Business
World Bank Denies Disagreeing With Adeosun On Foreign Borrowings
The World Bank Group, on Wednesday, denied that the Bank disagreed with Honourable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, over the borrowings by the Nigerian Government to stimulate the economy and finance infrastructure projects in the country.
In a mail to the Minister by the Senior Communications Officer of the World Bank, Mr. Rachid Benmessaoud, the Bank averred that the media misrepresented and quoted out of context the comments made by its Senior Economist for Nigeria, Gloria Joseph-Raji, at an event in Abuja.
Benmessaoud said, “On October 11th, during the launch of Africa’s Pulse, the World Bank’s biannual analysis of African economies, World Bank Senior Economist for Nigeria, Gloria Joseph-Raji, was asked by a reporter to share her views on the Federal Government’s plan to increase external borrowing.
“At no point did she mention that the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) disagree on the need to rebalance the country’s debt portfolio. Where expenditures exceed revenue, governments will need to borrow.
“In doing so, the Federal Government is trying to rebalance its portfolio towards more external borrowing with lower interest rates and longer maturities.”
The World Bank Senior Economist was quoted by Benmessaoud to have commended the Nigerian Government’s effort to rebalance its portfolio in order to lower the cost of its borrowing, as outlined in its 2016-2019 medium term debt management strategy released last year.
“The use of IDA concessional financing, among others, is supportive of the FGN’s effort in this regard, with the added focus on poverty alleviation and building shared prosperity in Nigeria.
“The latest issue of Africa’s Pulse points out that growth is Nigeria is projected to pick up from 1.0 per cent in 2017 to 2.5 per cent in 2018 and 2.8 per cent in 2019. While Government debt in 2017 is projected to rise, it remains low in Nigeria,” Joseph-Raji was further quoted to have stated.
The World Bank spokesman expressed the Bank’s full commitment to help the Nigerian Government restore macroeconomic resilience as well as strengthen the ongoing economic recovery and achieve sustainable inclusive growth.
The Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun, who led the Nigerian delegation to the 2017 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group, had in Washington on Sunday, said the Federal Government would be prudent in the management of its foreign borrowings.
She noted that the Government adopted an expansionary fiscal policy with an enlarged budget in order to deliver a fundamental structural change to the economy, thereby reducing the country’s exposure to crude oil.
“Why are we borrowing? Mobilising revenue aggressively was not advisable, nor indeed possible, in a recessed economy. But as Nigeria now reverts to growth, our revenue strategy will be accelerated.
“This is being complimented by a medium-term debt strategy that is focusing more on external borrowings to avoid crowding out the private sector.
“This would also reduce the cost of debt servicing and shift the balance of our debt portfolio from short-term to longer-term instruments. This Government will be very prudent around debt. We won’t borrow irresponsibly,” Adeosun explained.
The foreign borrowings, which are at lower interest rates, according to her, will also prevent job losses.
“With Nigeria’s source of revenue dropping by nearly 85 per cent, the country had no option but to borrow. The option before the country was to either cut public services massively, which should have led to massive job losses, or borrow in the short-term, until it begins to generate sufficient revenues, she said.
“We felt that laying-off thousands of persons was not the best way to stimulate growth. Also, when we came into office, about 27 states could not pay salary. If we had allowed that situation to persist, we would have been in depression by now.
“So, we took the view as a government that the best thing to do was to stimulate growth and spend our way out of trouble, get the state governments to pay salaries, making sure that the federal government pays and invests in capital infrastructure,” said Adeosun.
Zenith Bank Enhances E-Channel Services for Customers
Zenith Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has restored improved services across its electronic transaction channels, ensuring customers have seamless access to banking services.
In a statement released on Thursday via its X handle, the bank confirmed that customers can now conveniently conduct transactions across various platforms following a recent upgrade. These enhancements follow temporary glitches caused by routine IT maintenance aimed at optimizing service delivery.
Zenith Bank reiterated its commitment to providing improved services and highlighted the various channels available for customer transactions, including:
– Zenith Bank Debit, Credit, and Prepaid Cards
– Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)
– Point of Sale (POS) Terminals
– Zenith Bank Mobile App
– Internet Banking Platform
– Zenith Agents nationwide for agent banking
Customers are also encouraged to visit any of the bank’s branches across the country for in-person transactions.
Zenith Bank reassured further improvements in service delivery following the IT infrastructure upgrade. Customers with bulk payments and salary requests are encouraged to present payment mandates at any Zenith Bank branch nationwide for expedited processing.
Zenith Bank remains dedicated to enhancing customer experience and ensuring reliable banking services across all platforms.
For further inquiries, customers can contact Zenith Direct at +234 201 278 7000, 0700ZENITHBANK, or 0904 085 7000. Alternatively, they can send an email to [email protected].
Business
Infrastructure Upgrade: Zenith Bank Apologizes for Disruptions, Assures Customers on Improved Services
FANAFILLIT sets to Unite hearts and transform lives with GLOWFUX 2024
Fanafillit Integrated Concepts, the visionary force behind the annual GLOWFUX Charity Concert, has revealed its ambitious plans for the 2024 edition. Slated for December, this year’s event aims to gather compassionate Nigerians for a powerful and heartwarming initiative, designed to bring joy to the lives of special children. The event promises not only world-class entertainment but also a deeply moving experience for all attendees.
In an official statement, Miss Rebecca Olaniyan, the Coordinator for the 2024 GLOWFUX Charity Concert, announced the theme: “UNITING HEARTS, TRANSFORMING LIVES.” This theme encapsulates the core purpose of the event—fostering unity through acts of love and compassion, resulting in profound and lasting change for both individuals and communities. “This theme underscores the concert’s mission of creating connections that inspire growth and empowerment,” Miss Olaniyan explained, as the concert continues its tradition of supporting children in orphanages and special needs homes.
The 2024 edition introduces a thrilling new twist with a change of venue to the historic National Museum, Onikan, Lagos. According to Mr. Olubode Mac Oserinde, initiator of the GLOWFUX Charity Concert and Team Lead at FANAFILLIT, this change is designed to offer guests an even richer experience. “With this year’s edition at the National Museum, GLOWFUX Charity Concert is set to elevate the event experience,” he noted. “The museum’s serene and culturally significant environment will add a new dimension to the event, ensuring that it not only entertains but also educates and enriches our guests.”
One of the key highlights of this year’s concert is the lineup of extraordinary young talents, aged between 7 and 16, who are poised to mesmerize the audience. Gospel sensation Feranmi Golden Angel, dynamic entertainer Vanessa Jones, proverb maestro Chief Adigun Olowe, and dexterious saxophonist Dom Sax will lead the entertainment. Their youthful exuberance and remarkable skills are sure to inspire both the children and adults in attendance, offering a unique perspective on how young minds can make a powerful impact.
Kicking off the day, the GLOWFUX Carpet session will run from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering guests a glamorous and engaging introduction to the event. The main concert will then follow from 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., ensuring a day full of joy, laughter, and heartwarming moments.
This year’s concert will also feature the traditional induction of new GLOWFUX Young Ambassadors, a momentous occasion where young advocates are recognized for their commitment to making a difference. Additionally, the GLOWFUX Hall of Charity Awards will honor outstanding contributions to the community, with awards in the categories of GLOWFUX Man of the Year, GLOWFUX Woman of the Year, GLOWFUX NGO of the Year, and GLOWFUX Socially Responsible Corporate Brand of the Year.
In a significant addition to the program, attendees can look forward to an enriching motivational talk on the power of giving with love. The concert organizers are currently in discussions with Rotarian Femi Adenekan, Governor of Rotary District 9112, to deliver this insightful keynote address, which will further emphasize the concert’s message of generosity and kindness.
As always, the GLOWFUX Charity Concert is open to the public, inviting individuals to celebrate with the special children, who are treated as VIP guests. Attendees are encouraged to bring gift items for the children and to join in the spirit of giving.
The entertainment lineup for the day is brimming with excitement, with performances from talented young stars and appearances by Hilary Jackson and his Dance Group. First Class Comedy will provide comic relief, ensuring that the audience is treated to both inspiration and laughter. The event will be hosted by the dynamic duo of Princephelar and MC Luwy, while popular child-skitmaker Akorede is expected to make a special appearance as a celebrity guest.
The GLOWFUX Charity Concert is open to the public, inviting individuals to celebrate alongside the special children treated as VIP guests with complimentary food, drinks, and entertainment for everyone. Attendees are encouraged to bring gift items for the children and join in the spirit of giving. Guests can register at https://donate-ng.com/campaign/glowfux-2024 to secure their spot at this memorable event.
The 2024 GLOWFUX Charity Concert is supported by notable brands, including Elegushi Royal Stool, iCare Foundation, Courteville Solutions PLC, Seniors Wellbeing Foundation, Hands Lifting Hearts Initiatives, Danone, Seven-Up Bottling Company, Primero Transport Ltd, Fidson Healthcare, Beloxxi Biscuits, AkModel Properties, Corsican Brothers, KingsMead Group of Schools, MALENS Diagnostics, Headway Events, DJ MAPS Productions, Epee Tech Solutions, SIFAX group, and 3Zs Fabrics.
Media support will come from an array of respected outlets, including AIT, Global Excellence magazine, theeagleonline.com.ng, KRAKS TV, newspop.com, theelitesng.com, freedomonline.com.ng, PULSE NG, saharaweeklyng.com, thegazellenews.com, pmexpressng.com, freelanews.com, thecitypulsenews.com, societyreporters.com, theimpactnewspaper.com, thestatusng.blogspot.com, mockinbird.com.ng, omonaijablog.com.ng and others. This comprehensive media coverage ensures that the concert will reach a broad audience, amplifying its impact.
For those looking to contribute, the GLOWFUX Charity Concert offers numerous avenues for participation, partnership, and sponsorship.
For all inquiries related to participation, partnership, or sponsorship, please contact:
– 07085755549
– 07032312815
– 09159712472
To support this noble cause, donations can be made to:
Account Name: GLOWFUX Concert
Account Number: 8554972016
Bank: FCMB
GLOWFUX Charity Concert: Giving happily to live happily.
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