Pernod Ricard Nigeria Deepens Collaboration With NAFDAC To Strengthen Consumer Protection

Brand Spur
-
0
Pernod Ricard Nigeria Deepens Collaboration With NAFDAC To Strengthen Consumer Protection

Pernod Ricard Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to consumer
protection and the fight against counterfeiting through strengthened
collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration
and Control (NAFDAC).

This was highlighted during a courtesy visit by the company’s senior
management team to NAFDAC’s Lagos office, where both organisations
explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in safeguarding product
integrity, promoting responsible business practices, and supporting
sustainable industry growth.

Speaking during the visit, Operations Director, Bode Omosagba,
reiterated the company’s support for NAFDAC’s mandate to protect
consumers and maintain quality standards.

“As a responsible organisation, we recognise the critical role NAFDAC
plays in protecting consumers and fostering an enabling environment for
business growth. We value our relationship with the Agency and remain
committed to supporting its mandate,” he said.

He also highlighted some initiatives under the company’s
sustainability roadmap-Glass to Life campaign, which promotes the
collection and recycling of used bottles to preserve the environment,
alongside its global flagship responsible drinking campaign – Drink More
Water, which encourages hydration and moderation.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/mastercard-launches-priceless-africa-on-priceless-com-unlocking-a-curated-travel-experience-across-nine-iconic-destinations/

Pernod Ricard Nigeria continues to uphold stringent regulatory standards
while delivering a portfolio of premium brands, including locally
produced Imperial Blue, as well as globally recognised labels such as
Martell Cognac, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Absolut Vodka, The Glenlivet
Scotch whisky, and Chivas Regal Whisky.

The delegation included Nnenna Duru, Corporate Affairs Manager; Adebisi
Afolabi, Head, Supply Chain and demand Planning; and Abayomi Oguntola,
Supply/Logistics Coordinator.

In response, Dr. Olakunle Olaniran, Director of the Port Inspection
Directorate at NAFDAC, commended the company’s commitment to
regulatory compliance and responsible business conduct.

He reaffirmed NAFDAC’s mandate to protect public health while
facilitating trade and creating an enabling environment for investment
and growth, noting that strong collaboration between regulators and
industry players remains critical to combating counterfeiting and
strengthening consumer confidence.

Dr. Olaniran also encouraged increased local production and technology
transfer, highlighting their importance to Nigeria’s industrial and
economic development.

A part of the Pernod Ricard Group, a global leader in wines and spirits,
Pernod Ricard Nigeria continues to create premium consumer experiences
while advancing sustainability through its four strategic pillars:
Nurturing Terroir, Valuing People, Circular Making, and Responsible
Hosting.

Mastercard Launches Priceless Africa On Priceless.com, Unlocking A Curated Travel Experience Across Nine Iconic Destinations

Brand Spur
-
0
Mastercard Launches Priceless Africa On Priceless.com, Unlocking A Curated Travel Experience Across Nine Iconic Destinations
  • Cardholders worldwide gain access to a curated collection of Priceless experiences and exclusive cardholder offers across nine African markets: South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Mauritius, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
  • Expansion of com advances Mastercard’s commitment to Africa’s digital travel economy, boosting engagement and preference across key markets.

Johannesburg, South Africa, 25 June 2026: Mastercard has expanded its global lifestyle platform, Priceless.com, to Africa, unlocking a new way for Mastercard cardholders around the world to explore the continent’s most iconic destinations. The platform brings together culturally rich journeys across nine African markets, including South Africa, Kenya, Morocco, Mauritius, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zimbabwe, offering travellers access to Africa through a premium, curated lens.

Mastercard Launches Priceless Africa On Priceless.com, Unlocking A Curated Travel Experience Across Nine Iconic Destinations

From wildlife encounters beneath African skies to hidden galleries and exotic coastal festivals, Priceless Africa ignites travel as a powerful passion point. Cardholders can now discover a one-of-a-kind Africa shaped by creativity, heritage and deep community connection. Each experience is curated across Mastercard’s leading passion categories: culture and creativity, culinary, nature and wildlife, and adventure, enabling travellers to securely and seamlessly explore what they love most.

Mastercard offers a range of travel benefits, including hotel and flight savings, airport lounge access, and seamless booking across leading travel platforms, car rentals, and e-hailing services. The result is a seamless, secure, and truly rewarding journey at every touchpoint.

The launch comes as Africa’s travel sector continues to expand, making it one of the fastest-growing tourism regions globally. The region welcomed 81 million international tourists in 2025, marking an 8% year-on-year increase, according to UN Tourism. As more travellers seek authentic, purpose-driven experiences, Mastercard and its partners are supporting this growth through curated experiences across key passion points, alongside secure and seamless payments that enhance the travel journey.

Peak travel seasons offer unique moments for Mastercard and its partners to support travellers through distinctive Priceless experiences, alongside secure and seamless payments that enhance every step of the journey.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/paystack-introduces-paystack-index-an-early-access-ai-checkout-experience/

Ahmed Abdel-Karim Hussein, Executive Vice President, Integrated Marketing & Communications, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “Africa is one of the most culturally diverse and creatively inspiring destinations in the world, and today’s travellers are seeking moments that are deeply human and rooted in local culture. With Priceless Africa, we are opening the door to authentic, unforgettable experiences, while ensuring Mastercard’s secure and seamless payments support every step of the journey, connecting people to their passions as they discover the continent’s extraordinary spirit.”

Priceless Africa brings together the moments that define the continent. Cardholders can rise over Amboseli in a sunrise hot air balloon, walk Cape Coast Castle by candlelight, trek with mountain gorillas through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda’s Bwindi forests, share a Bedouin dinner in the Agafay Desert, hike Mauritius’ Le Morne Brabant before a home-cooked Creole lunch, sail Menai Bay aboard a traditional dhow, track rhinos on foot through Matobo Hills, head into the bush with the Kruger K9 anti-poaching team or design a one-of-a-kind piece with one of Accra’s leading fashion houses. Every market, every passion, all curated and bookable in one place. Experience of availability varies by market and is subject to change.

The launch is anchored by Mastercard’s “You Have To Be Here” travel campaign, a continent-wide creative platform built to inspire cardholders to discover Africa through curated storytelling, content series and always-on travel inspiration. This campaign launched on 18 June and will run until December 2026.

Priceless Africa is now live on Priceless.com in select markets, with rollout across all nine markets and additional experiences continuing throughout 2026 as Mastercard expands its footprint into even more African markets.

For Mastercard cardholders everywhere, the full Priceless Africa collection is live now and ready to book at priceless.com/africa.

For more information, please watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hvUeCuTaBk

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

Paystack Introduces Paystack Index, An Early Access AI Checkout Experience

Brand Spur
-
0
Paystack Introduces Paystack Index, An Early Access AI Checkout Experience

Developed by Paystack with support from TSG Labs, the new early-access product lets users in Nigeria complete everyday transactions through supported AI agents.

Lagos, Nigeria. June 25, 2026 — Paystack [1] today announced the early
access launch of Paystack Index [2], an experimental product developed
by Paystack with product support from TSG Labs [4], the venture studio
and emerging technology arm of The Stack Group [5].

Paystack Index builds on existing Paystack products, such as Paystack
Checkout, by giving Zap users in Nigeria a new way to check out with
supported Paystack merchants via AI agents. The product is launching in
early access as Paystack learns how people want to use AI agents to get
things done, starting with familiar tasks like buying airtime and mobile
data, funding wallets, sending money, and paying for food.

Paystack Index is live in Nigeria and currently works with supported AI
clients, including Claude, ChatGPT, and OpenClaw. At launch, it supports
airtime and mobile data purchases across major Nigerian networks,
transfers via Zap [6], and food ordering through Chowdeck [7].

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/6-easy-ways-to-enjoy-the-2026-world-cup-with-google-and-gemini/

With Paystack Index, users can ask a supported AI agent to complete a
task. Index interprets the request, routes it to the right provider or
supported Paystack merchant, processes the transaction through Zap and
Paystack’s payment infrastructure, and helps the user complete
checkout securely within the AI experience.

Users remain in control of what they authorise. Index only acts on
requests that users send through their chosen AI agent and within the
permissions and limits they set. Index does not store card numbers,
CVVs, PINs, or bank account credentials, and transactions are processed
through Paystack’s secure payment infrastructure.

“Paystack has always focused on helping businesses get paid safely and
reliably, wherever their customers are,” said Shola Akinlade, CEO of
Paystack. “As AI agents become a more common way for people to search,
decide, and take action, we think checkout has to evolve too. Paystack
Index is an early experiment in extending Paystack’s checkout
infrastructure into AI experiences, starting with users in Nigeria and a
few supported merchants and services. The goal is simple: help users
complete everyday transactions more easily, while keeping authorization,
permissions, and payment processing on trusted Paystack rails.”

As part of the controlled beta, Paystack will continue to test how users
interact with AI agents for commerce, how merchants can safely
participate in AI-led checkout experiences, and what infrastructure will
be needed as this behavior evolves.

Paystack Index is now live in Nigeria in early access, with more
features, supported merchants, billers, and African markets coming soon.

Users in Nigeria can get started with Paystack Index at
paystack.com/index [8].

6 Easy Ways To Enjoy The 2026 World Cup With Google And Gemini

Brand Spur
-
0
6 Easy Ways To Enjoy The 2026 World Cup With Google And Gemini

If there is one thing that brings everyone together across the country,
it is the beautiful game of football. The energy is always on a
different level. From the passionate debates in local viewing centers to
the excitement shared across social media, football is more than just a
sport for us—it’s a major part of how we connect and share moments
with friends and family.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026™ kicks off across North America, the
excitement is already building up everywhere. But let’s be honest:
life moves fast, and keeping up with every single goal and update can
feel like a full-time job. You don’t want to be the one asking for the
score long after the game is over.

The good news is that technology has made it easier than ever to stay in
the loop. Google and Gemini have introduced some very useful tools to
bring you right into the heart of the action, whether you’re a serious
analyst or just here for the fun. From pinning live scores to your phone
screen to using AI to see yourself as a pro player, here are 6 ways to
experience the World Cup like a boss.

1. GET MATCH UPDATES “SHARP-SHARP” ON YOUR SCREEN

We’ve all been in that situation where we are busy with other things
but dying to know the latest score. You don’t need to keep searching and
refreshing heavy pages that drain your data. Now, when you search for
soccer, it’s much faster to see real-time information about the game,
including visuals for live scores, lineups, and current standings.

The best part is the pinning feature. You can actually pin a match’s
live score directly to your Android or iOS device’s lock screen just
by following that match or team. This means you can see the score at a
glance without even needing to unlock your phone. You’ll even get
updates before the match starts and after it ends.

How to set it up: Search for your favorite team or a specific match on
Google and tap the option to “follow” them. This pins the score to your
lock screen so you get updates automatically before and after each game.

Asset here [1]. Full video here [2]

2. SETTLE THE ARGUMENTS WITH AI

Arguments about football rules or player stats are a huge part of the
fun. Instead of going back and forth with friends, let AI Mode in Search
give you the facts. You can use AI Mode for all sorts of things, from
asking complex questions about specific rules to finding deep details
about players and teams.

If you’re trying to understand a coach’s strategy, you can ask AI
Mode to create an interactive visual for you—for instance, a breakdown
of soccer formations and when a coach might use them. While these
interactive features are for Pro and Ultra subscribers now, they will be
free for everyone in Search by the summer.

How to use it: Open Google Search and type your deep football questions
directly into the prompt bar. You can then specifically ask it to
“create an interactive visual” to help explain things like team
formations.

3. FIND THE PERFECT PLACE TO WATCH WITH “ASK MAPS”

Sometimes the best way to watch a match is at a viewing party with other
fans. If you’re looking for a great spot to join the fun, the Ask Maps
feature is here to help. You can just type something like, “Find me a
reservation for 4 at 7:30 p.m., somewhere I can watch the World Cup
match and meet other fans.”

To help you get there on time, Google Maps and Waze provide the latest
information on road closures and transit routes so you can navigate the
games with confidence. Also, for the first time on Waze, you can see
live score updates at a glance whenever your car is at a stop.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/airtel-nigeria-unveils-120-million-data-centre-plan-in-lagos-to-boost-ai-infrastructure-in-2026/

How to use it: In the Google Maps app, use the “Ask Maps” feature to
request a reservation at a place specifically for watching the match. If
you are driving with Waze, simply bring your car to a stop to see live
scores on your dashboard.

Asset here [3]. Video here [4]

4. CATCH UP ON THE LATEST GIST EVERY MORNING

For those who can’t stay up late to watch every game, there’s a
perfect way to wake up to the news. If you have a Gemini Plus, Pro, or
Ultra subscription, you can use Scheduled Actions to receive a daily
summary of international soccer news.

This summary is completely tailored to you. You can customize the
briefing to focus only on your favorite teams and players, and choose
exactly when you want it delivered.

How to set it up: Open Gemini Settings, tap “Scheduled actions,” and
select the soccer news digest template. Customize it with your team
names and your preferred time to receive your summary every day.

Asset here [5]

5. BECOME THE STAR OF YOUR OWN MATCH PHOTOS

Ever wondered what you would look like as a professional football star?
The new Nano Banana templates in the Gemini app let you put yourself
right into the action. You just upload a photo of yourself to these
custom scenes, and you can see yourself celebrating in a massive stadium
or making a hero’s diving goal-line save.

The generated image will even show you wearing your country’s colors
or the official jersey. These fun templates are rolling out in the
“Images” tab in Gemini.

How to use it: In the Gemini app, go to the “Images” tab, tap the “+”
icon, and click “Create image.” Upload your photo to one of the custom
soccer scenes to see yourself repped in the official jersey.

Asset here [6]

6. GET THE FULL MATCH EXPERIENCE IN ONE PLACE

Finally, Gemini can now act as your personal dashboard for the entire
tournament. The app references live match information and news to give
you the latest scores, highlights, and standings as they happen.

For many topics, Gemini goes beyond just text by creating visual
elements like stats, images, and videos. This transforms a simple
response into a dynamic “Matchday Hub” where you can see all the action
at once.

How to use it: Ask Gemini for a match update or current standings to
automatically open your “Matchday Hub.” The app will immediately show
you a mix of live scores, highlights, and stats for the game you asked
about.

Asset here [7]
The World Cup is all about sharing the excitement, and with these Google
and Gemini tools, you won’t miss a beat. Whether you’re pinning live
scores to your screen or seeing yourself in the official jersey,
there’s a tool for every fan. Set up your updates, grab your friends,
and get ready for a month of pure football magic. No stress, just vibes!

6 Easy Ways To Enjoy The 2026 World Cup With Google And Gemini6 Easy Ways To Enjoy The 2026 World Cup With Google And Gemini6 Easy Ways To Enjoy The 2026 World Cup With Google And Gemini

Airtel Nigeria Unveils $120 Million Data Centre Plan In Lagos To Boost AI Infrastructure In 2026

Brand Spur
-
0
Airtel Nigeria Unveils $120 Million Data Centre Plan In Lagos To Boost AI Infrastructure In 2026

Airtel Nigeria is preparing a major expansion into digital infrastructure with plans to invest $120 million in the construction of a 38-megawatt data centre in Eko Atlantic, Lagos, as competition intensifies around artificial intelligence and high-capacity computing across Africa.

The planned facility is expected to rank among the largest data centre developments in Nigeria and is being positioned to support growing demand for AI processing power, enterprise digital services and advanced computing workloads across regional markets.

The project signals a deeper shift in strategy among telecom operators seeking to strengthen their role beyond connectivity into core technology infrastructure. Brandspur Brand News understands that the planned investment reflects rising demand for local processing capacity as businesses increasingly adopt cloud technologies and AI-driven applications.

According to details circulating around the proposed development, the Lagos-based facility is expected to combine hyperscale capability with edge infrastructure architecture to improve performance, reduce latency and support large-scale digital operations across key African economies.

The move also highlights evolving competitive priorities within Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, where operators are increasingly differentiating through infrastructure choices and long-term technology positioning.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/cbn-orders-immediate-freeze-of-accounts-linked-to-six-individuals-four-bdc-operators-over-terror-financing-allegations/

Industry analysts have identified computing infrastructure as a critical requirement for accelerating artificial intelligence adoption and enabling local innovation ecosystems. Increased domestic capacity could reduce dependence on offshore infrastructure while improving resilience for enterprise and public-sector users.

The investment aligns with broader conversations around strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy and expanding infrastructure required to support data-intensive technologies.

Eko Atlantic has continued to attract interest for large-scale commercial and technology projects because of its positioning as a modern business district with capacity for advanced infrastructure deployment.

If executed as outlined, the development could expand Nigeria’s data centre footprint, strengthen regional digital competitiveness and support increasing demand for scalable computing services across multiple sectors of the economy.

The proposed investment further reflects growing confidence in Nigeria’s long-term technology market as telecom operators pursue new growth opportunities tied to data, cloud services and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

CBN Orders Immediate Freeze Of Accounts Linked To Six Individuals, Four BDC Operators Over Terror Financing Allegations

Brand Spur
-
0
CBN Orders Immediate Freeze Of Accounts Linked To Six Individuals, Four BDC Operators Over Terror Financing Allegations

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed banks, payment service banks and other regulated financial institutions across the country to immediately freeze all accounts, assets and financial transactions connected to six individuals and four Bureau De Change (BDC) operators named in an updated terrorism financing sanctions framework.

The directive, issued through an official circular dated June 24, 2026, takes effect immediately and forms part of broader efforts to tighten anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing controls within Nigeria’s financial system.

Under the latest sanctions update, institutions supervised by the CBN have been instructed to identify and restrict access to financial assets belonging to affected persons and entities, including accounts held directly or indirectly through ownership structures and affiliated businesses. Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the sanctions enforcement also extends to organisations determined to be substantially controlled by designated parties.

The action follows updates to the Nigeria Sanctions List and additional measures connected to international counter-terror financing frameworks coordinated with foreign regulatory authorities. Financial institutions have been instructed to act without prior notification to affected customers once qualifying accounts or economic resources are identified.

The individuals named in the sanctions update include Muktar Muhammad Adamu, Babangida Muhammed Adamu Hammajam, Abdullahi Umar Usman, Ibrahim Abubakar, Adamu Chiroma and Yakubu Ogirima Ibrahim.

Authorities also identified four Nigeria-based money service businesses and BDC operators as entities linked to the designated persons. They include Generation Currency Bureau De Change Limited, Manhattan Bureau De Change Limited, Nine to Nine Exchange Bureau De Change Limited and Abbal Bako & Sons Bureau De Change Limited.

Banks and financial institutions have been directed to immediately review existing customer records, beneficial ownership data and transaction activity against updated sanctions databases and known aliases to detect possible matches.

Where a match is confirmed, institutions must freeze affected assets and prevent any form of financial access, transfer of value or provision of economic resources to the sanctioned parties.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/kenya-high-court-halts-diageos-ksh340-billion-eabl-stake-sale-to-asahi-in-latest-2026-legal-twist/

Regulated institutions are additionally required to file Suspicious Transaction Reports with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) once suspicious links are established and submit compliance updates to the CBN within 48 hours, including details of frozen balances and remedial actions taken.

Financial institutions that do not identify affected accounts are still expected to submit nil returns to demonstrate compliance with the directive.

The regulator also instructed banks to conduct retrospective transaction reviews to determine whether any previous financial activity involved the sanctioned individuals or associated entities.

The latest enforcement move comes shortly after United States authorities imposed sanctions on one of the listed BDC operators and associated businesses over allegations of facilitating financial transfers connected to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Nigeria’s financial regulators have increasingly intensified oversight of foreign exchange intermediaries and money service operators in recent years as part of wider efforts to strengthen transparency, reduce illicit financial flows and improve compliance standards across the banking ecosystem.

Industry observers say the development reinforces the CBN’s long-standing preference for stronger institutional monitoring and stricter controls around non-bank financial channels while maintaining pressure on compliance obligations throughout the financial sector.

The apex bank warned that institutions providing inaccurate information or failing to comply with sanctions directives may face regulatory consequences under existing banking and financial laws.

Kenya High Court Halts Diageo’s KSh340 Billion EABL Stake Sale To Asahi In Latest 2026 Legal Twist

Brand Spur
-
0
Kenya High Court Halts Diageo’s KSh340 Billion EABL Stake Sale To Asahi In Latest 2026 Legal Twist

Kenya’s High Court has temporarily stopped the proposed KSh340 billion transfer of Diageo’s controlling interest in East African Breweries Limited (EABL) to Japan’s Asahi Group Holdings, introducing a fresh legal hurdle to one of East Africa’s biggest corporate transactions of the year.

The conservatory orders, issued pending full court proceedings, restrain the parties from completing, registering, implementing or giving effect to the transaction involving Diageo’s 65 per cent holding in EABL and its stake in spirits producer UDV Kenya. The ruling also preserves the current ownership and control structure until the court determines the constitutional and public interest questions raised in the petition.

The legal challenge was brought by public interest litigant Christine Irungu, who argues that minority investors were not adequately informed during Diageo’s move to increase its ownership position in EABL from approximately 50.03 per cent to 65 per cent through a tender process conducted between 2022 and 2023. Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that the petition contends the enlarged stake was later positioned for disposal without sufficient disclosure to investors and the wider market.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/peer-trust-outpaces-traditional-ads-nimn-unveils-landmark-consumer-report-as-marketers-chart-new-course/

Court filings further claim the planned sale raises wider concerns around transparency, shareholder rights, regulatory oversight and public accountability. The petitioner is seeking orders compelling disclosure of agreements, transaction records, board approvals, valuation materials, regulatory submissions and related communications tied to the proposed acquisition.

The petition also alleges that regulators may not have fully addressed questions surrounding market fairness and the implications of a control premium generated during Diageo’s earlier stake expansion. Named respondents include Diageo Kenya Limited, Diageo Plc, EABL, Asahi Group Holdings, Kenya’s Capital Markets Authority and Competition Authority, while the Law Society of Kenya has been listed as an interested party.

The latest court intervention adds another chapter to a transaction that has already faced multiple legal attempts to delay or stop completion. Several earlier cases seeking to block the deal had either lapsed or were dismissed by Kenyan courts, allowing regulatory processes to continue before this latest order reopened scrutiny around the transaction.

Diageo agreed to sell its EABL holding to Asahi as part of a broader strategy to reduce debt and refocus capital allocation, while Asahi has positioned the acquisition as a strategic expansion into East Africa’s consumer market. The deal remains one of the most closely watched corporate transactions across the region as investors await the outcome of ongoing court proceedings and regulatory reviews.

Peer Trust Outpaces Traditional Ads: NIMN Unveils Landmark Consumer Report As Marketers Chart New Course

Brand Spur
-
0
Peer Trust Outpaces Traditional Ads: NIMN Unveils Landmark Consumer Report As Marketers Chart New Course

PORT-HARCOURT, NIGERIA – June, 2026 – In a decisive pivot away
from conventional advertising, industry leaders at the 2026 Annual
Marketing Conference of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria
(NIMN) have declared community, culture, and authentic human connection
as the non-negotiable drivers of sustainable business growth. Held in
Port Harcourt under the theme _”Community, Culture and Connection:
Reimagining the New Market,”_ the conference convened Nigeria’s top
business executives, policymakers, and academics to chart a bold new
course for brand engagement in a highly fragmented, digitally connected
marketplace.

The defining moment of the conference was the unveiling of a landmark
consumer insight report, jointly developed by the Lagos Business School
(LBS) and NIMN. Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Uchenna Uzo,
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of Pan-Atlantic University, revealed
that despite economic headwinds, Nigerian consumers remains highly
aspirational, scoring an average of 7.5 out of 10 on the aspiration
index. Crucially, the data established that peer trust, community
influencers, and faith-based leaders now exert significantly more
influence on purchasing decisions than traditional advertising, forcing
brands to rethink their market approaches. He challenged organisations
to treat consistency as a strategic imperative, not a compliance
checkbox.

Addressing this shifting landscape, NIMN President and Chairman of
Council, Dr. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi, emphasized that adapting to new market
realities requires strict adherence to professional ethics and
accountability. She announced that the Institute will intensify the
enforcement of its statutory mandate, requiring all marketing
practitioners operating in Nigeria to formally register with NIMN. This
regulatory clampdown is strategically designed to weed out quackery,
elevate industry standards, and ensure that consumer engagements are
driven by credible, accountable professionals.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/stanbic-ibtc-pension-managers-champions-flexible-pension-solutions-to-deepen-inclusion/

The industry panel sharpened the discussion around implementation. Dr.
Ayo Awosika, Commercial Director of UAC Foods Limited, made the case for
culture as competitive advantage, arguing that the most differentiated
brands of the next decade will be those that embed themselves genuinely
into communities rather than simply advertising to them. From the public
sector, Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency’s
Director-General, Chief Patrick Ukah, reinforced the point with a
challenge that resonated across the room: _”The missing link is not
knowledge — it is connection.”_ Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of the
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), added that consumers are
no longer buying products alone — they are buying into the values,
purpose and stories that brands represent.

Bridging the gap between theory and industry practice, the conference
featured the Tolaram Group-sponsored Student Marketing Conference. Under
the theme _”From Classroom to Marketplace,”_ marketing students from
across the federation competed in strategic marketing drills. Adajine
Josiah Omeiza, a 300-level student from the University of Port Harcourt,
emerged as the overall winner, clinching the title of _2026 NIMN
Market-Ready Marketer_. He walked away with a ₦150,000 cash prize and
a fast-tracked employment contract with Tolaram Group, underscoring
NIMN’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of marketing
talent.

The landmark event concluded with the successful 2026 Council Elections
during the Annual General Meeting, ushering in new leadership to drive
the Institute’s strategic vision. Dr. Yakasai Ibrahim Yusuf, fnimn,
and Dr. Chidi Nwankpa Sylvanus, fnimn, secured decisive victories as
First and Second Vice Presidents, respectively, alongside seven newly
elected Council representatives. Together, this new leadership team is
tasked with advancing ongoing reforms, deepening industry-academia
collaboration, and positioning NIMN for greater impact across Nigeria’s
evolving economic ecosystem.

About NIMN

The Nigerian Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) is the statutory
regulatory body for the marketing profession in Nigeria. The Institute
is responsible for regulating, controlling, and determining the
standards of knowledge, skills, and practice required of marketing
professionals while promoting ethical conduct, professional excellence,
and industry development.

L-R: Council Members Adejoke Ishola, 2nd Vice President Dr Chidi
Nwankpa, Mrs Benita Adelore,  Immediate Past 2nd Vice President,  Mr Walter Okafor, Mr Hope Gbagi, Dr Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi President and
Chairman of Council, Immediate Past President, President, Mr Idy Enang, Thelma Okoh, Registrar and Secretary to Council,  Mrs Gloria Otakagu, Mr Ayoola Akomolafe and Ms Sandra Amachree at  the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria(NIMN) Annual Marketing Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

 

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Champions Flexible Pension Solutions To Deepen Inclusion

Brand Spur
-
0
Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Champions Flexible Pension Solutions To Deepen Inclusion

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings
PLC, is driving awareness and adoption of innovative pension solutions
introduced by the National Pension Commission (PenCom). These
initiatives, the Personal Pension Plan (PPP) and the Foreign Currency
Pension Plan (FCY) are designed to expand access to retirement savings,
preserve long-term value, and enhance financial security for Nigerians.

These initiatives reflect a broader effort to deepen financial inclusion
and adapt retirement planning to the evolving realities of today’s
workforce, where income patterns are increasingly flexible and, in many
cases, global.

The Personal Pension Plan (PPP) offers individuals a simple and flexible
way to retire on their own terms, regardless of employment status.
Contributors can save at their own pace and access up to 50% of their
contributions after a short period to meet urgent needs, while the
remaining portion is preserved for long-term security and accessible as
a lump sum when they retire. This makes the plan particularly relevant
for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and individuals in the informal sector.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/fidelity-bank-empowers-plateau-schoolchildren-with-school-packs-donation/

The Foreign Currency Pension Plan (FCY) framework enables individuals
earning in foreign currencies to contribute directly. By allowing
savings to be held and withdrawn in dollars, the initiative helps
protect the retirement funds against exchange rate volatility and
preserves value for  customers.

Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension
Managers, Olumide Oyetan, said: “These solutions are designed to make
retirement planning more accessible and relevant for every Nigerian,
regardless of how they earn. By combining flexibility with value
protection, we are empowering individuals to take control of their
financial future while ensuring long-term security.”

Through these initiatives, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers continues to
reinforce its commitment to delivering secure, professionally managed,
and inclusive retirement solutions for individuals and organisations.

Customers are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities by
opening a Personal Pension Plan or contributing in foreign currency,
where applicable, by visiting any Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers branch
or the official website: www.stanbicibtcpension.com [1].

Fidelity Bank Empowers Plateau Schoolchildren With School Packs Donation

Brand Spur
-
0
Fidelity Bank Empowers Plateau Schoolchildren With School Packs Donation

In a significant demonstration of its commitment to the development of education and community empowerment, Fidelity Bank Plc has donated back-to-school packs to school pupils in Plateau State.

The intervention, which took place in Jos, saw over 600 randomly selected pupils drawn from all 17 Local Government Areas of the state benefit from the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Each pupil received a school bag containing exercise books, writing materials, a mathematical set, and a water bottle, in a gesture designed to support their learning journey and encourage academic excellence.

The initiative was facilitated by staff of Fidelity Bank’s University of Jos Branch, reflecting the bank’s culture of giving back to the communities it serves through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), a key feature of the bank’s CSR strategy. Through the programme, staff identify impactful community projects and raise funds to support them, while the bank’s management matches their contributions to expand the reach and impact of each intervention.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, said the initiative underscores the bank’s unwavering commitment to education as a catalyst for national development. “Investing in young people is one of the most impactful ways to build a brighter future, as education equips children with the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities needed to contribute meaningfully to society.

Nwagboh further stated that the intervention reflects Fidelity Bank’s broader commitment to social impact and sustainable community development through initiatives that improve lives and create long-term value. He emphasized that the Bank remains dedicated to empowering future generations through education-focused programs and encouraged the pupils to remain diligent in their studies, reminding them that their aspirations are valid and that the future of Nigeria rests in the hands of well-educated, determined, and inspired young people.

Also speaking at the presentation event, Shunom Leo, Branch Leader, Fidelity Bank, University of Jos Branch, whose team championed the intervention, said the initiative reflects the bank’s dedication to nurturing future leaders.

“This is more than a donation of school items. It is a deliberate investment in the future of Plateau State and in the promise these children represent. Across Nigeria, Fidelity Bank has remained committed to projects that improve lives, support education and strengthen communities,” Leo said.

Representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Plateau State Governor, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms. Caroline Dafur, commended Fidelity Bank and Plateau State Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) office for what she described as a timely and meaningful investment in children.

“Let me sincerely appreciate Fidelity Bank and the Plateau State SDGs office for organizing this memorable ‘back-to-school’ campaign. This gesture of distributing school bags and learning equipment to our pupils is more than charity; it is an investment in the future of Plateau children,” Dafur said.

She further reaffirmed the Plateau State Government’s commitment to prioritizing education, healthcare, social protection, and the overall wellbeing of children, while calling for increased collaborations to ensure sustained development.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/25/mastercard-commits-2-billion-annual-fx-support-to-nigeria-unveils-digital-training-plan-for-five-million-small-businesses/

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Nanbam Danjuma-Lot, Project Coordinator of the Plateau State SDGs, applauded Fidelity Bank for partnering with the agency to positively impact the lives of children across the state, stating that, “Partnerships such as this demonstrate the power of collaboration in addressing societal challenges. Fidelity Bank has shown commendable leadership by investing in the future of our children, and we hope more organizations will follow this example by contributing meaningfully to their host communities.”

Similarly, Mr. Sunday Amuna, Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), described the intervention as a foundation-laying initiative that would have long-term benefits for the beneficiaries.

“The strength and durability of any structure depend largely on its foundation, the foundation we give these children today will determine the stability of their future. Fidelity Bank has made a meaningful contribution to that foundation and we commend the bank for this impactful intervention,” he said.

Notably, the donation also benefited physically challenged children with varying degrees of disability, reinforcing Fidelity Bank’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities for all.

Through initiatives such as the FHHP, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering communities, supporting education and contributing to sustainable development across Nigeria.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving more than 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international awards, including the 2025 Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Innovation Award for MSME support; Best Retail and SME Bank Award from Independent Newspapers; Best Bank for Export & Trade Finance and Most Innovative Bank of the Year at the 2025 BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; and Nigeria’s Best Private Bank at the 2025 Euromoney Awards. The Bank also received the inaugural Most Improved Commercial Bank of the Year award by Nairametrics, the SME Bank of the Year award by NewsDirect, and the Straight-Through Processing (STP) Excellence Award by Citi Group, in addition to recognition by Global Brands Magazine for Excellence in Community Empowerment.

1...181920...3,969Page 19 of 3,969