George Ugbegua Honoured As CEO Of The Year For Digital Innovation & Creative Leadership At Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2026

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George Ugbegua Honoured As CEO Of The Year For Digital Innovation & Creative Leadership At Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2026

Dashboard Innovations is pleased to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, George Ugbegua, has been named CEO of the Year – Digital Innovation & Creative Leadership at the recently concluded Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2026, one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for recognizing excellence in branding, innovation, leadership, and business transformation.

The prestigious recognition celebrates George Ugbegua’s outstanding contributions to digital innovation, strategic leadership, and his commitment to building a forward-looking organization that leverages technology and creativity to drive growth and deliver exceptional value to customers.

The award was presented during the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards 2026, which brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, marketing professionals, and innovators from across various sectors to discuss emerging trends and recognize individuals and organizations making significant impact in their respective fields.

Reacting to the recognition, George Ugbegua expressed gratitude to the organizers and dedicated the award to the entire Dashboard Inns team.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this award. While my name is on the plaque, this recognition belongs to every member of the Dashboard Inns family whose dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence make innovation possible every day. We have always believed that digital transformation is not merely about adopting technology; it is about creating solutions that improve experiences, increase efficiency, and unlock new opportunities for growth.”

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/15/fitc-reaffirms-commitment-to-advancing-sustainability-across-africa-ahead-of-the-2026-esg-conference/

He further noted that the recognition serves as motivation to continue pushing boundaries and exploring innovative approaches to business and customer engagement.

“This award inspires us to do even more. The future belongs to organizations that are willing to innovate, adapt, and lead with purpose. We remain committed to developing creative, technology-driven solutions that create value for our customers, partners, and stakeholders.”

Speaking on the selection of George Ugbegua for the award, the organizers of the Brand Handlers Summit & Awards stated that the recognition was based on his demonstrated ability to champion innovation while fostering a culture of creativity and excellence within his organization.

According to the organizers: “George Ugbegua exemplifies the kind of visionary leadership that is shaping the future of business in Nigeria. Through his commitment to digital innovation, strategic thinking, and creative leadership, he has positioned Dashboard Inns as a brand that embraces transformation and continuously seeks new ways to deliver value.

His achievements reflect the qualities that this award seeks to celebrate.” The organizers further highlighted that the CEO of the Year – Digital Innovation & Creative Leadership category recognizes leaders who have successfully leveraged innovation to drive organizational growth, strengthen customer engagement, and create sustainable impact within their industries.

Under George Ugbegua’s leadership, Dashboard Inns has continued to pursue innovative solutions, strengthen its market position, and embrace emerging technologies that enhance operational performance and customer satisfaction.His leadership philosophy, centered on innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, has earned him recognition among peers and industry stakeholders.

This latest accolade reinforces Dashboard Inns’ commitment to excellence and its vision of leading through innovation, creativity, and transformative leadership

FITC Reaffirms Commitment To Advancing Sustainability Across Africa Ahead Of The 2026 ESG Conference

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FITC Reaffirms Commitment To Advancing Sustainability Across Africa Ahead Of The 2026 ESG Conference

The Financial Institution Training Centre (FITC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainability, responsible business practices, and long-term value creation across Africa during a high-level press conference held ahead of the 2026 FITC Sustainability & ESG Conference 3.0, scheduled for Wednesday, July 8th, 2026, in Lagos.

The press conference brought together leading media organizations and sustainability
stakeholders to discuss the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and
Governance (ESG) principles in shaping Africa’s future. The event also provided an
opportunity to unveil key elements of the conference agenda, outline its objectives and
expected outcomes, and highlight the strategic role of sustainability in Africa’s economic
transformation.

The 2026 FITC Sustainability & ESG Conference 3.0 is themed: “Building a Sustainable Africa: Integrating Environmental Stewardship, Social Impact, and Strong Governance for a Prosperous Future.”

Over the years, sustainability has evolved from a compliance and corporate responsibility
concern into a critical business and development imperative. Across the globe,
organizations are being challenged to respond to climate change, growing stakeholder
expectations, changing regulatory environments, and increasing demands for
transparency and accountability.

For Africa, these challenges are accompanied by significant opportunities. The continent
possesses immense human capital, natural resources, entrepreneurial energy, and
innovation potential. However, unlocking these opportunities sustainably requires
deliberate action, strategic collaboration, and responsible leadership.

In her opening address, Dr. Chizor Malize, MD/CEO, FITC, gave an overview of the
conference and its relevance within today’s rapidly changing business and development
environment.

She emphasized that sustainability has become a strategic imperative for organizations
seeking long-term resilience, competitiveness, and growth. She noted that organizations must move beyond declarations and commitments to measurable implementation, stressing that sustainability strategies must be embedded within governance structures, operational frameworks, investment decisions, and organizational culture.

Dr. Malize further explained that the conference seeks to equip leaders with practical
insights, actionable frameworks, and collaborative opportunities needed to drive
meaningful ESG outcomes.

Delivering the welcome address on behalf of Ayotola Jagun, Executive Director,
Oando Plc, and Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, James Adenuga, Group Chief, HSSE & Sustainability Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing sustainability challenges and unlocking opportunities for growth across the continent. He noted that sustainability is no longer the responsibility of a single sector or institution but a shared responsibility requiring active participation from businesses, governments, regulators, investors, civil society organizations, and development partners.

According to him, sustainable development can only be achieved when stakeholders work
together to create systems and solutions capable of delivering long-term value for both
present and future generations.

Speaking on the upcoming conference, Dooyum Okwong, Head, Insights & Policy
Advocacy, FITC, highlighted that the conference is designed to facilitate meaningful
dialogue and encourage practical action around some of Africa’s most pressing
sustainability priorities.

She outlined the industry thought leaders who are on the line up as speakers at the
conference, the FITC Sustainability & ESG Institute Advisory Board comprises
distinguished leaders including Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, SAN, Senior Partner, Kenna
Partners and Chairman, Guinness Nigeria PLC; Dr. Chizor Malize, MD/CEO, FITC;
Soromidayo George, Director, Corporate Affairs & Sustainable Business; Dr. Ndidi
Nnoli-Edozien, Member, International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB); Dr.
Henrietta Onwueguzia, Director, Business Innovation Accelerator; Olufemi
Shobanjo, Chief Executive Officer, NGX Regulation Limited; Olufemi Awoyemi,
Board Chairman, Proshare Nigeria; Tinuade Awe, Experienced Attorney and
Governance Consultant; and Osayi Alile, Chief Executive Officer, Aspire Coronation
Trust (ACT) Foundation.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/15/pmi-cannes-lions-launch-global-educators-forum-for-students/

The distinguished Planning Committee comprises sustainability and ESG practitioners
and industry thought leaders, including: Ayotola O. Jagun, Executive Director, Oando
Plc; Dr. Chizor Malize, MD/CEO, FITC; Soromidayo George, Director, Corporate
Affairs & Sustainable Development, Coca-Cola HBC Nigeria; Prof. Kenneth Amaeshi,
Chair in Sustainable Finance & Governance; Olufemi Shobanjo, CEO, NGX Regulation
Limited; Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs, Seplat Energy; Titilope Oguntuga,
Director, Sustainability IHS Towers; Lolade Awogbade, Green Growth Advisor, FCDO;
Ebisan Akinsanya, Coordinator, Corporate Responsibility & National Programs,
Chevron; Chinwe Ifechiga, Social Performance Advisor, Total Energies; James
Adenuga, Group Chief HSE & Sustainability Officer, Dangote Industries Limited;
Oreoluwa Famurewa, Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, Friesland Campina;
Osayi Alile, Chief Executive Officer, Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation.
The FITC Sustainability & ESG Conference has evolved into one of Africa’s leading
platforms for sustainability dialogue and ESG thought leadership.

This year’s edition is expected to attract sustainability practitioners, corporate executives,
board members, policymakers, regulators, development finance institutions, investors,
multilateral organizations, academic institutions, professional service providers, civil
society organizations. The conference is designed to create opportunities for cross-sector engagement while facilitating conversations that are practical, implementation-focused,
and outcome-driven.

A major focus of the press conference was the strategic importance of sustainability to
Africa’s future development.

The speakers noted that Africa faces a unique combination of opportunities and
challenges. While the continent contributes relatively little to global emissions, it remains
disproportionately vulnerable to climate-related risks, including flooding, droughts, food
insecurity, and resource pressures.

At the same time, Africa possesses significant potential to become a global leader in
renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green infrastructure, circular economy
solutions, and impact-driven entrepreneurship.

Attendees agreed that achieving sustainable growth requires deliberate efforts to align
economic development objectives with environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and
governance effectiveness.

The conference is therefore positioned as a platform for identifying practical pathways
toward achieving these goals. Key discussions at the press conference centered on the core pillars of ESG – environmental stewardship, social impact, and governance – as critical drivers of sustainable development across Africa. Speakers highlighted the importance of climate resilience, resource efficiency, sustainable investment, and strategic social initiatives in creating long-term value for businesses and communities. The discussions also emphasized the growing role of green finance in mobilizing capital for sustainable projects and the need for stronger collaboration among governments, financial institutions, investors, and development partners. Additionally, participants underscored the importance of strong governance, ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability in building resilient institutions and fostering sustainable growth and stakeholder trust. The event attracted strong participation from members of the media, reflecting growing
interest in sustainability and ESG-related issues.

Journalists engaged speakers on topics ranging from ESG reporting and climate action to
governance practices and sustainable investment opportunities. The discussions underscored the increasingly important role of the media in raising awareness, driving accountability, and promoting informed conversations around sustainability.
As preparations continue for the 2026 FITC Sustainability & ESG Conference 3.0, FITC
remains committed to creating a platform that supports learning, collaboration,
innovation, and action.

The conference aims to inspire organizations and leaders to rethink traditional approaches, embrace sustainability as a strategic imperative, and contribute meaningfully to building a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Africa.Registration remains open. Interested participants can register via the conference registration page – https://fitc-ng.com/esg-conference-2026/ or visit FITC website.

PMI, Cannes Lions Launch Global Educators Forum For Students

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PMI, Cannes Lions Launch Global Educators Forum For Students

Project Management Institute (PMI), the leading authority in project success, has announced its partnership with Cannes Lions to launch the LIONS Educators Forum, a global initiative designed to connect academia with creative industries and better prepare students for the evolving world of work.

In a statement released to the media in Lagos, the organization said that, the Forum responds to a growing need for closer alignment between what is taught in classrooms and the skills required in today’s rapidly changing, AI-enabled economy.

As creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability become increasingly critical across every profession, educators and industry leaders have an opportunity to work together to ensure students are equipped to thrive,” the statement added.

Addressing the areas the educstirs forum will focus on, Menaka Gopinath, Chief Marketing Officer at PMI, said “The LIONS Educators Forum will focus on two core areas: developing future-ready curricula and strengthening pathways between education and employment. Through curated discussions, shared insights, and ongoing collaboration, the Forum aims to equip educators with the tools, knowledge, and industry access needed to better prepare students for creative careers.

Educators from around the world are invited to join a growing global network built on collaboration, where best practice is shared openly, ideas are challenged, and the collective goal is to better prepare the next generation for success,” she added.

The Forum will be chaired by Vann Graves, Executive Director of VCU Brandcenter, and guided by a leadership team from Cannes Lions.

The programme will consist of three core components: Global Roundtables: Two virtual roundtables each year, one in Spring and one in Autumn, bringing together educators and industry leaders to explore key challenges and opportunities.

Cannes Lions In-Person Forum: A dedicated programme during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity from 22 to 26 June 2026, hosted at the PMI Cabana and offering educators direct access to industry insights and global best practice.

Year-Round Network: An ongoing global community where educators and industry professionals can connect, share resources, and collaborate throughout the year.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/federal-government-may-begin-paying-salaries-and-pensions-through-enaira-by-2028/

Steve Latham, Global Head of Strategic Learning Initiatives at Cannes Lions, said, “Creativity is now one of the most important skills in the global economy, yet the connection between education and industry has never been more critical. The LIONS Educators Forum is designed to close that gap by creating a space where educators and industry leaders can collaborate, share insights, and shape the future together.”

As Founding Partner, PMI will help shape the Forum’s agenda by bringing a critical perspective on the skills students will need to succeed in an AI-enabled workplace. As technology accelerates change across every profession, project management has become an essential capability for turning ideas into outcomes, helping people navigate uncertainty, build resilience, collaborate across disciplines, and lead complex systems of work.

Menaka said, “The future of work will reward people who can do more than generate ideas. We need to equip students and the educators who guide them with the skills to bring people together, make sense of complexity, and turn creative ambition into real-world impact. Through the LIONS Educators Forum, PMI is proud to help prepare the next generation with the capabilities to not only imagine what is possible, but to make it happen.”

PMI works with thousands of academic institutions worldwide, equipping educators and students with industry-aligned tools that help turn ideas into outcomes, an essential capability in today’s creative economy.

The LIONS Educators Forum is part of Cannes Lions’ broader commitment to supporting lifelong learning and creative excellence across the global marketing and communications industry

Federal Government May Begin Paying Salaries And Pensions Through eNaira By 2028

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Federal Government May Begin Paying Salaries And Pensions Through eNaira By 2028

Nigeria could move closer to a fully digital public payment system by 2028, with salaries and pension payments potentially being disbursed directly through the eNaira platform under a model that would significantly expand the role of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in retail financial transactions.

The development would represent a major milestone for the eNaira initiative, Nigeria’s central bank digital currency (CBDC), which was introduced in 2021 as part of efforts to modernise the country’s payment ecosystem, promote financial inclusion, and strengthen digital transactions.

If implemented on a nationwide scale, the framework would enable the Federal Government to transfer salaries, pensions, and other approved payments directly into eNaira wallets maintained by individuals. Such a system would reduce reliance on traditional banking channels for government disbursements and create a more direct payment relationship between the CBN and beneficiaries. Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the proposal could reshape the structure of public-sector payments and digital finance in Nigeria.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/japan-loneliness-crisis-deepens-as-nearly-77000-people-are-found-dead-alone-in-2025/

Under the arrangement, eNaira wallets would operate independently of conventional bank accounts, meaning commercial banks would have limited involvement in the management or movement of funds held within the digital currency platform. This could alter aspects of the existing banking model, particularly in areas related to deposit mobilisation and payment processing.

The eNaira was launched to provide a secure digital version of the national currency while improving transaction efficiency and expanding access to formal financial services. Over the years, the platform has undergone gradual development as regulators explore additional use cases across government and private-sector transactions.

Analysts note that direct digital payments could improve transparency, reduce transaction bottlenecks, and enhance the efficiency of government disbursement programmes. The model could also support broader financial inclusion objectives by providing individuals with access to digital wallets without depending entirely on traditional banking infrastructure.

However, the transition would require extensive technological readiness, public adoption, cybersecurity safeguards, and regulatory coordination to ensure smooth implementation. Questions surrounding interoperability, consumer protection, and the future role of commercial banks would also remain central to policy discussions.

As Nigeria continues to expand its digital finance ecosystem, the potential use of eNaira for salaries and pensions signals a significant shift in how government payments may be delivered, positioning the country among a growing number of jurisdictions exploring wider applications for central bank digital currencies.

Japan Loneliness Crisis Deepens As Nearly 77,000 People Are Found Dead Alone In 2025

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Japan Loneliness Crisis Deepens As Nearly 77,000 People Are Found Dead Alone In 2025

Japan’s growing loneliness crisis has reached a disturbing milestone, with nearly 77,000 people reportedly discovered dead alone in their homes in 2025, highlighting the social consequences of the country’s ageing population, shrinking households, and increasing social isolation.

The phenomenon, widely associated with individuals dying unnoticed and remaining undiscovered for extended periods, has become one of the most visible signs of a broader challenge confronting Japanese society. The issue is drawing renewed attention from policymakers, community organisations, and social welfare advocates seeking solutions to rising levels of isolation across different age groups.

While older adults remain among the most vulnerable, recent data indicate that loneliness is no longer confined to the elderly. Brandspur Brand News reports that government surveys have identified significant levels of persistent loneliness among people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, reflecting the growing impact of demanding work schedules, changing family structures, and weakening social connections.

Japan’s demographic realities continue to intensify the problem. Nearly one-third of the country’s population is now aged 65 or older, making it one of the world’s oldest societies. As younger people relocate to major cities in search of employment opportunities, many elderly residents are left living alone with limited family interaction and support.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/nafdac-issues-2026-alert-as-90000-bottles-of-childrens-ibuprofen-recalled-over-contamination-risk/

The challenge has also exposed the limitations of traditional social networks that once provided companionship and community engagement. In response, local organisations and businesses have begun developing innovative approaches to support isolated residents.

Some delivery service operators have evolved beyond their commercial roles by providing regular social contact for elderly customers and alerting authorities when unusual situations arise. These interactions have become an important welfare mechanism in communities where many seniors live independently.

Neighbourhood-based programmes have also emerged as part of efforts to reduce isolation. Community centres and local groups are organising recreational activities, exercise sessions, creative workshops, and social gatherings designed to encourage participation and strengthen interpersonal connections.

Experts warn that prolonged loneliness can have significant implications for mental health, physical wellbeing, healthcare costs, and broader economic productivity. The crisis has therefore become both a social and public policy concern requiring long-term intervention.

As Japan continues to grapple with demographic decline and changing social dynamics, the country’s experience is increasingly being viewed as a case study for other nations facing ageing populations and evolving patterns of social isolation in the modern era.

NAFDAC Issues 2026 Alert As 90,000 Bottles Of Children’s Ibuprofen Recalled Over Contamination Risk

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NAFDAC Issues 2026 Alert As 90,000 Bottles Of Children’s Ibuprofen Recalled Over Contamination Risk

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted healthcare providers, importers, distributors, retailers, and parents following the recall of approximately 90,000 bottles of Children’s Ibuprofen Oral Suspension in the United States over concerns about contamination with foreign materials.

The safety notification follows a recall initiated after reports from consumers who discovered unusual particles and abnormal substances inside the medicine, raising concerns about product quality and safety. The affected product is a children’s pain and fever medication commonly used to manage symptoms associated with colds, flu, sore throat, headaches, and toothaches.

Although the recalled medicine was distributed within the United States, Nigerian health authorities have moved to prevent any affected batches from entering the local supply chain through authorised or unauthorised channels. Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that NAFDAC has directed its officials across the country to intensify market surveillance and remove the product if discovered in circulation.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/kuwait-suspends-commercial-visit-visas-for-all-nationalities-affecting-nigerian-business-travellers/

The recalled product is Children’s Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, with a strength of 100mg per 5ml and packaged in 120ml bottles. The affected batches are identified by lot numbers 7261973A and 7261974A, with an expiry date of January 31, 2027. The medicine was manufactured by Strides Pharma Inc. in India for the United States market.

Health experts warn that contamination in oral medicines may compromise effectiveness and create potential health risks, particularly for children. Depending on the nature of the foreign material, users could experience adverse reactions or other medical complications requiring professional attention.

NAFDAC advised healthcare facilities, pharmacies, distributors, and retailers to review their inventories immediately and isolate any affected stock if identified. The agency also urged consumers and caregivers to obtain medicines only from licensed and authorised sources to reduce the risk of exposure to compromised products.

Parents who may have purchased or administered the affected medicine to their children have been encouraged to discontinue use and seek medical advice if any unusual symptoms or reactions occur.

The latest alert highlights ongoing international cooperation between drug regulators and underscores NAFDAC’s efforts to strengthen medicine safety monitoring in Nigeria as authorities work to protect consumers from potentially unsafe pharmaceutical products entering the market.

Kuwait Suspends Commercial Visit Visas For All Nationalities, Affecting Nigerian Business Travellers

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Kuwait Suspends Commercial Visit Visas For All Nationalities, Affecting Nigerian Business Travellers

Kuwait has temporarily halted the issuance of Commercial Visit Visas for all foreign nationals, a decision that immediately restricts short-term business travel into the Gulf country and affects professionals, entrepreneurs, and corporate representatives from Nigeria and other nations.

The suspension means individuals seeking to enter Kuwait for business meetings, commercial engagements, investment discussions, conferences, and other short-duration professional activities will no longer be able to obtain the visa category until further notice from Kuwaiti authorities.

The development is expected to impact cross-border business operations involving foreign companies and professionals with interests in Kuwait, particularly those who rely on short-term entry permits for corporate engagements and market expansion activities. Brandspur Brand News understands that the measure applies universally and is not targeted at any specific nationality.

For Nigerian travellers, the decision creates fresh uncertainty for business executives, consultants, investors, and service providers with planned commercial visits to Kuwait. Individuals with pending travel arrangements may need to seek clarification from relevant authorities regarding alternative entry options or revised immigration requirements.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/cbn-proposes-new-rules-to-separate-banks-from-fintech-subsidiaries-in-2026/

Kuwait remains an important destination for regional trade, investment, and professional services within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. As a result, any restriction affecting business mobility is likely to have implications for companies managing international partnerships and commercial projects.

The temporary suspension comes amid ongoing efforts by several countries to review immigration procedures, strengthen compliance systems, and streamline visa administration frameworks. However, no timeline has yet been announced for the resumption of Commercial Visit Visa processing.

Industry observers note that restrictions on business travel can affect deal-making, corporate meetings, project execution, and investment-related activities, particularly for firms that depend on frequent international mobility.

Nigerian businesses and professionals planning trips to Kuwait are expected to monitor official updates closely as authorities provide further guidance on the duration of the suspension and any future changes to visa policies.

Until new directives are issued, the temporary pause effectively closes one of the primary routes used by foreign professionals seeking short-term business access to Kuwait, adding a new layer of complexity to international corporate travel in 2026.

CBN Proposes New Rules To Separate Banks From Fintech Subsidiaries In 2026

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CBN Proposes New Rules To Separate Banks From Fintech Subsidiaries In 2026

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled a proposal aimed at creating a clearer separation between banks and non-bank financial businesses operating within the same corporate groups, a move designed to strengthen governance, reduce risk exposure, and enhance financial system stability.

Under the proposed framework, banking institutions would be required to operate independently from affiliated entities such as financial technology companies and other financial service providers under their ownership structures. The initiative is expected to introduce stricter operational boundaries between regulated deposit-taking institutions and their subsidiaries.

The regulatory plan also seeks to prevent banks from deploying customer deposits and other protected funds to support the activities, investments, or obligations of related companies within their corporate groups. Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that the proposal forms part of broader efforts by the apex bank to reinforce prudential standards across Nigeria’s financial sector.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/imf-urges-nigeria-to-tax-fuel-and-telecom-services-to-boost-revenue-in-2026/

The move reflects growing regulatory attention on the evolving relationship between traditional banks and fintech businesses as digital financial services continue to expand rapidly across the country. Many banking groups have increased investments in technology-driven subsidiaries in recent years, creating more integrated financial ecosystems.

By requiring stronger institutional separation, the CBN aims to ensure that each subsidiary maintains independent financial responsibility, governance structures, and risk management systems. Industry observers say the approach could improve transparency while limiting the potential transmission of financial stress between affiliated entities.

The proposed restrictions on the use of customer funds are also expected to strengthen depositor protection by ensuring that resources held by banks are not diverted to support external ventures or non-core operations within a group structure.

Financial sector analysts note that similar regulatory safeguards exist in several jurisdictions, where banking regulators seek to ring-fence deposit-taking institutions from risks associated with related businesses operating in technology, payments, investment, or other financial services segments.

If implemented, the framework could reshape how Nigerian banking groups structure their relationships with fintech subsidiaries, potentially leading to revised governance arrangements, enhanced reporting requirements, and stronger capital management practices.

The proposal underscores the CBN’s continuing focus on maintaining financial stability while adapting regulatory oversight to the changing nature of banking and digital finance in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving financial ecosystem.

IMF Urges Nigeria To Tax Fuel And Telecom Services To Boost Revenue In 2026

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IMF Urges Nigeria To Tax Fuel And Telecom Services To Boost Revenue In 2026

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised Nigeria to consider new taxes on fuel products and telecommunications services as part of a broader strategy to strengthen public finances and expand government revenue.

The recommendation forms part of the IMF’s 2026 assessment of Nigeria’s economy, where the institution noted that additional fiscal measures may be required to support government spending, social welfare programmes, and long-term economic development despite ongoing tax reforms.

The Fund argued that Nigeria’s recent tax overhaul represents a significant step toward improving revenue collection but maintained that further policy adjustments may be necessary to close fiscal gaps and reduce pressure on public finances.

According to the IMF, potential measures include extending Value Added Tax (VAT) coverage to fuel products, introducing excise duties on telecommunications services, reviewing existing tax exemptions, and streamlining customs-related incentives. Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the proposed reforms are intended to broaden the tax base and improve revenue generation over the medium term.

The Washington-based lender, however, stressed that any new tax measures should be introduced carefully, taking into account the country’s rising cost of living, food insecurity concerns, and the need to protect vulnerable households through effective social support systems.

The proposal is expected to reignite debate over taxation in key sectors of the economy. Previous attempts to impose excise charges on telecom services faced strong resistance from industry operators and consumer groups, who argued that additional taxes would increase service costs for subscribers.

Industry stakeholders have consistently maintained that telecom companies already contend with multiple levies, infrastructure challenges, foreign exchange volatility, and elevated operating expenses, making new taxes potentially burdensome for both businesses and consumers.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/opay-partners-dolly-children-foundation-to-commission-clean-future-project-in-ogun-state/

Fuel-related taxation proposals have also generated concerns among labour unions and private-sector organisations, particularly following subsidy removal reforms that contributed to higher transportation and living costs nationwide.

The IMF estimates that revenue-enhancing tax measures could generate additional government income equivalent to 3.9 per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product within three years. A higher VAT rate was identified as one of the most significant potential contributors to revenue growth.

Other proposed reforms include adjustments to capital gains taxation, changes to personal income tax structures, the review of investment incentives, and the implementation of a minimum tax framework for large multinational companies.

The Fund also highlighted the importance of improving tax administration, arguing that stronger compliance systems, digital invoicing, expanded taxpayer registration, and better enforcement mechanisms could deliver substantial gains without relying solely on new taxes.

While some recently enacted tax reforms may reduce revenue in the short term by offering relief to households and small businesses, the IMF projects that the combined effect of policy reforms and administrative improvements could significantly strengthen Nigeria’s revenue position over the coming years.

The institution concluded that enhanced revenue mobilisation remains critical as the country seeks to finance development priorities, strengthen social safety nets, and maintain fiscal sustainability amid ongoing economic challenges.

Opay Partners Dolly Children Foundation To Commission Clean Future Project In Ogun State

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Opay Partners Dolly Children Foundation To Commission Clean Future Project In Ogun State

OPay Digital Services Limited (OPay), one of Nigeria’s leading financial
technology companies, has partnered with Dolly Children Foundation (DCF)
to commission the OPay Clean Future Project, a community-focused
intervention aimed at improving sanitation facilities and enhancing the
learning environment for students at Ebenezer Grammar School, Iberekodo,
Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The project, scheduled for commissioning on Thursday, June 18, 2026,
will deliver a newly constructed four-unit toilet facility that provides
students with access to safe, clean, and dignified sanitation services.
In addition, beneficiaries will receive essential educational materials,
including school bags and school sandals, to support their academic
journey and overall well-being.

The initiative reflects OPay’s commitment to creating positive social
impact through strategic partnerships that address critical community
needs while improving the quality of life for children and young people.
Implemented by Dolly Children Foundation, the OPay Clean Future Project
seeks to address one of the fundamental challenges faced by many schools
across Nigeria: access to adequate sanitation facilities. By providing a
safe and hygienic environment, the project is expected to contribute to
improved health outcomes, increased student confidence, and a more
conducive atmosphere for learning.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/14/golden-terra-oil-launches-get-gold-promo/

Speaking on the partnership, Adedolapo Osuntuyi, Executive Director and
Founder of Dolly Children Foundation, said: “_We are delighted to
partner with OPay on the Clean Future Project, an initiative that will
provide students with a safer and more dignified learning environment.
Access to proper sanitation is fundamental to every child’s well-being
and educational experience. Through this intervention, we are addressing
a critical need within the school community while creating a healthier
and more conducive atmosphere for students to learn, grow, and thrive.
This project reflects our shared commitment to improving the lives of
children in underserved communities and investing in their future.”_
Adedolapo Osuntuyi further commended OPay for its commitment to
community development and social impact, noting that the OPay Clean
Future Project would leave a lasting legacy within the school community
and significantly improve the learning experience and well-being of
students.
The commissioning ceremony is expected to bring together representatives
of OPay, Dolly Children Foundation, school management, government
officials, community leaders, development partners, and other
stakeholders to celebrate the completion of the project and its
anticipated impact on students and the wider community.

For many students, access to safe and clean toilet facilities remains a
critical factor in maintaining good health, dignity, and consistent
school attendance. The OPay Clean Future Project demonstrates how
strategic collaboration between the private sector and non-profit
organizations can address practical challenges within schools while
creating meaningful and lasting impact.

Since its inception, Dolly Children Foundation has positively impacted
more than 25,000 children across 29 underserved communities through
programmes focused on education, mentorship, healthcare support, child
welfare, and community development. The Foundation remains committed to
creating opportunities that empower vulnerable children and improve
outcomes for future generations.

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