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ZENITH BANK APPOINTS DR. JULIET EHIMUAN AS NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Board of Directors of Zenith Bank Plc has appointed Dr. Juliet Ehimuan as a Non-Executive Director of the bank effective August 29, 2023. The appointment, which was announced in a statement to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, has also be confirmed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Dr Juliet Ehimuan is the Founder and CEO of Beyond Limits and the immediate past Director of Google West Africa. She was named by Forbes as one of the top 20 power women in Africa, by the London Business School as one of 30 people changing the world, and as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD). She was also featured in the BBC Africa Power Women series, and on CNN Innovate Africa.

With over 25 years experience primarily in Technology, Oil & Gas, and New Media industries across Europe, Middle East and Africa; Juliet is a leading voice on Innovation, Transformation, and Leadership.

During her remarkable 12-year tenure at Google, Juliet played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s presence in Nigeria and the wider West Africa region. She championed initiatives to increase digital access, local content development, skills acquisition, entrepreneurial growth, innovation, and fostered strategic partnerships with leading private sector and government institutions.

Dr Juliet has made significant contributions to the tech ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa at large. She served on committees that developed the national broadband plan and ICT incubation strategy in Nigeria, and has been involved in national strategic advisory groups focused on economic growth. These engagements demonstrate her commitment to shaping the future of tech in Africa. She has received numerous awards for outstanding contribution to the digital landscape in Africa.

She holds board positions across multiple industries including Finance, FMCG, Oil & Gas, Education and social enterprises.

Her education includes a Doctoral degree in Business from Walden University in Minneapolis, an Executive MBA from the London Business School, a Postgraduate degree in Computer Science from the University of Cambridge; and a BSc in Computer Engineering (1st class honours) from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. She is a recipient of the London Business School Global Women’s Scholarship, and at Cambridge University was awarded Selwyn College Scholar and Malaysian Commonwealth Scholar. She is a Fellow of the Cambridge Commonwealth Society.

She was awarded IT Personality of the Year in 2012 by the Nigeria Computer Society, Digital Personality of the year 2016 by Marketing World; and received a 2015 Titans of Technology award from Technology Africa. She is a published Author, Executive Coach, and a member of the Forbes Coaches’ Council.

Access Pensions Surpasses N1 Trillion AUM Milestone

Access Pensions Limited, a subsidiary of Access Corporation, has achieved an astonishing feat, surpassing the N1 trillion mark in assets under management (AUM).

In an impressive trajectory, the Company – which emerged from the business combination of Sigma Pensions and First Guarantee Pension in December 2022 – has scaled up its assets under management to surpass the N1 trillion threshold in just six months.

This remarkable feat firmly establishes Access Pensions position as the fourth largest Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) measured by AUM in Nigeria and the second largest PFA, overseeing a portfolio of over 1 million Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs).

Commenting on this feat, the Managing Director, Access Pensions, Dave Uduanu said: “Our journey to N1 trillion has been guided by a strong commitment to partnering with clients to shape their future.”

While technology served as a cornerstone, Uduanu also attributed Access Pensions’ success to a disciplined investment management approach and a resolute client-centric philosophy.

“Leveraging on technology in service delivery to improve user experience, following a disciplined approach to investment management, and being a member of the largest financial ecosystem in Nigeria, we can offer clients a superior retirement planning experience. Having a client-centric approach has played a significant role as we look to match our client’s needs and aspirations, building trust along the way,” Uduanu continued.

He added that Access Pensions is committed to delivering consistent results, even in challenging times, which has been the cornerstone of its credibility and client promise.

Furthermore, on leveraging technology, Uduanu noted that Access Pensions has invested heavily in technology to enhance its operations and client experiences and that its digital platforms (USSD, Mobile, WhatsApp chatbot) and Contact Centre provide real-time updates, keeping clients informed about their portfolios and requests.

Since its official formation in December, Access Pensions has brought forth innovative products that cater to a wide range of risk preferences, effectively staying ahead of changing demands.

“Our vision is clear – to provide our clients with the financial tools needed to shape their retirement future. We are dedicated to raising the bar in service, performance, and client satisfaction. As we expand, responsible and sustainable investing will remain our priority,” Uduanu added.

With its range of innovative products and remarkable achievements like this, Access Pensions is unquestionably charting a new course for success in the pensions industry and playing a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of Nigerians.

All you Need to know about NNPCL’s $3billion Emergency Crude Repayment Loan from Afrexim Bank

The current economic situation of things in the country especially the planned increase of the fuel price was due to the deep in value of the Naira against the dollar, just yesterday a dollar was exchanged for 972 naira at the parallel market, giving serious need for the government to formulate policy that will help the Naira rally against the dollar and it was this that necessitate the NNPCL to approach the Afrexim Bank to obtain the Emergency Crude Repayment loan and the result seems to be coming in as the Naira appreciated strongly against the dollar as at close of work to the naira gained over 200 naira to close at 752 against the 970 of yesterday morning.

This is an attempt by the president’s aide on New Media O’tega Ogra to answer some questions that might be begging for answers from the public

What is the $3 billion loan about?

The NNPC Ltd. secured an emergency $3 billion crude oil repayment loan from AFREXIM Bank. This is not a crude-for-refined products swap but an upfront cash loan against proceeds from a limited amount of future crude oil production.

Is this loan risky for NNPC Ltd. or the Nigerian Treasury?

No. The exposure for NNPC Ltd. is very limited, covering just a fraction of their entitlements. Additionally, there are no sovereign guarantees tied to this loan.

What’s the benefit of this loan to Nigeria?

The loan will assist NNPC Ltd. in settling taxes and royalties in advance. It will also equip the Federal Government with the necessary dollar liquidity to stabilize the Naira, with limited risk.

How will the loan be disbursed?

The funds will be released in stages or tranches based on the specific needs and requirements of the Federal Government.

Will this affect fuel prices?

A strengthened Naira as a result of this initiative will lead to a reduction in fuel costs. This means that if the Naira appreciates in value, the cost of fuel will drop and further increases will be halted.

What about subsidies? Are they coming back?

No. A stronger Naira will result in lower prices from the current level, making subsidies unnecessary. The deregulation policy remains unchanged.

How will the loan be repaid?

The loan will be repaid against a fraction of proceeds from future crude oil production. It’s a strategic move that ensures a balance between our current economic needs and future production capabilities.

What is the difference between this and previous swap deals?

This is not a crude for refined products agreement where the government does not earn any proceeds from the swap.

Access Holdings Receives Karlsruhe Award for Outstanding Business Sustainability Achievement for the Eighth Consecutive Time

Access Holdings Plc has been honoured with the prestigious Karlsruhe Award for Outstanding Business Sustainability Achievement for the eighth consecutive time.

Presented at the Global Sustainable Finance Conference (GSFC) organised by the European Organisation for Sustainable Development (EOSD) in partnership with the city of Karlsruhe, Germany, the Award underscores the sustainability commitment demonstrated in the way Access Holdings conducts its business operations and activities.

Delivering the opening remarks at the Awards event, the Lord Mayor of Karlsruhe, Dr. Frank Mentrup, lauded the unwavering commitment of the organisations present and urged all stakeholders to collaborate to achieve the global sustainability vision.

“In today’s globalised world, the responsibility of each one of us does not end at our borders. We need to work together to make our world more just, more peaceful, and more sustainable. This requires a high level of commitment and allocation of resources – including finance and investments,” Mentrup said.

Reiterating Access Holdings’ commitment to driving the achievement of the SDGs, Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, Head, Group Sustainability, at Access Holdings Plc said, “We are pleased to receive the Karlsruhe Award for Outstanding Business Sustainability Achievement for the eighth consecutive time. At Access Holdings, we believe that businesses must play a significant role in addressing sustainability challenges and driving positive impact. In line with this, our approach to sustainability reflects our dedication to creating long-term value for our stakeholders in Africa and beyond.”

The 2-day Global Sustainable Finance Conference and Awards also had in attendance other notable stakeholders such as Arshad Rab, Chairman, International Council of Sustainability Standards and CEO, European Organisation for Sustainable Development; Dr. Jesimen Chipika, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe; Amaechi Okobi, Group Head, Corporate Communications, Access Holdings Plc; Rolando Victoria, President and CEO, Aski Group, Philippines; Romani de Silva, Deputy Chairman and CEO, Alliance Finance, Sri Lanka; Mr. Krishnan Vimalanandavally Shaji, Chairman, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, India; Mrs. Sylvi J. Gani, Director, PT. Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero), Indonesia; Dr. Kao Thach, The Delegate of the Royal Government of Cambodia; Jide Akintunde, Director, Nigeria Development and Finance Forum (NDFF) and Nigeria Country Representative, European Organization for Sustainable Development (EOSD), and Tom Hoyem, Former Cabinet Minister of the Kingdom of Denmark and Member, City Council of Karlsruhe, Germany.

Access Holdings has been widely recognised as one of Africa’s most responsible companies, earning numerous national and international honours and awards including the World Finance Award for Most Sustainable Bank (eleven-time winner) and Global Brand Awards for Best CSR Bank and Investor Relations (four-time winner).

FOR A THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR, ZENITH BANK RETAINS POSITION AS NIGERIA’S BEST COMMERCIAL BANK, ALSO NAMED BEST CORPORATE GOVERNANCE BANK AT WORLD FINANCE 2023 AWARDS

For a third year running, Zenith Bank Plc has been named the Best Commercial Bank in Nigeria at the World Finance Banking Awards 2023. The bank also emerged as the Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria, in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards 2023, retaining the award for a second consecutive year.

These awards were presented to Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, at the London Stock Exchange recently. The recognitions celebrate the bank’s tremendous feats and milestones in financial performance, financial inclusion, corporate governance, and sustainability.

Commenting on the awards, Dr Onyeagwu said that: “these awards are a testament to our resilience and ability to adapt to the vagaries of the market as well as our innate capability to engender very stellar business performances through our innovative products and solutions. It also affirms our continued commitment to global best practices in corporate governance, sustainability and corporate social responsibility.”

Dr Onyeagwu dedicated the awards to the Founder and Group Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, thanking him for his mentorship and for establishing the basis for a resilient and highly successful institution. He also expressed gratitude to the board for their exceptional leadership, vision, and insight; to the staff for their unwavering commitment and dedication; and to the bank’s customers for making Zenith their preferred bank.

World Finance is a foremost international magazine providing extensive coverage and analysis of the financial industry, international business, and the global economy. Its editorial combines award-winning journalism, covering a vast array of topics from banking and insurance to wealth management and infrastructure investment, with contributions from some of the world’s most esteemed economists and theorists and consultants from government think tanks and the World Economic Forum.

Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards, with these latest honours 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; 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 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.

Wema Bank showcases strong performance – Doubles Profitability. Commences Rights Issuance in Q3

WemaBank announces its unaudited results for Half Year ended 30th June 2023.

The commercial bank achieved improved performance including Gross Earnings of ₦89.09bn, a y/y increase of 49% (H1 2022: ₦59.59bn). Interest Income up 53% y/y to ₦76.11bn (H1 2022: ₦49.75bn). Non-Interest Income up 32% y/y to ₦12.98bn (H1 2022: ₦9.85bn). Profit before Tax (PBT) was ₦12.05bn a y/y increase of 97% over the ₦6.13bn reported in H1 2022. Profit after Tax (PAT) also increased y/y by 97% to ₦10.48bn (₦5.30bn in H1 2022).

The bank grew its deposit year to date by 19% as at H1 2023 to ₦1,392.85bn from ₦1,165.93bn reported in FY 2022. Loans and Advances also grew by 20% to ₦627.01bn in H1 2023 from ₦521.43bn in FY, 2022.

Income statement (N’bn) H1 2023 H1 2022 (∆)

Commenting on the result, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni said, ‘Our H1 2023 results saw significant upsides with profit before and after tax growing strongly by about 97%. The management team at Wema Bank is focused on driving the execution of our current corporate strategy. Our embrace of technology is helping us deliver seamless best in class services while offering compelling value propositions to customers. Hence, we are seeing record breaking returns across board. Finally, we continue to see improvements in our corporate, commercial, and retail businesses as evidenced by our strong loan growth.’

Also speaking on the result, the Managing Director communicated that, with the improved stability in the operating environment, the Banks earlier approved Rights Issuance will be commencing this 3rd quarter of 2023.

“It has been a good half year performance for Wema Bank with gross earnings growing by 49% year on year and earnings per share at 163.0 kobo,”. In addition, our cost to income ratio at 72.71% has witnessed significant improvement from the previous period.

“We have also succeeded in making Wema Bank an integral part of the Fintech ecosystem in Nigeria with our ubiquitous fintech infrastructure support play”.

Second Pay Rise In 90 Days UBA Improves Staff Welfare in Quick Response to Rising Cost of Living

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritise the welfare of its staff and their families reflecting the current economic realities and its impact on living conditions.

To this end, the bank’s Board of Directors have announced the implementation of a cost of living adjustment for its staff effective immediately

The bank said that over the past few months, it has been closely monitoring the effect of the rising cost of living on its employees and recognises the importance of addressing these challenges proactively.

It is interesting to note that even when the bank had previously implemented cost of living adjustment for staff on October 1, 2021 and more recently on April 1, 2023, the persistent economic challenges faced by employees and the broader society as a whole, informed the unanimous decision to again implement another adjustment.

Also in line with its commitment to promote staff for excellent performance every year, UBA had in March 2023, announced the promotion of over 1,500 staff across Africa, and had also elevated close to 1,000 staff in 2022.

UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, who made the announcement, said, “We are aware of the impact of recent economic policy pronouncements on prices and your capacity to meet your financial commitments to family and personal needs. As an organisation focused on the well-being of our people, I am pleased to inform you that the Board of UBA Plc has approved a Welfare Allowance for all employees.”

Alawuba explained that the decision to adjust the staff’s remuneration package once again demonstrates UBA’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the standard of living for its employees at a level that is commensurate with prevailing economic conditions.

“This move will serve to alleviate the financial burdens faced by our staff and their families, reinforcing the bank’s position as a responsible and caring employer,” he explained.

He took time out to appreciate the staff for their effort and dedication and hard work of its employees, which remains the bedrock of its success, as he noted that the bank recognises the critical role played by its workforce in navigating challenges and ensuring the continued growth of the institution.

“My profound appreciation to you for your commitment to our corporate goals and adherence to our core values, as demonstrated in our remarkable half-year 2023 results. By enhancing staff welfare, we aim to boost employee morale and foster a conducive and rewarding work environment that empowers employees to thrive both personally and professionally,” the GMD added.

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.

Fostering Equality and Empowerment: Wema Bank Gives Economic Lift To Employees

In the Nigerian banking industry, Wema Bank, Plc is widely acknowledged to be a leader in the realms of innovation and technology, and for constantly seeking to provide seamless financial services to its teeming customers, but is the financial powerhouse a champion of its employees’ best interests? Yes, the most recent testament to Wema’s commitment to establishing a thriving workplace culture is its announcement of a groundbreaking increase in salaries for its staff.

This momentous decision not only showcases the bank’s dedication to employee welfare and well-being but should also resonate deeply with its community as ripples of elation have been set off through the organization.

Wema Bank’s move to increase the salaries of its staff, especially given the current economic rigors, has undoubtedly struck a chord with employees. By addressing the financial needs of its workforce, Wema Bank is affirming its belief in the value of every individual’s contribution, regardless of their employment status; It is one which fosters a sense of belonging in its staff, ensuring that each member feels like an integral part of the bank’s success story.

Indeed, the impact of this salary increase bears more than mere numbers on a pay slip: employees are experiencing a renewed sense of motivation and dedication to their roles, knowing that their hard work is genuinely recognized and rewarded. There are new levels of morale, leading to enhanced productivity, improved teamwork, and reduced turnover rates. Significantly, Wema Bank is creating a more harmonious and dynamic work environment where the creativity and innovation for which it is acclaimed, flourish the more.

Wema Bank understands that its employees are its most valuable asset, and by providing a competitive and fair remuneration package, the organization aims to attract and retain top talents in the industry.

Wema Bank’s vision extends beyond its bottom line; with this salary increase for its staff, the bank expects the ripple effect of positive change to extend to the wider industry and world of work. Wema Bank’s unwavering support for its employees lies at the heart of this expected transformation.

Beyond financial incentives though, the bank provides ample opportunities to its workers for personal and professional growth by nurturing a culture of learning and development.

By setting a precedent for employee-centric practices, Wema Bank aims to encourage other financial institutions to prioritize the well-being of their staff through the establishing of similarly empathetic and compassionate working environments.

The economic upliftment of its workforce is further proof that Wema Bank is an organization that is attuned to the needs and peculiarities of every segment of its community. By paving the way for a more compassionate and people-focused industry, this Wema Bank initiative should leave an indelible mark on the world of banking and beyond.

2023 HALF YEAR RESULT: FBNHOLDINGS POST N206BN PRE-TAX PROFIT

FBN Holdings Plc, has reported a profit before tax of N206 billion for the half year ended June 30, 2023.

FBNHoldings disclosed the figures in its second-quarter statement released yesterday on the Nigerian Exchange.

The increase in second-quarter profits helped its half-year profit before tax to rise by 213% compared to N65.7 billion in the same period last year.

This is also the Bank Holding Company’s best half-year performance since it was listed on the Exchange.

A breakdown of the company’s impressive financial results shows that the bank’s two-quarters of outstanding performance means a profit after tax of N174.9 billion, which is a 228.3% increase from the N53.3 billion reported in the first half of the previous year.

The first half 2023 profit has also surpassed the N136.173 profit reported in the full year of 2022 (January to December).

The Group’s gross earning of N656.6bn represents a growth of 82.8% from the N359.2bn reported in the first half of the previous year. Al impressive records are Net interest income of N232.6bn, up 52.1% y-o-y (Jun 2022: N152.9bn); Non-interest income of N229bn, up 112.0% y-o-y (Jun 2022: N108.1bn); Operating expenses of N222bn, up 24.7% y-o-y (Jun 2022: N178bn).

Profit before tax of N188.8bn, up 214.6% y-o-y (Jun 2022: N60bn); Profit after tax of N174.9bn, up 228.3% y-o-y (Jun 2022: N53.3bn)

Total assets grew by 34.8% y-t-d to hit N13.6 trillion, Customers’ loans and advances (net) of N5.2trn, up 39.9% y-t-d (Dec 2022: N3.7 trn); and Customers’ deposits of N8.8trn, up 26.9% y-t-d (Dec 2022: N6.9trn)

The Group Managing Director, FBNHoldings, Nnamdi Okonkwo, while commenting on the results stated that: “FBNHoldings has continued to deliver a strong financial performance despite the complex operating environment, thanks to our reinforced foundations, deep market understanding, strong risk management and execution capabilities. On the back of this and in line with our focus of driving further improvement in revenue generation and profitability, the Group delivered strong growth in gross earnings and profit before tax resulting in N656.6 billion and N206.3 billion respectively, for the first half of 2023 financial year”.

He noted that the company will continue to focus on customer-centric innovations with strong transactional and digital capabilities supported by sound risk management practises to anticipate and creatively deliver products and services that delight the different customer segments that we serve.

While noting that the current operating environment remains challenging, he maintained that the company is confident of successfully navigating the terrain.

Commenting on the results, Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank (Commercial Banking Group), Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, added: “In the first half of 2023, FirstBank Group delivered the strongest financial performance in the almost 130 years of the Bank’s history; with solid business momentum, increased revenue, and excellent returns. The result reflects the continued positive impact of our strategy and the tremendous progress that we have made in growing and transforming the Group. The result also highlights the resilience of our business model, customer relationships and institutional capabilities”.

FIRSTBANK WINS FINANCIAL INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR AT THE AFREXIM BANK PAN-AFRICAN BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT AWARDS

The award was bestowed on FirstBank in recognition of the Bank’s role in promoting trade and investment endeavours across the continent.

With its subsidiaries across the FirstBank Group, FirstBank has continued to play a leading role in boosting cross-border businesses, including trade and investment opportunities, essential to enhancing trade relations amongst countries. Continue reading FIRSTBANK WINS FINANCIAL INSTITUTION OF THE YEAR AT THE AFREXIM BANK PAN-AFRICAN BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT AWARDS