Bank
Polaris Bank, Partners support 16,000 Students to reduce Out-of-School Children in Nigeria
… Distributes school essentials to 1,000 students across 10 public schools in 5 states
Lagos, Nigeria- December 30, 2024: Polaris Bank, in partnership with key stakeholders, has reaffirmed its commitment to combating the alarming rate of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
Through its targeted interventions, the Bank has ensured continuous education for over 15,000 students, providing them with the opportunity to learn, thrive, and contribute to a better future.
While the initiative primarily focuses on empowering the girl child, male students in the targeted schools were not left out reflecting the project’s inclusive approach.
Polaris Bank’s collaboration with strategic partners has further strengthened its efforts to combat the scourge of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Since 2020, these collaborative efforts have ensured continuous education for 16,000 students, showcasing the transformative impact of teamwork in fostering positive societal change.
The initiative which includes empowering young learners with brain training techniques and emotional intelligence education alongside making and distributing school essentials (bags, uniforms, sandals, books, and pens) aligns with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 which ensures inclusive and equitable quality education for all, is targeted at Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities, where over 20 million children lack access to basic education, according to UNESCO.
This phase of the initiative targeted schools across diverse regions of the country, providing needed school essentials such as; school bags, sandals, uniforms, books, and pens to students. Research has shown that the lack of one or two of these basic school essentials has been a significant barrier to school enrolment, contributing to the alarming number of the scourge of out-of-school children in Nigeria.
Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal speaking on the education initiative charged students to embrace opportunities that education offers saying that the intervention is in line with the Bank’s ongoing sustainability efforts aimed at reducing Nigeria’s current out-of-school children population and increasing access to quality education, especially for the girl-child.
As part of its broader mission, Polaris Bank between November and December 2024 visited eight schools across various states, including Opebi Junior Grammar School in Lagos, National High School Arondizuogu; Iheme Memorial Secondary School; Akokwa High School in Imo State, Government Girls Secondary School, Kundila in Kano, Fortune Secondary School in Kogi, and Government Day Junior Secondary School, Maitama in Abuja, with that of Gbaja Junior and Secondary School, both in Surulere, Lagos moved to mid January 2025.
The program aims to support 50,000 students by 2028, building on its current impact of 16,000 students across nine states.
Beyond the provision of school essentials to indigent students of public schools, the initiative also embeds the Brighter Minds Programme, a transformative project bringing innovative brain-training techniques and emotional intelligence education to young learners.
This program has achieved remarkable milestones, expanding access to a holistic learning approach that builds resilience, focus, and confidence in students.
Each pilot group represents a new step in the journey of empowering young minds with life skills, made possible by the unwavering support of Polaris Bank, partners like EvolveCSR, schools, and parents.
Complementing this educational intervention, is the Inspire Teachers Training Program, a 3-day value-based education initiative aimed at equipping teachers with critical soft skills and alternative teaching methodologies.
This program explores topics such as heartful teaching, facilitation techniques, heterogeneous learning strategies, effective communication, heart-centered education, self-connection, and moral skill development.
Teachers who complete the program receive certificates and are encouraged to share their knowledge by training peers, fostering a ripple effect that promotes a soft-skills-driven approach to education.
While the initiative has made significant strides, the final batch of schools to be visited—Gbaja Girls Junior and High Secondary School, Surulere, Lagos — has been postponed to January 2025. This adjustment highlights the Bank’s commitment to ensuring no child is left behind in its drive to provide access to quality education.
Polaris Bank remains resolute in its mission to bridge educational gaps, ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth through impactful and sustained interventions.
By empowering students and supporting educators, the Bank continues to lead efforts to transform the lives of Nigeria’s future leaders.
FirstBank Introduces Exclusive 500-Seater Bleacher at Carnival Calabar & Festival 2025
Lagos, 26 December 2025 – FirstBank, West Africa’s premier financial institution and financial inclusion services provider, has officially announced its sponsorship of the Carnival Calabar & Festival 2025, unveiling a landmark addition set to redefine the carnival experience — the first-ever private premium seating area at the event.
The highlight of FirstBank’s participation is the construction of a 500-seater premium bleacher, designed to provide comfort, safety, and an elevated viewing experience for carnival enthusiasts.
Speaking on the sponsorship, the Acting Group Head Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, noted that the carnival aligns with the Bank’s First@Arts initiative, a platform dedicated to supporting the creative arts value chain across Nigeria. He said, “We recognise the transformative power of the arts, including carnivals, in inspiring people and strengthening national unity. For more than 131 years, we have supported platforms that promote self-expression, social reflection and cultural exchange. Our investment in the Carnival Calabar & Festival demonstrates our commitment to preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage through First@Arts.”
“As part of our sponsorship this year, we are introducing the first-ever private 500-seater premium bleacher to further elevate the carnival experience. This exclusive seating is designed to provide exceptional comfort and an unforgettable viewing experience for attendees,” Ijabiyi added.
The Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Calabar Commission, Gabe Onah, also commented on FirstBank’s sponsorship. “FirstBank’s involvement is a strong demonstration of private-sector support for culture and tourism. This partnership not only enhances the overall quality of the carnival but also strengthens its global appeal,” he said.
The Carnival Calabar & Festival 2025 is officially marketed by Okhma Global Limited, the appointed Official Marketer responsible for brand partnerships, promotional engagements, and ticket sales. Okhma Global Limited has partnered with the Cross River State government in delivering Carnival Calabar & Festival for over ten years, playing a key role in strengthening the carnival’s commercial growth and global visibility.
Alpha Morgan Bank Backs Cultural Preservation at the 2025 Iganmode Festival
Alpha Morgan Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to cultural preservation and community development as one of the major sponsors of the recently concluded Iganmode Cultural Festival (Odun Omo Iganmode) held in Sango-Ota, Ogun State.
The annual festival, a landmark cultural celebration in the ancient town of Ota, showcased the rich heritage, history, and identity of the Awori people. The event came alive with vibrant displays of traditional music, dance, colourful regalia, and performances that reflected the deep-rooted customs and values of the community.
Alpha Morgan Bank’s sponsorship followed closely on the heels of the recent launch of its Sango-Ota branch, further underscoring the Bank’s dedication to supporting local initiatives, promoting indigenous culture, and fostering sustainable community development in Ota and its environs.
The ceremony attracted an impressive array of dignitaries, including former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. (Mrs.) Noimot Salako-Oyedele; and the Olota of Ota, His Majesty, Prof. Adeyemi Obalanlege, alongside several other traditional rulers and members of royal households from across the state. Their presence highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the festival to Ogun State and the wider Yoruba nation.
Alpha Morgan Bank’s participation as a major sponsor reflects its broader corporate vision of strengthening community values and supporting initiatives that promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. The Bank joined thousands of attendees in celebrating a festival that continues to serve as a symbol of unity, pride, and cultural continuity for the people of Ota.
The 2025 edition of the Iganmode Festival was widely acclaimed as a success, leaving guests and participants with lasting impressions of a colourful, well-coordinated celebration that honoured tradition while fostering communal harmony.
*12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards: Celebrating the Season the Wema Way*
December is a season built on gratitude, reflection, and giving. It is a time when small gestures carry deeper meaning and everyday moments turn into shared joy. At Wema Bank, this spirit of the season has inspired the launch of 12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards, a festive campaign created to celebrate customers who continue to make the Bank part of their daily lives.
Running from December 14 to December 25, 2025, the campaign is designed to reward simple, everyday banking while spreading cheer across homes and communities. For twelve days, 33 customers will be rewarded daily with five thousand naira each when they fund their accounts with five thousand naira.
The idea behind the campaign is simple in action but thoughtful in intent. It recognises that during the festive period, every extra support counts. Whether it is preparing for family gatherings, running errands, or planning end-of-year activities, Wema Bank is turning routine transactions into moments of delight.
To take part in the 12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards, customers only need to fund their accounts with five thousand naira through any of the following channels:
ALAT app
*945#
Debit cards
Once the account is funded with five thousand naira, they get an additional five thousand naira as a reward.
Beyond the rewards, the 12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards reflects Wema Bank’s broader commitment to customer-centric banking. It reinforces the Bank’s focus on creating experiences that go beyond transactions, especially during moments that matter most to customers.
As the year draws to a close, Wema Bank is inviting customers to enjoy the festive season knowing that their loyalty is valued and celebrated. With every transaction, the Bank continues to find new ways to connect, appreciate, and give back during a season defined by generosity.
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