Fintrak Engages Banking Executives with Two Innovative Solutions: Credit Risk 360 Software and E-Channel Solutions 

In a resounding testament to Nigeria’s prowess on the international stage, former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, took to his LinkedIn page to extend heartfelt congratulations to two exceptional Nigerian women who have recently made waves in their respective fields.

In a statement, Obi expressed his elation, stating, “Today, I am delighted to celebrate two outstanding Nigerian-born female personalities who through hard work and unwavering commitment to excellence have distinguished themselves in their respective fields of endeavor.”

The first individual hailed by Obi is Princess Oluchukwu Owowoh, who has etched her name in history by becoming the first Nigerian Female Officer Cadet to graduate from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, the pinnacle of officer training for the British Army.No alt text provided for this image

The spotlight then turned to Eni Aluko, a trailblazing figure in the world of sports, who has recently made history as the First Black Female Football Club Owner in Italy. Aluko, renowned for her illustrious career as a former sports director for Aston Villa and Angel City, has joined the ranks of ownership at FC Como Women, a prominent club based in northern Italy. As part of the esteemed $100 million ownership group known as Mercury 13, Aluko’s acquisition of a majority stake in the club marks a significant milestone, cementing her position as a trailblazer in the realm of football ownership.

Obi emphasized the importance of celebrating such remarkable achievements, stating, “In my usual tradition of celebrating exceptional Nigerians who are blazing the trail in different professions, I wish to celebrate and congratulate these two Nigerian women who, by their achievements and great heights already attained, have made our nation proud and serve to inspire our generation of women, that one can achieve greater heights irrespective of gender, religion, or tribe.”

Furthermore, Obi underscored the significance of visionary leadership in fostering an environment where talented youths can thrive and reach their full potential. He articulated his vision for a “New Nigeria,” one characterized by safety, security, and productivity, wherein the nation’s youth are empowered to excel on the global stage and contribute meaningfully to national development.

As Nigeria basks in the glory of these remarkable achievements, the nation stands poised to continue producing trailblazers who will shape the course of history and inspire future generations to reach for the stars.

 

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

 

No alt text provided for this image“In my usual tradition of celebrating exceptional Nigerians who are blazing the trail in different professions, I wish to celebrate and congratulate these two Nigerian women who, by their achievements and great heights already attained, have made our nation proud and serve to inspire our generation of women, that one can achieve greater heights irrespective of gender, religion, or tribe.”

 

In a remarkable turn of fortune, Saniniu Laizer, a humble miner from Tanzania, has catapulted into the realm of millionaires overnight, thanks to his extraordinary discoveries in the depths of the earth. Laizer, renowned for his perseverance and dedication to his craft, has recently made headlines globally after selling two colossal Tanzanite stones for a staggering $3.4 million (equivalent to 7.74 billion Tanzanian shillings).

Tanzanite, a precious gemstone revered for its rarity and exquisite beauty, is found exclusively in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, making Laizer’s discovery all the more remarkable. Functioning as a key component in fine jewelry, Tanzanite has garnered international acclaim for its mesmerizing hues and allure.

This recent windfall isn’t Laizer’s first encounter with fortune. In August 2020, with the support of the Tanzanian government, he successfully sold another mammoth Tanzanite stone for a handsome sum of $2 million, solidifying his status as a titan in the world of gemstone mining.

However, amidst his newfound wealth, Laizer remains grounded and deeply connected to his community. In an admirable display of generosity and compassion, he has pledged to give back to society by erecting a school to provide education to underprivileged children who struggle to afford school fees. This act of philanthropy underscores Laizer’s commitment to uplifting those around him and ensuring that his success is shared with those in need.No alt text provided for this image

Reflecting on his journey from modest beginnings to newfound affluence, Laizer remarked, “Africa is rich in abundant resources and Africa will make you rich if you’re hardworking.” His story serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the untapped potential and wealth that lies within the continent’s borders, waiting to be unearthed by those willing to toil and persevere.

As the world marvels at Saniniu Laizer’s extraordinary feat, his story stands as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream big and embark on the journey towards prosperity.

 

…amidst his newfound wealth, Laizer remains grounded and deeply connected to his community. In an admirable display of generosity and compassion, he has pledged to give back to society by erecting a school to provide education to underprivileged children who struggle to afford school fees. This act of philanthropy underscores Laizer’s commitment to uplifting those around him and ensuring that his success is shared with those in need.

 

No alt text provided for this image

 

Taylor Swift, the renowned pop icon, has unleashed her much-anticipated 11th studio album, titled “The Tortured Poets Department,” marking another milestone in her already stellar career.

In a recent announcement on her Instagram account, Swift shared the news with her fans, exclaiming, “New album THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT. Out now,” and punctuating the reveal with a heart emoji.

Adding to the excitement, Swift disclosed that the album is a surprise double release, stating, “It’s a 2am surprise: The Tortured Poets Department is a secret DOUBLE album.” She further elaborated, “I’d written so much tortured poetry in the past 2 years and wanted to share it all with you, so here’s the second installment of TTPD: The Anthology. 15 extra songs. And now the story isn’t mine anymore… it’s all yours.”

The unveiling of “The Tortured Poets Department” comes on the heels of Swift’s remarkable success at the Grammys in February. At the event, the 34-year-old music sensation clinched her fourth Album of the Year award, setting a new record for the prestigious accolade.

Fans worldwide can now immerse themselves in Swift’s latest musical offering, as she continues to captivate audiences with her unparalleled talent and creativity.

 

In the early 1990s, a haunting image captured the world’s attention—a vulture looming ominously behind a starving child in Sudan, symbolizing the stark reality of famine. The man behind the lens was Kevin Carter, a South African photojournalist whose snapshot garnered global acclaim and earned him the prestigious Pulitzer Prize.

Yet, amidst the accolades and praise for his “exceptional photographic skill,” Carter’s life took a tragic turn. Merely months after receiving the Pulitzer, he succumbed to the depths of depression, ultimately ending his own life.

The seeds of Carter’s despair were sown during a harrowing phone-in interview, where a caller confronted him about the fate of the little girl in the photograph. Carter’s response, admitting he had not intervened but instead rushed to catch a flight, echoed hauntingly. The caller’s words cut deep, accusing Carter of being akin to the vulture he captured on film.TIL Kevin Carter, the photographer that received a Pulitzer Prize for the  photograph he took of a starving boy and vulture in South Sudan ended up  taking his own life in 1994

Haunted by the accusation and tormented by his failure to act, Carter spiraled into darkness. The weight of his conscience, the knowledge that he could have made a difference, became unbearable. The tragic irony lay in the fact that the man celebrated for exposing human suffering ultimately succumbed to his own inner demons.

Carter’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion in the pursuit of greatness. His legacy is not just one of photographic prowess but also a cautionary tale—a stark illustration of the consequences when humanity takes a backseat to ambition.

In a world often consumed by self-interest and ambition, Carter’s life and untimely death compel us to reflect on our priorities. True fulfillment, it seems, lies not in accolades or achievements but in the profound impact we have on the lives of others.

As we navigate our own journeys, let us heed Carter’s tragic lesson—let humanity guide our actions, let empathy shape our choices, and let compassion define our legacy. For in the end, it is our humanity that truly defines us.

 

In a remarkable feat of endurance and philanthropy, Tunde Onakoya, a Chess Grand Master from Nigeria, has etched his name in the annals of history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. His extraordinary journey began with the Chess in Slums, Africa Initiative, aimed at providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children.

For an astounding 58 hours straight, Onakoya showcased his prowess on the chessboard at the iconic Times Square in New York City. His goal? To raise one million dollars and spread the joy of chess to children worldwide.

The climax of this marathon saw Onakoya triumphantly defeating New York’s esteemed Master Shawn Martinez, captivating spectators and supporters alike. From all corners of the globe, Nigerians rallied to celebrate this momentous achievement at the venue.

Onakoya’s journey exemplifies the power of a dreamer and the resilience of the human spirit. Through his unwavering dedication, he has not only secured a place in the Guinness World Records but has also become a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring chess players and philanthropists worldwide.

In the midst of challenges and uncertainties, Onakoya’s triumph stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Nigerians, reaffirming that every day holds the potential for greatness.

 

 

In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) have unveiled a collaborative effort focusing on National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiatives. This strategic partnership aims to optimize digital identity, bolster the payment ecosystem, and facilitate secure and seamless data exchange capabilities across Nigeria.

The collaborative endeavor was formalized during a high-level meeting between the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, and the Director General of NIMC, Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote, alongside key management personnel from both agencies. Discussions centered on a range of initiatives, including the development of DPI stacks to ensure robust and secure data exchange mechanisms, as well as forging partnerships to revolutionize the national identity system.

Central to the collaboration is the utilization of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to drive digital transformation initiatives nationwide, underscoring the importance of harnessing innovative ecosystems to propel Nigeria towards a digitally empowered future.

To facilitate seamless implementation, a 12-member committee has been established. This committee will play a pivotal role in initiating and harmonizing the proposed initiatives, with a mandate to deliver a comprehensive implementation report within the next four weeks.

This collaborative effort between NITDA and NIMC signifies a significant stride towards enhancing Nigeria’s digital economy, fostering innovation, and ensuring inclusive growth in line with the country’s strategic objectives.

 

 

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) was honored to host esteemed representatives from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), led by Mr. Josh Woodard, in a strategic meeting aimed at fortifying collaboration towards enhancing food security in Nigeria and across Africa using digital technology.

The meeting, spearheaded by NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, underscored the significance of leveraging digital innovations to bolster agricultural practices, particularly through initiatives like the National Adopted Village for Smart Agriculture (NAVSA) and its expansive strategies. The collaboration aligns seamlessly with the current administration’s steadfast commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector as a pivotal means to attain sustainable food security within Nigeria.May be an image of 9 people and text

This strategic partnership between NITDA and USAID epitomizes a shared vision to harness the transformative potential of technology in agricultural development, ultimately paving the way for enhanced productivity, efficiency, and resilience within Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

Multifactor authentication is a security measure that requires users to provide a second form of verification before they can log into a corporate network. It has long been considered essential for keeping fraudsters out. However, cybercriminals have been discovering increasingly clever ways to bypass it.

 

During an attack (https://apo-opa.co/4aT1XGc) on Uber’s IT systems in 2022, the hackers did not use any sophisticated tactics to gain access. Instead, they bombarded an employee with repeated login requests until, out of sheer frustration, the employee approved one. This type of cyberattack is known as an “MFA fatigue attack” and poses a real risk to organisations, says Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA, a cybersecurity training designer.

“MFA fatigue attacks, also known as prompt spamming or authentication bombing, exploit human vulnerability, rather than relying on high-tech hacking methods,” she explains. “These attacks involve sending continuous push notifications to a target who has already provided their username and password, aiming to irritate or confuse them into unwittingly granting the attacker access to their account or system.”

With Uber, the attacker likely bought the contractor’s Uber corporate username and password on the dark web. The attacker then made repeated attempts to log into the victim’s Uber account. Each time, the victim received a request to approve a two-factor login, which blocked access at first. However, eventually, and after the attacker contacted the contractor on WhatsApp claiming they were from Uber IT and that the only way to get rid of the never ending notifications was to accept one, the contractor accepted one request, allowing the attacker to successfully log in.

Previously, cybersecurity experts believed that Multifactor Authentication (MFA) was a foolproof method to protect corporate IT systems from hackers. “Now we’re seeing attackers finding ways around it by bombarding the victim with scores of MFA requests or by tricking them over the phone,” says Collard. This tactic, similar to a swarm of bees overwhelming someone, is a simple yet effective social engineering technique used by hackers. “By bugging you repeatedly until you give in, malicious actors can manipulate users into approving fraudulent access attempts,” says Collard.

MFA fatigue attacks, also known as prompt spamming or authentication bombing, exploit human vulnerability, rather than relying on high-tech hacking methods

How can you prevent it?

The best way to prevent MFA fatigue attacks in organisations is not to use push notifications. “While MFA provides an extra layer of security, it’s not foolproof,” she asserts. “From a cybersecurity perspective, I would recommend that organisations disable push notifications altogether and rather use alternative verification methods.”

An example of a better verification method is number matching. “This involves matching a unique code provided by the authentication app with the code displayed on the screen during the login process,” explains Collard.

A challenge-response method is another effective way of providing additional security. This method asks a user a specific question to verify their identity or to perform a task in response to a challenge. “A challenge-response method is more difficult for hackers to bypass. It can involve mechanisms like biometric authentication, in which users must scan their fingerprints or irises or use facial recognition to gain access to a network.” However, both of the above are not immune against so-called man in the middle or social engineering attacks tricking the users to hand over their OTP or response to the fraudster.

Another effective verification method is FIDO2, an open authentication standard that allows users to log in without using passwords. “You can implement FIDO2 using hardware security keys,” she explains. Typically, USB sticks store the user’s private key, while the public key is stored on the authentication server. As soon as the user enters their username and password, the system requests them to use the hardware key. “It is more resistant to phishing as it works on a challenge-response protocol and doesn’t rely on a one-time PIN that can be intercepted,” she adds.

Mindfulness is key

As with all hacking attempts, it’s crucial that users remain calm and mindful, rather than reacting emotionally. “Stay tuned into your body’s responses when dealing with potential cybersecurity threats, whether they are phishing emails or MFA fatigue attacks,” says Collard. “If something feels strange, like if the situation is putting you under undue pressure, listen to that cue and don’t respond in a knee-jerk fashion. In this way, you’ll keep a straight head and thwart potential data breaches.”

 

 

In a bold move aimed at reshaping risk management in the banking sector, Fintrak, a leading indigenous fintech solution provider, recently hosted a groundbreaking event at the prestigious CIVIC Centre. This event served as a beacon of innovation, shining a spotlight on Fintrak’s pioneering Credit Risk 360 Solution and its cutting-edge E-Channel Solutions, customized for modern payment infrastructures.

Navigating the complex web of financial instruments, banks globally, Nigeria included, grapple with the formidable challenge of credit risk. Recognizing the urgent need for a robust risk management framework, Fintrak embarked on a mission to develop a comprehensive solution addressing the multifaceted nature of credit risk while aligning with the diverse operational needs of financial institutions.

At the heart of this endeavor lies the Credit Risk 360 Solution, a revolutionary platform designed to mitigate risks across various banking operations. Endowed with a suite of advanced features, Credit Risk 360 offers real-time portfolio monitoring, comprehensive reporting, and an adaptive technology driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI) that dynamically adjusts to evolving risk landscapes and regulatory demands. Bimbo Abioye, Group Managing Director of Fintrak, elaborated on the platform’s capabilities, emphasizing its multilingual support catering to African markets and streamlined collateral management functionalities.

Oluwakemi Kukoyi, a key member of the Fintrak team, underscored the solution’s versatility and compliance capabilities, highlighting its robust stress testing and scenario analysis features, essential for navigating regulatory guidelines effortlessly.

Oluwakemi added that “Fintrak’s Credit Risk 360 Solution encompasses a suite of essential components crucial for optimizing banking operations. These include Loan Origination/Collateral Management, which assists in efficiently handling loan requests and collateral assets. The Optional Loan Impairment feature ensures regulatory compliance while addressing loan impairment issues as required. Corporate Bulk Loan Breaking simplifies the processing of large corporate loans, enhancing operational efficiency. “

“Our Credit Reporting Software  provides comprehensive insights into credit performance and risk exposure, while Disbursement Execution streamlines fund allocation for seamless transactions. Loan Restructuring offers flexibility in adjusting loan terms to adapt to changing circumstances, and Loan Monitoring enables real-time tracking of portfolios for proactive risk management. The Embedded Document Management System organizes and manages crucial documents for credit processes, while Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning enhances risk assessment with advanced analytics. ”

She added that ” Digital Lending facilitates seamless digital lending processes for improved customer experience, and Credit Bureau Integration provides access to comprehensive credit data for informed decision-making. Together, these components form the foundation of Fintrak’s Credit Risk 360 Solution, empowering financial institutions with the tools and insights needed to effectively manage credit risk and optimize operations.”

In addition to its groundbreaking risk management capabilities, Fintrak’s Credit Risk 360 Solution is complemented by its latest innovations in E-Channel Solutions, tailored to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience across payment channels, thus driving digital transformation within the banking sector.

The event at CIVIC Centre drew a distinguished audience of banking executives from leading financial institutions, all captivated by the transformative potential of Fintrak’s solutions. As the event concluded on a high note, attendees left with a renewed sense of optimism about the transformative impact of Credit Risk 360 in reshaping the future of banking and finance in Africa. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Fintrak continues to lead the charge towards a more inclusive and digitally empowered financial ecosystem across the continent.

FinTrak’s Credit Risk 360 software has already seen successful deployment in major financial institutions such as Access Bank Plc and First Bank, with ongoing deployment at Wema Bank Plc and all overseas subsidiaries of the Access Bank Group. Numerous other banks across Africa are currently considering or in various stages of licensing decisions for this strategically vital solution, which promises to alleviate the complexities facing professionals in credit risk management activities.

 

 

” Digital Lending facilitates seamless digital lending processes for improved customer experience, and Credit Bureau Integration provides access to comprehensive credit data for informed decision-making. Together, these components form the foundation of Fintrak’s Credit Risk 360 Solution, empowering financial institutions with the tools and insights needed to effectively manage credit risk and optimize operations.”

  1. Olumide Samson Olagoke, popularly known as MC Day, continues to make waves in the entertainment industry with another exciting event following his recent successful outing at the prestigious Eko Hotels in Victoria Island. This time, MC Day is bringing his electrifying energy and talent to Lagos Mainland with a captivating karaoke show titled “2 Hearts 1 Mic.”

    Following the overwhelming response to his previous event in Victoria Island, MC Day expressed his commitment to ensuring that all Lagosians have access to top-notch entertainment. Speaking at a media press conference, MC Day stated, “We are bringing this entertainment and event to Lagos Mainland so that no one feels left out. The last event was held at Lagos Island, and we had a lot of audience members from the Mainland, which is why we are bringing it closer to them.”

    Highlighting the importance of providing avenues for relaxation and enjoyment amidst life’s challenges, MC Day emphasized the significance of events like “2 Hearts 1 Mic.” He said, “Today, the country is tough, and the world is getting highly competitive and fast. The need to have an avenue to relax and unwind in a cozy atmosphere becomes very critical for Nigerians’ physical and mental well-being. This event avails us such an opportunity to relax, unwind, and engage. We hope that people will come and be part of this.”

    The event is scheduled to take place at Nikoms Event Centre, located at Taylor Drive Yaba, on April 26th. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with karaoke, dance, games, networking sessions, and comedy.

    MC Day, a distinguished influencer and seasoned host of weekend events, possesses over 10 years of experience entertaining crowds and ensuring the smooth flow of events. With his versatility and skill, MC Day promises to deliver a showstopping experience that attendees won’t soon forget.