Business
SUSTAINING ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT THROUGH FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND ENERGY ACCESS
SUSTAINING ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT THROUGH FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND ENERGY ACCESS
Financial inclusion and provision of sustainable energy are at a turning point in Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria. With a population of over 200 million, about 50 percent of the total population live in rural areas, and only 39 percent of those living in rural communities have access to electricity. This is in addition to over 40 percent of the entire population who are financially excluded or underserved.
However, the proliferation of digital financial services in Nigeria – powered largely by growth in fintech companies – has catalyzed an unparalleled increase in the current number of people with access to formal financial services, while further opening up opportunities to address power supply challenges across rural communities; a major feat instrumental towards achieving the broad Sustainable Development Goal 7. With over 200 fin-tech companies in operation within its borders, Africa’s largest economy has found a way to target and capture over 40 percent of its financially excluded or underserved population.
In a conversation with Adebola Sanni, co-founder, Infibranches Technologies and the Group Head, Business Development & Partnerships at Swifta Systems and Services, she highlighted the growing awareness about the transformative power of fin-tech and how if properly harnessed can help address both problems of financial inclusion and the more pressing sustainability challenges in the area of affordable and reliable power supply needed to drive the growth of local economies.
“Fintech has increasingly provided innovative ways to address existing gaps in the availability, accessibility, and use of finance, particularly among the unbanked population. By leveraging the proliferation of technology, agent banking, and mobile money solutions now offer affordable, instant, and reliable transactions, savings, credit across rural communities where no bank had ever established a branch. Similarly, about 75 million Nigerians who mostly fall within the financially underserved or excluded demography live without reliable electricity access as the existing electrical grid serves largely the country’s urban population.”
“We understand how pivotal the provision of sustainable power is to driving growth of local economies in rural communities and by extension the need to boost financial services penetration across these communities. These are both enablers for catalyzing positive transformation and driving sustainable economic progress across the country.”
Adebola, a leading business strategist and technology consultant also said, “To address these challenges, we believe distributed energy solutions that leverage digital payments will open up opportunities to reach the underserved market at low cost.”
We partnered NGOs, including Shell Foundation, USAID, to extend agent networks together with off grid energy providers in 2019 where we set up about 200 agent locations across Nigeria, identifying communities across the rural and peri-urban regions with needs for both power and financial services. We also partnered renewable energy companies such as Green Light Planet (Sun King), D.Light Solar, Sosai, PAS BBoxx, Konexa to set up payment points necessary to expand access to highly subsidized power for such communities.
“This solution provides affordable home solar systems to rural communities with an affordable and convenient payment structure where beneficiaries pay as low as N500 (less than $2 dollar a month) which allows for people to pay off the cost in a year to fully own the solar equipment.”
Till date, over 400,000 people have been impacted across 22 States and 108 local government areas in Nigeria through various initiatives supporting energy access, especially in rural areas. The addition of the ‘Solar Power Naija project’ by the Federal government initiative under the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP) and managed by REA, for off-grid communities, will further expand energy access to 25 million individuals through the provision of Solar Home Systems (SHS) or connection to a mini-grid. This is a good initiative to help expand energy access faster.
One of the success stories underpinning how providing innovative energy solutions can transform communities is the Havenhills mini-grid project in Kigbe community located in Kwali Local Government Area Council, Abuja. Before executing the project, the Kigbe community with geographical limitations had no electricity as they were completely off-grid. The project upon completion delivered a 20KW solar enabled mini-grid through 3km 3-phases and 1-phase grid lines to 145 homes, enabling them to power basic electrical appliances such as light bulbs, fans and TVs. The project also supports 5 local businesses including a barbing salon, grocery store and viewing center.
As part of creating sustainable economic empowerment, Adebola Sanni, who has a strong passion for financial inclusion and energy access, has facilitated the implementation of a pioneer digital infrastructure that supports micro insurance, pension, and savings providers and the first API infrastructure that aggregates renewable energy products and services making them accessible to any payment service providers, banks and other financial and non-financial institutions.
She is vastly experienced in driving growth, creating market-focused products, and providing innovative solutions to businesses in Financial Technology, eCommerce, Telco, and Private/Publics sectors as well as creating partnership opportunities for growth.
FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan
For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.
But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.
The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access
In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.
Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.
9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment
MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.
Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora
The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?
Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.
Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako
Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.
The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.
The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.
Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.
“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”
The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.
Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.
Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.
“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.
Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption
Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.
“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.
The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.
Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply
In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.
“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.
This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.
Strategic Distribution Initiatives
Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.
“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.
This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.
Implications for National Energy Security
Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.
“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.
Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability
The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.
“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.
Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.
Navigating Global Uncertainties
The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.
“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.
This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.
Stakeholder Reactions
The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.
“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.
Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.
The Road Ahead
While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.
“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.
The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.
Final Take
By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.
“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.
The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.
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