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Stanbic IBTC Infrastructure Fund Partners SIFAX Group for Ijora Terminal Development

L-R: Jesuyemisi Odeyemi, Group Head, Legal services, SIFAX Group; Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman,…

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Fidelity Splashes Millions of Naira on Youth Corps Members with GAIM 6

  Fidelity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to financial inclusion, youth…

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Cyberstalking: GTCO Pardons Bloggers as Bloggers Tender Unreserved Apology

Following the notice of pardon from Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) and…

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Oando wins bid for Guaracara refinery lease in Trinidad & Tobago

The Chief Executive Officer of Oado Group, Wale Tinubu, has said the…

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Stock Market stunner: Investors wake up to N52bn Windfall

The Nigerian stock market kicked off the week on a positive note,…

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Economy

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Deji Adeyanju Reacts To Court Order Against VeryDarkman

Deji Adeyanju represents social media commentator Verydarkman. A magistrate court issued an arrest order for…

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Unity Bank IWD 2025

Unity Bank Hosts IWD Webinar, Commits to Accelerating Action Towards Gender Equality

Unity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment with a…

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Video French Footballers Singing Burna Boy’s ‘Lambo’ Freestyle Trends Online

A trending video features French footballers singing along to Burna Boy’s ‘Lambo’ freestyle. The freestyle…

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ASIAN BANKER AWARDS: FIRSTBANK MAINTAINS DOMINANCE IN SME BANKING ACROSS NIGERIA, AFRICA By Tosin Ajayi Through a legacy of excellence and Innovation, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, the country’s oldest and most distinguished financial institution, has once again solidified its reputation as a leader in the banking industry. The Bank was recently crowned the Best SME Bank in Nigeria and the Best SME Bank in Africa at the 2025 Asian Bankers Awards for the second year running. The Asian Banker Global Excellence in Retail Finance Awards are renowned for their rigour, prestige and transparency, celebrating excellence across financial services, technology, risk management and transaction finance. These prestigious recognitions reaffirm FirstBank’s unwavering commitment to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a sector that serves as the backbone of Nigeria’s and Africa’s economy. For over a century, First Bank of Nigeria Limited has been instrumental in the nation’s financial evolution, pioneering innovative banking solutions and fostering economic growth. The awards underscore the efficacy of its strategic focus on empowering SMEs through tailored support programs and an inclusive economic environment where small/medium businesses can thrive and also grow to compete globally. Winning these distinguished awards is no small feat. FirstBank stood out among its competitors across the continent due to several of the Bank’s key initiatives which have effectively transformed the SME banking landscape in all the countries where the bank operates. Some of the Bank’s Tailored Financial Solutions include customised loans and flexible credit facilities to cater to SMEs at various growth stages. From microloans for startups to large-scale funding for expanding businesses, FirstBank has ensured that small businesses have access to the capital they need to thrive. The bank’s SMEConnect platform, a digital hub that provides SMEs with access to financial resources, business advisory services, and networking opportunities, has been a game-changer. This initiative has helped thousands of entrepreneurs navigate challenges and scale their operations effectively. Beyond financial support, FirstBank has invested in entrepreneurship training programs to equip SMEs with knowledge in financial literacy, business management, and technology adoption. Partnerships with organisations like the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Nigerian government have further strengthened these initiatives. Women-Led and Youth Entrepreneurship Support is another tool which he Bank has deployed to its benefit. By recognising the role of women in economic development, the Bank has a dedicated product – FirstGem, which provides financial support to women entrepreneurs. In addition, the Retail Temporary Overdraft (RTOD) product, tailored to SMEs aims to provide financial support for their businesses. These strategic efforts have set FirstBank apart, positioning it as the ‘go-to’ financial partner for SMEs across Africa. The recognition of FirstBank as the Best SME Bank in Nigeria is not just a win for the Bank but also for the entire Nigerian economy. SMEs account for over 90% of businesses in Nigeria and contribute significantly to employment and GDP. By providing robust financial solutions and business support, FirstBank is fostering job creation, innovation, and sustainable economic growth. With access to better funding, training, and technology, more SMEs can scale their operations beyond local markets and compete on the global stage. This award also highlights Nigeria’s potential as a hub for entrepreneurship and business expansion. FirstBank’s achievement is expected to set a new benchmark for banking excellence in Africa. Other financial institutions will likely follow suit, improving their SME-focused initiatives, leading to a more vibrant and competitive business environment. FirstBank will continue to champion SME growth, affirm its legacy as a trusted financial partner whose commitment remains unshaken. This award serves as both recognition of past efforts and a call to push boundaries further in supporting African businesses. For small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and the Nigerian economy, FirstBank’s success story is a beacon of hope, proving that with the right financial backing, the possibilities are limitless for the average businesses. For the African continent, First Bank of Nigeria Limited’s win at the Asian Banker Awards for Excellence in Retail Finance Global Award 2025 marks a significant milestone in African banking history. It showcases the Bank’s relentless commitment to empowering SMEs, driving digital transformation, and fostering economic prosperity across the continent. As the Bank continues to innovate and expand its reach, the future for SMEs in Nigeria and Africa looks brighter.

  By Tosin Ajayi   Through a legacy of excellence and Innovation,…

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Just In

Yamu

Ekpoma on fire! Protests rock town after Police kill teenager at checkpoint

A wave of outrage has swept through Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, following the shocking killing of an 18-year-old boy, Chinedu Abimbor, allegedly…

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The Tony Elumelu Foundation Set to Announce 2025 Cohort of TEF Entrepreneurship Programme

Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurs have collectively created 1.5 million jobs and generated $4.2 billion in revenue Over 2 million Africans lifted out of poverty  The Tony Elumelu Foundation…

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James Brown Allegedly Broke And Homeless, Tosin Silverdam Spills

Tosin Silverdam shared an update on crossdresser James Brown. Brown is reportedly experiencing financial difficulties and accommodation issues. He has allegedly moved in with friends due to these challenges. Blogger…

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FG to US: Don’t fall for misinformation on religious killings in Nigeria

The Nigerian government has strongly dismissed claims of targeted killings of Christians in the country, describing them as misleading and designed to manipulate foreign perceptions. The Ministry…

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Teni Amazes Fans With Emotional Hospital Visit, Pays Bills & Helps Homeless Widow

Nigerian singer Teniola Apata, known as Teni, recently recovered from an illness. After her recovery, she aimed to give back to the community. Teni visited the Federal Medical Centre in…

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VeryDarkman Seyi Tinubu

Seyi Tinubu’s Viral Video Sparks Backlash As VeryDarkman Calls Him ‘Clueless’ On Youth Empowerment

Seyi Tinubu, gained attention on social media after a viral video. In the video, he addressed ongoing criticism aimed at him and his family. He expressed frustration over the negative…

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Wizkid Davido

“Davido Vs. Wizkid: Fans Debate Who’s The True Football Star After Surprising Interviews

Davido and Wizkid are sparking debate about their relationship with sports, particularly football. Their rivalry in the music industry has lasted over a decade and is now influencing discussions about…

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Mercy Aigbe Celebrates Toyin Abraham’s Trailblazer Award Win

Mercy Aigbe, celebrates her colleague Toyin Abraham. Toyin Abraham received the Trailblazer Award at the 2024 Silverbird Man of the Year Awards. The award recognizes her fearless approach and significant…

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COAL CDA SIGNING BENUE

Dangote Coal, Host Communities Seal Landmark Development Pact

Dangote Coal Mines Limited and host communities in Benue State have sealed a landmark Community Development Agreement (CDA). The CDA was described by government functionaries as a…

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Disability campaigners are exasperated

Sodales fusce non nobis, eros sapiente rhoncus fugiat reprehenderit provident saepe sagittis non felis potenti magna cumque, laboris? Pellentesque quaerat felis? Cupidatat excepturi arcu orci facilisi? Sapiente vulputate dicta anim!…

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Tojemarine HC, Safety Babes Crowned Handball Premier League Champions

Tojemarine Handball Club and Safety Babes were crowned champions of the 2024 Ardova Handball Premier League at the grand finale of the phase 2 in the Indoor…

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Toyin Abraham Awards

Toyin Abraham Thrills As She Receives Silverbird Trailblazer Award

Toyin Abraham received the Trailblazer Award at the 2024 Silverbird Man of the Year Awards. The event was held on March 16 at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.…

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