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Revealed Why Banks Are Having Technical Glitches With Online Banking

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Revealed Why Banks Are Having Technical Glitches With Online Banking

 

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BANKS-The cashless banking initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is being hindered as the Nigerian banks continue to experience the technology skills gap due to a brain drain that is consuming experienced tech personnel in the sector, LEADERSHIP can exclusively reveal.

Revealed Why Banks Are Having Technical Glitches With Online Banking

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Findings showed that the IT department of most of the banks is now manned by inexperienced hands who cannot cope with the traffic on internet banking platforms. According to sources, although, the hike in brain drain in the banking sector started after the COVID-19 pandemic, precisely, 2021, the banks were managing the situation, until the Naira redesign policy of the apex bank kicked off early this year, hence, spiking the rate of usage of electronic and mobile banking platforms for banking transactions, a development the current personnel manning the IT backend of most banks are struggling to cope with.

 

The CBN had, in October 2022, announced its intention to redesign the nation’s currency, as effort to check terrorism financing, counterfeiting and imbalances in the fiscal space, to enable the apex bank take control of the currency in circulation and to move the country into a full-fledged cashless economy, initially, by January 31st, 2023.

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Since the beginning of this year, when the policy was fully implemented, Nigerians have cried out over the fact that they could barely laid hands on the new naira notes, which is the only legal currency now accepted in the economy, due to insufficient cash in circulation.

 

This, in turn, has forced Nigerians to turn to internet banking system for their transaction. This could have been the means to moving the economy to a cashless economy, stakeholders have said, even as they lamented the poor network, infrastructure deficit and inexperienced tech, that have marred the policy in recent time.

 

The CEO, Precise Financial System, Mr Yemi Okeremi told LEADERSHIP, that the banking technology in Nigeria is fairly sophisticated, with respect to the country’s level of development.

 

Okeremi added that the naira redesign, leading to little cash in circulation and a surge in the use of the internet banking system, has caused more harm than good, as the fragile infrastructure put in place by the banks have further depleted as a result of traffic.

 

He said, “For me, we are not ready for the cashless policy. Before this time, we had enjoyed fairly good internet and mobile banking and that is because the banks had scaled up based on what was on the ground. They know the number of Nigerians who have signed up for their internet banking services and they also have idea of the Nigerians that are banked and have put infrastructure in place to service them.

 

“All of a sudden, the CBN then came up with the idea that all Nigerians must go cashless. This is like double of the figures that were using their internet services. There are many Nigerians who have accounts with banks, but not using their internet banking services. These set of people were forced to start using internet banking overnight, which has slowed down servers, thereby delaying transactions or even declining them.’’

 

He also said that many tech experts have left the country for greener pastures, leaving the less experienced personnel to manage the infrastructure in the bank. He said, ‘‘Most of these fresh graduates do not know the nitty-gritty on how to manage some of the software and hard ware used in the banking sector. Also, poor internet connectivity has marred the seamless transition to cashless, in the sense that, for cashless policy to work, people must transact and receive alert immediately.

 

“In essence, infrastructure deficit, brain drain, and social problem, whereby every Nigerians now want to use internet banking at the same time are the reasons why Nigerians are having issue with internet banking.’’

 

He however urged CBN to reconsider its decision. “We know cashless process is great for any economy to grow, however, CBN would have been gradual in the process of turning the Nigerian economy into cashless economy. The banking sector is doing the best they can do, because nobody envisaged the traffic of internet banking. I must commend them, however, I would appeal to them to scale up, to meet this present challenge.

 

“On broadband connectivity, the telecoms sector is doing its best, in that the industry is planning to scale up broadband connectivity level to like 70 per cent by 2024. If that happened, people will be able to receive alert of transaction on time,” he stated.

 

In the same vein, the head, of operations, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbolahan Awonuga, has urged the banking sector to upgrade their capacity. Awonuga said, “What the government is doing now is that they want a total cashless environment. We are taking about digital economy, but there must be some level of preparation. The bank should be able to accommodate the traffic flow of their customers.

 

“If everybody should go into cashless, the internet platforms of the banks should be able to manage the traffic. The reason we are experiencing delays in transactions or declined transactions is that there are lot of traffic at the backend. People want to do internet banking at the same time, however, because of the capacity, they cannot enter at the same time.”

 

He advocated for more partnership with fintech companies. Awonuga disclosed that there are some few fintech companies who are working with banks to ensure seamless online internet banking, while calling for more to join as an effort to salvage the current situation.

 

Speaking with LEADERSHIP, the president of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Ken Opara, noted that the industry is currently suffering from talent drain. He said, “There is a whole lot of resignations and people leaving the industry particularly the younger ones. The figure is quite high. You train and then immediately you train them, they leave

 

the country and then you start all over again. It is a real challenge. The banking industry is losing a lot of younger ones. It is affecting the pull of manpower particularly the younger ones.

 

“They are moving in large numbers outside the country. We are experiencing a pull of people out of the industry to outside the country and these are the younger ones that we are supposed to hand over to after a period. So, succession planning is hindered, productivity is lowered because these guys are the next generation of people. That is also slowing

 

down activity.”

 

Also, Head, Financial Institutions Ratings at Agusto & Co, Ayokunle Olubunmi, affirmed that the mass exodus is impacting the succession plan in the banking industry.

 

He said, “Some banks are already having issues with their succession plans, so they are ensuring that, for each role, they have two to three people that understand it. So, if someone leaves, there is another to take over. It is not only the banking industry that is challenged, it all of the sectors of the economy from manufacturing to insurance and banking industry. The challenge is such that it is not even the lower cadre that is moving out, it is middle management and even in some cases upper management. A lot of companies are losing their best hands and even their technical hands.

 

“Zeroing it down into the banking industry, one area that is actually affected the most is the tech guys. Remember that a lot of banks are actually moving into digitization. So, people are losing their tech guys. Unfortunately, it is not a skill that is readily available like that. The talent pool is not that vast. The tech guys are moving to Canada and Europe. So, that has significantly affected them. It is such that in some banks, departments have lost a lot of their staff. All banks are affected and that is why you see all of them recruiting. This is how bad it is. For the banks, they actually have to manage it, because unfortunately as a bank, changing the trend is outside their purview. For banks, it is now about how you can actually adapt.”

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Palliatives: Dangote donates 80,000 bags of rice to Lagos residents

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Palliatives: Dangote donates 80,000 bags of rice to Lagos residents

 … Sanwo-Olu says Dangote prioritize Nigerians’ welfare above profit

 

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The Aliko Dangote Foundation, (ADF) has flagged off the distribution of 80,000 10kg bags of rice to the vulnerable in Lagos state.

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President of Dangote Group and Chairman of the foundation, Aliko Dangote, noted that the gesture is part of the over one million 10kg bags of rice that would be distributed to reach one million vulnerable people in the 774 local government areas of the country.

 

 

 

 

Speaking at the flag off in Alausa, Dangote, said the distribution of the 80,000 bags of 10kg rice is another demonstration of the foundation’s commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are at the core of humanity.

Noting that the distribution of the rice is in addition to the daily distribution of 12,500 loaves of bread in Lagos, Dangote stressed that with the initiative, the foundation aspires to ameliorate some of the burdens faced by vulnerable communities across Lagos State.

In his remarks, Governor of Lagos state,  Babajide Sanwo-Olu, applauded the many initiatives of Dangote to ameliorate the sufferings of Nigerians, while praiseing him for showing compassion to the needy in the society.

Sanwo-Olu said the gesture of distribution of 80,000 bags of 10kg rice shows that the leadership of the Foundation prioritize the welfare of the people beyond the pursuit of profit and accumulation of wealth.

The Governor said: “Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian that has chosen to be different. You have choices but you have made the right one which is caring for the vulnerable. I appreciate Mr. Aliko Dangote for extending his kind gestures to the people at the bottom of the pyramid and we are grateful for supporting us in government. There is a lot of global disruption in different parts of the world, and it is a tough time to be in a position of leadership,” he said.

While encouraging other wealthy Nigerians to emulate Dangote, the Governor said the distribution of the rice would support the initiative of the state in addressing the effects of the economic hardship.

Justifying the food intervention in Lagos, Dangote said: “While our traditional Ramadan food distribution has been focused on the Muslim Community, we recognize that the current circumstances where a significant proportion of Nigerians across the nation are experiencing severe hardship due to the prevailing high prices of food, require that we broaden our program to cover communities of all faiths. This is why we are extending the Ramadan initiative to cover all the thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory as a testament to our commitment to supporting our communities in line with our core values and the spirit of the Holy Month of Ramadan,” he said.

The CEO of the ADF, Zouera Youssoufou, said the Foundation is partnering credible NGOs, civil societies, religious bodies among others to ensure the donations go to the most vulnerable in Lagos State.

She said the Foundation is guided by a vision of empowering Africans to achieve their self-actualization and full potential as it believes that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

“In times of hardship, it is imperative that we stand together as one nation, one community, extending a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in their time of need as we have done with our female empowerment programme in Lagos State which targeted 40,000 (Forty thousand) disadvantaged women,” she added.

Group Executive Director Commercial Operations at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Fatima Aliko-Dangote, noted that the flag off in Lagos is a follow-up to the 120,000 bags distributed in Kano on Saturday, said the intervention is targeted to reach the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

“We have been doing this for a while but we didn’t publicize  it because  our chairman  believes  this is between him and God but this year we decided  to publicize  it so that we can encourage  and inspire others to do so.

“There are many other things the Dangote foundation is also doing. We are also serving 2,500 breads all over Lagos daily. We started this in 2020 during COVID-19. Also in our hometown in Kano, we have been doing breakfast, lunch and dinner for the past 35 years. The foundation has invested in many things. Years back, we gave women some money to be able to invest in their businesses,” she said.

Speaking further, Dangote noted that Lagos state holds a special place in the hearts of the Group, hosting two of its major investments – Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser Plant.

He disclosed that the Dangote Group is also working on the nutrition agenda and has made significant strides in food fortification, investing in iodized salt and vitamin A fortified sugar. He stressed that the Group actively promotes food fortification within the Nigerian food industry and is exploring fortification methods for staples like rice and wheat and bouillon cubes to help ensure improved nutrition nationwide.

“At the heart of the Aliko Dangote Foundation lies a deep-seated belief in the importance of nutrition in human capital development. We understand that access to nutritious food is not only a basic human right but also a critical determinant of good health and well-being. By providing these modest bags of rice to those in need, we are not only looking to alleviate immediate hunger, but also investing in the long-term health and prosperity of our communities,” he added.

While commending Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo Olu as a Governor with a penchant for overcoming adversity and enormous capacity in handling emergencies, Dangote urged other well-meaning individuals and corporate organisations to emulate the efforts to support the less privileged in the communities, especially during Ramadan, which is a time of self-reflection, empathy, and charity.

Palliatives: Dangote donates 80,000 bags of rice to Lagos residents

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NIFESAF ESUT Lagos Holds 4th Edition Of Business, Career Exposition

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The Lagos State Alumni Fellowship of Nigerian Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFESAF) has held the fourth edition of its Business and Career Exposition programme themed ‘Maximizing Technology and Strategic Customer Loyalty For Sustainable Business Growth In Today’s Economic Condition’ on Saturday, 23rd of March, 2024 in Lagos.

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The programme which was basically for Small and medium-sized enterprises since its inception has served as a major platform for the promotion of Nigerian-owned businesses and created several opportunities for SMEs to thrive and have access to the world through the global reach of NIFESAF ESUT.

Just like the previous editions, the fourth edition wasn’t any different; it featured an avalanche of exhibitions by several Nigerian businesses with guests who were ready to patronize them and a huge platform to publicize their businesses.

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Some of the businesses involved in the exhibition include Finet Mobile, Purch Gadgets, Congratulations Corporate Events, Exceptional Intensive Vocational Training, Farmskills Limited, Jigsimur health drink, De Luxe flour, Royal Almonds, Ifiefruit, Ihubest trading enterprise, K-shape fashion designer, Zara Caps and Hats, Chee Havillah Royal Services Ltd, Lowan Enterprises, Mace Ventures, Arif Bureau, Davis Exotic Homes, Whiztech Global Ltd, Earthblend flavours, to mention but a few.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Global Body— Nigerian Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFES) ESUT Alumni Fellowship, Mr. Fred Nnadike, said the essence of the business exhibition was to support and build a community of excellent, Christians who would be role models in their respective careers.

Nnadike who urged believers under the umbrella to keep the faith alive equally charged them to uphold ethical standards, sound corporate governance, and avoid sharp practices in their respective professions and business endeavors as ardent followers of Christ.

“We want to encourage what we produce and link our entrepreneurs to the global space. SMEs are indispensable for economic growth and development. The government across board should do something urgently to revive the economy by making the environment conducive for businesses to thrive” he implored.

On his part, the Lagos State Chapter Chairman of the Fellowship, Mr Henry Nnadike, said the leadership of NIFESAF has often reminded the government that MSMEs are still the engine room of every strong economy.

“Government must address multiple taxation, epileptic power supply, dilapidated road network, and general scorching economic environment. Governments must be transparent in their reforms and interventions. Besides, we need informed ideas, programs, and policies that must be designed by the best brains. The government should learn to put the interest of the masses above their personal interest for posterity’s sake” he urged.

Similarly, the Vice Chairman of NIFESAF, Lagos Chapter, Mrs. Chika Idalah–Allison, called on the state and federal government to partner with NIFESAF and related organizations which are poised to promote skills and craftsmanship, particularly for youths.

“Government should partner with organizations promoting skills acquisition, innovation, human capital development, and creative industry. In NIFESAF we are under the mandate to support every entrepreneur under its umbrella even beyond.

Idalah – Allison told newsmen that she was able to travel to different countries for business purposes, not by her academic certifications but by the salability of her skills in artwork and design.

“Nigeria is our only country, we must build it because the world is waiting for us to step out, and that is what we must all do collaboratively, however, our education curriculum should be designed fit- for -purpose” she asserted.

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AARE ADETOLA EMMANUELKING ADVOCATES FOR CONSOLIDATION BEFORE TRANSFORMATION AS LAGOS REDAN CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANT PAID COURTESY VISIT

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AARE ADETOLA EMMANUELKING ADVOCATES FOR CONSOLIDATION BEFORE TRANSFORMATION AS LAGOS REDAN CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANT PAID COURTESY VISIT

 

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Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, The Executive Chairman Adron Homes, advocates for Consolidation first before Transformation as he declares his support for Dr Segun Oshundairo, The Aspiring REDAN Chairman For Lagos Chapter(Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria)

He stated his full fledged support during an exclusive interview with the REDAN Chairman Aspirant, Dr Segun Oshundairo, the CEO of Arcview Investment Limited. During the Aspirant’s visit, Aare Adetola admonished him on steps to take to ensure that his tenure birth policies that would revolutionize the Real Estate Industry. He urged the Aspirant to embark on Intense Media publicity and collaborative advocacy efforts to influence government policies and decisions affecting the Real Estate Industry.

During this Meeting, The Aspirant talked about his Manifesto which he would implement once he emerges the Chairman. He declared the following Intentions:
– Create a Developers Mortgage Plan. With this, he would be collaborating with the government to create a plan that would ensure that developers can buy affordable estate from the government which would facilitate their ability to create reasonable and affordable houses for the masses.
– Establish an Advisory Board for REDAN. He stated that he would create an Advisory Committee that would consist of 7 stakeholders to advise and train members of the group every quarter on the right policies and procedures to implement.
– Open up lands in rural Areas and convert them to Mega cities. He revealed his intention to collaborate with the government in order to open up lands in Ofada, Papalantoro and environs as well as create affordable real estate in such areas.
– Rebrand and Publicize REDAN: The Aspirant stated that under his tenure, REDAN would have a new look, which would include a new logo, better policies as well as increased visibility .

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Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, In addition to advising the Aspiring Chairman on Strategic Media Publicity for REDAN, also implored him to pay attention to increasing the number of members in the group as well as present comprehensive strategies poised to shape the future landscape of real estate in the country.

He Admonished and stated that “There can’t be a greater Lagos without REDAN” He further advised the Aspirant on the need for a Universal market price of Landed Properties for Real Estate Developers in Lagos State when purchasing from the government. Also, this would foster and aid the creation of affordable housing for the good people of Lagos State and Nigerians at large.

The interview session concluded on a positive note in which Dr Segun Oshundairo expressed his enthusiasm and appreciation for the collaboration between REDAN and the CEO of Adron Homes. The Interview Session laid the foundation for future partnership opportunities aimed at driving positive change within the real estate industry. Dr Segun reiterated that once elected, he would set up a board of trustees that would consist of veterans and real estate pillars to serve as an advisory board for the pressure group.

 

AARE ADETOLA EMMANUELKING ADVOCATES FOR CONSOLIDATION BEFORE TRANSFORMATION AS LAGOS REDAN CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANT PAID COURTESY VISIT

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