Stanbic IBTC Partners KASEDA To Celebrate MSMEs In Katsina, Reinforces Commitment To Small Business Growth

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Stanbic IBTC Partners KASEDA To Celebrate MSMEs In Katsina, Reinforces Commitment To Small Business Growth

Katsina, Nigeria; 2026 — Stanbic IBTC, a member of Standard
Bank Group, partnered with the Katsina State Enterprise Development
Agency (KASEDA) for its MSME Day celebration in Katsina, reaffirming the
organisation’s commitment to supporting the growth and long-term
success of micro, small and medium enterprises across Nigeria.

The event, organised by KASEDA as part of activities marking
International MSME Day, brought together entrepreneurs, business owners,
policymakers, development partners, and key stakeholders in the
enterprise ecosystem to recognise the vital contribution of MSMEs to
economic development, job creation, poverty reduction, innovation, and
sustainable growth.

The celebration provided a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their
products and services, engage with relevant stakeholders, and gain
insights into opportunities for business expansion, access to finance,
market access, digital transformation, and capacity development. It also
reinforced the importance of collaboration between the public sector,
private sector, and financial institutions in creating an enabling
environment for enterprise growth.

Speaking on the partnership, Remy Osuagwu, Executive Director, Business
and Commercial Banking, said Stanbic IBTC’s involvement reflects the
organisation’s belief that MSMEs remain central to Nigeria’s
economic transformation.

“At Stanbic IBTC, we recognise that MSMEs are not just small
businesses; they are engines of employment, innovation, community
development, and economic resilience. Our partnership with KASEDA for
the MSME Day celebration in Katsina underscores our commitment to being
a trusted partner to entrepreneurs, providing relevant financial
solutions, advisory support, digital tools, and access to opportunities
that help businesses grow sustainably.”

The partnership aligns with Stanbic IBTC Bank’s broader SME value
proposition, which is designed to support entrepreneurs and growing
businesses with tailored banking solutions, access to finance, digital
banking platforms, trade support, and business advisory services.

According to Dr Babangida Ruma, Director General KASEDA, Stanbic
IBTC’s partnership further strengthens KASEDA’s objective of
promoting enterprise development and building a more vibrant MSME
ecosystem in Katsina State.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/nigeria-customs-hands-over-%e2%82%a653-39-billion-worth-of-seized-drugs-and-fake-pharmaceuticals-to-ndlea-nafdac/

“We are pleased to partner with Stanbic IBTC on this important
celebration of enterprise and entrepreneurship. Collaborations like this
are critical to expanding opportunities for MSMEs, improving access to
finance and markets, and helping small businesses become more
competitive.”

Stanbic IBTC noted that the collaboration with KASEDA forms part of its
continued drive to deepen engagement with entrepreneurs across Nigeria
and deliver practical solutions that respond to the realities of small
and medium-sized businesses.

“We understand that SMEs need more than banking solutions. They need
partners who understand their journey, their ambitions, and their
challenges. Through partnerships like this, Stanbic IBTC demonstrates
its role as an SME-focused bank committed to helping Nigerian businesses
move from possibility to progress,” Wole Adeniyi, Chief Executive,
Stanbic IBTC Bank added.

Stanbic IBTC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs through
innovative banking products, strategic partnerships, financial literacy,
enterprise development initiatives, and access to solutions that enable
businesses to thrive in today’s competitive environment. The financial
solutions provider continues to offer practical support that help
businesses manage operations efficiently, unlock growth opportunities,
and build resilience in a dynamic economic environment.

Nigeria Customs Hands Over ₦53.39 Billion Worth Of Seized Drugs And Fake Pharmaceuticals To NDLEA, NAFDAC

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Nigeria Customs Hands Over ₦53.39 Billion Worth Of Seized Drugs And Fake Pharmaceuticals To NDLEA, NAFDAC

The Nigeria Customs Service has transferred seized narcotics, counterfeit medicines and expired pharmaceutical products with a combined value of ₦53.39 billion to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) following major anti-smuggling operations at Apapa Port.

The handover included 6.7 tonnes of cannabis, 339,800 bottles of codeine syrup and a range of other prohibited and illicit products intercepted before they entered the Nigerian market. The seizures form part of intensified enforcement efforts aimed at curbing drug trafficking, protecting public health and strengthening border security at the country’s busiest seaport.

The development underscores closer collaboration among Nigeria’s key enforcement and regulatory agencies in tackling the illegal importation of narcotics and substandard medical products, Brandspur Brand News reports.

The Nigeria Customs Service said recent enforcement operations demonstrate that the nation’s seaports are under tighter surveillance, with increased efforts to detect and intercept prohibited goods concealed in cargo shipments. The agency has continued to deploy intelligence-driven inspections and inter-agency cooperation to disrupt smuggling networks operating through the country’s maritime gateways.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/catalyst-fund-secures-30-million-to-back-african-climate-startups-in-2026/

The transfer of the seized items to NDLEA and NAFDAC allows both agencies to carry out their respective statutory responsibilities, including further investigations, prosecution where necessary and the safe disposal of illicit drugs and counterfeit or expired pharmaceutical products in line with Nigerian law.

The latest seizure highlights the Federal Government’s sustained campaign against illicit drugs, counterfeit medicines and organised smuggling, as authorities intensify measures to prevent harmful products from reaching consumers and to improve security across Nigeria’s ports.

Catalyst Fund Secures $30 Million To Back African Climate Startups In 2026

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Catalyst Fund Secures $30 Million To Back African Climate Startups In 2026

Catalyst Fund has secured $30 million in investor commitments after completing the second close of its latest venture capital fund, strengthening its mission to finance African startups developing solutions that help communities and businesses adapt to climate change.

The pan-African investment firm said the latest milestone moves it closer to its overall fundraising target of $40 million. The capital will be deployed into early-stage companies building technologies and business models focused on climate resilience, including sectors such as agriculture, financial services, water, energy and other climate adaptation solutions across the continent.

The fund, led by partners Maelis Carraro, Maxime Bayen, Olúwatóyìn Emmanuel-Olubake and Amolo Ng’weno, plans to expand its investment portfolio to approximately 40 startups operating across Africa, Brandspur Brand News reports.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/edo-govt-secures-10-equity-in-100mw-power-plant-as-ministry-of-power-deepens-sector-reforms/

Catalyst Fund has built its investment strategy around supporting entrepreneurs addressing the growing impact of climate change in emerging markets, where extreme weather events, food insecurity and environmental risks continue to affect millions of people. By increasing access to early-stage financing, the firm aims to help startups scale practical innovations that improve resilience for vulnerable communities and businesses.

The latest fundraising milestone comes as investor interest in climate technology continues to grow across Africa, with development finance institutions, impact investors and venture capital firms increasing support for businesses tackling environmental challenges while promoting sustainable economic growth.

With additional fundraising still underway, Catalyst Fund expects to complete the remaining $10 million needed to reach its $40 million target, providing further resources to accelerate climate innovation and strengthen Africa’s resilience to climate-related risks.

Edo Govt Secures 10% Equity In 100MW Power Plant As Ministry Of Power Deepens Sector Reforms

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Edo Govt Secures 10% Equity In 100MW Power Plant As Ministry Of Power Deepens Sector Reforms

By Edeniyere Abraham Osose

The Edo State Government has secured a 10 per cent equity stake in the proposed 100-megawatt power plant, marking a significant milestone in the state’s drive to transform its electricity sector. The achievement reflects the vision of the Okpebholo-led administration, with the Ministry of Power spearheading policies and reforms that are attracting strategic investment while ensuring long-term economic benefits for Edo State.

This was disclosed by Governor Monday Okpebholo while receiving the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, and the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of CCETC, Mr Di Xiaohui, along with their respective delegations, at the Government House in Benin City.

The governor said the decision to negotiate an equity stake was informed by his administration’s resolve to ensure that Edo State derives long-term economic benefits from the project, beyond merely providing land for its development.

“I told them that we cannot just give them our land; we have to be part owners as well. They agreed to a 10 per cent equity stake, and that is the agreement we are going to sign today,” Okpebholo said.

He described the arrangement as a major milestone in the state’s drive towards energy security and economic development, noting that the project would deliver benefits on multiple fronts.

“I am happy with this development. First, we will now have electricity. Secondly, Edo State will have a stake in the project. Beyond ownership, the state will earn revenue from the investment, while our youths will benefit from the employment opportunities that the project will create. To me, this is a win-win situation,” he added.

This milestone aligns with the administration’s broader agenda of building a resilient and investor-friendly power sector capable of supporting industrialisation, improving access to electricity, and driving sustainable economic growth. Through the Ministry of Power, the government has continued to implement reforms aimed at enhancing investor confidence and promoting long-term development across the state.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/south-african-court-stops-idexis-from-selling-semaglutide-medicines-amid-novo-nordisk-legal-battle/

Speaking on the ministry’s policy direction, the Honourable Commissioner for Power, Hon. Paul E. Usenbo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding electricity infrastructure, strengthening regulatory frameworks, encouraging private sector participation, and delivering reliable electricity to homes, businesses and industries.

A key component of these reforms is the Edo Mass Metering Programme (EMMP), introduced to eliminate estimated billing, improve transparency, and ensure that consumers are billed accurately for the electricity they consume. This has birthed the establishment of the Edo State Metering Assembly which would be up and running by the last quarter of 2026.Alongside this initiative, the ministry is advancing rural electrification projects, promoting renewable and clean energy solutions, and fostering partnerships with investors and development partners to accelerate the expansion of power infrastructure.

The impact of these initiatives is already becoming evident, with the proposed 100MW power plant, expected to commence operations in November, emerging as one of the first major investments facilitated under the administration’s reform agenda. The project is expected to improve electricity supply, stimulate economic activity, and create new employment opportunities for the people of Edo State.

Looking ahead, the governor also unveiled plans to decentralise power generation across the state through the establishment of additional power plants in Edo Central and Edo North Senatorial Districts, a move aimed at extending reliable electricity to more communities and attracting further investment to the state.

The Edo State Government remains committed to leveraging the Ministry of Power as the vehicle for implementing forward-looking policies that attract investment, modernise electricity infrastructure, expand access to reliable power, and deliver sustainable socio-economic development for the people of Edo State.

South African Court Stops iDexis From Selling Semaglutide Medicines Amid Novo Nordisk Legal Battle

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South African Court Stops iDexis From Selling Semaglutide Medicines Amid Novo Nordisk Legal Battle

A South African court has ordered pharmacy group iDexis to immediately stop selling semaglutide-based medicines after ruling in favour of pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk, intensifying regulatory scrutiny over the distribution of weight-loss and diabetes treatments in the country.

The legal action followed claims by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of globally recognised brands Ozempic and Wegovy, that iDexis had been supplying an estimated 84,500 units of semaglutide products each month without obtaining the necessary regulatory approval. The court’s decision reinforces the importance of compliance with pharmaceutical licensing requirements as demand for GLP-1 medicines continues to surge worldwide.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/nigeria-targets-%e2%82%a6500-billion-digital-health-investment-to-modernise-healthcare-system-by-2031/

The ruling comes as regulators across several markets tighten oversight of compounded and unregistered versions of high-demand weight-loss medications. Brandspur Brand News understands that the case underscores growing concerns about patient safety, product quality, manufacturing standards and regulatory compliance as healthcare providers seek to meet rising demand for obesity and diabetes treatments.

Semaglutide-based medicines have witnessed exceptional global demand in recent years due to their effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight management. However, supply shortages have also fuelled the emergence of compounded alternatives and unauthorised products, prompting increased legal and regulatory action from drug manufacturers and health authorities.

Novo Nordisk argued that the sale of semaglutide medicines without the required approvals could undermine established pharmaceutical standards designed to ensure product quality, safety and traceability. The company has continued to pursue legal measures in multiple jurisdictions to protect its intellectual property and safeguard patients from unapproved products entering the market.

The South African ruling is expected to have broader implications for pharmacies, healthcare providers and pharmaceutical distributors across Africa, where demand for GLP-1 therapies continues to rise. Industry observers believe the judgment could encourage stricter enforcement of medicine registration requirements while reinforcing confidence in approved pharmaceutical supply chains as obesity treatment becomes an increasingly important segment of the healthcare industry.

Nigeria Targets ₦500 Billion Digital Health Investment To Modernise Healthcare System By 2031

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Nigeria Targets ₦500 Billion Digital Health Investment To Modernise Healthcare System By 2031

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to attract ₦500 billion in private and public investment over the next five years as it accelerates efforts to build a nationwide digital health ecosystem aimed at improving healthcare delivery, expanding electronic health records and strengthening the country’s health infrastructure.

The investment drive is expected to support the adoption of digital technologies across Nigeria’s healthcare sector, creating opportunities for health-tech companies, investors, hospitals and digital infrastructure providers as the country seeks to modernise patient care and improve access to quality medical services.

The initiative forms part of the government’s broader healthcare transformation agenda, which prioritises technology-driven solutions to address long-standing challenges in service delivery. Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that the programme will focus on developing integrated digital health systems capable of supporting efficient patient management, improved data sharing and stronger healthcare planning nationwide.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/etranzact-backs-digital-public-infrastructure-to-drive-nigerias-economic-recovery-in-2026/

Electronic health records are expected to play a central role in the strategy by enabling healthcare providers to securely access patient information, reduce duplication of medical records and improve continuity of care across health facilities. The government also hopes digital platforms will enhance disease surveillance, health financing and policy implementation.

Nigeria’s digital health ambitions come as governments across Africa increasingly embrace technology to strengthen healthcare systems, improve operational efficiency and expand access to medical services in underserved communities. The sector has also attracted growing interest from investors seeking opportunities in telemedicine, digital diagnostics, health financing and healthcare software solutions.

Industry stakeholders believe achieving the investment target will require sustained collaboration between government agencies, technology companies, healthcare providers and development partners. Analysts also note that supportive regulations, reliable digital infrastructure, workforce training and stronger cybersecurity frameworks will be essential to ensuring the long-term success of Nigeria’s digital healthcare transformation.

ETranzact Backs Digital Public Infrastructure To Drive Nigeria’s Economic Recovery In 2026

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ETranzact Backs Digital Public Infrastructure To Drive Nigeria’s Economic Recovery In 2026

ETranzact Plc has reaffirmed its support for Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a critical driver of Nigeria’s economic recovery, urging stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to accelerate digital transformation, improve public service delivery and strengthen the country’s financial ecosystem.

Speaking at the Nigeria Employers’ Summit 2026 in Abuja, the company’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Niyi Toluwalope, said digital payment systems have become central to economic growth by enhancing transparency, improving revenue collection and strengthening tax administration. He noted that efficient digital infrastructure creates the foundation for more accountable institutions and a resilient economy.

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the company identified Digital Identity, Trusted Data Exchange and Digital Payments as the three pillars of Digital Public Infrastructure, adding that Nigeria has already made significant progress with more than 100 million National Identity Number (NIN) registrations and over 60 million Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs). According to the company, expanding these digital assets will further improve trust, efficiency and financial inclusion across the country.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/nigeria-collects-over-120-million-in-digital-vat-as-tech-tax-reforms-deliver-results-in-2026/

ETranzact said the private sector has a vital role in designing, operating and scaling digital infrastructure while government provides policy direction and regulatory support. The company argued that every secure digital payment creates reliable records that strengthen accountability, reduce financial leakages and increase public confidence in government institutions.

The fintech firm also highlighted several technology solutions it has deployed to support public and private sector operations, including its e-Invoicing Solution, Pension Gateway, Electronic Verification Management System (EVMS) and Central Billing Systems. These platforms are designed to improve operational efficiency, enhance transparency and simplify service delivery for organisations nationwide.

According to the company, digital payment innovation also advances environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives by promoting financial inclusion, strengthening governance standards and enabling businesses to operate more efficiently. It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms that deliver measurable economic outcomes through trusted digital payment infrastructure.

The Nigeria Employers’ Summit 2026 also featured discussions on expanding private sector participation in national development and the launch of an ESG implementation guide for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), reinforcing the growing importance of digital innovation and sustainability in Nigeria’s economic transformation agenda.

Nigeria Collects Over $120 Million In Digital VAT As Tech Tax Reforms Deliver Results In 2026

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Nigeria Collects Over $120 Million In Digital VAT As Tech Tax Reforms Deliver Results In 2026

Nigeria has generated more than $120 million in Value Added Tax (VAT) from foreign digital service providers over the past three years, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to expand tax collection from the fast-growing digital economy. The revenue, estimated at over ₦600 billion, was realised through the enforcement of VAT obligations on non-resident technology companies offering digital services to Nigerian consumers.

The collections reflect the impact of reforms introduced under Nigeria’s updated tax framework, which requires foreign digital platforms without a physical presence in the country to register, collect and remit 7.5 per cent VAT on eligible transactions. Global technology companies providing services such as streaming, e-commerce, cloud computing and digital advertising are among those captured under the policy.

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy described the achievement as evidence that Nigeria’s digital tax reforms are strengthening government revenue while ensuring international technology firms contribute fairly to the country’s economy. The reforms have also improved compliance among multinational digital service providers operating in Nigeria’s expanding online marketplace.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/nigeria-joins-international-energy-agency-as-association-member-in-major-energy-milestone-for-2026/

The successful implementation of the digital VAT regime comes as Nigeria accelerates broader investments in digital infrastructure through Project BRIDGE, a nationwide initiative aimed at deploying about 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cables to improve broadband connectivity. The programme is backed by international development partners and is expected to expand internet access, strengthen digital inclusion and support economic growth across the country.

Nigeria’s digital economy has become an increasingly important contributor to national development, driven by rising internet penetration, growing online commerce and increased demand for digital entertainment, cloud services and financial technology platforms. Taxing cross-border digital services has become a strategic priority as governments worldwide seek to modernise tax systems to reflect changing business models.

The additional revenue generated from digital VAT provides government with another source of non-oil income while reinforcing fiscal sustainability. Analysts say continued enforcement of the policy, alongside investments in broadband infrastructure and digital innovation, could further strengthen Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s largest and fastest-growing digital economies.

Nigeria Joins International Energy Agency As Association Member In Major Energy Milestone For 2026

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Nigeria Joins International Energy Agency As Association Member In Major Energy Milestone For 2026

Nigeria has been admitted as an Association country of the International Energy Agency (IEA), marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to strengthen global energy partnerships, expand access to electricity and accelerate industrial development through improved energy policy and investment.

The announcement was confirmed by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, who said the IEA Governing Board unanimously approved Nigeria’s admission. He noted that the new status will provide the country with greater access to international expertise, policy collaboration, research, investment opportunities and technical support across critical areas of the energy sector.

The latest development positions Nigeria more prominently within global energy governance and is expected to support national priorities around energy security, gas development, electricity access and sustainable energy solutions. Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that the IEA Association programme now represents countries accounting for more than 80 per cent of global energy demand, reflecting its growing influence on international energy policy.

According to the Federal Government, the partnership will strengthen Nigeria’s ongoing drive towards universal energy access while supporting broader economic growth through industrialisation and a more competitive energy sector. The government also believes closer collaboration with the agency will enhance efforts to mobilise investment and improve long-term energy planning.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/idris-elba-and-google-launch-1-million-ai-initiative-for-100000-african-creators-in-2026/

The International Energy Agency welcomed Nigeria’s admission, describing the country as a major player in global energy markets and an increasingly important contributor to Africa’s energy transition. The agency highlighted Nigeria’s expanding refining capacity, growing decentralised solar energy market and continued efforts to improve access to electricity and clean cooking solutions.

Nigeria’s admission follows more than a decade of engagement with the IEA, which began in 2014. The enhanced relationship is expected to deepen cooperation on energy security, clean energy transition, methane emissions reduction, gas sector development and broader reforms aimed at creating a resilient and sustainable energy system.

The Federal Government said the milestone reflects Nigeria’s rising strategic importance in the global energy landscape and reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to expand energy access, strengthen energy security and support sustainable economic development.

Idris Elba And Google Launch $1 Million AI Initiative For 100,000 African Creators In 2026

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Idris Elba And Google Launch $1 Million AI Initiative For 100,000 African Creators In 2026

British actor and philanthropist Idris Elba has partnered with Google to launch a $1 million artificial intelligence initiative that will provide around 100,000 creators across Africa with access to advanced AI tools, supporting content production, innovation and global competitiveness.

The programme, announced following Google’s AI Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, will be delivered through the Elba Hope Foundation in partnership with Google. Eligible creators in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone and South Africa will gain access to Google’s Gemini AI assistant and other digital products designed to enhance creative output, improve productivity and lower production costs.

The initiative reflects growing investment in Africa’s rapidly expanding creative economy, which has become an increasingly important contributor to employment and economic growth across the continent. Brandspur Brand News understands that the partnership is intended to bridge the gap between creative talent and access to digital resources that many African creators require to compete in international markets.

Industry estimates indicate that the creative sector has contributed nearly four per cent of sub-Saharan Africa’s gross domestic product since 2019, generating more than $58 billion in revenue while accounting for approximately 8.2 per cent of employment across the region. The latest investment comes as governments and technology companies continue to identify the sector as a major driver of digital economic growth.

Beyond providing AI tools, Elba has disclosed plans to deepen his investment in Africa’s creative ecosystem by establishing a stronger physical presence on the continent and supporting projects aimed at expanding production capacity and strengthening creative infrastructure.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/07/03/google-positions-south-africa-as-ai-hub-at-first-ever-cloud-summit-in-africa/

Google executives said artificial intelligence has the potential to democratise content creation by giving independent creators access to capabilities that were previously available only to large studios with significant production budgets. The company believes AI can help emerging filmmakers, musicians, digital artists and content creators produce higher-quality work more efficiently.

The announcement also comes amid growing calls to address structural challenges affecting Africa’s creative industries. Recent industry research has identified unreliable electricity, poor internet connectivity, limited access to production equipment, funding constraints, regulatory hurdles and intellectual property violations as some of the biggest obstacles preventing creators from reaching their full commercial potential.

Elba, whose family heritage traces to Sierra Leone and Ghana, has continued to expand his business and philanthropic interests across Africa. In addition to plans for a creative village in Ghana, a studio complex in Zanzibar and the development of the Akuna Wallet fintech platform for creators, the actor recently received a knighthood from King Charles III in recognition of his contributions to youth development and community empowerment.

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