macroeconomic outlook report for 2024.

Cardoso said, “Inflationary pressures are expected to decline in 2024 due to the CBN’s inflation-targeting policy, which aims to rein in inflation to 21.4 per cent.”

According to him, the inflation targeting will help the government in its battle against inflation which hit 28.9 per cent in December. Lower rates will ultimately affect businesses, he alluded.

“The outlook for decreasing inflation in 2024 will have a profound impact on businesses, providing a more predictable cost environment and potentially leading to lower policy rates, stimulating investment, fueling growth, and creating job opportunities,” Cardoso said.

More details soon…

Emefiele: CBN sacks boards of Union, Titan, Keystone, Polaris banks

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has, with immediate effect, sacked the entire Board of Directors of Polaris, Titan, Union and Keystone Banks.

CBN sources say the decision was taken in a meeting led by the apex bank’s governor, Yemi Cardoso, on Wednesday in Abuja.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, hinted that an official statement dissolving the board of directors will be released shortly.

The source said, “In the next hour, there is going to be official communication from the bank. We are working on it and an official statement will be sent soon.”

The action follows the recommendation of the Special Investigator, Jim Obazee, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in July 2023, to probe the activities of the CBN and other relevant establishments.

The report of the special investigation into the activities of the CBN had accused the immediate past governor of the apex bank, Godwin Emefiele, of acquiring banks for himself through proxies.

The report stated that Emefiele used proxies to acquire Union Bank of Nigeria for Titan Trust Bank Limited and Keystone Bank without any evidence of payment.

As a result, it recommended that the Federal Government reverse the sale of the banks and take them over.

Culled from Punch

Nigerian banks, FinTechs to launch cNGN Stablecoin February 27

A consortium of Nigerian financial institutions, fintechs, and blockchain experts, the Africa Stablecoin Consortium (ASC) is set to launch a compliant Nigeria Naira (cNGN) stablecoin on February 27, 2024.

Nairametrics had first reported that Nigerian banks and FinTechs are collaborating to develop and manage the cNGN. Similar to well-known stablecoins like USDT and USDC, the cNGN will be compatible with multiple public blockchains, enabling straightforward international transfers and expanding its use globally.

The consortium disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday. The launch of the cNGN is riding on the back of the Regulatory Sandbox recently released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

According to the consortium, the cNGN stablecoin would revolutionize financial transactions. Through the project, the consortium said it is committed to enhancing secure and compliant financial interactions, revolutionizing the way people transact and engage with their money securely and seamlessly.

While noting that the stablecoin will transform the Nigerian Naira into a currency for global settlements, the ASC said:

“This (the cNGN) ushers in a new era of financial fluidity, bridging the Nigerian Naira with the global market through blockchain technology. Backed 1:1 by Naira reserves held in designated commercial banks, the cNGN Stablecoin transforms the Naira into a dynamic tool for worldwide remittances, commerce, trade and investment.
More than just a currency, cNGN shortens settlement times, enabling payments that traverse the globe swiftly, mirroring the speed of a text message and at a fraction of the cost. This breakthrough paves the way for instantaneous financial transactions, seamlessly connecting Nigeria’s vibrant economy with international markets and offering unprecedented efficiency in both domestic and global financial interactions.”

According to the consortium, the cNGN stablecoin will allow users to explore the World and experience a seamless and cost-effective way to engage with a global marketplace, with the familiarity of your Naira.

cNGN extends your financial reach far beyond Nigeria’s borders and acts as a global bridge, so you can pay for anything, anywhere, and at any time– all with a seamless tap. Shop the World, Pay in Naira without the traditional challenges of currency conversion and hefty international transaction fees.

Giving further insights into the use cases of the cNGN, the consortium said:

“Sending money home feels like sending a text message, effortless and instant: No more agonizing days waiting for remittances to clear. With cNGN, supporting your loved ones back home becomes as simple as a quick tap on your phone. No more standing in lines. With cNGN, funds land directly in their wallets within seconds, ready to fuel their dreams and brighten their days. No more distance, no more delays, just the magic of compliant virtual assets bridging the gap between hearts.
“Trade Like a Pro, Cost-Effectively. Cut out the red tape and sky-high fees of traditional international trade. With cNGN you can send and receive payments across the globe instantly enabling you to transact with national & international partners in any stablecoin currency, fueling economic growth and global success.
“Get paid, anywhere, instantly. Ditch the limitations of location and outdated payment systems. With cNGN, you can freelance for the world, right from your desk in Nigeria. Your talent knows no borders, so why should your income? Skip the bank queues and paperwork. Receive payments from clients across the globe, directly deposited into your cNGN wallet in minutes.

Mirroring the functionality of major stablecoins, the cNGN boasts interoperability with other public blockchains. This feature enables seamless global transfers, extending its utility beyond Nigerian borders.

The cNGN is a compliant and regulated consortium-driven stablecoin, pegged to the Naira in the Reserve Bank account. Unlike the eNaira, which is developed solely by the apex bank, the cNGN is managed by a consortium.

Culled from Nairametrics

AAS CEO Jesam Michael Praise President Tinubu for Lifting Ban on Cryptocurrency… Advise Nigerians to Embrace AAS Token

Leading Fintech expert in Nigeria, Jesam Micheal has applauded the President Tinubu Led government for the official lifting of the ban by the CBN on Cryptocurrency in Nigeria and charged the Nigerians generally and the youths, in particular, to take advantage of this and buy into the Afriq Arbitrage System which is the leading global cryptocurrency platform in Nigeria.

Interestingly, Like a financial prophet, Jesam has been at the forefront of the push for the Nigerian government to embrace cryptocurrency which is the trending financial system in the world. While receiving an award presentation from the Nigeria Media Masters a week ago as the Fintech Expert Of the Year,, he said God’s kind of money and government paper kind of money is no longer in vogue but the people’s kind of money which is crypto is the most viable form of financial empowerment everyone should embrace now.

He reiterated this stance when the Presidency of NANS inducted him into the Hall of Fame and also awarded him the Icon of Hope. He charged the youths and the Nigerian government to embrace cryptocurrency which is the antidote to global economic inflation.

Interestingly, the Nigerian government listened to his voice as the Central Bank of Nigeria changed its stance on crypto assets in the country and asked banks to disregard its earlier ban on crypto transactions.

This is according to a circular dated December 22, 2023, with reference number FPR/DIR/PUB/CIR/002/003, and signed by the apex bank’s Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, Haruna Mustafa.

The circular is titled ‘Circular to all Banks and other Financial Institutions Guidelines on Operations of Bank Accounts for Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASPS).’

The apex bank stated that current trends globally have shown the need for crypto regulation.

It said, “The CBN, in February 2021 issued a circular restricting banks and other financial institutions from operating accounts for cryptocurrency service providers in view of the money laundering and terrorism financing (ML/TF) risks and vulnerabilities inherent in their operations as well as the absence of regulations and consumer protection measures.

“However, current trends globally have shown that there is a need to regulate the activities of virtual assets service providers (VASPs) which include cryptocurrencies and crypto assets. Following this development, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in 2018 also updated its Recommendation 15 to require VASPS to be regulated to prevent misuse of virtual assets for ML/TF/PF.

“Furthermore, Section 30 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 recognizes VASPs as part of the definition of a financial institution.

“In addition, the Securities and Exchange Commission in May 2022 issued Rules on Issuance, Offering and Custody of Digital Assets and VASPs to provide a regulatory framework for their operations in Nigeria.

“Given the preceding, the CBN hereby issues this guideline to guide to financial institutions under its regulatory purview in respect of their banking relationship with VASPs in Nigeria. “

The apex bank noted that this new guideline supersedes its old ones referenced FPR/DIR/GEN/CIR/06/010 of January 12, 2017, and BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/014/001 of February 5, 2021 on the subject.

It also affirmed that banks and other financial institutions are still prohibited from holding, trading and/or transacting in virtual currencies on their own account.

It added that all banks and other financial institutions must immediately comply with its new guidelines.

In its circular with reference number BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/014/001, dated February 5, 2021, the apex bank reminded banks that dealing in cryptocurrencies or facilitating payments for cryptocurrency exchanges was prohibited.

At the time, it asked banks to identify persons or entities transacting in or operating cryptocurrency exchanges within their systems and ensure that their accounts were closed.

It would be recalled that in Nigeria’s financial landscape, a transformative force is quietly reshaping the investment horizon. Afriq Arbitrage System (AAS) led by the visionary CEO Jesam Michael, a beacon of innovation in the country’s investment space, wielding tokenized digital currency with profound impact.

Michael’s vision for AAS speaks to a modernized approach to investments. “Our platform embodies the marriage of technology and finance, offering an accessible avenue for a broader spectrum of individuals to participate in the crypto investment market,” shares Jesam Michael. “The utilization of smart contracts and blockchain technology empowers our users to engage in a decentralized and secure ecosystem that transcends boundaries.”

Underpinning AAS’s prowess is its automated and sophisticated trading system, incorporating advanced AI algorithms. “Our system,” Michael explains, “is designed to navigate the complex landscape of crypto exchanges globally, seamlessly executing trades with precision and efficiency. The deployment of high-frequency trading algorithms ensures optimal execution, minimizing risks and maximizing potential gains for our users.”

Furthermore, the platform’s low entry threshold underscores its commitment to inclusivity. “With a starting point as low as $20,” says Michael, “AAS positions itself as a welcoming space for novices and seasoned investors alike. Our aim is to democratize the investment space, making sophisticated digital currency trading accessible to a broader demographic.”

The impact of AAS extends far beyond Nigeria’s borders. Its global presence, spanning over 200 countries, underscores a commitment to facilitating international trade and investments. Michael envisions a future where AAS evolves into a significant global player. “We’re laying the groundwork for an autonomous token and blockchain,” he notes. “This strategic move will not only redefine the landscape in Nigeria but also make our mark on the global stage.

“The prelaunch of the AAS Token is scheduled to commence between late November and early December 2023. This prelaunch phase offers an exclusive opportunity for early adopters and investors to acquire the AAS Token at a discounted rate, ensuring a strategic advantage in the evolving digital currency landscape,” Michael elucidated.

AAS’s innovative blend of technology and finance signals a paradigm shift in investment landscapes. The platform’s focus on blockchain technology and tokenized digital currency represents a secure and potentially lucrative avenue for investors, navigating a space rife with volatility and uncertainty.

The evolving investment narrative in Nigeria finds its mettle in the rise of tokenized digital currency, pioneered by AAS and guided by Jesam Michael’s forward-thinking strategies. As the platform continues to grow and expand, it represents a compelling vision for the future of investments in Nigeria and globally.

ZENITH BANK MAKES WORLD FINANCE 100 LISTING FOR 2023

Zenith Bank Plc has been listed in the World Finance 100 2023 released by World Finance Magazine, achieving the feat as the only Nigerian company in the prestigious and exclusive listing. Zenith Bank’s inclusion in this elite list underscores the bank’s outstanding achievements and resilience in a dynamic and competitive global market.

The World Finance 100 celebrates companies that have reached the pinnacle of achievement across a wide variety of fields of expertise. Each year World Finance compiles the list of 100 companies, purely based on excellence in their field. The list presents the new business elite, made up of those whose vision and enterprise shapes the conceptual landscape of finance, business and technology. Notably, Zenith Bank stands as the lone Nigerian company and one of just three African companies to earn a place on this esteemed list for 2023, alongside industry titans such as Apple, Amazon, and Alphabet.

Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, remarked, “It is with great pride that we acknowledge this feat as the exclusive Nigerian company in the World Finance 100 2023. This accolade is a testament to our unwavering dedication to our valued stakeholders, our innovative spirit, and sustained growth, all achieved amidst the complexities of a challenging economic climate. This honour further attests to our status as a leading financial institution that continues to set the industry standard in financial performance, good corporate governance and financial stability.”

He expressed his profound gratitude to the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR, for his visionary leadership and foundational role in shaping a resilient and thriving financial institution. He also acknowledged the board for the outstanding leadership they provide; the staff, whose drive and commitment sustains the exceptional performance; and the bank’s customers for their steadfast trust in the Zenith brand.

Zenith Bank continues to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic development and remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge financial solutions to its diverse clientele. The Bank’s track record of excellent performance has earned the brand numerous awards, with this latest accolade coming on the heels of several recognitions including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital, for the 14th consecutive year, in the 2023 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking published by The Banker Magazine; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria, for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023, in the World Finance Banking Awards; Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards 2022 and 2023; Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2020 and 2022; Best Bank in Nigeria, for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; Best in Corporate Governance’ Financial Services’ Africa, for four successive years from 2020 to 2023, by the Ethical Boardroom; Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 Banking Awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation In Retail Banking, Nigeria in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.

Also, the bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021; Bank of the Year 2023 and Retail Bank of the Year, for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards. Similarly, Zenith Bank was named Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS Awards.