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Category: e-Business

  • The Smart Way to Enter the Forex Market in Nigeria 

    The Smart Way to Enter the Forex Market in Nigeria 

    To most Nigerians, the forex market is both an intriguing opportunity and a scary challenge. With the potential for large profits and the flexibility of trading from virtually any part of the globe, forex trading has become increasingly popular in the nation. However, understanding how to start forex trading in Nigeria is crucial, as success in the forex market requires more than excitement; it demands strategy, proper preparation, and keen insight into the factors controlling the movement of currencies.

     Understanding the Market Landscape

     Before getting into the forex trading business, aspiring traders in Nigeria are supposed to understand the nature of the market clearly. Forex is a virtual global market where currencies are exchanged in pairs and prices are influenced by the factors of economic, political, and sentiment in the market. The traders are supposed to know that there are a lot of opportunities in the market, but volatility can lead to massive losses without adequate knowledge and risk management.

     Choosing the Right Broker

     Selecting a reputable broker is the most important decision for a beginner trader. In Nigeria, one searches for regulated brokers licensed by respectable financial authorities, either local or offshore-based. A reputable broker has to offer competitive spreads, fair pricing, and user-friendly trading platforms. Access to a proficient and responsive customer support team and smooth deposit and withdrawal processes refine the trading experience.

     Building Knowledge Before Risking Capital

     Successful traders also spend significantly on learning before venturing with real money. This may involve learning about market analysis, charting, and fundamental and technical indicators. Most future traders in Nigeria will initially practice by trading with the use of a demo account so as to test strategies with no investment in finances. Not only does this increase one’s level of confidence, but in the process, one’s styles are also realized before going live in the real world.

     Managing Risks Wisely

    In forex trading, risk management can mean the difference between the longer-term success and the swift failure of investors. African investors in particular are advised to decide the maximum percentage of the capital each investor is prepared to risk on each single trade and to utilize instruments such as the placement of stop-loss orders. Regulation in this way helps ensure the overall trading account is protected even when the resultant trades are not as envisaged.

     Staying Informed About Economic and Political Developments

     Currency prices may fluctuate rapidly because of world events, and the local economy of Nigeria may also determine trading moves. From central bankers’ announcements regarding interest rates to political actions and changes in the prices of commodities, remaining informed about the proper news is a must. Most professional traders combine economic calendars and news notifications in their daily lives so that they may never miss the most significant world-moving events.

     Developing a Consistent Trading Plan

     An effective trading plan serves as a road map in defining when to buy and sell, on which currency pairs, and with what level of risk. Consistency is essential for Nigerian traders; constant switching of techniques in response to short-term profits can translate to poor performance. Sticking to a specific plan and periodically assessing results allows traders to optimize their strategy throughout the course of a trading career.

     Conclusion

     Getting into the forex market in Nigeria can be a highly rewarding venture for those who are patient, prepared, and disciplined. Sensible preparation for the start includes education about the market, selection of the proper broker, learning the proper fundamentals of trading, and proper risk management. When paired with education and the proper plan, staying abreast of world and local economic events helps the trader in Nigeria to position himself for sustainable success in one of the most dynamic financial markets in the world.

  • Cornelius Abeken shares guide to leveraging networking for business growth

    Cornelius Abeken shares guide to leveraging networking for business growth

    Cornelius Abeken Christopher is an experienced business development professional in the SaaS sector with a proven track record in crafting successful business strategies to maximize selling opportunities. 

    With years of experience in working with top SaaS firms in Nigeria, the USA, UK, and Equatorial Guinea, he has excelled in preparing winning proposals and presentations for C-level executives. Cornelius shares his insights on how industry professionals can leverage networking to convert connections into tangible business opportunities.

    He said: “In the fast-paced world of business development, networking is often seen as an essential tool, but turning those connections into real business opportunities requires more than just exchanging business cards. 

    “The key lies in strategic relationship-building and leveraging your professional network in ways that go beyond the initial introduction. As a business development manager who has navigated multiple international markets, I’ve learned that networking, when done right, can directly contribute to revenue growth. Here, I share insights on how to turn your industry connections into valuable business opportunities.

    “The foundation of leveraging networking for business growth is understanding that it’s not about the quantity of your connections but the quality. In my career, I’ve found that forming genuine, long-term relationships with individuals who share similar business goals is crucial. 

    “Whether they are potential clients, partners, or industry influencers, building trust and demonstrating value is the bedrock of turning networking into revenue. A well-nurtured professional relationship often turns into collaboration opportunities, partnerships, and even client referrals.

    “A significant part of converting networking into business growth is identifying the right opportunities and then positioning yourself or your company as a valuable partner. For instance, I always ensure that my conversations with industry peers and prospects are centered around problem-solving and mutual benefits. 

    “By understanding the unique challenges my contacts face, I can present relevant solutions that address their pain points. This approach creates a natural pathway for collaboration that benefits all parties involved. Moreover, having a solution-oriented mindset is vital to stay relevant in a competitive market.

    “Industry events, conferences, and seminars offer prime opportunities to meet decision-makers and potential partners. However, attending an event is only one part of the equation. What matters more is the follow-up after the event. 

    “A successful business developer doesn’t simply collect business cards; they follow up with personalized messages that demonstrate an understanding of the conversation and how both sides can benefit from further collaboration. It’s important to be genuine and concise in your follow-ups—showing your interest in adding value rather than just asking for something in return.

    Read Also: Adeleke meets US political leaders, business moguls, declares Osun readiness for partnership

    “Moreover, creating and sharing valuable content can also establish you as a thought leader in your field. It’s not just about making the right connections but also being visible in your industry. I’ve found that sharing insights on current industry trends, challenges, and solutions helps build credibility. This content can be shared through various platforms like LinkedIn, blogs, or webinars, where potential clients or collaborators can see your expertise. Positioning yourself as a knowledgeable resource increases the chances that your connections will consider you when an opportunity arises.

    “Networking can also extend to online spaces, where communities and forums specific to your industry thrive. Actively participating in these digital spaces enables you to connect with like-minded professionals, share expertise, and build trust even before meeting face-to-face. Online engagement can often be a more sustainable way to grow your network and establish relationships that lead to business opportunities.

    “For anyone looking to expand their professional network, it’s essential to be strategic. Start by identifying the key players in your industry—these are the individuals and companies that can benefit from your expertise or services. The next step is creating a personalized approach to engage with these individuals. Whether it’s through social media, attending industry events, or joining professional organizations, it’s important to have a clear strategy on how to add value.

    “Once you have made the connection, the focus should shift to building a genuine relationship. Remember, networking isn’t about immediately pitching your product or service; it’s about building trust over time. Invest in regular, meaningful communication that shows your commitment to mutual growth. In my experience, when you approach networking with this long-term mindset, you will find that the business opportunities naturally follow.

    “In conclusion, turning networking into business opportunities requires a strategic, thoughtful approach. It’s about building real relationships, identifying mutually beneficial opportunities, and being consistent in your follow-ups. By focusing on providing value and positioning yourself as a credible expert in your field, you can ensure that your networking efforts lead to long-term business growth. Whether through face-to-face meetings or online interactions, the key is to remain genuine, be patient, and always look for ways to help others succeed.”

  • Nigerians urged to embrace proper knowledge in e-trading to avoid financial losses

    Nigerians urged to embrace proper knowledge in e-trading to avoid financial losses

    The Regional Manager of Vantage Markets Africa, Mr. Ted Odigie, has advised Nigerians to acquire proper education and knowledge of e-trading before investing, stressing that ignorance often leads to avoidable financial losses.

    Speaking at the “Trade Smarter” summit organised by Vantage Markets Africa in Ibadan, Oyo State, Odigie emphasised that understanding both the fundamentals and technical aspects of trading is crucial to long-term success in the sector.

    He explained that fundamentals involve news, economic data, and financial or political developments, while technical analysis focuses on interpreting chart candlesticks and predicting price movements on trading platforms.

    Odigie noted that many Nigerians fall victim to Ponzi schemes because they fail to ask basic but critical questions about platforms they invest in, such as licensing, legitimacy, regulation, country of origin, and investment strategy.

    He cautioned against joining platforms blindly without conducting thorough background checks.

    “Our people don’t do the necessary checks. Once they hear someone is making money on a platform, they just dive in without verifying its authenticity. Unfortunately, many of these schemes collapse when the pyramid structure can no longer hold,” he said.

    Participants at the summit described the programme as an eye-opener.

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    One of them, Seun Olukayode, a developer and Forex trader, commended the organisers, saying the knowledge gained would help people identify genuine e-trading platforms and avoid fraudulent ones.

    Odigie further urged the government to introduce financial education into policies that would equip both civil servants and private sector workers with practical e-trading skills to prepare them for financial stability after retirement or job loss.

    The summit also featured the introduction of Vantage’s smart e-trading platforms, which allow for both self-trading and automated trading.

    Odigie reaffirmed the company’s long-term mission of sensitising Nigerians with proper education, strategies, and tools for trading in global financial markets through its all-in-one app.

  • GinjaBet debuts in Lagos with Blaqbonez as brand ambassador, promises bold betting experience

    GinjaBet debuts in Lagos with Blaqbonez as brand ambassador, promises bold betting experience

    Lagos came alive on Saturday, August 16, 2025 as GinjaBet, Nigeria’s newest gaming and sportsbook platform, officially launched operations with a high-energy event with the themedl: “Ginja Don Land” at the Admiralty Event Centre, Naval Dockyard, Ahmadu Bello Way.

    The colourful ceremony fused Nigeria’s passion for football with its vibrant music culture and was headlined by the unveiling of award-winning rapper Blaqbonez as GinjaBet’s first-ever brand ambassador — a move the company described as a reflection of its bold, youthful, and authentic identity.

    “I’m excited to be part of this. GinjaBet represents energy and authenticity, and I can’t wait for us to make this partnership count,” Blaqbonez said during his unveiling.

    Read Also: Magixx, Blaqbonez slam alleged chart manipulation in music

    Delivering the keynote address, Joe Richa, Co-Founder and CEO of GinjaBet, stressed that the company’s entry into Nigeria’s market signals a new era for the betting industry.

    “This isn’t just a launch — it’s the start of a new betting lifestyle for Nigerians. Blaqbonez embodies the energy, boldness, and authenticity we stand for. GinjaBet is built for Nigeria, powered by world-class tech. We’re not just here to compete — we’re here to lead and to connect,” Richa said.

    From a regulatory standpoint, Bashir Abiola-Are, CEO of the Lagos State Lotteries Board, welcomed GinjaBet into the state’s thriving gaming industry and pledged continued collaboration. He highlighted that revenues from gaming taxes are being deployed into schools and healthcare facilities across Lagos, underscoring the sector’s role in public development

    Also present at the launch were George Mbam, Head of Market at GinjaBet; Chief Tosan, Managing Partner at Victoria Chambers (Legal Secretary to GinjaBet); and Mrs. Gift (Tamunopreye) Tuadibofa of the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers.

    Licensed by the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority and powered by UpGaming’s iGaming infrastructure, GinjaBet promises next-generation sportsbook features, rich odds, seamless wallet transactions, exclusive Ginja Games, and a player-focused ecosystem tailored to Nigerians.

    For Blaqbonez, whose music career has been built on wit, confidence, and cultural relevance, the partnership merges his passion for football and gaming while giving the GinjaBet brand immediate cultural credibility with Nigeria’s youth market.

    The night ended with electrifying live performances, a football-inspired stage design, and a pulsating atmosphere that attendees described as a seamless fusion of sports, entertainment, and lifestyle.

  • IFC partners FCMB to empower women entrepreneurs

    IFC partners FCMB to empower women entrepreneurs

    First City Monument Bank Ltd. (FCMB) has partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to roll out the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women course to promote entrepreneurship.

    Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women is a global initiative that helps foster economic growth by providing entrepreneurs around the world with practical education, interactive activities, and instruction by educators from top business schools reaching over 200,000 entrepreneurs. 

    Built by Goldman Sachs and delivered through the University of Leeds, 10,000 Women Online education program is open to all SMEs, granting access to all ten courses and eligibility to join the10,000 Women alumni community.  

    Building on a legacy of empowering women entrepreneurs, FCMB, through its SheVentures initiative has significantly contributed to the empowerment of female entrepreneurs in Nigeria over the last five years. The program has provided zero-interest loans totaling up to N800 million and offered training and mentorship to thousands of women-led SMEs.

    Managing Director, First City Monument Bank, Yemisi Edun said: “Empowering women entrepreneurs is essential to driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. This program will enhance their skills and also unlock new opportunities for their businesses, aligning with our purpose of fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.”

    FCMB’s Divisional Head of Business Banking, George Ogbonnaya, emphasized the bank’s commitment to SMEs, stating: “The partnership promotes gender equality within the entrepreneurial landscape and will foster sustainable growth for all.”

    Applications for the 10,000 Women Online program opened on August 1, 2025, and will close on August 31,2025 for both start-ups and existing female entrepreneurs across Nigeria. 

  • Alveena events plans exclusive Doha masterclass for professionals

    Alveena events plans exclusive Doha masterclass for professionals

    Event planning company, Alveena Events, is set to revolutionise the African events industry with an extraordinary six-day luxury retreat and masterclass at Doha’s opulent Millennium Hotel. 

    This initiative promises to equip event professionals with world-class skills while immersing them in Qatar’s rich cultural tapestry through a unique blend of intensive learning and high-end experiences.

    The star-studded faculty features industry titans including Dr. Akinkunmi Oladipupo, widely regarded as the father of modern African luxury event design, and visionary creative architect Arc. Mrs. Tolulope Oladipupo. 

    “We’re not just teaching event planning – we’re architecting a paradigm shift in how African professionals conceptualise and execute world-class events,” an Alveena Events spokesperson stated. 

     “This is about taking our innate African creativity and fusing it with global best practices to dominate the luxury events space.”

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    Participants will engage in rigorous masterclasses covering critical aspects like the science of geometric design in event spaces, strategic brand positioning for luxury markets, and the art of transforming abstract concepts into breathtaking realities. The curriculum has been meticulously crafted to address the specific challenges African event professionals face when competing in the global arena.

    Beyond the classroom, attendees will enjoy carefully curated luxury experiences including a private yacht cruise along Doha’s stunning skyline, an exhilarating desert safari under the stars, and exclusive access to the city’s architectural marvels. 

    “The magic happens when education meets inspiration,” the Alveena team explained. “We want participants to learn from the best minds while experiencing firsthand what true luxury feels like – because you can’t create what you’ve never experienced.”

    Industry analysts predict this initiative could mark a turning point for African event professionals seeking to compete internationally. With limited slots available, anticipation is building among top planners and designers across the continent who recognize this as a career-defining opportunity. “This isn’t just another workshop – it’s an investment in becoming world-class,” noted veteran event planner Tunde Williams, who has already secured his spot.

    As registration gains momentum, Alveena Events continues to reinforce its position as the standard-bearer for excellence in Africa’s event industry. The Doha retreat represents their boldest move yet in bridging the gap between African creativity and global execution standards, potentially reshaping the continent’s event landscape for years to come.

  • Babangida launches local security production facility Vinicius International in Nigeria

    Babangida launches local security production facility Vinicius International in Nigeria

    Vinicius International has officially commenced local production of security hardware in Nigeria, a move poised to significantly reduce Africa’s dependence on imported defence equipment. 

    The company, fully licensed under the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), has established an armoured vehicle assembly line and integrated surveillance solutions hub in Abuja, creating what industry experts describe as a major milestone for indigenous security manufacturing.

    Saifullahi Babangida, Chief Executive Officer of the Vinicious Group, parent company of Vinicius International, described the development as a turning point for Africa’s defence capacity.

     “Africa has the expertise, talent and determination to secure itself,” Babangida said. “This facility is about more than hardware—it is about sovereignty, jobs and building the skills required to protect our nations using African solutions.”

    The new facility is launching at a critical time for Africa’s defence sector. Military expenditure on the continent surged to $51.6 billion in 2023—a 22 per cent increase in just one year—yet more than 95 per cent of Africa’s security hardware continues to be imported from countries such as Russia, China, the United States and major European suppliers.

     This dependence often exposes governments to supply chain delays and fluctuating geopolitical priorities, with heavy consequences for national security.

    Vinicius International seeks to change that equation. Its operations in Abuja will assemble tactical armoured vehicles designed for African terrain and security conditions while integrating advanced surveillance and unmanned aerial systems tailored for local realities. 

    The company is also investing in training through its Advanced Security Command and Control (ASCC) division, equipping security personnel with the technical skills to deploy and maintain modern systems.

    The company has already demonstrated its capacity at scale. In January 2024, it delivered more than 1,000 armoured vehicles to Nigerian security forces, signalling what industry observers have called “a decisive step towards security self-reliance.” 

    Beyond hardware, Vinicius offers integrated surveillance and access control solutions, UAV procurement, and logistics support, providing government agencies with one-stop capabilities rarely available from local suppliers.

    The impact extends beyond Nigeria’s borders. With insecurity rising across West and Central Africa, and defence budgets expanding in countries such as South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Abuja facility is expected to serve as a regional production hub. “Africa’s need for reliable, locally built security hardware has never been greater,” said a senior security analyst in Abuja. “Vinicius is bridging a capability gap that has persisted for decades.”

    For Vinicius, localisation is not merely a business strategy but a vision of sovereignty. By assembling vehicles, integrating systems, and training personnel locally, the company is creating jobs, building technical expertise and retaining value within African economies. Babangida emphasised this vision, noting: “Every vehicle we build and every system we deploy brings us closer to a secure future driven by African solutions and African hands.”

    Looking ahead, Vinicius International plans to expand its Nigerian operations into a broader West African industrial base and is opening doors for partnerships with international manufacturers seeking entry into African markets. These collaborations are expected to accelerate technology transfer and strengthen Africa’s long-term defence capacity.

    Closing the launch event, Babangida reaffirmed the company’s mission: “This is just the beginning. Africa’s security future must be built in Africa, by Africans and for Africans—and we are proud to be leading that transformation.”

  • Obi Cubana, Lola Andy, others for unveiling of Vaib slow juicer

    Obi Cubana, Lola Andy, others for unveiling of Vaib slow juicer

    Plans have been concluded for the official unveiling of Vaib slow juicer from Dee Utensils, a leading brand in the sale of luxury kitchenware, and quality products which meet world-class standard. 

    One of the top personalities expected at the product unveiling is popular socialite and Chairman of Cubana Group, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, Dee Utensils CEO Lola Andy and top chefs, entertainers and other stakeholders in the electronic and food industry. 

    Vaib slow juicer will be unveiled on August 4, 2025 at Kokkies mall Abuja, located at Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent Wuse 2.

    The Chief Executive Officer of Dee Utensils, Lois Andrew Ihwo who was recently conferred with the honour of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Rwanda, Kigali said the introduction of the Vaib slow juicer is part of the company’s efforts to ensure that Nigerians, both middle and low income earners have access to tools that will assist them to eat and live healthy.

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    Dee Utensils prides itself as customers choice in high-quality kitchenware that would stand up to the rigors of everyday use. It has partnered with international companies producing kitchenware to get unique and luxurious designs for its customers across the world

    The CEO, Ihwo is also involved in every aspect of the business, from product design to marketing and customer service. She has traveled across the globe to get unique designs for her customers, aiming to meet their hunger for class and elegance. 

    The product unveiling will witness several special side attractions, including massive discount Vaib slow juicer and all Dee Utensils both in wholesale and retail, live juicing dermo which will teach guests how to juice the classy way, Meet & Great with Top Influencers and wellness Enthusiasts, Raffle Draws, Giveaway & Freebies, Red carpet moments & content creation corner.

  • FCMB Group reports ₦79.3bn profit before tax for H1 2025

    FCMB Group reports ₦79.3bn profit before tax for H1 2025

    FCMB Group Plc (“FCMB Group”) has announced its unaudited financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2025. The Group reported a ₦79.3 billion profit before tax (PBT), representing a 23% year-on-year increase, driven primarily by improved net interest income and asset yields.

    Gross revenue for the period rose to ₦529.2 billion, reflecting a 41.3 per cent year-on-year increase from ₦374.5 billion recorded in the first half of 2024, supported mainly by a 70.3 per cent growth in interest income. However, non-interest income declined by 35.1 per cent due to a ₦36.6 billion drop in currency revaluation gains compared to last year.

    Net interest income almost doubled, rising from ₦106.2 billion in the previous year to ₦207.4 billion by June 2025. The yield on earning assets improved to 20.2 per cent, leading to a net interest margin of 9.1 per cent, up from 6.3per cent in the 2024 financial year.

    The Group’s digital business—payments, lending, and wealth services—grew strongly. Digital revenues increased by 60 per cent year-on-year, rising from ₦46 billion in June 2024 to ₦73.6 billion in June 2025. Digital services now account for 13.9% per cent of total earnings.

    Operating expenses rose by 46.1 per cent to ₦153.2 billion. The increase was due to higher personnel costs, regulatory expenses, technology costs, and general inflationary pressures. Despite this, cost-to-income ratio improved to 57 per cent at the end of June 2025, compared to 59.9 per cent recorded at the end of 2024.

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    Net impairment losses on financial assets grew significantly to ₦36.2 billion on a quarterly basis, following FCMB Group’s banking subsidiary exit from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s loan forbearance programme. This led to a rise in the cost of risk to 2.8 per cent, up from 1.8 per cent in the 2024 financial year.

    After tax, profit increased by 23 per cent year-on-year, closing at ₦73.4 billion.

    Each business division contributed to overall performance. Consumer Finance reported a profit before tax growth of 54.5 per cent, Banking Group reported a profit before tax growth of 41.3 per cent, and Investment Management recorded a 10 per cent growth. Investment Banking recorded a 48.9 per cent decline due to an exceptional one-time gain from a divestment in the previous year. In terms of contribution to Group’s PBT, the Banking Group accounted for 82 per cent, Consumer Finance for 11.6 per cent, Investment Management for 4.8 per cent, and Investment Banking for 1.4 per cent.

    The Group’s balance sheet also showed improvement. Total assets increased by 6.9 per cent to ₦7.54 trillion, up from ₦7.05 trillion as of December 2024. Loans and advances grew modestly by 1.1 per cent to ₦2.38 trillion, impacted by currency revaluation, loan write-offs and concentrated paydowns, while customer deposits rose by 5.6 per cent to ₦4.55 trillion. This growth was supported by a stronger mix of low-cost deposits, which now account for 69.3 per cent of total deposits, up from 57.5 per cent at year-end 2024.

    Assets under management increased by 15.5 per cent, reaching ₦1.58 trillion, compared to ₦1.37 trillion in December 2024. FCMB’s investment banking business, which includes advisory services and capital market transactions, recorded a significant increase in capital raised for its clients —growing by over 600 per cent year-on-year to ₦2.97 trillion.

    The Group also reported improved balance sheet efficiency. A more favourable deposit mix and better deployment of recently raised capital helped reduce funding costs for the second consecutive quarter. As a result, the net interest margin rose from 7.9 per cent in the first quarter to 10.1 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, contributing to the 9.1 per cent margin for the half-year. Management expressed confidence in sustaining this trend and exceeding its full-year NIM guidance.

    Following its ₦144.6 billion public capital raise in 2024, FCMB confirmed that the Central Bank of Nigeria has completed verification of the second phase of the programme—a ₦22.5 billion mandatory convertible note expected to increase the number of issued shares to approximately 42.8 billion. Subsequent phases of the capital programme are ongoing and aim to ensure First City Monument Bank meets the new minimum capital requirement to retain its international banking license.

    FCMB Group remains focused on improving operational efficiency, expanding its digital and retail business, and continuing its strong earnings momentum through the second half of the year.

  • NiDCOM, Sydani Group, FirstBank launch platform to empower Nigerian Diaspora

    NiDCOM, Sydani Group, FirstBank launch platform to empower Nigerian Diaspora

    In a historic partnership for development, Sydani Group, in collaboration with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and FirstBank Plc, have launched the Home and Abroad Platform, a secure and tech-enabled solution designed to help Nigerians in the diaspora own verified real estate properties in Nigeria with ease.

    The launch took place at the Presidential Villa on Friday July 25, 2025, first day of the National Diaspora Day and National Diaspora Merit Awards.

    The event, with the theme, “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth”, was attended by stakeholders from different backgrounds, including top government functionaries, captains of industries from both the private and private sectors, members of the diplomatic corps, and the diaspora community.

    The Home and Abroad Platform aims to address longstanding issues faced by Nigerians abroad, particularly the risk of fraud when attempting to purchase property back home.

    It provides access to verified real estate options and a secure payment system through FirstBank, giving prospective homeowners the confidence and peace of mind they need to invest in Nigeria from anywhere in the world.

    Sydani Group led the development, design, and implementation of the platform, bringing together technical innovation, financial security, and a user-centric approach.

    The Sydani Group delegation at the event was led by its Group Managing Partner, Sidney Sampson, alongside Home and Abroad Managers Christopher Epum, Abdulganiyy Ajayi, Adedayo Odupitan, Owhorchukwu Onuegbu and others.

    Christopher Epum, one of the platform’s managers, described the vision behind Home and Abroad:“Home and Abroad offers every Nigerian in the Diaspora an opportunity to own verified properties back at home.

    “The Platform brings housing solutions to Diasporas that come with a sense of peace of mind as prospective homeowners can purchase houses seamlessly and make payments through a secure payment channel.

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    He added that, “Home and Abroad is set to alter the property purchase process in Nigeria as the platform has adopted innovative features to check the distance barrier and offer prospective buyers a full view of the property in Nigeria from wherever they are in the world.”

    Also speaking at the event, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, underscored the importance of optimizing diaspora contributions to national development.

    She noted that the platform would help address a key challenge facing Nigerians abroad: the lack of trustworthy channels to invest in property back home.

    Representing FirstBank Group CEO, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, Ms. Abimbola Meshinoye, Head of Brand Strategy and Financial Planning, affirmed that the initiative aligns with FirstBank’s commitment to enabling financial inclusion and supporting diaspora engagement.

    She acknowledged the vital role of the Nigerian diaspora in the country’s socio-economic growth, particularly through annual remittances exceeding $20 billion.

    The platform’s development reflects a broader vision shared by NiDCOM, Sydani Group and First Bank to channel diaspora remittances, trust, and potential into sustainable national development.

    With Nigeria’s diaspora population exceeding 70 million and contributing over $20 billion annually in remittances, the Home and Abroad platform is positioned to become a transformative tool in bridging investment opportunities between Nigeria and its global citizens.

    Sydani Group is a leading development consultancy committed to delivering innovative, data-driven, and scalable solutions across the public and private sectors.

    From policy design to program implementation, Sydani partners with governments, international organisations, and corporate institutions to drive systemic change and inclusive development across Africa.