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Cowrywise CEO, Razaq Ahmed, Speaks on Redefining Business Value at ICAN Western Zonal Accountants Conference

Cowrywise CEO, Razaq Ahmed, Speaks on Redefining Business Value at ICAN Western Zonal Accountants Conference

Razaq Ahmed, CFA, CEO and Co-founder of Cowrywise, delivered an insightful plenary address at the ongoing Western Zonal Accountants Conference in Lagos, where he engaged with some of the brightest minds in the accounting profession.

Speaking at the prestigious event hosted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Ahmed acknowledged the organization’s remarkable growth, with its membership surpassing 60,000 since its establishment in 1965. He emphasized that this figure represents more than just numbers—it reflects decades of dedication and excellence that have shaped Nigeria’s private and public sectors.

As the lead speaker in the session titled Redefining Value Beyond Financial Metrics, Ahmed underscored the need for businesses to evolve beyond traditional financial indicators. He stressed that digital innovation is a core driver of efficiency and growth, while workplace culture remains a pillar for employee motivation and productivity. He highlighted governance and sustainability as crucial elements for long-term stability and emphasized that customer satisfaction and brand loyalty are key measures of enduring success. He also spoke on the importance of impact-driven decision-making as a force for economic and social progress.

Beyond the thought-provoking discussions, Ahmed reflected on the power of community within the accounting profession. “The energy in that room was undeniable,” he stated. “It reinforced my belief that accountants are not just custodians of financial records—they are architects of economic growth, stewards of trust, and drivers of transformation.”

He commended ICAN for hosting a high-impact conference and expressed optimism about the continued role of accountants in shaping Nigeria’s economic landscape.

“Congratulations to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria on a worthy and impactful conference,” Ahmed concluded.

Shanghai Jianhang Investment Company Explores Opportunities in Anambra as Governor Soludo Calls for Global Investors

Shanghai Jianhang Investment Company Explores Opportunities in Anambra as Governor Soludo Calls for Global Investors

Anambra State is on the brink of attracting significant foreign investments as Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo played host to a high-powered delegation from Shanghai Jianhang Investment Company Ltd. The team, led by its Chairman, Peng Yizhong, visited the state to explore potential collaborations in power, agriculture, and tourism—sectors that are critical to Anambra’s long-term economic vision.

Welcoming the delegation, Governor Soludo expressed optimism about the opportunities this engagement could bring, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to making Anambra a thriving economic hub.

“Earlier today, I had the pleasure of welcoming Peng Yizhong and his team to our state. Their visit represents a crucial step toward transforming Anambra into a magnet for global investments,” Soludo stated. “They are here to explore investment opportunities in power, agriculture, and tourism—key areas that align perfectly with our vision for Anambra as a vibrant destination where people can live, work, study, and enjoy life to the fullest!”

Soludo’s words carried not just excitement but a deep-rooted passion for repositioning Anambra as an investment-friendly state. He spoke about his administration’s unwavering resolve to create an enabling environment where investors are not just welcomed but are given the necessary support to thrive.

Anambra’s Open Invitation to Global Investors

Governor Soludo extended a warm invitation to business leaders and entrepreneurs worldwide, urging them to consider Anambra as their next investment destination.

“To all visionary investors out there, consider this an open invitation. Anambra is open for business, and we are ready to partner with forward-thinking investors who share our dream of economic transformation. I am eager to welcome you and ensure that your experience in Anambra is seamless and rewarding,” he declared.

This is not just a call for investment—it is a call for collaboration, a call to build, and a call to innovate. Soludo’s administration is actively laying the groundwork to ensure that investors not only find opportunities in Anambra but also experience a state that supports their ambitions.

A State on the Rise

Anambra is rapidly establishing itself as a strategic economic powerhouse, leveraging its vast resources and potential in sectors such as agriculture, real estate, tourism, and technology. With an ambitious governor at the helm, the state is undergoing a transformation aimed at attracting world-class investments that will create jobs, spur innovation, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.

The visit by Shanghai Jianhang Investment Company Ltd is a testament to this progress. The company’s expertise in finance, infrastructure, and large-scale development projects positions it as an ideal partner for Anambra’s economic growth agenda.

Beyond Words – Action for the Future

Governor Soludo’s vision extends beyond rhetoric—his administration is actively working to improve the ease of doing business in Anambra. Policies are being refined, bureaucratic bottlenecks are being eliminated, and infrastructure is being enhanced to create a welcoming environment for both local and international investors.

As discussions with Shanghai Jianhang Investment Company continue, the people of Anambra eagerly anticipate what could be a game-changing partnership. With new investments, thousands of jobs could be created, small businesses could thrive, and Anambra’s economy could witness unprecedented growth.

In closing, Governor Soludo reaffirmed his optimism and determination:

“May Anambra continue to win!”

Heirs Holdings Group Appoints Azubike Emodi and Chidi Okpala to Key Leadership Positions

Heirs Holdings Group Appoints Azubike Emodi and Chidi Okpala to Key Leadership Positions

Heirs Holdings Group, a leading pan-African investment company, has announced the appointment of two exceptional leaders to further drive its strategic growth and expansion plans.

Azubike Emodi has been named the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of Afriland Properties Plc, succeeding Uzoamaka Oshogwe, who has led the company since its inception in 2013 and was recently appointed CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc.

Azubike brings over 20 years of experience in financial services, real estate development, and strategic planning. A visionary leader, he has a proven track record of driving organizational growth and delivering transformative results in institutions such as the Royal Bank of Canada, VFD Group, VBank, Anchoria Asset Management, and most recently, Herel Global. At Afriland Properties, he will spearhead the company’s mission of creating value through its vast land bank and delivering significant residential and commercial real estate projects.

Additionally, Chidi Okpala has been appointed as the Executive Director – Payments, Group Integration & Strategy (PGIS) at Heirs Holdings Group. In this capacity, he will oversee the Group’s technology and healthcare business sectors and collaborate with the leadership team to execute strategies that align with the company’s expansion objectives.

Chidi brings over two decades of leadership experience spanning financial services, FinTech, telecommunications, and strategy consulting. His professional journey includes key roles at Accenture, United Bank for Africa, and Bharti Airtel International. Most recently, he served as CEO of Asante Financial Services Group. His wealth of expertise will play a critical role in driving innovation and strengthening Heirs Holdings Group’s presence in the financial technology and healthcare sectors.

Commenting on the appointments, Tony O. Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings Group, stated:

“As Heirs Holdings Group continues to invest in human capital as a strategic driver of our broader ambitions, I am pleased to welcome two outstanding professionals to our leadership team. Azubike and Chidi bring deep industry expertise, innovative leadership, and a strong commitment to excellence. I am confident in the value they will bring to our Group as we advance our mission of driving economic transformation across Africa.”

Heirs Holdings Group remains committed to empowering African enterprises through investments in key sectors, including financial services, real estate, healthcare, energy, and technology.

About Heirs Holdings Group Heirs Holdings Group is a leading pan-African investment company focused on driving economic transformation through long-term investments in key sectors that catalyze development. With a presence across Africa, the Group is committed to creating sustainable value and empowering businesses that fuel the continent’s growth.

NNPC Boss, Mele Kyari, Honored with NMGS Distinguished Ambassador Award

NNPC Boss, Mele Kyari, Honored with NMGS Distinguished Ambassador Award

The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Mr. Mele Kyari, has been conferred with the prestigious Distinguished Ambassador Award by the Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society (NMGS) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the advancement of Nigeria’s energy and extractive industries.

The award was presented to Kyari, a Fellow of the NMGS, during the Dinner and Awards Night held at the end of the Society’s 60th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Abuja on Wednesday. The event brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders to celebrate excellence and innovation in the mining, energy, water, and construction sectors.

NMGS Conference Highlights Transformation & Innovation

The two-day conference, themed “Transformation of the Mineral, Energy, Water, and Construction Sectors through Innovation,” provided a platform for robust discussions on critical industry reforms, policy improvements, and technological advancements shaping the future of Nigeria’s natural resource sector.

Participants explored pressing issues such as sustainable mining practices, regulatory frameworks, and the evolving role of geosciences in national development. The conference also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between government agencies, private investors, and academic institutions to drive economic growth and harness Nigeria’s vast mineral and energy potential.

Kyari’s Leadership & Contributions Recognized

Under Mele Kyari’s leadership, NNPC Ltd. has played a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, spearheading initiatives aimed at energy security, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability. His strategic vision aligns with Nigeria’s broader efforts to optimize resource management, enhance local content development, and attract foreign investments into the energy sector.

The NMGS Distinguished Ambassador Award is a testament to Kyari’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in the extractive industries, further cementing his reputation as a key driver of Nigeria’s energy transition.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from industry players to leverage technology, research, and sustainable policies to position Nigeria as a global leader in the energy and geosciences sectors.

#EnergyForToday
#EnergyForTomorrow

Chinyere Okorocha Reflects on Her First INTA Experience: A Lesson in Networking and Growth

Chinyere Okorocha Reflects on Her First INTA Experience: A Lesson in Networking and Growth

Chinyere Okorocha, the Past Chair of the NBA Women Forum, shared her experience of attending the International Trademark Association (INTA) meeting in the U.S., the world’s largest and most influential conference focused on trademarks, intellectual property (IP), and brand protection. With over 10,000 attendees from across the globe, the event presented both a challenge and an opportunity for her.

Recalling her first INTA meeting in 1996 in San Diego, she traveled with a senior colleague on what was also her first trip to the USA. Instead of easing her into the experience, her colleague left her to navigate the event on her own. It was a trial by fire, requiring her to adapt quickly. She soon realized that networking at INTA was not just about attending plenary sessions, workshops, or discussions but also about engaging in numerous cocktails, parties, and social events that ran well into the night. These gatherings were more than social; they were vital business opportunities.

Stepping into a room filled with over 500 people, all engaged in conversations and deal-making, she faced a decision—either blend into the background or push herself out of her comfort zone. Choosing the latter transformed her career. She learned that networking is about making the first move, that small talk is a skill that enhances connections, and that real business deals often happen in informal settings over coffee and cocktails. She also discovered the practical importance of wearing sensible shoes.

By the end of the conference, she had gained invaluable experience in confidence, networking, and business development, skills that have served her well throughout her 34-year career. Looking back, she expressed gratitude for being thrown into the deep end, which ultimately pushed her to grow and show up for herself. She posed a question to others, asking if they had ever faced a professional challenge with little preparation and how they handled it.

 

Zoracom Advocates Best Practices in Outdoor Safety Meeting

Zoracom Advocates Best Practices in Outdoor Safety Meeting

Industry experts, safety professionals, and business leaders gathered today for an insightful outdoor safety meeting, themed “Choosing the Right Way Over the Easy Way.” The event, spearheaded by Zoracom, underscored the critical importance of prioritizing efficiency and security in business operations rather than relying on shortcuts that may compromise long-term success.

The meeting featured discussions on real-world case studies, highlighting how strict adherence to best practices leads to sustainable growth, reduced risks, and enhanced operational efficiency. Keynote speakers warned of the dangers associated with shortcuts, noting that while they may appear convenient in the short term, they often expose businesses to security vulnerabilities, inefficiencies, and financial losses.

Zoracom, known for its cutting-edge technology solutions, reiterated its commitment to delivering precise, reliable, and industry-compliant solutions tailored to business needs across various sectors. By leveraging advanced technology and data-driven strategies, the company aims to help organizations optimize their workflows while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance.

“At Zoracom, we firmly believe that sustainable success is built on well-informed decisions and adherence to best practices,” said [Spokesperson’s Name], [Title] at Zoracom. “This event highlights our dedication to equipping businesses with robust and efficient solutions, ensuring they can navigate challenges without compromising security.”

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where attendees engaged with industry experts to explore practical steps for strengthening their operational strategies. Participants were also introduced to Zoracom’s state-of-the-art solutions, designed to seamlessly integrate into existing business frameworks to enhance performance and reliability.

As businesses continue to seek improved security and operational strategies, Zoracom encourages organizations to explore its innovative solutions. Book a demo today to experience how Zoracom’s expertise can help safeguard and streamline business operations.

Chibueze Iwuoha: Balancing Passion and Profession in 2024

Chibueze Iwuoha: Balancing Passion and Profession in 2024

In a remarkable tale of passion and perseverance, Chibueze Iwuoha, a Marketing Analytics Manager at Guinness Nigeria, successfully carved out a space for himself in the music scene while excelling in his corporate career. His journey from a private music enthusiast to a recognized DJ in Lagos’ entertainment scene is a testament to the power of determination and self-belief.

For years, music had been a central part of Iwuoha’s life, but DJing remained a personal passion he never fully explored. That changed at the beginning of 2024 when his colleagues at Guinness Nigeria encouraged him to take his talent more seriously. Their unwavering support ignited a long-dormant fire, inspiring him to embrace his love for music while continuing to drive impact in the corporate world.

“By day, I was providing insights, solving problems, and driving impact in the workplace. By night and on weekends, I was behind the decks, refining my craft and showing up consistently,” Iwuoha shared.

He began with unpaid gigs, small parties, and brand events, pushing through moments of doubt, late nights, and mistakes along the way. Despite the challenges, his commitment never wavered. With time, his efforts gained traction, and as one opportunity led to another, his DJ career took off.

By the end of the year, Iwuoha had played at Quilox, Lagos’ biggest club, and Obi’s House, the most iconic DJ platform in the city. These milestones underscored his belief that hard work and persistence ultimately attract opportunities.

One of his proudest achievements in 2024 was launching his own event, UTOPIA, on his birthday. A decade-long dream materialized into reality, and in the final quarter of the year alone, he hosted two successful editions of the event.

Reflecting on his journey, Iwuoha emphasized the challenge of balancing career and passion but affirmed that the rewards make the effort worthwhile. “It’s very hard to choose between your dreams and your career, but it’s also very rewarding if you are disciplined, resilient, and consistent enough to make space for both,” he said.

He expressed deep gratitude to his family, colleagues, friends, and supporters who believed in him and played a crucial role in making his dream possible. Looking ahead to 2025, Iwuoha remains committed to his dual path. “I will keep building, keep solving problems, keep showing up, and keep having fun while at it because when passion meets persistence, incredible things happen.”

His story serves as an inspiration to professionals who aspire to pursue their dreams without compromising their careers, proving that with dedication and consistency, it is possible to thrive in both worlds.

 

Nigerian Women in Oil and Gas Leadership Development Programme Records Resounding Success

Nigerian Women in Oil and Gas Leadership Development Programme Records Resounding Success

The second edition of the Nigerian Women in Oil and Gas Leadership Development Programme has been hailed as a major success, reinforcing the growing demand for leadership training among female professionals in the sector. The programme, sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and facilitated by Lagos Business School (LBS), witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 300 applications submitted within just 72 hours, forcing an early closure of the application window.

Alero Onosode, HR Executive, Business and Leadership Coach, and Diversity & Inclusion advocate, described the programme as inspiring, highlighting its impact on female executives in the oil and gas industry. “I was privileged to meet 35 exceptional female executives as they sharpened their leadership skills and strategic focus. Their drive and the impact they are already making in the sector are highly encouraging,” Onosode stated.

The intensive programme provided participants with the critical skills and insights required to navigate the complexities of leadership in professional and entrepreneurial ventures within the oil and gas industry. However, Onosode emphasized that leadership training alone is not enough. She stressed the need for real-world opportunities within organizations to ensure the empowerment of female leaders, which is crucial for fostering innovation and industry transformation.

Expressing gratitude to key stakeholders, Onosode acknowledged the NCDMB for their sponsorship, Lagos Business School for their world-class faculty, and industry experts including Patricia Simon-Hart, Ibilola Amao Ph.D FEI FNSE FIoD FAEng, Chikezie Nwosu, and Ibiyemi Asaolu for their insightful presentations. She also commended her colleagues in the Diversity SWG (NCCF) for their dedication and commitment to advancing gender inclusivity in the sector.

Onosode called on industry players to actively support and expand such initiatives, stating that fostering female leadership in the oil and gas industry is vital for unlocking potential, driving innovation, and ensuring a more dynamic and inclusive sector.

 

Secret U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia Spark Global Concerns as Ukraine and Europe Left Out

Secret U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia Spark Global Concerns as Ukraine and Europe Left Out

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a dramatic diplomatic move, top officials from the United States and Russia have gathered at the historic Diriyah Palace to discuss a potential end to the devastating war in Ukraine. The high-stakes meeting, held behind closed doors, is the most significant direct dialogue between Washington and Moscow since the war began in February 2022. However, the exclusion of Ukraine and European nations has raised serious concerns about the fairness and transparency of any potential agreement.

A Meeting Cloaked in Secrecy

The meeting, which lasted for more than four hours, was attended by key figures from both sides. The U.S. delegation was led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. On the Russian side, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Kremlin foreign policy advisor Yuri Ushakov, and Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, were present.

While details remain scarce, sources close to the negotiations suggest that three main objectives were discussed:

  1. Restoring Diplomatic Channels – Both sides reportedly agreed to work toward reopening and restaffing embassies that had been closed or reduced in recent years due to rising tensions.
  2. Laying the Groundwork for Peace Talks – A proposal was made to create a negotiation team that could work on potential peace settlements.
  3. Future Cooperation Beyond the War – Discussions extended to possible economic and geopolitical cooperation if a resolution is reached.

Ukrainian Leaders Express Betrayal

The exclusion of Ukraine from these talks has sparked outrage in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking from Ankara, Turkey, expressed his frustration:

“How can there be discussions about our country’s fate without us at the table? Any deal that does not involve Ukraine is not a deal for peace—it is a deal for submission.”

His comments reflect a broader sentiment among Ukrainians, who fear that negotiations without their direct involvement could lead to a compromise that favors Russian interests at their expense.

European Leaders Demand a Seat at the Table

The secrecy of the talks has also alarmed European leaders, who have been some of Ukraine’s strongest allies. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron both released statements criticizing the exclusion of European representatives. A senior EU official, speaking anonymously, said:

“Europe has been on the frontlines of this crisis. We have provided aid, support, and military assistance. For the U.S. to engage Russia in discussions without us is deeply concerning.”

What Comes Next?

While both U.S. and Russian officials described the talks as “constructive,” no immediate agreements were reached. However, diplomatic insiders suggest that this meeting could be the first of many.

For now, the world watches with bated breath. Will these talks pave the way for peace, or will they deepen divisions and mistrust? Only time will tell.

VP Shettima Applauds NEDC’s Commitment to Education and Green Technology

VP Shettima Applauds NEDC’s Commitment to Education and Green Technology

 

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu

Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for its progressive approach to development, highlighting its investments in education and green technology as transformative for the region. He made these remarks after receiving a detailed briefing from the NEDC management team on the progress of the Accelerated Senior Secondary Education Programme (ASSEP).

Shettima emphasized that the commission’s work goes beyond traditional infrastructure projects, focusing on long-term solutions that will shape the future of the North East. According to him, the ASSEP initiative is a crucial step in bridging educational gaps and empowering young Nigerians with knowledge and skills.

“ASSEP is a true game changer in this age and time—education is the greatest equalizer, enabling even the son of a peasant to become a celebrated icon,” he stated.

The Vice President also noted that NEDC’s initiatives would leave a lasting impact, ensuring that future generations benefit from enhanced educational opportunities. He commended the commission’s leadership, the supervising ministry, and Dr. Masha for their unwavering dedication to the project.

“Yes, intervention in infrastructure is important, but ASSEP, along with potential investments in green technology, will truly transform the landscape,” Shettima remarked.

A Vision for Sustainable Development

The North East region has faced significant challenges, including the impacts of insurgency and economic hardship. The NEDC, established to drive post-conflict recovery and regional development, has prioritized strategic interventions beyond physical infrastructure. ASSEP is one such initiative, designed to accelerate secondary education for students, equipping them with knowledge to compete in a rapidly evolving world.

The Vice President’s mention of green technology investments signals a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that the region not only rebuilds but also embraces sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions for long-term growth.

As Nigeria continues its journey toward economic recovery and stability, initiatives like ASSEP and sustainable technology investments will play a crucial role in transforming the North East into a hub of progress and opportunity. The NEDC’s commitment to these areas positions it as a driving force in shaping a brighter future for the region.