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Advent of Technology Assisting Girl-chid to unlock Progress and Empowerment Opportunities

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Advent of Technology Assisting Girl-chid to unlock Progress and Empowerment Opportunities

Advent of Technology Assisting Girl-chid to unlock Progress and Empowerment Opportunities

 

In today’s fast-paced world, technology and digitalization have become indispensable tools for progress and empowerment. While their impact is evident across all aspects of society, one area that has seen remarkable transformation is the education and business sectors, with a specific focus on the girl-child. The advent of technology has opened doors to countless opportunities and benefits for girls worldwide, empowering them to break barriers, excel in tech-related fields, and contribute significantly to their communities and the global economy.

 

 

Advent of Technology Assisting Girl-chid to unlock Progress and Empowerment Opportunities

 

 

This gave birth to an initiative to sensitize and enlighten young girls in a symposium: Leveraging on Technology and Digitalization for Education and Business; Focusing on the Girl-Child, which took place on the 25th of January, 2024 at CKC, Federal Housing, Kubwa in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. Lawrentta Emmanuel a Digital/Business Development Executive, Joy Onya, a Digital Economist and Prisca Chinenye, a Business Technology Expert stepped up to this challenge to educate the girl-child on the benefits of digital technology.

Lawrentta in the organised sensitisation campaign, pointed out that the digital revolution has shattered traditional gender barriers and stereotypes, offering the girl-child a level playing field in education and business. She also noted that one of the most significant benefits of this revolution is increased access to education. The online learning platforms and digital resources have granted more opportunities to receiving quality education to girls all across the globe, breaking down limitations to access conventional schooling model. She encourged every girl-child to take advantage of this age of digital resources and technology to self build towards greater future.

Joy Onya shared her story on how she took advantage of technology to enrich her knowledge which gave her opportunities and improved her intellectual wellbeing. She went back memory lane on how she started from a very humble beginning with limited access to prime education and how within the last few years, she has improved and grown in digital economics. She pointed out that all any girl needs to grow and attain, is available online today. She also admonished every girl to be intentional on what they use the internet for. Joy counseled the young ladies to exert energy on learning which would bring more rewarding future than just the social media presence.

Prisca Chinenye crowned the delivery, focusing on the benefits and various specialisation every girl-child could consider. She detaield that, the benefits of leveraging technology and digitalization for the girl-child are numerous and far-reaching. A few of these are:
1. Equal Access to Education: Technology enables girls from all backgrounds to access quality education and resources, leveling the playing field.

2. Skill Development: Digital tools foster the development of crucial 21st-century skills, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

3. Career Opportunities: Tech-related fields offer diverse and rewarding career opportunities, empowering girls to pursue their passions and interests.

4. Global Connectivity: Technology connects girls with peers, mentors, and experts worldwide, facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing.

5. Empowerment: Digital literacy empowers girls to make informed decisions, advocate for their rights, and effect positive change in their communities.

6. Economic Independence: Tech-savvy girls are better equipped to enter the workforce and contribute to economic growth.

Prisca also noted that the digital revolution has ushered in a new era of possibilities for the girl-child, transforming education and business landscapes. By embracing technology, girls can break free from gender stereotypes, excel in tech-related fields, and become leaders and innovators in the digital age. She also mentioned a few notable individuals excelling in tech. Some of those are: Wuraola Oyewusi, Data Scientist & ML Expert; Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave; Ire Aderinokun, a Front-End Developer and Advocate for Web Accessibility; Prosper Otemuyiwa, Developer Relations at Microsoft; Dara Oladosu who created Quoted Replies, a Twitter bot that gained recognition and a job offer from Twitter. Others are Odunayo Eweniyi, Co-founder of PiggyVest; Ire Okupi, Co-founder of BuyCoins Africa; Oluwatobi Akinpelu, Founder of AnjolaTech, a tech company focused on providing solutions in Africa. Irewole Akande, a Software Engineer and Advocate for Women in Tech; Ire Aderinokun, a Google Developer Expert and Teju Ajani, a Product Manager at Google.

Prisca added that the digital technology sector offers a wide range of skills and specializations that girls can acquire to excel in this rapidly evolving field. Here are some skill sets and specializations she mentioned for girls interested in digital technology: Programming and Coding (Python, JavaScript, Java, or C++, Web Development using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript); Data Science and Analytics (Data Analysis & Machine Learning); Cybersecurity (Ethical Hacking & Cybersecurity Management); User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Design; Cloud Computing (Cloud Platforms & DevOps); Mobile App Development (iOS or Android Development & Cross-Platform Development); Blockchain Development; IoT (Internet of Things); Big Data and Analytics; Digital Marketing (Search Engine Optimization, Social Media Marketing); Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning; Robotics; Game Development (Game Design & Game Programming); Digital Art and Animation (Graphic Design & Animation) and Data Privacy and Compliance. Prisca emphasized that any girl-child could set her mind towards any of these specialisation and achieve them.

Lawrentta brought the sentitisation programme to a close by informing participant that Enroute X, a UK tech organisation is partnering with Article8 Media to establish a STEM education centre with a reasonable percentage reserved for the girl-child. She encouraged all participants to be self motivated towards development in digital technology.

The sentisation programme was supported by NatureVantage, a health research organisation; Article8 Media, a multimedia organisation and Enroute X, a UK Software Development organisation

 

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PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES DR ADEDUNTAN, AS FIRST BANK CELEBRATES EX-GROUP CEO

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PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES DR ADEDUNTAN, AS FIRST BANK CELEBRATES EX-GROUP CEO

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES DR ADEDUNTAN, AS FIRST BANK CELEBRATES EX-GROUP CEO

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Dr Adesola Adeduntan, the retired Group Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Nigeria Limited, for his exceptional service at Nigeria’s oldest bank.

In celebration of Adeduntan’s remarkable tenure, the 130-year-old First Bank will host a special send-off ceremony this weekend, expressing gratitude for his contributions over the past nine years.

President Tinubu commends him for steering the bank through transformative growth, which includes expanding customer accounts from 10 million to over 42 million and elevating Profit Before Tax from N10 billion in 2015 to an impressive N300 billion in 2023.

These milestones, the President said, reflected Adeduntan’s visionary leadership and commitment to excellence.

The President expresses his appreciation for Adeduntan’s willingness to serve the nation in various pivotal roles, including his contributions to the Nigerian Economic Summit Group and other prominent institutions. His extensive expertise in the financial sector has significantly bolstered Nigeria’s economic landscape.

President Tinubu also lauds the bank’s solid internal management ethos, which is responsible for the seamless transition from Adeduntan to the current CEO, Olusegun Alebiosu.

President Tinubu wishes Dr. Adeduntan continued success in all his future endeavors.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

November 1, 2024

 

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ZENITH BANK DELIVERS REMARKABLE TRIPPLE-DIGIT GROWTH IN GROSS EARNINGS AS PBT HITS N1.0 TRILLION IN Q3 2024  

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Zenith Bank Enhances E-Channel Services for Customers

ZENITH BANK DELIVERS REMARKABLE TRIPPLE-DIGIT GROWTH IN GROSS EARNINGS AS PBT HITS N1.0 TRILLION IN Q3 2024

 

Zenith Bank Plc has announced its unaudited results for the third quarter ended 30 September 2024, recording a remarkable triple-digit growth of 118% from N1.33 trillion reported in Q3 2023 to N2.9 trillion in Q3 2024. This performance underscores the Group’s resilience and market leadership in spite of the challenging macroeconomic environment.

 

According to the Bank’s unaudited third quarter financial results presented to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), the triple-digit growth in the topline also led to an increase in the bottom line, as the Group recorded a 99% Year on Year (YoY) increase in profit before tax, growing from N505 billion in Q3 2023 to N1.0 trillion in Q3 2024.  Profit after tax equally grew by 91% from N434.2 billion to N827 billion in the same period.

 

The growth in the topline was driven by the expansion of both interest income and non-interest income. Interest income saw a notable 190% rise to N1.95 trillion, attributed to the high-yield environment. Non-interest income rose by 41% to N856 billion, bolstered by substantial growth in fees and commissions, which highlights the strength of Zenith Bank’s retail growth and the robust performance of its digital channels during the reporting period. The robust increase in profitability reflects the Bank’s focus on operational efficiency and strong risk management practices. Earnings per share (EPS) nearly doubled, rising to N26.34 from N13.82 in Q3 2023, underscoring Zenith Bank’s strong value creation for shareholders.

 

The Bank’s balance sheet grew significantly, with total assets growing by 49% to N30.4 trillion, largely supported by customer deposits, which rose by 42% to N21.6 trillion. This growth in deposits was broad-based across corporate and retail segments, highlighting the Bank’s deepening reach and customer loyalty. Gross loans increased by 46% to N10.3 trillion, underscoring the commitment to supporting strategic sectors in the economy.

 

Capital adequacy ratio remained strong, improving to 21.9%, well above regulatory requirements. The return on average equity (ROAE) stood at 37.8%, up from 35.1%, while return on average assets (ROAA) also improved to 4.3% as Zenith Bank maximized its asset base. Cost of funds increased to 4.3%, reflecting the broader market trend of rising interest rates, while the cost of risk was maintained at 7.3%, underscoring the Bank’s proactive approach in provisioning for credit risk. The Bank’s cost-to-income ratio rose to 39.5%, reflecting the impact of strategic investments in technology and capacity building aimed at supporting long-term growth, even as it continues to strive for greater operational efficiency.

 

Zenith Bank’s asset quality remains a cornerstone of its strength, with a non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of 4.5%, within regulatory limits. A high coverage ratio of 198.4% underscores the Bank’s disciplined approach to risk management, positioning it for resilience in the face of market volatility while supporting stable loan growth.

 

Zenith Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable growth and value creation. The Bank launched a capital raise program on August 1, 2024, consisting of a combined Rights Issue and Public Offer. This capital raise was driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s recapitalization directive for commercial banks issued in March 2024. While the Bank awaits final capital verification approvals from authorities, the fundraising exercise was successful, reflecting strong confidence in Zenith Bank’s brand.

 

The additional capital will enhance the Bank’s ability to expand its product offerings, deepen its penetration in strategic sectors, boost lending to the real sector and pursue its African and global expansion plan.  In furtherance of this, the Bank in September 2024 received regulatory approval for the establishment of a Zenith Bank branch in Paris, France, which is fully operational and will enhance the Bank’s product offerings in international markets.

 

With a strengthened capital base, Zenith Bank is well-positioned to navigate the evolving economic landscape, while putting best-practice sustainability standards at the heart of its business. The Bank will also continue to prioritize opportunities that enhance stakeholder value and a strong compliance and corporate governance culture, which will reinforce the its leadership position within Nigeria’s financial sector and drive long-term growth.

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IPMAN: Setting the Record Straight

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Fueling Uncertainty: Investigating Nigeria's Subsidy Removal And Dangote Refinery Debacle* By Sylvester Audu

IPMAN: Setting the Record Straight

 

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery wishes to clarify that it has not received any payments from the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) to purchase refined petroleum products.

IPMAN: Setting the Record Straight

Although discussions are ongoing with IPMAN, it is misleading to suggest that they (IPMAN Members) are experiencing difficulties loading refined products from our Petroleum Refinery, as we currently have no direct business dealings with them. Consequently, we cannot be held responsible for any payments made to other entities.

The payment in mention has been made through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and not us. In the same vein, NNPCL has neither approved, nor authorised us to release our Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to IPMAN.

We would like to emphasise that we can meet the nation’s demand for all petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel. At present, we can load 2,900 trucks per day and we have also been evacuating petroleum products by sea. We advise IPMAN to register with us and make direct payment as we have more than enough petroleum products to satisfy the needs of their members.

Furthermore, we believe it is instructive for all stakeholders to refrain from making unfounded statements in the media, as that could undermine the economic re-engineering efforts of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Conducting business through public speculation is counterproductive and unpatriotic.

In the interest of our country, we encourage all stakeholders to collaborate and heed the advice of President Tinubu, while promoting a unified approach, rather than engaging in media conflicts and needless propaganda.

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