The Nation Newspaper

Category: Business

  • Firm’s stock futures volume crosses $1 billion mark

    Firm’s stock futures volume crosses $1 billion mark

    Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX),  announces trading in its US stock-linked futures has passed $300 million  in cumulative volume on the platform, doubling in just two weeks globally. The milestone points to fast adoption of stock-style exposure inside a crypto app by  users who already fund accounts in USDT and switch between crypto and stock-linked markets on mobile. 

    “Crossing the $1 billion mark in such a short time shows how fast traders are embracing stock futures as part of a unified digital trading experience, it’s a signal that the line between traditional markets and digital assets is disappearing, and our Universal Exchange model is where that convergence is happening first. What happened include: Bitget launched USDT-margined perpetual futures on 25 US stocks for example , Apple, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft and later added contracts like NFLXUSDT, JDUSDT and QQQUSDT. The product targets traders who want stocks exposure but prefer a 24/7 crypto interface.” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget.

    “The exchange frames the growth as part of a broader “Universal Exchange (UEX)” model that hosts crypto, tokenized/stock-linked products, and on-chain markets in one place. This is necessary because many traders, including those in the African region, have already moved from local fiat to USDT using marketplace sellers on P2P – bank transfer or popular wallets, where supported. Stock-linked futures let them express a view on familiar tickers like Apple (AAPL), Nvidia (NVDA), Tesla (TSLA) without leaving the same app they use for BTC/ETH/SOL. In short: one interface, multiple markets, no brokers, no spreads, just one app. What these products are and are not.

    “Perpetual “stock futures” on Bitget are derivatives margined in USDT that track selected US equities. They don’t give you company shares or dividends; they mirror price moves so you can go long/short with defined margin and fees. Bitget cites fees “at or below 0.0065%,” and leverage up to 25 times, trading is 24/7 on the crypto venue. That’s different from the US stock market timetable and is one reason some users prefer the format. The African angle, Users typically fund in local fiat using Bitget P2P, convert to USDT, and trade; when closing positions, they can convert their USDT back to local fiat through P2P sellers that support bank transfer or local wallets.

    “Trading happened side-by-side with crypto pairs (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Doge), many watch US tech names that trend on finance Twitter and local forums. Bitget’s note links recent activity to the AI-driven equities rally and strong US earnings season. And this is popular because a single app view for crypto + stock-linked exposure reduces app-hopping and lets users reuse their USDT balance across strategies. Bitget pitches this as the UEX idea: centralized, decentralized, and tokenized markets under one roof, example, If you think NVIDIA will keep rising on AI demand, you can open an NVDA-linked perpetual long with USDT margin; if you’re right, profits come from your margin, not from owning the stock. If you think Apple may pull back after earnings, you can short the AAPL-linked contract. It’s a price view tool, not share ownership.

    “Risks to note include: Leverage cuts both ways: 25x magnifies potential gains and losses, derivatives are Not shares: You don’t get voting rights or dividends, market structure: 24/7 trading may gap versus the underlying when the US market is closed, generally, prices are volatile; only trade what you can afford to lose. Bitget’s risk notice reiterates volatility and the need for independent advice.” She explained.  

  • Keyamo tasks carriers on aircraft dry leasing opportunities

    Keyamo tasks carriers on aircraft dry leasing opportunities

    • As Federal Govt mulls sovereign cover

    Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo yesterday called on indigenous carriers to avail themselves of the opportunities opening up for the dry leasing of aircraft from lessors and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

    Keyamo said major leasing companies and aircraft manufacturers are now ready to do business with Nigerian carriers because of the relevant structure / instruments put in place by the Federal Government to restore confidence in their transactions.

    Speaking at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) Wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Ikeja, Lagos where Air Peace took delivery of a Boeing  737 – 700 Aircraft secured from the world’s leading aircraft leasing company, Aercap.

    Keyamo said the dry lease transaction between Air Peace and AerCap is historic because it is the first time such development is taking place after 10 years when lessors refused to facilitate airplanes to Nigerian operators because of  issues bordering on default in payment.

    He commended Air Peace for the feat affirming that  for AerCap to go ahead with the deal, the Federal Government had to offer guarantee for the airline.

    Keyamo spoke of plans by the Federal Government to establish a Nigerian Aircraft Leasing Company which will pull resources to secure airplanes from  original equipment manufacturers that local carriers could offtake.

    READ ALSO: ​FULL FACTS: New U.S. bill titled: “Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025” by Senator Ted Cruz

    The minister said with the credit guarantee offered by Fidelity Bank on behalf of Air Peace, confidence has been rebuilt in the aircraft selling ecosystem for Nigerian carriers.

    Keyamo attributed the milestone to efforts of the Tinubu administration , which has gone miles ahead to clear the ground for local carriers , strengthen the relevant legislative and legal instruments to ensure that transactions between aircraft lessors and Nigerian carriers have double assurance.

    The minister said the Tinubu administration continues to push for a healthy aviation sector, where local airlines will have access to the best aircraft deals.

    Keyamo said one of the windows to empower local carriers is to leverage platforms / mechanisms such as affordable aircraft leasing to enable them to compete with global carriers.

    While commending Air Peace for the rare feat of restoring the confidence of lessors in doing business with indigenous carriers, Keyamo said with the ramping up of their capacity, local carriers could change the market narrative.

    He said : ” We recommend that other local carriers optimise the structure in place , acquire more airplanes through these dry leasing opportunities and conquer the market.”

    On his part, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Air Peace , Allen Onyema said with its current business relationship with one of the leading aircraft lessors and the Boeing Company its fleet of aircraft will receive a boost soon.

    Describing aircraft dry leasing as a flexible and affordable window for airlines to boost their fleet, he said Air Peace is considering over 50 aircraft.

    Onyema commended the Tinubu administration for the landmark achievements in the aviation sector.

    He said : ” Tinubu supports indigenous businesses, the Nigerian economy is improving under his watch. Airlines can now dry lease aircraft, a development that was not possible about a decade ago. Many lessors and aircraft manufacturers are now coming to do business with Nigerian carriers. The Federal Government is now guarranting aircraft transactions for local carriers , including dry leasing for Air Peace , so that the carriers will not fail.

    ” This is the reason the efforts of Keyamo must be acknowledged for the reforms and transformation in the sector. “

  • FAAN hails Nigeria’s removal from FATF greylist

    FAAN hails Nigeria’s removal from FATF greylist

    The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency and its role as a key champion in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against corruption and financial malpractices.

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, made this declaration while formally congratulating Nigeria and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) on the country’s successful removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List.

    In an official statement, Mrs Kuku commended the dedication and resilience demonstrated by the NFIU and all other agencies involved in the collaborative effort that led to this significant milestone.

    “I am profoundly proud and elated at this remarkable achievement,” stated Mrs Kuku. “This success serves as further evidence of our nation’s capacity to achieve great things when we work together with a common purpose.

    “I wish to extend my special congratulations to the Chief Executive Officer of the NIIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, for her passion and for effectively coordinating all other agencies to achieve this remarkable feat. Congratulations and well done to everyone.”

    READ ALSO; FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, others nominated for 2026 Grammy awards

    Mrs Kuku elaborated on the implications of this development, noting, “Nigeria’s removal from the FATF Grey List signifies that our nation is no longer subject to increased international monitoring for perceived weaknesses in its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT) frameworks. This is a positive development that restores global confidence, facilitates easier and more cost-effective international trade for Nigerian businesses, and enhances our appeal to foreign investors.”

    She further emphasised FAAN’s role in this national accomplishment, adding, “This achievement signifies that Nigeria has successfully addressed the strategic deficiencies previously identified by the FATF. I am proud that FAAN played a significant and substantive role in making this possible.”

    The FAAN MD/CE also seized the opportunity to encourage potential investors to view Nigeria as a prime and viable investment destination, assuring them of a secure and rewarding environment with the potential for substantial returns.

  • Festival on Nigeria’s creative energy, cultural heritage for Dec 3-7

    Festival on Nigeria’s creative energy, cultural heritage for Dec 3-7

    Africa’s first sustainable recycling festival, Artistic Pulse Festival (APF) is set to celebrate the best of Nigeria’s creativity, culture, and commerce. 

    Scheduled from December 3-7 at the Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos, the festival promises to be a vibrant display of art, music, fashion, food, film, and technology.

    The five-day festival will feature symposiums, debates, creative workshops, a children’s art gallery and play zone as well as performances from local and international artists. 

    It aims to promote sustainability through recycling initiatives, underscoring the role of creativity in environmental responsibility.

    Themed: “Footprints of Interconnectivity, Growth and Expansion: Creativity, Culture, Commerce and Innovation,” APF aims to fuse entertainment with sustainability, offering a platform for young creatives, entrepreneurs, and local communities to connect and thrive.

    Convener of the festival who doubles as Vice Chair NACCIMA Creative Economy and Immediate past Chairperson LCCI Creative and Entertainment Group, Dr Ngozi Omambala AMBP-UN, highlighted the event’s role in bridging Nigeria’s creative ecosystem with global markets. 

    Omambala, a seasoned creative professional and member of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and NACCIMA, stressed that the festival seeks to position Nigeria’s creative industry as a major economic driver.

    “We need festivals like this to be put on the map so that we can create tourism, create jobs, and drive the community with trade fairs where everybody contributes positively to the economy,” she said.

    Omambala, who has worked extensively across the African entertainment landscape, explained that the Artistic Pulse Festival was born from the need to integrate and streamline Nigeria’s creative sectors — from art to fashion, music to film — into a coherent, growth-driven industry.

    “Our creative sectors are on the global map,” she said. “We’re generating tourism, generating jobs. With a population of 230 million and 60 to 70 percent under 30, we have a huge human capital resource. It’s about belief, collaboration, partnerships, and creativity — being at one with everybody.”

    She also addressed the growing trend of Nigerian artists performing more abroad than at home, urging them to reconnect with their roots.

    “It’s not a criticism, it’s an observation,” Omambala stated. “We love to see our artists abroad, but we also need them at home. That’s why the strapline for the Artistic Pulse Festival is ‘Home is where the heart is.’ It goes on to say, ‘Join the movement. Feel the pulse.’”

    Ms. Yemisi Ransome-Kuti, co-founder of Lagos Island Connect and long-time advocate for local development, described the festival as “an expose of the soul of a city.”

    She said, “Every aspect of human activity is focused on, enlarged, portrayed, and projected to the world, this is like you as a person telling the world, ‘Come, this is who I am. Come and feel us. Come and enjoy and savour the gorgeous and awesome things we have to offer as a nation in this venue.”

    Ransome-Kuti emphasized the importance of the festival in strengthening community ties and creating opportunities for economic and social inclusion.“It is important to engage and ensure that this activity benefits the community. It impacts the environment positively. The investment and the benefits that come out of it should not just be for the organisers, but for the entire community locally in the short term and then in the long term as well,” she noted.

    Chairman of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Gabriel Idahosa highlighted the sole importance of promoting the Nigerian culture, using home made products as the country gears towards a sustainable economy.

    He said, “Promoting Nigerian culture and embracing locally made products is not just an act of patriotism — it is a strategic investment in our nation’s economic future. Every time we choose Nigerian goods, we create jobs, empower entrepreneurs, and strengthen the value of our heritage. Our culture and creativity are among our greatest assets, and showcasing them to the world is key to building a more inclusive and sustainable economy.”

    Also speaking at the briefing, Ms. Shade Bembatoum-Young, Honorary Life Vice President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), emphasized the festival’s significance in promoting Nigerian-made products and preserving cultural identity.

    “Nigeria’s cultural values are rooted in community, creativity, and craftsmanship,” she said. “Promoting homegrown products is not just about economics — it’s about pride in who we are. The Artistic Pulse Festival celebrates that spirit by showcasing local innovation and sustainable enterprise on a global stage.”

  • ‘Judiciary vital to blue economy growth’

    ‘Judiciary vital to blue economy growth’

    The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has identified the judiciary as a critical partner in unlocking the full benefits of the country’s emerging Blue Economy, describing it as an indispensable pillar in the nation’s maritime development strategy.

    NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, spoke in Lagos at the 4th Edition of the Admiralty Law Colloquium, with: “Charting the Course of Nigeria’s Blue Economy” as theme.

    Mobereola said effective judicial interpretation of maritime laws and regulations is key to realising Nigeria’s Blue Economy goals.

    “Nigeria’s Blue Economy requires an all hands on deck approach, with the Judiciary as a crucial actor, where interpretation of legal instruments and case decisions remains a vital tool for its sustainable development,” he stated.

    The NIMASA boss emphasised that the judiciary’s role in interpreting and enforcing maritime laws helps raise industry standards, promote investment confidence, and enhance regulatory certainty — all vital ingredients for sustainable maritime growth.

    In her keynote, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, represented by Justice Emmanuel Akomoye Agim (JSC), commended NIMASA and the National Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) for their collaboration in organising the colloquium.

    Read Also: PenCom to judiciary: participate in PPP for enhanced retirement security

    She urged judicial officers to play an active role in shaping the Blue Economy through sound adjudication and policy interpretation.

    “The task before us is to ensure that Nigeria’s Blue Economy does not remain a conceptual aspiration but becomes a tangible driver of growth, equity, and sustainability.

     “The Judiciary must not stand at the shoreline as a passive observer, but rather as an active navigator — steering the ship of justice through the complex waters of maritime development,” Justice Kekere-Ekun said.

    Her remarks drew attention to the need for a strong legal foundation in maritime governance, particularly as Nigeria intensifies efforts to harness its ocean resources for economic diversification and job creation.

    The first technical session featured maritime law experts, Dr. Emeka Akabogu (SAN) and Dr. Chukwuchefu Ukatta, who presented papers underscoring the importance of synergy between judicial processes and the operational realities of the maritime industry.

    A panel discussion chaired by Prof A. J. Abikan, Director-General of NIALS, followed the presentations. The session provided an interactive platform for judges, lawyers, regulators, and industry stakeholders to exchange views on improving admiralty law adjudication and maritime policy execution.

    Among dignitaries at the event were the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice M. B. Dongban-Mensem, represented by Justice E. O. Williams-Dawodu, and the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho represented by Justice A. Faji.

    The Admiralty Law Colloquium, jointly organised by NIMASA and NIALS, with support from the National Judicial Institute (NJI), is held annually to enhance the capacity of judicial officers in maritime law, strengthen maritime security, and advance Nigeria’s Blue Economy framework.

    Nigeria’s Blue Economy — estimated by the African Union to be worth over $300 billion continent-wide, encompasses shipping, fisheries, energy, and coastal tourism. Analysts say that robust legal clarity and effective judicial intervention are essential to attract global shipping lines, secure investments, and ensure sustainability.

    By deepening its collaboration with the judiciary, NIMASA aims to align maritime governance with international best practices, ensuring that Nigeria’s ports, shipping operations, and marine resources contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.

  • NSDC to integrate outgrower farmers into sugar supply chain

    NSDC to integrate outgrower farmers into sugar supply chain

    Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr. Kamar Bakrin  revealed that the council has created opportunities for inclusive economic growth by integrating outgrower farmers into the sugar industry’s supply chain and the introduction of Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP).

    He disclosed this during the launch of the Sugarcane Outgrower Development Programme (SODP) in Abuja, stating that the aim is to boost local production, to also complement the output of existing large-scale sugar estates and help close the national supply gap.

    It is also designed for local sugarcane cultivation, reduces Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports, and creates opportunities for inclusive economic growth.

    Read Also: Beetroot for brain and blood sugars: University don charts a dual-therapy path

    Bakrin said, “The programme is a key component of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP II) and has been designed to scale up local sugarcane production, reduce the nation’s reliance on imports, and stimulate inclusive economic growth, particularly within rural communities.

    “This is a pioneering initiative for Nigeria’s sugar sector. For the first time, a structured outgrower development programme will formally integrate farmers at all levels into the national sugar value chain. This campaign is about reaching every stakeholder, from large-scale operators to smallholder farmers, and ensuring that everyone has a fair opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s journey towards self-sufficiency in sugar production.

    “The SODP, will empower participating farmers through guaranteed offtake agreements by ensuring market access,  access to quality seed cane and inputs, technical support and structured training programmes and adoption of sustainable land and water use practices”.

    Speaking, Mrs. Lade Offurum, Head of Out-Grower Management explained that the SODP will engage three key categories of farmers, agribusinesses and commercial farmers cultivating 50–500+ hectares, farming cooperatives, who can apply as organised clusters of between 30 and 50 hectares, and individual farmers or friends willing to jointly farm clusters of 30+ hectares.

    She advised interested participants to reach out to the NSDC through email, adding that the application will close on the 21st of November, 2025. With the launch of the SODP, NSDC continues to deliver on the objectives of the NSMP II, accelerating investments in local production, empowering farmers, and advancing Nigeria’s vision for a globally competitive sugar industry.

  • ‘Local content critical to Africas’ energy future’

    ‘Local content critical to Africas’ energy future’

    For Nigeria and other African countries to fully translate its vast hydrocarbon wealth into shared prosperity and sustainable development, local content must become the cornerstone of the continent’s energy strategy, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, has said.

    Ogbe made the call during the 4th edition of the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO) Conference and Exhibition on Local Content in Africa, held in Brazzaville, Congo.

    The high-level event brought together policymakers, energy ministers, and industry leaders from across the continent to advance local content implementation and energy development in Africa.

    Representing the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen Heineken Lokpobiri, at APPO’s Statutory Ministerial Council Meeting—where a new Secretary General was elected—Ogbe stressed that African nation must build indigenous capacity and value-retention mechanisms to benefit fully from their abundant resources.

    He noted that the continent’s over 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 620 trillion cubic feet of gas would continue to yield limited impact unless countries adopt and effectively implement local content policies.

    Read Also: FG will rebuild police colleges ahead Tinubu’s 30,000 personnel recruitment

    “Local content is not merely a regulatory framework; it is a development strategy. It represents our collective resolve to build indigenous capacity, retain value within our borders, and create sustainable jobs for Africa’s young and dynamic population,” Ogbe said.

    Drawing from Nigeria’s 15 years of successful local content practice, Ogbe highlighted that deliberate policy design and pragmatic execution can deliver measurable economic gains. He reaffirmed NCDMB’s readiness to share its frameworks, tools, and expertise with other African petroleum-producing nations.

    According to him, the Board has developed robust models—including policy templates, monitoring structures, and digital compliance platforms such as the NOGIC Joint Qualification System (NOGIC JQS)—that could serve as blueprints for other African countries seeking to deepen local participation.

    Ogbe also proposed the establishment of an African Energy Services Network, aimed at connecting fabrication, manufacturing, and engineering hubs across the continent to strengthen value retention and build a pan-African industrial ecosystem.

    “Such a framework would enable African companies to complement one another’s capacities, creating cross-border linkages that enhance competitiveness and drive industrialisation,” he added.

    The NCDMB boss commended the creation of the African Energy Bank, a joint initiative by APPO and Afreximbank, describing it as a milestone in ensuring competitive financing for Africa’s oil and gas projects. He assured that NCDMB stands ready to provide technical support and project linkages to help actualize the bank’s objectives.

    Ogbe further cited Nigeria’s achievements in local content infrastructure, including the Egina FPSO Integration Yard at LADOL Free Zone, Lagos—Africa’s first such facility—and the NCDMB Industrial Parks in Bayelsa and Cross River States, designed to host manufacturers of oil and gas components and create opportunities for SMEs and investors.

    He also spotlighted the Board’s Research and Development (R&D) and Human Capacity Development (HCD) initiatives, which have trained over 20,000 Nigerians in specialized oil and gas skills, describing them as scalable models for other African countries.

    “Nigerian service companies are eager to collaborate with their African counterparts in engineering, marine, fabrication, and digital energy services,” he said, noting that cross-border investments in modular refineries, gas processing, and local manufacturing could further deepen integration.

    During the conference, senior NCDMB officials also participated in technical sessions showcasing Nigeria’s local content journey. Panel discussions featured insights from key directors and managers of the Board, alongside industry partners such as Cypher Crescent Ltd., generating strong interest from other countries keen to adopt Nigeria’s model.

    Ogbe reaffirmed that NCDMB’s vision extends beyond Nigeria, emphasising that Africa’s collective progress depends on leveraging shared expertise, building indigenous capacity, and sustaining intra-African collaboration in the energy value chain.

  • NACCIMA seeks stronger Nigeria-China collaboration

    NACCIMA seeks stronger Nigeria-China collaboration

    A more robust and mutually rewarding business and trade relations between Nigeria and China may have emerged, drawing strength from the renewed advocacy by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to deepen bilateral relations between both countries.

    The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NACCIMA, Hajia Medinat Oladotun, seized the platform of the China Global Television Network (CGTN)—the country’s national television— to present the Chamber’s vision for deeper economic collaboration, innovation exchange, and mutual growth between the two countries.

    Her appearance on Chinese TV was part of Nigeria’s participation and activities at the just-concluded 138th Canton Fair, China’s largest and longest-running trade exhibition which took place between October 15 and November 4, 2025, in Guangzhou, China.

    Hajia Oladotun spotlighted the Chamber’s role in strengthening the investment climate in Nigeria and unlocking new frontiers for trade, digital innovation, and industrial collaboration.

    She also expressed Nigeria’s readiness to explore technological collaborations, e-commerce development, and smart industrial solutions with China.

    Read Also: NACCIMA lauds Fed Govt for IATF hosting rights

    She identified opportunities for Nigerian enterprises in exports, logistics, and cross-sector investment, aligning with NACCIMA’s mission to connect Nigerian businesses to global markets.

    Hajia Oladotun highlighted the strong foundation of Nigeria–China cooperation in infrastructure and industrialisation, expressing optimism for the next phase of partnership centered on green growth, manufacturing, and supply chain integration.

    The feature on CGTN underscores NACCIMA’s growing international influence and celebrates its strategic communication, global engagement, and media diplomacy efforts.

    Through these efforts, which have received international recognition, NACCIMA continues to promote Nigeria’s economic interests and trade competitiveness on the world stage.

  • Nigeria’s G-24 leadership to champion fair, inclusive global financial system

    Nigeria’s G-24 leadership to champion fair, inclusive global financial system

    • Finance Minister, Edun sets five-point agenda

    Nigeria will use its leadership of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four, otherwise known as G-24, to champion comprehensive reform of the global financial system to be fairer, responsive and more inclusive.

    Nigeria has officially assumed office as Chairman of G-24, marking a new phase for the coalition of emerging and developing economies. Nigeria’s chairmanship is represented by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.

    The G-24 comprises of developing and emerging economies and has been a vocal advocate for restructuring of the international monetary system

    Speaking on assumption of office, Edun said under Nigeria’s leadership, the central theme guiding the G-24 would be “optimising resource development for inclusive, job-rich economic transformation”.

    He explained that this vision encompasses human, financial, physical, and natural resources, all directed toward sustainable and inclusive growth.

    According to him, Nigeria’s chairmanship will pursue five major strategic goals.

    The first is reforming the global financial architecture to create a fairer and more inclusive international system. This, he said, will involve strengthening the Global Financial Safety Net at the International Monetary Fund, expanding concessional financing through Multilateral Development Banks, advancing governance reforms, and modernising payment systems to support local currency trade.

    The second priority, according to him, is enhancing domestic resource mobilisation and international tax cooperation. Under this objective, the G-24 will deepen engagement on the global tax agenda, promote transparency, combat illicit financial flows, and reform domestic tax systems to expand fiscal space for development.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    A third focus area is mobilising innovative finance for development. Edun explained that the G-24 will promote innovative financing models that reward reform-minded countries while supporting financial instruments such as blended finance, green bonds, and sustainability-linked debt swaps to align financial flows with development goals.

    The fourth strategic goal centres on strengthening regional integration and value-added manufacturing. Nigeria intends to champion regional economic cooperation to enhance competitiveness, attract investment in value-added manufacturing, and promote South-South collaboration to boost industrial productivity across member nations.

    Finally, the G-24 under Nigeria’s leadership will prioritise advancing climate finance and supporting just energy transitions. Edun said his chairmanship will advocate for a climate transition that reflects the realities of energy-deficient but resource-rich nations, promote resilient infrastructure, and encourage sustained commitment to climate targets, particularly as global energy demand rises with the spread of artificial intelligence technologies.

    Edun said Nigeria’s leadership will seek to deepen the G-24’s influence in global financial governance and ensure that developing economies have a stronger voice in shaping international financial decisions. “Our goal is to build a future of equity, resilience, and inclusive job-rich growth,” he stated. “We will continue to engage constructively with all partners to ensure that the interests of emerging and developing economies are properly represented in global decision-making.”

    Despite its name, the G-24 currently comprises 29 full member countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean. Its members included Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Iran, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Syria, Trinidad and Tobago, and Venezuela.. China participates as a special invitee.

    With Nigeria now at the helm, Edun said he is committed to steering the bloc toward a more responsive and inclusive global financial system that prioritises sustainable development, regional cooperation, and prosperity for all.

    He formally took over the chairmanship from Mr. Luis Caputo, Minister of Treasury of Argentina. Edun said he was honoured to take on the role and paid tribute to his predecessor for his “exemplary leadership and stewardship.” According to him, Argentina’s tenure “significantly strengthened the G-24’s voice and relevance at a critical time in global economic discourse.”

    He stated that Nigeria’s chairmanship will pursue five major strategic goals. The first is reforming the global financial architecture to create a fairer and more inclusive international system

    Speaking on the challenges ahead, Edun noted that the assumption of Nigeria’s chairmanship coincides with a period of “unprecedented global challenges.” He said emerging and developing economies are navigating an increasingly difficult landscape marked by structural weaknesses, debt distress, and limited access to capital.

    “The global economy is at a crossroads,” the Minister said. “Geoeconomic fragmentation, debt vulnerabilities, and a widening financing gap threaten stability and progress, especially for developing nations.”

    He pointed out that more than half of low-income countries are already in or nearing debt distress, while over a quarter of emerging and developing economies have lost access to international capital markets.

    Edun warned that the world faces a $4 trillion to $5 trillion annual financing gap in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing that “a comprehensive reform of the global financial system is now an urgent imperative.”

    Another major concern, he noted, is the demographic transition underway, with an estimated 1.2 billion young people expected to join the global workforce over the next 10 to 15 years—competing for only 400 million available jobs.

    “This demographic challenge requires bold structural transformation and policy coordination to deliver job-rich growth,” Edun said. “In this uncertain landscape, the G-24’s mandate to support the economic policies of its members is more critical than ever.”

  • Digital entrepreneurs list survival tips for operators

    Digital entrepreneurs list survival tips for operators

    United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc yesterday hosted another enlightening edition of the UBA Business Series, bringing together some of Africa’s most dynamic digital entrepreneurs and influencers to discuss the secrets behind building impactful online communities.

    This edition of the Business Series, which had the theme, “Content that Converts: Building Influence and Driving Growth Through Strategic Marketing,” was held at the Tony Elumelu Amphitheatre in UBA Head Office, Marina, Lagos on Thursday.

    The very engaging session shed light on how authenticity, consistency, and passion remain true cornerstones of success in the ever-evolving digital landscape, while the content creators shared first-hand experiences from their journeys across diverse industries and markets.

    UBA’s Group Head, Digital Banking, Kayode Olubiyi, who welcomed participants and the panellists to the session, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs across Africa through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives such as the Business Series.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    He emphasised that the quarterly event continues to serve as vital avenues for supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, equipping individuals with practical insights to grow their brands and businesses in a competitive digital economy.

     In his keynote, the Managing Director/CEO at Nitro 121, Dr. Lampe Omoyele, who said that “You can create something out of what appears to be nothing,” gave insight on key trends to develop content that creates Impact.

     He noted that content creation should go beyond aesthetics or trends to focus on value, purpose, and agility as he pointed out that creators who aim to make a difference must develop a clear personal brand identity and remain consistent in delivering messages that resonate with their audience.

    The panel session featured an impressive line-up of digital entrepreneurs and content creators, including Digital Creator and Actor, Elozonam Ogbolu; Digital Health Educator, Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor); Kenyan Actress and Media Entrepreneur, Catherine Kamau; Content Creator, Nasiru Lawal (Nasboi) and Digital Influencer, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, who was also the moderator of the event.

     Growth is very important, says Nasiru Lawal. “For the younger creators here, my best advice is this: please prioritise your growth. As a creator, the moment you become famous, you no longer move at your own pace; you move at the people’s pace. It is therefore important to ensure you grow consistently and then overtime, the recognition and the money begins to roll in.”

    Elozonam Ogbolu who agreed with Lawal, had this to say: “Content creators have to engage their audience with proper storytelling, because brands are always out to carefully choose their creators. For the brands, you must pick your influencer or ambassador very deliberately and work together over time to grow. That is when you will see a proper return on investment.

    In his submission, Chinonso Egemba, said: “If you’re building a business or doing content creation, treat content creation as a business. When you treat it as a business, it needs proper structure. Otherwise, it won’t last. If you don’t put structure in place, you’ll end up responsible for everything, and that leads to burnout. You have to build structure, because if you want longevity, structure is very essential.

     For Catherine Kamau, it is important for content creators to find a balance and stay close to their community. “What I realized is I have a community that keeps me grounded, and that’s family. When you get famous, you tend to forget where you come from, you know, social media is an illusion and you start assuming that it is your real family until bad things happen to you. So please remember the real people in your life, because fame can get to your head, but those are not the people who are going to have your back when things go south,” she said.

    The creators while sharing their diverse experiences, they collectively emphasized that building a personal brand should take precedence over chasing financial gain. They also underscored the importance of originality, urging young creators to find their unique niche rather than replicating what others have done.

    UBA’s Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, who commended panellists for taking time to share their useful insights at the event, took time to celebrate the UBA Management for organising conversations like this which according to her, ‘remain impactful and will impact not just the individual customers, but also the economies at large.”