Flexmobile Set To Enter Nigeria Telecom Market With MVNO Model And Digital Service Strategy

A new mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) brand, Flexmobile, is preparing to launch in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, positioning itself as a service-driven digital player rather than a traditional network operator.

The telecom brand, developed by Hazon Technologies, has secured commercial agreements with Airtel Nigeria and infrastructure partner IMBIL, with plans to commence operations by June 2026, subject to final regulatory approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission.

Unlike conventional mobile network operators that invest heavily in physical infrastructure expansion, Flexmobile is adopting an MVNO structure that relies on existing telecom infrastructure while focusing on innovation at the service layer.

The company is expected to compete not on network ownership, but on user experience, pricing flexibility, and integrated digital services, a model increasingly adopted by virtual operators in global telecom markets.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/05/jim-ovia-steps-down-as-zenith-bank-chairman-after-decades-of-leadership-in-nigerian-banking/

Brandspur ICT News Desk reports that the strategy behind Flexmobile reflects a growing industry shift towards convergence, where telecom services are bundled with digital solutions such as fintech products, e-commerce tools, and lifestyle platforms to enhance customer engagement.

Industry observers note that this approach could reshape Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem if successfully executed, particularly by accelerating the integration of communication services with broader digital economy offerings.

According to project leadership, the long-term objective is to redefine how telecom services are delivered and consumed by prioritising customer-centric innovation rather than traditional infrastructure competition.

However, analysts caution that the brand’s success will depend heavily on execution, market adoption, and its ability to differentiate itself in Nigeria’s highly competitive and price-sensitive telecom sector dominated by established operators.

Jim Ovia Steps Down As Zenith Bank Chairman After Decades Of Leadership In Nigerian Banking

Jim Ovia has retired as Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, marking the end of a long-standing leadership era at one of Nigeria’s most profitable and influential financial institutions.

Ovia founded Zenith Bank in 1990 and played a central role in its rise to become a Tier-1 bank in Nigeria’s financial sector. Over the years, he has been widely recognised for shaping the institution into a leading player known for strong corporate governance, digital banking innovation, and consistent financial performance.

His retirement concludes a dual-phase leadership journey, having previously served as the pioneer Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer before becoming Chairman of the Board in 2014. His tenure is credited with driving the bank’s expansion across Africa and select international markets, alongside sustained growth in profitability and shareholder value.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/05/heirs-insurance-brokers-secures-ndpc-audit-compliance-trust-mark-for-data-protection-excellence/

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that Ovia’s exit represents a significant transition for Zenith Bank as the institution prepares for a new leadership structure while maintaining its strategic focus on regional expansion and digital transformation within the competitive African banking landscape.

Beyond traditional banking performance, Ovia is regarded as a key figure in Nigeria’s financial technology evolution, having supported early adoption of electronic banking systems, automated teller machines, and digital payment platforms that reshaped customer experience in the sector.

Industry observers say the leadership change will test the bank’s ability to sustain its growth momentum without its founding chairman at the helm, especially as competition intensifies within Nigeria’s banking industry and across African financial markets.

Zenith Bank is expected to announce its succession plan in the coming period as it continues to position itself for long-term stability and expansion in both retail and corporate banking segments.

Heirs Insurance Brokers Secures NDPC Audit Compliance Trust Mark For Data Protection Excellence

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Heirs Insurance Brokers has been awarded the 2025 NDPC Audit Compliance Trust Mark by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission following the successful completion of its Data Protection Audit in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act.

The certification confirms that the insurance broking firm has met the required standards for data protection and privacy compliance after a detailed regulatory assessment conducted by the Commission. The Trust Mark is recognised as an independent validation of organisations that demonstrate strong adherence to data privacy regulations in Nigeria.

The award underscores the company’s commitment to safeguarding client information through secure digital systems, responsible data management practices, and continuous alignment with evolving regulatory frameworks governing data protection in the financial services sector.

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the certification strengthens Heirs Insurance Brokers’ position as a compliance-driven intermediary within Nigeria’s insurance industry, particularly at a time when data governance and cybersecurity have become central to customer trust and business operations.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/05/dlocal-and-indrive-roll-out-cashless-ride-payments-in-south-africa-amid-digital-push/

Speaking on the development, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tony Aniemeke, said the recognition validates the company’s internal systems and processes designed to protect client data, while reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and service delivery in the insurance brokerage space.

He noted that as digital transformation continues to reshape financial services, maintaining robust data protection standards remains critical to sustaining customer confidence and operational integrity.

Heirs Insurance Brokers, licensed by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), continues to expand its role in Nigeria’s insurance ecosystem by offering tailored risk management solutions through its network of partner insurers, with a focus on asset protection, risk assessment, and wealth preservation.

DLocal And inDrive Roll Out Cashless Ride Payments In South Africa Amid Digital Push

Global payment infrastructure company dLocal has partnered with mobility platform inDrive to introduce full cashless payment functionality for ride-hailing services in South Africa, enabling in-app card payments and instant driver settlements through local payment rails.

The new system allows passengers to pay directly with bank cards within the app, while drivers receive earnings through domestic payout channels. The integration also automates fare splitting in real time between drivers and the platform, reducing delays and operational friction in transactions.

South Africa’s ride-hailing sector, projected to nearly triple in size by 2033, is experiencing rapid digital transformation. Cards currently account for about 63 per cent of digital transactions in the country, while eWallet usage continues to rise and cash usage steadily declines, reflecting a broader shift toward electronic payments.

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the partnership introduces a unified payment structure that connects local card processing, instant payment systems such as PayShap, and domestic settlement rails through a single technical integration, designed to streamline both customer payments and driver payouts.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/05/social-media-becomes-leading-news-source-in-kenya-as-tv-and-print-decline-survey/

According to the companies, the model also supports flexibility by maintaining cash as a payment option in markets where it remains relevant, positioning the solution as an expansion of choice rather than a complete replacement of cash-based transactions.

Industry executives say South Africa serves as the first end-to-end implementation of this system, with potential for expansion across other emerging markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, supported by dLocal’s cross-market payment infrastructure.

Speaking on the development, inDrive’s South Africa representative noted that seamless payments are critical for both rider convenience and driver income stability, while dLocal’s country leadership emphasised that effective payment systems in emerging markets depend on strong local infrastructure and tailored financial networks that match real-world transaction behaviour.

Social Media Becomes Leading News Source In Kenya As TV And Print Decline – Survey

Social media has emerged as the dominant source of news in Kenya, overtaking traditional platforms such as television and radio, according to a recent nationwide survey by the Media Council of Kenya.

The study shows that 39 per cent of respondents now rely primarily on social media for news consumption, compared to 31 per cent who prefer television and 19 per cent who depend on radio. In total, nearly three-quarters of the population access news through digital or social platforms, signalling a significant transformation in media consumption habits across the country.

Conducted between April 15 and April 23, 2026, the survey sampled 3,774 individuals aged 15 and above across all 47 counties in Kenya, using a nationally representative methodology. The findings reflect a clear shift towards mobile-driven and internet-based news access, with mobile phones accounting for 91 per cent of social media usage.

Brandspur Marketing & Media News Desk reports that weekly media usage patterns further reinforce this trend, with social media slightly ahead at 27 per cent, compared to television at 25 per cent and radio at 19 per cent. Meanwhile, print media continues to lose ground, with newspaper readership dropping sharply to 13 per cent in 2025, down from 20 per cent in 2024 and 26 per cent in 2023.

Despite the decline in traditional platforms, television remains relevant, particularly during prime-time hours between 7pm and 10pm. Citizen TV retains its position as the most-watched station, while Radio Citizen leads in radio listenership.

Among print outlets, Daily Nation continues to dominate readership rankings, followed by The Standard and Taifa Leo, although much of their audience now engages through digital editions rather than physical copies.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/05/moniepoint-hiring-controversy-sparks-concerns-over-ghost-job-listings-in-nigeria-fintech-sector/

Online news platforms are also gaining traction among the 45 per cent of Kenyans who visit news websites, with Tuko.co.ke leading in daily reach, followed by Citizen Digital, Standardmedia.co.ke and Nation.Africa. However, more than half of the population still does not access news through dedicated websites, relying instead on social platforms as their primary gateway.

Messaging and social networking applications remain central to this shift, with WhatsApp and Facebook leading usage, while platforms such as TikTok and YouTube continue to expand their influence among younger audiences.

The survey also highlights growing public confidence in the media, with trust levels rising to 79 per cent in 2025, up from 74.5 per cent the previous year. Over half of respondents believe the media provides fair coverage of government activities.

However, concerns persist around misinformation, inadequate reporting on key issues, and perceived bias. The increasing integration of artificial intelligence in media production has added another layer of complexity, with many respondents unable to distinguish between human-generated and AI-generated content.

Speaking on the findings, David Omwoyo, Chief Executive Officer of the Media Council of Kenya, noted that the country’s media landscape has entered a new phase, where digital platforms now shape public discourse, raising urgent questions around regulation, ethics, and accountability.

Moniepoint Hiring Controversy Sparks Concerns Over Ghost Job Listings In Nigeria Fintech Sector

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A viral social media post has ignited widespread debate over recruitment practices at Moniepoint, with allegations that some advertised roles may not be actively filled despite remaining open for extended periods. The post, shared on X, included a chat exchange in which a professional claimed to have progressed through multiple interview stages at the fintech firm but was ultimately rejected without explanation, even as the same vacancies continued to appear online months later.

The claims have struck a chord among job seekers across Nigeria, many of whom say they have experienced similar patterns when applying to fast-growing companies. Concerns raised include repeated rejections without feedback, prolonged job listings, and suspicions that certain vacancies may serve purposes beyond immediate hiring, such as projecting organisational growth or attracting investor interest. However, no verified evidence has confirmed that Moniepoint operates fictitious job postings.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/05/moniepoint-ceo-raises-alarm-over-talent-gap-as-500-vacancies-remain-unfilled-since-2024/

Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that in high-growth sectors like fintech, it is common for companies to keep roles open while sourcing specialised talent or building a pipeline of candidates for future expansion. Recruitment experts note that extended listings can also result from evolving job requirements, internal restructuring, or rigorous screening standards that limit the number of successful applicants.

Despite these explanations, the situation has intensified calls for greater transparency in hiring processes, particularly clearer communication with candidates regarding application outcomes. Analysts say improved feedback systems and defined recruitment timelines could help address growing distrust among applicants navigating Nigeria’s highly competitive employment landscape.

As the discussion continues to trend online, the controversy highlights broader challenges within the country’s labour market, where digital platforms have amplified scrutiny of corporate hiring practices. For many professionals, the Moniepoint debate reflects deeper concerns about fairness, accountability, and credibility in recruitment across Nigeria’s rapidly expanding tech ecosystem.

Moniepoint CEO Raises Alarm Over Talent Gap As 500 Vacancies Remain Unfilled Since 2024

The Chief Executive Officer of Moniepoint, Tosin Eniolorunda, has expressed concern over what he described as a widening talent gap in Nigeria’s workforce, revealing that more than 500 job positions within the company have remained unfilled since 2024.

Speaking on the development, Eniolorunda noted that despite the volume of applications received, many candidates have fallen short of the competencies required to meet global standards, particularly in a highly competitive fintech environment.

He attributed the challenge to a mix of social and cultural factors, pointing specifically to the growing influence of social media, as well as the rise of internet fraud, commonly referred to as “yahoo”, and hookup culture, which he suggested may be diverting focus away from professional development among young Nigerians.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/04/promasidor-nigeria-celebrates-workers-day-honours-employees-driving-growth-and-impact/

According to him, the inability to source qualified talent locally is becoming a major concern for companies operating at an international level, raising questions about the readiness of Nigeria’s workforce to compete globally.

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that the development comes amid increasing conversations around employability, skills acquisition, and the need for reforms in Nigeria’s education and training systems to better align with global industry expectations.

Industry analysts say the situation underscores a broader challenge within the country’s labour market, where a mismatch persists between academic qualifications and practical, job-ready skills required by employers, particularly in fast-growing sectors such as financial technology.

SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 Officially Launches in Kuala Lumpur, Highlighting Shifts in Global Semiconductor Supply Chains

The official ceremony underscores Southeast Asia’s growing role in the global semiconductor value chain through collaboration, innovation and ecosystem-wide partnerships

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 May 2026 – SEMICON Southeast Asia (SEMICON SEA) 2026 was officially launched today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), bringing together policymakers, manufacturers, suppliers, researchers, investors and emerging talent from across the global semiconductor ecosystem for three days of industry dialogue, technology showcases and business engagement.

The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and attended by SEMI leadership, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) led by the Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, and senior executives from global semiconductor companies.

Held under the theme ‘Transform Tomorrow’ in strategic partnership with MITI and MIDA, SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 is expected to welcome more than 20,000 innovators, policymakers and technology experts. The three-day event focuses on key industry priorities including manufacturing scale-up, advanced packaging, intelligent manufacturing and workforce development, as companies respond to demand driven by artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and advanced electronics.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA, said Malaysia is approaching the next phase of semiconductor growth as an active builder rather than a beneficiary of global trends.

“The semiconductor industry is at an inflection point, and Malaysia intends to be at the centre of what comes next. Under the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, we are not simply maintaining our position in the global semiconductor supply chain, we are deliberately reshaping it. The NIMP 2030 sets a clear direction for the E&E sector to move beyond assembly and test into design, advanced packaging and innovation-driven manufacturing, and MIDA is here to make that transition real. The RM28.5 billion secured by the E&E sector in 2025 is proof that global confidence in Malaysia has not wavered. What we are now building is the ecosystem to match that confidence, through supply chain integration, local capability development and the kind of high-value partnerships that platforms like SEMICON Southeast Asia are uniquely placed to catalyse,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim.

“SEMI’s role has always been to bring together the global semiconductor ecosystem, and that responsibility becomes even more important as the industry grows in scale and complexity. Today, innovation is no longer confined to a single segment. It requires closer alignment across design, manufacturing, materials and supply chains. SEMICON Southeast Asia provides a platform to bridge these different parts of the ecosystem, enabling stakeholders to engage in more meaningful collaboration and move from discussion to execution,” said Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI.

“As demand continues to be driven by artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and advanced electronics, the ability to coordinate across regions and capabilities will be critical. SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 is not only about showcasing technology, but about strengthening the partnerships needed to support long-term industry growth and resilience.”

The event features key leadership programmes including the Executive Leadership Summit, MIDA Strategic Semiconductor Forum and Seminar, Sustainability and Energy Summit, TechZoomers Challenge and TalentCONNECT, reflecting SEMICON Southeast Asia’s role not only as an exhibition platform, but as a convening point for leadership, capability and execution across the region’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Marking over a decade of strategic collaboration, MIDA and SEMI today reinforce 12 years of a transformative partnership dedicated to elevating Malaysia’s standing in the global semiconductor value chain. This enduring alliance remains anchored on three core pillars designed to future-proof the nation’s industrial landscape:

  • Ecosystem Integration: Harmonising domestic and international supply chains to ensure seamless operational synergy.
  • Enterprise Capability: Empowering local businesses to scale their technical expertise and compete on a global stage.
  • Talent Advancement: Cultivating a high-skilled workforce as the essential bedrock of Malaysia’s long-term economic resilience and competitive edge.

SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 runs from 5–7 May 2026 at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur, with participation from companies and organisations across Asia, the United States and Europe.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

About SEMI

SEMI® is the global industry association connecting over 4,000-member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON® expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members’ business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit , contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on and to learn more.

Promasidor Nigeria Celebrates Workers’ Day, Honours Employees Driving Growth And Impact

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Promasidor Nigeria, one of the leading players in Nigeria’s
fast-moving consumer goods industry, has celebrated Workers’ Day 2026
by recognising the dedication, resilience, and contributions of its
employees, whom it describes as the foundation of the company’s growth
and continued success.

As workers around the country celebrate, Promasidor Nigeria reaffirmed
its commitment to building a workplace where people feel supported,
valued, and inspired to grow.

At a colourful celebration held recently, the company brought together
employees, retirees, and their families in an atmosphere filled with
appreciation, pride, and shared memories. Long-serving employees who
have dedicated between 10 and 25 years to the organisation were honoured
for their loyalty and commitment, while the company also celebrated its
2026 retirees for their years of service and contribution to the
business.

The event reflected Promasidor Nigeria’s strong people-first culture
and its belief that behind every successful brand and milestone are
employees whose passion and hard work continue to shape the company’s
journey.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/04/17th-edition-of-the-durban-filmart-rescheduled-with-new-dates-set-for-9-12-october-2026/

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Promasidor
Nigeria, François Gillet, praised employees for their commitment and
resilience.

“Today is about celebrating our people the individuals whose
dedication and passion continue to move this company forward. Our growth
and success over the years have only been possible because of the
talent, hard work, and shared purpose of our employees,” he said.

He added that in a constantly evolving world, organisations must remain
intentional about creating environments where employees can thrive both
professionally and personally.

“As workplace realities continue to change, it is important that
organisations continue to invest in their people, support their
wellbeing, and create opportunities for growth. At Promasidor Nigeria,
we remain committed to building a culture where every employee feels
respected, empowered, and motivated to succeed.”

Over the years, Promasidor Nigeria has built a reputation not only for
delivering quality products but also for promoting a workplace culture
rooted in inclusivity, collaboration, and long-term impact.

Beyond employee recognition, the company continues to drive impact
through its operations and investments in local capacity development. A
major example is the Ikun Dairy Farm in Ikun Ekiti, Ekiti State,
regarded as Nigeria’s largest dairy farm. With over 750 high-yielding
cattle, the farm has strengthened the local dairy value chain, created
employment opportunities for more than 200 people, and supported over
1,000 indirect jobs within the host community.

Promasidor Nigeria’s trusted portfolio of brands, including Cowbell
Milk, Loya Milk, Onga, Kremela, Miksi, Twisco, and Top Tea, continues to
serve millions of consumers across the country, reinforcing the
company’s mission of improving lives through quality nutrition and
everyday nourishment.

17th Edition Of The Durban Filmart Rescheduled With New Dates Set For 9 – 12 October 2026

Durban, South Africa: After careful consideration, the Durban FilmMart
(DFM), Africa’s best loved film finance and co-production market, has
decided to move its 17th edition to 9 – 12 October 2026 due to
significant funding challenges.

The viability of hosting the DFM event in July 2026 has been
considerably impacted by the current global financial crisis which
directly affects funding for film and the arts in general. Significant
changes in key funding partnerships and the ongoing reduction of local
year-on-year funding opportunities presents challenges for planning and
strategic growth.

The Durban FilmMart Institute, a non-profit organisation, plays a
pivotal and significant role in driving African and diaspora film
professionals to convene, do business, build relationships, exchange
ideas and shape the future of filmmaking.

“Rescheduling the market has been a difficult decision but one that
the board and management had to take because we remain committed to the
pan-African film ecosystem we serve,” says Magdalene Reddy, Director
of the Durban FilmMart Institute. “Despite the uncertainty we face
with limited long term, multi-year support for the annual event, we
believe that the space we create for African film professionals must
exist and that it is essential to those who believe in the power and
impact of African independent film. We encourage all those who never
miss a DFM to move with us and join us in October for what they have
come to cherish.”

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/05/04/stanbic-ibtc-bank-nigeria-pmi-business-activity-continues-to-rise-but-higher-fuel-costs-limit-growth/

Those attending this year’s edition are set for a series of
uncompromising conversations under the theme: _Shifting Worlds: Turning
Towards Ourselves_. Inspired by the words of Ousmane Sembène, often
referred to as the “father of African cinema” who said, “Why be a
sunflower and turn toward the sun? I, myself, am the sun,” the 17th
edition of the Durban FilmMart will be the space for discussions that
advance alternative film funding pathways, revise models for
distribution, consider equitable co-production frameworks and create
authentic partnerships.  DFM 2026 will encourage looking within to forge
relationships and design new strategies that will brace a world in flux
and endure the economic and social structures that are changing and
destabilising the film industry.

An anchor in the international co-production market calendar and with a
continued focus on African cinema, all DFM market activities including
the Pitch and Finance Forum for live action, documentary and animation,
Talents Durban and the Industry Programme made up of panel discussions,
masterclasses and think thanks go ahead as planned. Industry, attendees,
stakeholders and partners are encouraged to spread the news and show
their support by attending the market during its new dates in October
2026.

More information on this year’s theme can be found on the Durban
FilmMart Institute’s website, https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/ [1]

Delegate registration and programme details will be announced in due
course.

The 17th edition Durban FilmMart is funded by the Durban Film Office,
eThekwini Municipality, Ford Foundation and the National Film and Video
Foundation.

17th Edition Of The Durban Filmart Rescheduled With New Dates Set For 9 - 12 October 2026