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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.

FirstBank UK Adopts Bloomberg TOMS to Optimize Fixed Income Workflow

Bloomberg announced today that FirstBank UK Limited (FirstBank UK), the UK subsidiary of First Bank Nigeria Limited, the premier West African bank, has adopted Bloomberg’s Trade Order Management System (TOMS). By integrating TOMS into its workflow, FirstBank UK will have access to a comprehensive suite of data and analytics, communications, as well as order and execution management solutions, enabling it to streamline its fixed income bonds business.

FirstBank UK is a niche market-maker to its customers in Africa. The business provides market liquidity in cash bonds, primarily in Nigerian, Angolan, Egyptian and Ghanaian Eurobonds to manage risk and optimize its inventory. Thanks to Bloomberg’s coverage, TOMS enables the trading desk of FirstBank UK to support its client base and to monitor its positions, profit and loss (P&L) and Risks.

“By integrating with our existing systems, Bloomberg TOMS provides FirstBank UK with a complete end-to-end trading workflow covering African bonds in most of our home markets,” said Olukorede Adenowo, CEO-designate at FirstBank UK.“ The solution enables us to focus on expanding our footprint in the African Fixed Income landscape and deliver a first-in-kind service to our customers in Africa.”

“We are pleased to help FirstBank UK enhance operational efficiency across its enterprise with our award-winning sell-side order management solution TOMS,” said Lisa Bravo, Global Head of Sell-Side OMS at Bloomberg. “TOMS empowers firms to create a seamless workflow from their front and middle-office, through to their operations and enterprise applications, while concurrently delivering their front office users with real-time execution, risk and P&L analytics.”

FirstBank UK has further digitized its order management workflow by offering clients access to liquidity on its own Eurobond Single-Dealer Platform. The application has been integrated with Bloomberg TOMS to centralize both order handling and aggregated custom analytics and liquidity tools within a single interface, to be hosted and connected to multiple trading venues. “The integration of TOMS with our custom-built electronic trading platform, allows our customers real-time access to liquidity in our markets, something unique to the majority of our customers,” said Robert Hagenaars, Head of Markets at FirstBank UK.

For additional information about Bloomberg’s sell-side solutions, please click here

Ecobank Shines At DBN Awards, Bags Three Laurels

… Gets commendations from Stakeholders

Left: Chief Operating Officer, Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN); Bonaventure Okhaimo; Managing Director, DBN, Tony Okpanachi; Carol Oyedeji, Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria and Executive Director, Finance and Corporate Services, DBN, Ijeoma Ozulumba at the DBN Annual Service Ambassador Awards ceremony held in Lagos recently

Ecobank Nigeria won 3 prominent awards signifying its’ support for MSME’s in Nigeria at this year’s Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Annual Service Ambassador Awards ceremony held in Lagos recently. The Bank bagged the following strategic awards which include: Platinum Service Ambassador; Bank with the Highest impact on Women Issues, and Bank with the Highest impact on MSMEs Accessing Credit for the first time.

The DBN Ambassadors Programme was designed to increase the sense of ownership among participating financial institutions, build capacity, increase on-lending to Micro, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) and ultimately deepen financial inclusion in Nigeria. Ecobank is a participating financial institution in partnership with DBN to provide credit facilities, credit guarantee and technical support to MSMEs.

Receiving the awards at the event, Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Carol Oyedeji said this a testament to the bank’s commitment to supporting and empowering women owned businesses and assisting small businesses to access loans conveniently at cheaper interest rates for the development of the overall MSME subsector. Ecobank had the highest volume and value of transactions in these award categories

She reiterated that, Ecobank remains a women-friendly bank with many initiatives and innovative products targeted at empowering and sustaining female entrepreneurs in Africa such as ‘Ellevate’ and ‘Ecobank Female Entrepreneurs Initiative (EFEI)’, which are designed to empower and support female entrepreneurs.

Mrs. Oyedeji noted that Ecobank recently signed a USD200 million risk-sharing agreement with African Guarantee Fund (AGF), a specialized pan-African guarantee provider, stressing that it is aimed at catalyzing economic growth and supporting entrepreneurial ventures – including women-owned SMEs on the continent. “Through this partnership, both organisations are taking bold steps to enhance green financing and gender financing. It would eliminate the rigorous and restrictive requirements for collateral, particularly hindering women-focused businesses’ access to credit.”

According to her, “ We have both financial and social empowerment initiatives for female entrepreneurs because we recognise women as the bedrock of most families and entrepreneurship in the society. We aim to eliminate the rigorous and restrictive requirements for collateral, hindering access to credit.”

In his welcome address, Managing Director, DBN, Tony Okpanachi saluted the awardees, stating that their collaboration and commitment is impacting positively on the sustainable growth of the MSME sub-sector of the economy.

According to him, “your unwavering commitment to forging a lasting impact on the MSMEs through our collaboration is a testament to your dedication to fueling sustainable growth. The true essence of the DBN Awards shines through a celebration of sustainable triumph, where today’s aspirations evolve into tomorrow’s achievements.”

He explained that the DBN leverages its partnership with Participating Financial Institutions (PFI) to provide relatively cheaper loans as well as capacity building initiatives to small businesses.

The Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) was conceived by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) in collaboration with global development partners to address the major financing challenges facing Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.

DBN’s objective is to alleviate financing constraints faced by MSMEs and small Corporates in Nigeria through the provision of financing and partial credit guarantees to eligible financial intermediaries on a market-conforming and fully financially sustainable basis.

Access Compromised: How Access Bank Expensive Porous Financial Security Exposes Depositors to Scammers and Fraudsters

Access Compromised: How Access Bank Expensive, Porous Financial Security

The primary function of banks is to make sure the money deposited with them and the data of their customers’ are kept safe at all times. This is the reason the current situation in Access Bank, a bank that used to be one of the most reliable financial institutions in the country, is sad and pitiful.

In the interim consolidated financial statement of June 30, 2023 of Herbert Wigwe led Holdings, it was recorded that Access Bank incurred a loss of N5. 46 billion to fraud and forgery incidents, a situation that places the bank on top of the list of most risky banks to save your money.

Findings shows the recorded loss were the money the owners were able to recover from the bank and this did not includ several billions whose owners were frustrated or bullied by the actions of Access Bank from recovering their money deposited from safe keeping with the bank that were somehow stolen.

The statement which was released by the Bank’s newly formed parent company Access Holdings reports that the N20.85 trillion asset company has been doing a shoddy job in securing the savings of their many customers which is primarily the bank’s responsibility and has only been able to prevent a loss of mere N975 89 million out of N6.44 billion which means they can confirm depositors with Access Bank incurred N5.46 billion debt due to the bank’s porous cyber security despite the several billions being earmarked for that purpose in the bank’s annual budget.

The report reveals the loss of N5.459 billion is as a result of fraudulent transfers, fraudulent withdrawals and reactivation of customers’ accounts, while N4.53 million loss was from cash theft, cash suppression, cash pilferage and dry posting.

If it would be recollected the bank was accused of practices that are not professional by Mr P of the singing duo of PSquare. The grouse of the musician is that the Bank and some other banks colluded with some individuals to use his name to perpetrate fraud on hapless Nigerians by allowing elements that are not him to use a combination of his stage and real names to open account to defraud the people.

He also accused the bank of not making moves to curbing the fraud months after he had reported the actions of the scammers to the bank over the anomaly of allowing such account to operate without the BVN.

It is important to note that the once proactive Access Bank seems to have been swimming in the deeps of banking security services for some times as there has been several incidents involving the bank that was at a time running the best secured online banking platform in the country to actions that has seen several depositors lose their life savings kept with the bank or use an account opened with the bank to steal.

FIRSTBANK REWARDS CUSTOMERS WITH 170,000,000 WORTH OF CASH PRIZES IN ITS WIN BIG PROMO

FirstBank, Nigeria’s premier financial institution and leading financial inclusion services provider, has launched the Win Big promo to reward and delight its valued customers. The four-month promo, which started on 23 October 2023 and will run till 23 February 2023 will reward several new and existing customers of the Bank with a total cash reward of 170,000,000.00 naira.

At the end of the four-month promo, 1,240 new and existing customers would have been rewarded with N100,000.00 each as each month will have 310 new and existing customers winning N100,000. Up to 40,000 customers who reactivate their dormant account stand a chance to win free airtime as 10,000 customers will be rewarded with free airtime monthly for reactivating their dormant account.

6 customers will emerge lucky winners of N1,000,000 each in the grand finale draw. The promo is open to new and existing savings and current account customers.

To open a FirstBank account dial USSD code *894*0# and follow the prompt or visit the Bank’s website and click on “Open Account”. You can also visit any FirstBank branch near you to open account.

To qualify for the N100,000 monthly draw, customers will have to deposit and maintain a minimum amount of 5,000.00 in their account monthly and transact a minimum of 5 times transactions on any of the Bank’s digital channels: FirstMobile, LIT App, USSD, First Online as well as Debit Card transactions.

Customers who are eligible to win N1,000,000 must have a deposit of N50,000.00 monthly for four consecutive months or maintain a minimum deposit of N200,000.00 for four months and transact a minimum of 5 times on any of the Bank’s digital banking channels; FirstMobile, LIT App, USSD, First Online as well as Debit Card transactions to qualify for the grand finale draw.

Customers who reactivate their account(s) are also eligible to win. For reactivating their account, the first 10,000 customers to deposit N1,000.00 and transact on any of the Bank’s digital channels: FirstMobile, LIT App, USSD, First Online and Debit Card transactions will be rewarded with free airtime. Customers who reactivate their dormant account could also qualify for the monthly draw when they deposit and maintain a minimum amount of N5,000 monthly and transact a minimum of 5 times on any of the Bank’s digital channels. They could also emerge winners of N1,000,000 in the grade finale draw if they meet the criteria.

To reactivate account, the customers will have to dial USSD code *894*7# and follow the prompt to reactivate Tier 1 accounts or visit any nearest FirstBank branch for Tier 2 and 3 account reactivation.

“We are thrilled to launch this promo in appreciation of the patronage, trust and loyalty our customers have shown us over the years,” said Ms. Folake Ani-Mumuney, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, FirstBank Group. The exciting modalities of the promo reflect our commitment to enhancing the banking experience of our customers across any or all of our digital banking services.”

This is the season when FirstBank provides opportunities and platforms for the yearly memorable homecoming experience from across the world. The promo is an enabling opportunity for customers, their friends, and families to have exciting, fun-filled, memorable experiences. We encourage our customers to seize this opportunity and participate actively’ she concluded.

For more updates on the promo and other exciting offerings from FirstBank, follow the Bank’s social media handles on – Facebook: First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Instagram: @firstbanknigeria and X (formerly twitter): @FirstBankngr.

FirstBank Celebrates Annual Week of Kindness, Partners NCF to Begin Planting of 50,000 Trees Over Three Years

In furtherance of its leading role in promoting socio-economic development, Nigeria’s premier and leading financial inclusion services provider, has announced the commencement of its Annual Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Week.

For the past seven years, FirstBank colleagues and customers come together to participate in global annual volunteer (Start Performing Acts of Random Kindness) SPARK initiative, to give back to and foster positive change within the communities where they live and work. This has seen an impact of over 200,000 lives across eight countries, over 103 charities supported as well as over 121,015 volunteer hours achieved.

The activities of the 2023 edition, which is scheduled for 23 to 28 October 2023, include Tree Planting, Women Empowerment, SPARK Schools Engagement, Orphanage Homes, the less privileged engagement, and Kind Comments Day.

In partnership with Nigeria Conservation Foundation, FirstBank employees and partners will progress its planting activity which targets 50,000 trees over a three-year period from 2023. Tree planting is one of FirstBank’s initiatives to reduce its carbon footprints and promote environmental sustainability as part of its overarching sustainability and ESG (Environment, Social & Governance) strategy and in alignment with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation’s Forest Programme – Green Recovery Nigeria (GRN) which is designed to help increase Nigeria forest cover from its current state of about 4-7% to 25% by 2047.

Additionally, in line with FirstBank’s commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG) of women empowerment, the Bank will support cancer foundations focused on women and skills acquisition for women on 25 and 26 October 2023. As a member of UN Women, FirstBank employs the relevant women empowerment tools to empower women internally and externally as well as partner with International Women Society to drive skills acquisition.

The Kind Comments Day is an advocacy campaign encouraging staff, customers, and other stakeholders to say kind things about one another. It focuses on inspiring and encouraging people to be deliberate about the use of kind words in relation to others.

On 27 October 2023, staff of the Bank will visit schools for the SPARK School Engagement. This activity is aimed at engaging school students through the Bank’s employees on financial literacy and inculcating and equipping young people with entrepreneurship skillset and mindset to inspire self-belief despite the increasingly daunting economic challenges while preparing them for the future of work.

Rounding off the 2023 CR&S Week will be visits to Orphanage Homes, the less privileged engagement which will hold on 28 October 2023. Orphanages, including the Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs), will be visited in six geo-political zones in Nigeria as well as other SSA markets.

“At FirstBank, we are committed to promoting the culture of kindness as it continues to engender positive relationships with our host communities. By making kindness a way of life, we build stronger communities, foster empathy, and create a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond this week, said Ms. Folake Ani-Mumuney, the Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications for FirstBank.

It’s great to see our volunteers demonstrate their continued commitment to positively impact our communities. In the spirit of kindness, I encourage everyone to join us in celebrating the FirstBank Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability week as we make kindness a part of our daily lives, interacting with one another in impactfully memorable ways,” she concluded.

FirstBank has continued to receive awards and recognition for its consistent positive impact and performance from reputable companies globally. Amongst these awards and accolades are the Most Socially Responsible Bank (2018) (International Finance Banking Awards); CSR Bank of the Year (2020) Business Day Banking & Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Market Leader Nigeria (CSR) Euromoney Market Leaders 2022; Best CSR Bank Nigeria (2021) (Global Banking and Finance magazine); Excellence in Women Economic Empowerment (2019) (Central Bank of Nigeria); Market Leader Nigeria (ESG) Euromoney Market Leaders 2022.

Dollar Scarcity: FG Begins talks with World Bank, solution underway – Wale Edun

Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has assured Nigerians that a solution to the Dollar scarcity crisis in the country is underway.

He made this disclosure yesterday following a meeting with World Bank officials on how to address liquidity in the foreign exchange market.

Speaking in Abuja at the Business Lunch hosted in his honour and three other Ministers, Edun revealed the Federal Government’s plans to tackle the economic challenges facing the country.

“I have just risen from a meeting of the Economic Coordination Committee as stipulated by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make sure that there is collaboration, coordination and cooperation. And, as you can imagine, full communication in terms of the economic management of our dear country.
“And so we went through things like the economic management framework, which would include a lot of consultations, step-by-step with other stakeholders, including the private sector that will serve as one of the key ad hoc committees that we put together and the updated and expanded national development plan.
“Even earlier, we were meeting with the World Bank. As we know, this is a time of very tight foreign exchange liquidity. So, it must be sought and found wherever.
“And one of those cheap and viable ways is foreign exchange funding, which virtually comes free. A lot of it has zero interest from the World Bank, a multilateral development institution set up to help developing countries such as ours.
“And of course, you have to be able to tell them, this is the economic plan. You all know the measures that Mr. President has taken. We have briefly dealt with the issue of subsidy that was draining government revenues. He has briefly dealt with the foreign exchange situation and multiple windows, which was deterring investors.
“But as we know, there is much to be done. So, this morning’s session (Thursdays) was a way of explaining our plan to attract the cheapest or most available of those funds.
“So that’s just to spend the time I have with you, explaining myself, communicating and there’s much more of that to be done,” Edun said.

More Insights

Speaking further, Mr. Wale Edun appealed to the public, emphasizing that the Federal Government is racing against time to proffer solutions to the nation’s economic problems.

He said

“President Tinubu is ultimately encouraging investments that will increase productivity that will grow the economy, create jobs and reduce poverty.
“All these will certainly be put on the right trajectory which will yield results in the not-too-distant future.”

What You Should Know

Nigeria’s foreign exchange market has maintained a steady decline as the naira continues to fall freely against the dollar, hitting the threshold of N1,000 to 1$ at the parallel market.

According to Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance, this incessant decline is due to the overdue backlog payment of $6.8 billion, resulting in a shortage in the supply of dollars at the CBN.

The Federal Government, however, has said that at the top of the administration’s priority is stabilizing the currency.

The President has recently appointed new CBN leadership to oversee the monetary policies of the apex bank and drive the net inflow of dollars into the country.

British International Investment partners with Access Bank Plc to extend US$60 million trade finance facility across five African countries

Loan facility will help to ensure availability of key commodities across import-dependent economies and critical inputs for manufacturing goods, medicine, commodities, construction, food and agriculture.
Programme aims to stimulate African trade volumes by US$90 million and will contribute to SDGs 8 and 9.
BII’s second commitment to one of Nigeria’s leading multinational banks.

British International Investment (BII), the UK’s Development Finance Institution (DFI) and impact investor, has announced a $60 million trade finance facility for Access Bank Plc in Nigeria and five of its pan-African subsidiaries. This will strengthen import and export capabilities amongst local businesses and plug the foreign currency supply gap. The programme supports Access Bank’s strategy to enable continental trade and deepens BII’s commitment to bolstering financing environments in fragile economies. BII estimates the loan programme will stimulate African trade volumes by US$90 million.

The agreement reinforces BII’s ongoing relationship with Nigeria’s largest commercial bank by assets and facilitates the provision of systemic liquidity during a period characterised by a challenging macroeconomic environment. Higher inflation and rising cost of capital have placed downward pressure on currency performance, both domestically and in the programme’s target markets of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Zambia. Intervention at this critical juncture underlines the key role of BII, and development finance institutions in general, in extending countercyclical support to build economic resilience.

Between 80% and 90% of world trade is estimated to rely on the availability of trade credit, according to the World Trade Organization. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, that financing gap stood at US$82 billion in Africa, and it is increasing. Recognising the positive ripple effects of robust trade flows on economies and livelihoods, Access Bank is aiming to provide 15% of trade finance across Africa, by growing the trade books of its subsidiaries.

Currency instability in Nigeria can hinder the wider proliferation of dollar denominated trade loans across African markets, constraining countries’ ability to capitalise on opportunities opening up under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. By specifically targeting import dependent economies – many of which will mark the first engagement with BII’s Trade programme – the improved availability of US dollar denominated trade loans will ensure availability of key commodities and manufacturing inputs for the production and export of goods. The key outcome will be improving livelihoods and preserving jobs for the employees of importers and exporters with limited access to foreign exchange trade loans.

With the loans channelled into companies in construction, manufacturing and FMCG, the programme will directly contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals 8 (Decent work and economic growth) and 9 (Industry, innovation and infrastructure).

Simultaneously, the facility will improve inclusion. Qualifying under the 2X Challenge, aimed at strengthening female participation and leadership in business, Access Bank will ensure the allocation of loans is designed deliberately to advance its gender commitments. In addition, the facility will contribute to BII’s BOLD programme, dedicated to enhancing the availability of finance at more affordable rates to Black, African-owned businesses.

Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries at Access Bank, remarked: “Access Bank is on a purposeful mission to scale intra-African trade and position the continent as a viable market for global trade. Hence, we are thrilled about the tremendous potential that this trade finance facility with the BII affords us across our pan-African subsidiaries. This strategic collaboration not only strengthens our import and export capabilities but also expands our resources to support local industries – especially women-owned businesses – and ultimately drive economic growth. By stimulating trade volumes, we will be playing a key role in fostering long-term economic resilience for the continent, while increasing its attractiveness for increased foreign investments.”

Admir Imami, Director and Head of Trade and Supply Chain Finance at BII, noted: “Access Bank is a long-standing partner of BII’s and our new partnership is a significant step closer to narrowing the trade finance gap in Africa, particularly in countries such as the DRC and Rwanda.

Access to finance in fragile states is hugely constrained, often these countries are buffeted by macroeconomic events far beyond their control. BII and Access Bank share a conviction that building the resilience of these businesses by ensuring affordable access to foreign exchange is vital to keep intra-African trade moving and support the growth of inclusive economies.”

Benson Adenuga, Head of Office & Coverage Director for Nigeria, BII said: “Our latest commitment to Access Bank reiterates our assurance to this leading multinational institution and to Nigeria. It comes at a time when Nigeria’s fragile economic situation needs additional funding, particularly from counter cyclical investors like development finance institutions. Our funding will help bolster the economy and ensure the availability of staple goods, medicines and food across Africa.”

FIRSTBANK SPONSORS THE AFRICA INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXHIBITION (A.I.T.E 2023), NEW YORK, PROMOTES FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN THE CONTINENT

First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria’s premier and leading financial inclusion services provider, sponsored the Africa International Trade Exhibition (A.I.T.E 2023), held on 21 and 22 September 2023 at the Hilton Hotel Midtown, New York, U.S.A. The event was themed “the imperatives of global trade for African SMEs as a game changer for the continent’s future prosperity”.

Woven into the fabric of society, with the rich heritage of being the premier Bank in West Africa, FirstBank’s sponsorship of the event reiterated its commitment to being the bank of first choice and financial gateway in supporting businesses to boost the growth and socio-economic development of the continent in today’s fast-evolving business landscape.

Notable personalities and dignitaries at the event include Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Industry Trade and Investment and representative of Senator Bola Tinubu (GCFR), President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria; Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development of Nigeria; Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State Federal Capital Territory; His Excellency, Adeyinka Asekun, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Canada; Hon Abike Dabiri, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission; Ambassa Bolaji Akintemi, Director, Economic, Trade and Investment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria; Mr Olukayode Pitan, Managing Director, Bank of Industry; Mrs Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank); Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, Chief Executive Officer, FirstBank Group; Mr Oluwatosin Adewuyi, Executive Director, Corporate Banking, FirstBank and Mr Ini Ebong, Executive Director, Treasury and International Banking, FirstBank.

Tunde MacAlabi, Visioner of the African International Trade Exhibition project said “The AITE project is conceived to assist African SMEs to gain greater penetration in the North American market that has huge potentials.

The African American population in the US is 30 million strong, spending close to 1.2 trillion dollars as consumers.

The popularity of our afrobeat music, the ground that it is gaining in North America and the globe is remarkable. With this idea, pushing authentic African made products into the market to rise on the wave of the popularity of our music can diversify the sources of foreign exchange income that we accurately need in Nigeria and Africa.

Our effort is a complementary private sector driven initiative to help bridge the commercial gap to increase the commercial engagement between Nigeria, Africa and the USA.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, CEO of FirstBank Group said: “I am particularly delighted that this year’s theme beams the spotlight on a sector that can be referred to as the bedrock of Africa’s economic prosperity. Africa’s SME sector is also a good representation of the unyielding and resilient spirit of the African people in the face of many daunting challenges.”

With a vision to become “Africa’s Bank of First Choice”, FirstBank’s commitment to the development and economic transformation of the African continent is unwavering and we will continue to make the required investments to actualize this goal. I make bold to say that, in FirstBank, Africa has a dependable ally.

Indeed, it is the turn of Africa to rise, and FirstBank is strategically positioned to provide the required financial services support to the SME sector that will catalyze the next phase of Africa’s growth and development,” he concluded.

Representing Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah, President & Chairman, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Mrs Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) said “I am grateful to the African International Trade Exhibition (AITE) for the kind opportunity to participate in this event. I congratulate AITE for building this unique platform to rally global investments and policy support towards the attainment of the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Agreements. These activities of AITE are significant complements to Afreximbank’s trade facilitation agenda. We are therefore pleased to be associated with AITE and its activities.

We must continue to leverage the platforms created by the Bank and AITE to forge partnerships, share ideas and contribute to the growth and development of African SMEs to ensure that their potentials as the driving force for the transformation of the continent. As l like to say, the opportunity is now, and it has a shelf life.