Sycamore (www.Sycamore.ng), a Nigerian fintech with over N10 billion in assets under management, today announced two strategic developments that position it for its next growth phase.

 

The company has secured a license from Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to operate as a fund/portfolio manager and has appointed former ARM Securities Managing Director Oluwagbenga Magbagbeola to lead its asset management arm. This SEC license places Sycamore among a select group of regulated investment firms in Nigeria’s competitive financial sector.

Sycamore Group CEO Babatunde Akin-Moses said, “Securing our SEC license represents the culmination of years of building institutional-grade compliance systems that protect investor interests. With this regulatory foundation and Oluwagbenga’s proven investment expertise, we’re uniquely positioned to deliver performance and security to investors navigating Africa’s complex market conditions.”

Reinforcing this commitment, Co-founder and CCO Onyinye Okonji noted, “This milestone reflects our commitment to operating at the highest standards of financial governance. Our team underwent a rigorous evaluation process, during which regulators examined our governance structures, risk management frameworks, and client protection mechanisms.”

Joining Sycamore allows me to bridge traditional capital markets expertise with fintech innovation at precisely the right time

Oluwagbenga Magbagbeola joins Sycamore with 17 years of capital markets experience, spanning roles at ARM Securities, FBNQuest Securities, and Profund Securities. At ARM Securities, Magbagbeola led the development of investment strategies that consistently performed against market benchmarks during challenging economic cycles, including Nigeria’s recent periods of currency volatility and inflation.

“Joining Sycamore allows me to bridge traditional capital markets expertise with fintech innovation at precisely the right time,” said Magbagbeola. “The SEC license creates a regulatory framework for what many Nigerians are already seeking – protected pathways for investment diversification during economic uncertainty.”

Empowering its institutional approach is Sycamore’s cutting-edge technology infrastructure. Mayowa Adeosun, co-founder and COO, explained, “Our proprietary investment platform represents years of innovation in applying financial technology to local market conditions.”

“We’ve leveraged artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse market trends and optimise portfolio allocations across multiple asset classes, resulting in more responsive investment strategies tailored to Nigeria’s dynamic market conditions,” Adeosun added.

The company’s recently upgraded mobile app transforms how clients manage their investments. Through an intuitive dashboard, investors can now access institutional-grade portfolio analytics that provide clear visibility into performance, risk exposure, and growth opportunities.

A standout feature is the new Multi-Currency Wallet, which directly addresses clients’ needs for currency diversification by allowing users to hold and invest funds across USD, EUR, GBP, and NGN. This capability, backed by Sycamore’s SEC-licensed status, provides investors with a regulated channel for managing currency exposure.

 

Dr. Ifeoma Eze, a renowned evangelist, minister, and wife of Prophet Okwudili Eze, General Overseer of Zion Heritage Ministries, recently delivered a powerful sermon titled “Your Gift Is an Instrument of Value.” Drawing from her book, Becoming A Person of Exceptional Value, Dr. Eze’s message challenged individuals to recognize their worth and embrace their God-given purpose.

During her sermon, Dr. Eze defined value as the measure of one’s usefulness through acquired skills and the ability to provide solutions. She emphasized that an individual’s value is determined by who seeks them, who needs them, and who demands what they carry.

“Value means that what you have to offer on the table of life is useful, needed, and relevant,” she stated. “It is your value that transports you to the level of relevance that you desire.”

Dr. Eze further explained that different levels of value attract different audiences. While some talents may appeal to the sick, the hungry, or the vain, others will draw the attention of kings, royalty, and influential personalities. She posed a critical question to her audience: “What kind of value do you bring, and who do you bring it for?”

To illustrate her point, Dr. Eze referenced the biblical story of Hiram of Tyre, a skilled craftsman sought out by King Solomon for his expertise in brasswork (1 Kings 7:13-14). She used this example to highlight how exceptional value creates demand and opens doors to extraordinary opportunities.

Dr. Eze also drew inspiration from Jeremiah 1:5, where God affirms that He knew His people before forming them in the womb. She urged individuals to recognize their God-given potential, declaring that everyone is uniquely gifted to become a trailblazer, a pacesetter, and a generational curse breaker.

“Before He formed you, He knew you were full of potential, loaded with greatness, and anointed for impact. He knew you would be a source of transformation, bringing people to the saving knowledge of Christ,” she proclaimed.

Her message serves as a call to self-discovery and purposeful living, reminding believers that their gifts are not merely talents but divine tools for influence and kingdom advancement.

Dr. Ifeoma Eze’s sermon aligns with the themes of her book, Becoming A Person of Exceptional Value, which continues to inspire countless individuals on their journey to discovering their true worth and fulfilling their God-given purpose.

Through her teachings, Dr. Eze is empowering people to embrace their unique gifts, break barriers, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. Her work stands as a testament to the transformative power of recognizing and living out one’s value.


For more information about Dr. Ifeoma Eze’s ministry and her book, visit Zion Heritage Ministries or follow her on social media platforms.

 

In an era where workplace safety is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of organizational success, Zoracom has taken a proactive step to ensure the well-being of its workforce. The company recently conducted an extensive Safety Talk focused on proper ladder usage, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of workplace safety. This initiative underscores Zoracom’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and productivity within its organization and beyond.

The session, held as part of Zoracom’s ongoing safety education program, aimed to equip employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent ladder-related accidents. Falls from ladders are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, often resulting from improper usage, lack of awareness, or negligence. By addressing these issues head-on, Zoracom is not only protecting its team but also setting a benchmark for other organizations to follow.

The Critical Importance of Workplace Safety

Workplace safety is far more than a regulatory requirement—it is a moral and operational imperative. A safe work environment ensures that employees can perform their duties without fear of injury, leading to higher morale, increased productivity, and reduced downtime. Moreover, a strong safety culture reflects an organization’s commitment to its most valuable asset: its people.

For Zoracom, safety is a core value that permeates every aspect of its operations. The company believes that a healthy team is a productive team, and this philosophy drives its continuous efforts to educate and empower its workforce. The recent Safety Talk on ladder usage is a testament to this commitment, providing employees with practical tools to mitigate risks and maintain a secure workplace.

Key Lessons from the Ladder Safety Training

The Safety Talk covered several essential aspects of ladder safety, each designed to address common pitfalls and promote best practices. These lessons are not only relevant to Zoracom’s team but also serve as valuable guidelines for any organization that prioritizes safety.

1. Inspect Before Use
One of the most critical steps in ladder safety is conducting a thorough inspection before use. Employees were reminded to check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose rungs, or bent parts. A damaged ladder is a hazard waiting to happen, and using one can lead to catastrophic accidents. By taking a few moments to inspect the ladder, workers can identify potential issues and avoid unnecessary risks.

2. Use the Right Ladder for the Task
Not all ladders are created equal, and using the wrong ladder for a task can have serious consequences. The training emphasized the importance of selecting the appropriate ladder based on factors such as height, weight capacity, and type. For instance, a step ladder might be suitable for low-height tasks, while an extension ladder is necessary for reaching greater heights. Choosing the right tool for the job is a simple yet effective way to enhance safety.

3. Maintain Three Points of Contact
A fundamental rule of ladder safety is maintaining three points of contact at all times. This means keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder. This technique ensures stability and reduces the likelihood of losing balance. Employees were encouraged to practice this habit consistently, as it is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls.

4. Place the Ladder on a Stable Surface
The stability of a ladder depends largely on the surface it rests on. The training highlighted the importance of placing the ladder on a firm, level, and non-slippery surface. Uneven or unstable ground can cause the ladder to shift or tip over, putting the user at risk. By ensuring a secure foundation, workers can significantly reduce the chances of accidents.

5. Avoid Overreaching
Overreaching while on a ladder is a common mistake that can lead to falls. Instead of stretching too far, employees were advised to reposition the ladder to maintain a safe and stable posture. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and ensuring safety.

Zoracom’s Holistic Approach to Workplace Safety

Zoracom’s commitment to safety extends beyond individual training sessions. The company has implemented a comprehensive safety program that includes regular workshops, safety audits, and the provision of high-quality safety equipment. This holistic approach ensures that safety remains a top priority at all levels of the organization.

The recent Safety Talk on ladder usage is just one example of Zoracom’s proactive efforts to create a secure work environment. By equipping employees with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe, Zoracom is not only protecting its workforce but also enhancing overall productivity and morale.

Expert Guidance for Organizations

For organizations looking to improve workplace safety and implement effective safety protocols, Zoracom offers expert guidance and tailored solutions. Whether it’s conducting safety training, optimizing workflows, or providing customized safety equipment, Zoracom is dedicated to helping businesses create secure and efficient workplaces.

To learn more about Zoracom’s safety solutions or to schedule a consultation, visit their website at www.zoracom.com or contact them directly via the link: https://lnkd.in/dScqaibV.

A Call to Action for Safer Workplaces

Zoracom believes that workplace safety is a shared responsibility. The company encourages businesses and individuals to join the movement for safer workplaces by prioritizing safety education, implementing best practices, and fostering a culture of care and responsibility.

By sharing experiences, tips, and insights, we can collectively build safer, healthier, and more productive work environments. Zoracom invites everyone to participate in this important conversation using the hashtags #SafetyFirst, #LadderSafety, #Zoracom, #WorkSafety, and #SafeWorkflow.


About Zoracom
Zoracom is a leading provider of workplace safety solutions and workflow optimization services. With a focus on innovation, excellence, and employee well-being, Zoracom empowers organizations to create secure, efficient, and thriving workplaces.

Quote from John Nwachukwu, Zoracom’s Top Executive:
“At Zoracom, we believe that safety is not just a policy—it’s a promise to our people. By equipping our team with the right knowledge and tools, we are not only preventing accidents but also building a culture of trust and excellence. A safe workplace is the foundation of a successful organization, and we are committed to leading by example.”

 

  • Ellevate by Ecobank expands to become bigger, better and more inclusive.
  • From supporting corporate businesswomen, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs to individual entrepreneurs, and those in the informal sector.

 

To bridge the gender financing gap for Africa’s women entrepreneurs, Ecobank (www.Ecobank.com), the leading pan-African financial services group, announces significant enhancements to its multi-award-winning gender-financing solution – ‘Ellevate by Ecobank’. These improvements strengthen Ecobank’s commitment to women-owned, women-led, and women-focused businesses, while reinforcing its market competitiveness.

 

The World Bank estimates that closing the gender gap in Africa could add $2.5 trillion to the continent’s GDP by 2025, underscoring the urgency of investing in women – not just for social justice, but for a more prosperous and equitable future for all Africans. In response, Ecobank’s enhanced Ellevate programme is now more ambitious and inclusive, designed to address the diverse challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. The programme is being extended from new and existing Commercial Banking customers to include new and existing Consumer Banking and Corporate Banking customers, as well as female business leaders, with Corporate Banking customers serving as a pool of mentors. With this expansion, individual entrepreneurs – including those in the formal and informal sectors – can now fully benefit from its enhanced financial and non-financial solutions.

 

 

We recognise and applaud the role that women entrepreneurs play in driving socio-economic impact across Africa

Jeremy Awori, Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group, said: “We recognise and applaud the role that women entrepreneurs play in driving socio-economic impact across Africa and are committed to supporting them at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. Since the launch of the Ellevate programme we have made significant progress, disbursing over US$200 million in loans, providing business networking opportunities, and offering leadership and capacity-building training for businesswomen.”

 

“Today, Ellevate 2.0 heralds in a new era for gender financing. It is bigger, better and more inclusive, delivering exceptional value to female entrepreneurs and women business leaders. Enhancing our products and solutions for women entrepreneurs to position Ecobank as their bank of choice is an integral component in accelerating the success of our Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy’s objectives. It also supports our Group-wide objective of promoting gender equality and contributing to sustainable development.”

 

The enhanced Ellevate’s value propositions now include:

 

  • Increasing access to finance with unsecured loans of up to US$50,000
  • Competitive interest rates and favourable collateral requirements
  • Accommodating customers with a two-year track record instead of the industry-standard three years
  • Helping them to find new customers and access new markets across Africa through our innovative online matchmaking MyTradeHub platform
  • Training, knowledge sharing webinars, support and other initiatives to enhance customers’ business and leadership skills
  • Customised wealth management services
  • A one-stop shop to meet insurance needs.
  • A loyalty programme providing exclusive offers and discounts at select retail stores and recreation centres

 

To coincide with the celebrations of the International Women’s Day, our enhanced Ellevate program will be launched by nine of our affiliates (Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Senegal, Togo and Zimbabwe) by the end of March 2025. It will then be rolled-out in phases across all our other sub-Saharan African affiliates throughout the year.

Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com), the continent’s leading platform for technology innovation and connectivity, is proud to announce the esteemed members of its Leadership Council for 2025. Comprising influential leaders from across Africa’s technology, business, and investment sectors, the Leadership Council will play a pivotal role in shaping the festival’s agenda, ensuring it remains at the forefront of industry trends, policy discussions, and digital transformation.

 

The Africa Tech Festival 2025 Leadership Council comprises of:

Africa Tech Festival serves as a platform for connection, collaboration, and innovation across the continent

  • Brelotte Ba, Deputy CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa, Orange​
  • Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Financial Officer, MTN Ghana
  • Bunmi Adeleye, Chief Strategy Officer, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria (Shoprite Nigeria)
  • Charles Murito, Regional Director, Government Affairs & Public Affairs, Sub-Saharan Africa, Google​
  • Dido wa Kalonji, Chief Information Officer, First National Bank – Eswatini​
  • Faith Burn, Chief Information Officer, Eskom​
  • Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman, APO Group​
  • Nina Triantis, Global Head Telecoms, Media and Technology, Client Coverage, Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Bank​
  • Nomsa Chabeli, Group CEO, SABC​
  • Mary Mahuma, Chief Information Officer, Southern Africa, Philip Morris​
  • Philip Besiimire, CEO, Vodacom Tanzania​
  • President Ntuli, Managing Director, South Africa, Hewlett Packard Enterprise​
  • Ravi Bhat, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer, Microsoft Africa​
  • Ayanda Peta, Chief Information Security Officer, African Rainbow Minerals​
  • Richard Cazalet, Executive: Strategy and Transformation, Telkom SA​
  • Shamiela Letsoalo, Director: Public Affairs, Naspers Limited

 

Bringing together a wealth of expertise, the Leadership Council will provide strategic guidance to ensure Africa Tech Festival continues to address the most pressing issues and opportunities within Africa’s digital economy. Their insights will help drive meaningful discussions on connectivity, AI, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud, and the future of digital infrastructure across Africa.

“Africa Tech Festival serves as a platform for connection, collaboration, and innovation across the continent,” said James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival. “With the guidance of our Leadership Council, we will continue to curate an event that drives impactful conversations, supports industry growth, and fosters Africa’s position as a global technology leader.”

Access Bank PLC (www.AccessBankPLC.com) successfully hosted the inaugural Africa Trade Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and trade experts to drive solutions for accelerating intra-African trade and unlocking the continent’s economic potential. The conference tackled critical challenges, including limited access to capital, market information gaps, trust deficits between trading partners, and the urgent need for modernised trade infrastructure.

 

Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO of Access Bank, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for discussions by highlighting the critical barriers hindering trade across Africa. He emphasised the urgent need for financial sector collaboration to facilitate seamless access to capital and foster a business environment where African enterprises can scale and compete globally.

 

“We must invest in the initiatives that ensure that we can bring businesses together, forge trust, and create the connections necessary for trade. In doing so, we must stamp out the narrative that ‘Made in Africa’ is inferior to any product made anywhere else in the world. We must buy Africa, be proud to wear Africa, and invest in Africa because that is what the continent needs to leap forward into the next generation,” Ogbonna stated.

 

With Africa’s population projected to surge to 2.5 billion by 2050 from 1.2 billion, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) stands as the most significant free trade initiative since the formation of the World Trade Organisation. By fostering economic integration, AfCFTA has the potential to reshape trade dynamics across the continent, creating a unified market that enhances industrialisation, boosts employment, and strengthens Africa’s global competitiveness. Recognising this transformative opportunity, H.E. Wamkele K. Mene, Secretary-General of AfCFTA, emphasised the urgency of fully implementing the agreement to unlock its immense benefits.

 

“The AfCFTA is not just a trade agreement; it is an instrument for Africa’s industrialisation and economic sovereignty. It is a tool that will enable us to break down historic trade barriers and build an Africa that is self-sufficient, competitive, and prosperous. But for this to happen, we must commit to operationalising the agreement fully, ensuring that businesses, particularly SMEs and women-led enterprises, have access to the information, capital, and platforms they need to thrive,” Mene stated.

 

 

Also, Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President of Afreximbank, emphasised the importance of financing mechanisms that support African businesses in their expansion across borders. She reaffirmed Afreximbank’s commitment to championing trade finance solutions and infrastructure investments that will unlock Africa’s trade potential.

 

“At Afreximbank, we understand that trade finance is the lifeblood of economic development. Without it, businesses cannot scale, industries cannot innovate, and Africa cannot fully realise its trade potential. This is why we have developed instruments such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) to facilitate seamless transactions across borders, reducing reliance on foreign currencies and strengthening intra-African trade,” Awani remarked.

We must invest in the initiatives that ensure that we can bring businesses together, forge trust, and create the connections necessary for trade

 

The conference featured an insightful testimonial from Nathalie Louat, Global Director at the IFC/World Bank Group, who pointed out the pivotal role of trade finance in enabling cross-border transactions and supporting financial inclusion. She underscored the long-standing partnership between IFC and Access Bank in fostering Africa’s economic resilience.

 

Several high-level panel discussions explored strategies to overcome trade barriers and enhance market access through innovative solutions. Experts from leading institutions, including Deutsche Bank, Traydstream, OWP Partners, Fiducia International, and more, examined how infrastructure improvements, digital solutions, and policy harmonisation could drive economic growth and boost intra-African trade.

 

Dr. Marc Auboin from the World Trade Organization (WTO) shared key insights on how digital transformation is reshaping Africa’s supply chain landscape, creating efficiency and unlocking new global market opportunities. Tanya Dos Santos-Ford from GIBS Business School also led a session on sustainable trade practices, emphasising the need for environmentally responsible economic growth strategies.

 

The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions to intra-African trade and economic transformation. Tradepass Commodities Limited (Ghana), Chemaf International FZE (DR Congo), and Harvest Group of Companies (Zambia) were honoured for their impact on SMEs and women-led trade enterprises. Bulkstream Limited (Kenya) and Electricidade de Moçambique (Mozambique) received awards for advancing intra-African trade, while Tennant Metals South Africa Pty Ltd was recognised as an Emerging Leader in Trade.

 

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) was awarded the Climate Finance Leadership Award, while Afreximbank received the Champion of Intra-African Trade Award. The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) were celebrated for their roles in economic transformation and infrastructure finance, respectively. The prestigious African Icon Award was presented to IHS Group, Dangote Industries Limited, and MTN Group Limited for their significant contributions to Africa’s economic progress.

 

As the conference ended, Seyi Kumapayi, Executive Director, African Subsidiaries at Access Bank, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting trade finance, fostering regional integration, and championing policies that create an enabling environment for businesses across Africa.

A new IT services company, Smart Hands Africa, has been launched to meet rising demand for skilled IT professionals across the African continent. As part of its establishment, Smart Hands Africa has also announced a strategic joint venture with ITArmi, a global provider of on-demand IT expertise operating in 167 countries.

This partnership will see Smart Hands Africa – spearheaded by seasoned local IT professional Anton Jacobsz – become ITArmi’s official presence in Africa, facilitating seamless technology deployment and support for OEMs, distributors and resellers across the continent.

According to Jacobsz, CEO at Smart Hands Africa and ITArmi Africa, local organisations are in dire need of flexible, scalable and highly skilled IT resources to drive digital transformation. “Smart Hands Africa, powered by ITArmi, is set to play a key role in this process, providing fast, on-demand access to proven IT professionals, thus enabling businesses to scale their IT projects efficiently across the continent.”

Addressing the African IT skills gap

Jacobsz explains that Smart Hands Africa’s service model has been designed to provide an agile, cost-effective alternative to traditional recruitment companies and fixed-term contracts. Through ITArmi’s platform, businesses gain access to a network of vetted IT professionals whose skills and previous project ratings are readily available.

“Our approach ensures that IT channel partners, including OEMs, distributors and resellers, can quickly deploy experienced professionals for projects in one or multiple African countries,” he adds. “With a team encompassing an expert architect capable of designing comprehensive solutions, and a seasoned project manager with over 30 years of experience in African IT deployments, we offer end-to-end service delivery.”

Key services and benefits

Smart Hands Africa’s comprehensive service offering includes:

  • Project planning and execution – Full-service management, from drafting Statements of Work (SOWs) to final deployment;
  • Logistics as a service – Handling shipping, import duties, VAT complications and Importer of Record (IOR) processes;
  • Engineer as a service – Deployment of skilled engineers for on-site or remote installation and maintenance; and
  • Ongoing managed services – Ensuring continuous IT support post-installation.

While ITArmi has already delivered IT projects in numerous African countries, including Algeria, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa and more, the partnership with Smart Hands Africa will expand and streamline its service reach across the continent.

Leading a recruitment drive to strengthen Africa’s IT workforce

As part of its launch, Smart Hands Africa is calling on IT professionals across Africa to join its growing network of over 1,800 engineers already signed up on the platform globally.

The company is actively seeking independent contractors and IT specialists with expertise in high-demand areas such as cybersecurity, Microsoft Azure and cloud migration. Additionally, channel partners with excess IT talent can leverage Smart Hands Africa to deploy their resources more effectively, generating additional revenue.

Smart Hands Africa’s current offering encompasses data augmentation, integration and cloud solutions; DevOps and IT service management; SecOps, security and compliance; outsourcing and managed services; monitoring and reporting; ERP; and computer services, amongst others. The organisation is able to assist customers and partners at any point in their smart cloud journey.

“Our vision is to be Africa’s leading IT service partner, bridging the skills gap and enabling seamless technology deployment,” concludes Jacobsz. “Through this joint venture with ITArmi, we are committed to empowering IT channel partners with the expertise needed to accelerate growth, enhance service delivery and drive digital transformation across the continent.”

To join the Smart Hans Africa talent pool, please click here. For more information, please visit www.smarthandsafrica.com.

 

 

Nigeria is rapidly advancing in digital transformation, solidifying its position as a leader in Africa’s Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). A new report by Rome Business School Nigeria highlights the country’s growing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and broadband infrastructure, with the digital transformation market projected to grow from $9.61 billion in 2024 to $22.82 billion by 2029.

The finance and telecommunications sectors are driving this growth. Around 32% of financial service providers now use AI for credit scoring, fraud detection, and customer engagement, while fintech firms like Paystack and Flutterwave have revolutionized digital payments. Expanded broadband connectivity has also fueled e-commerce and entrepreneurial opportunities, strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy.

The ICT sector remains a key contributor to economic growth, making up 29% of Africa’s internet usage and increasing its GDP contribution from 8.1% in 2020 to 10.3% in 2022, reaching a valuation of $55.4 billion. Meanwhile, digitalization is transforming agriculture and manufacturing, with RusselSmith becoming the first 3D industrial manufacturer to produce anti-corrosion components for Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector.

Despite these advancements, challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies, infrastructure gaps, and a shortage of skilled digital talent persist. Antonio Ragusa, Founder and Dean of Rome Business School, emphasized that digital transformation is a catalyst for economic growth, urging stakeholders to leverage Nigeria’s youthful population and tech ecosystem. Olakunle Asunmo, General Manager of Rome Business School Nigeria, highlighted the need for policy stability and skills development to sustain this momentum.

The report calls for increased investment, innovation, and collaboration to position Nigeria as a global digital leader.

Rome Business School Nigeria offers Master’s and MBA programs, both on-campus and online, as well as Executive Education programs, playing a vital role in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth.

 

Njide Ojiaku-Pollard, the pioneering filmmaker and founder of ImageMovie Film Productions, is making waves in the global film industry with her unwavering commitment to diversity, inclusion, and authentic storytelling. Her journey from Nigeria to the international stage has not only transformed Nollywood but also redefined the boundaries of cinema, earning her recognition as a trailblazer in the field.

Born and raised in Nigeria, Njide’s passion for filmmaking was sparked during her childhood, where she found inspiration in classic films that reflected her identity, heritage, and vision for the world. Despite facing significant challenges, including financial struggles and professional setbacks, Njide’s determination never faltered. She moved to the United States, where she pursued formal education in film and media at a prestigious university, refining her craft and establishing herself as a storyteller with a unique cinematic voice.

As an independent filmmaker, Njide has carved a niche for herself by creating films that explore themes of cultural identity and the experiences of marginalized communities. Her work is celebrated for its authenticity, inclusivity, and emotionally resonant narratives that connect with diverse audiences. Through her production company, ImageMovie Film Productions, and her rapidly growing YouTube channel, ImageMovieTV, Njide has produced a string of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, including Ring of Lies, Tears and Tears, One House, Birds, When Love Comes, Life After Marriage, Bad Deed, and Hidden Love. Each project reflects her core values of creativity, innovation, and excellence in filmmaking.

ImageMovieTV, her YouTube channel, has become a powerful platform for creative storytelling and social justice. It showcases films that spark meaningful conversations about identity, race, and the power of community. Njide’s work not only entertains but also challenges societal norms, celebrating diversity and fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience. Her innovative use of cutting-edge technology, including virtual reality and interactive media, has further revolutionized how audiences engage with her stories.

Beyond her filmmaking achievements, Njide has emerged as a mentor and advocate for aspiring filmmakers, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Through mentorship programs, grants, and resources, she is actively working to open doors for emerging talent and amplify voices that have long been overlooked in the industry.

Earlier this year, Njide celebrated her accomplishments and the launch of ImageMovieTV with an exclusive “All White” party held at a luxurious estate in Lagos. The event, which also marked her birthday, brought together influential figures from Nollywood and beyond. More than just a celebration, the gathering was a powerful statement on inclusion, transparency, and the importance of diversity in modern society. The “All White” theme, both literal and metaphorical, symbolized purity, privilege, and the acceptance of all complexities.

Njide Ojiaku-Pollard’s legacy is one of transformation. Through her films, mentorship, and visionary leadership, she is not only telling captivating stories but also reshaping the film industry to be more inclusive, diverse, and representative of voices from all corners of the world. Her mission remains clear: to challenge norms, celebrate diversity, and ensure that every story, no matter how small, has the opportunity to shine on the global stage.

As Njide continues to break barriers and inspire change, her impact on the world of cinema—and beyond—is undeniable.

 

In a significant move to celebrate Nigeria’s democratic milestones, the Federal Government has pledged its full support for a documentary highlighting the nation’s 25 years of uninterrupted democracy. The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a meeting with leaders of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) on Friday in Abuja.

The documentary, an initiative spearheaded by IPAC, will chronicle Nigeria’s democratic evolution since 1999, celebrating its achievements, addressing its challenges, and drawing lessons for the future. Minister Idris praised the project as a crucial historical record that will honor the nation’s political trailblazers and showcase its democratic progress.

“I commend IPAC and its leadership for their unwavering commitment to strengthening democracy, and for choosing the powerful medium of film to document this important chapter in our history. This documentary will serve as a lasting tribute to our political heroes and a testament to Nigeria’s democratic resilience. The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, is proud to support this initiative,” Idris stated.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration among political parties beyond election cycles, emphasizing that democracy thrives on constructive engagement and a shared commitment to national development. He reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s belief in healthy political competition and his focus on fostering unity and progress for the nation.

“President Tinubu’s administration is committed to promoting healthy political competition, as democracy flourishes when there is constructive opposition and collaboration in the national interest. While elections naturally bring competition, it is essential for political parties to come together afterward to build a stronger nation. President Tinubu, a true democrat, values both competition and unity in equal measure,” Idris added.

IPAC National Chairman, Honourable Yusuf Dantalle, provided details about the documentary, noting that it will spotlight Nigeria’s advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social cohesion over the past 25 years. He emphasized that the project is designed to educate and inspire younger generations, particularly Gen Z, about Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“This documentary is not just a historical record but also an educational tool for the younger generation. It will feature some of Nollywood’s finest talents and be produced using cutting-edge technology to meet global standards of quality and impact. Our goal is to create a unifying narrative that reflects Nigeria’s democratic evolution and inspires future leaders,” Dantalle explained.

The IPAC delegation included key figures such as Dipo Olayokun, Deputy National Chairman; Chief Dan Nwayanwu, Council Member; and Maxwell Mgbudem, National Secretary, among others.

The Federal Government’s endorsement of this documentary underscores its dedication to preserving Nigeria’s democratic heritage and inspiring citizens to uphold the values of unity, progress, and inclusivity. The project is poised to become a landmark production, capturing the essence of Nigeria’s democratic journey and its aspirations for a brighter future.