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Nigeria News (Standard)

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Disburses ₦100m Grant to 2,000 Benue Women, Commissions ICT Centre

Governor Alia hails Renewed Hope Initiative as newly built roads and digital centre target economic growth in North-Central state

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Governor Alia hails Renewed Hope Initiative as newly built roads and digital centre target economic growth in North-Central state

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday empowered 2,000 women petty traders in Benue State with a ₦100 million economic grant and commissioned a new ICT centre in Vandeikya Local Government Area. The interventions, carried out under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), are aimed at promoting financial inclusion and digital skills for women and youths across the state.

The event, held during the First Lady’s visit to Benue, saw each beneficiary receive ₦50,000 to support their businesses and improve their livelihoods. In addition to the grant distribution, Mrs Tinubu unveiled the Lucy Zayol Aluor Community ICT Centre in Ihugh, a facility established through collaboration between RHI and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The centre is expected to provide training in digital literacy and technology for local residents.

Addressing attendees at the commissioning, Senator Tinubu said the programme was designed to help women expand their businesses and contribute more effectively to their families and communities. “Empowering women is key to national development. This initiative will not only boost economic activities but also ensure sustainable growth among beneficiaries,” she stated during her speech.

Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC), commended the First Lady for making Benue one of the selected states for the Renewed Hope Initiative’s empowerment efforts. He expressed optimism that both the grant and new ICT centre would positively impact women entrepreneurs and young people seeking opportunities in today’s economy.

As part of her visit, Mrs Tinubu also participated in the official commissioning of 10 newly completed intra-city roads in Makurdi, covering approximately 11.5 kilometres. The roads—including Shire Bakut Road dual carriageway and Abu Ken Shulua Road—were constructed under Phase I of Benue’s Urban Renewal Programme. In recognition of her contributions, Ishayaba Street was renamed after Senator Tinubu.

The Renewed Hope Initiative has rolled out similar empowerment schemes across multiple states, focusing on grants, educational support and vocational training for women, youths and vulnerable groups nationwide. The Benue programme forms part of a broader campaign to improve livelihoods, reduce poverty and expand access to economic opportunities through targeted support.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/remi-tinubu-benue-women-grant-ict-centre-2026061717241397087

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Ronaldo Fires Blank as DR Congo Hold Portugal to Draw in World Cup Opener

Portuguese captain unable to break deadlock as both teams share points in tightly contested group stage match

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June 17, 2026

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Portuguese captain unable to break deadlock as both teams share points in tightly contested group stage match

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portuguese teammates were held to a goalless draw by DR Congo in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday. The highly anticipated fixture took place at a neutral venue, with both sides struggling to find the back of the net throughout the encounter.

Portugal, led by veteran forward Ronaldo, dominated possession but failed to convert several opportunities, as DR Congo’s defence remained resolute. Despite repeated attempts by the European side to break through, the Congolese goalkeeper and backline ensured that their clean sheet was preserved till the final whistle.

The result leaves both teams with one point each in Group stage standings, putting pressure on Portugal, who came into the tournament as strong favourites. For DR Congo, holding a top-ranked team like Portugal will be seen as a positive start and could boost their chances of progressing from the group.

Neither side issued official post-match statements immediately after the game. However, analysts believe Portugal will need to improve their finishing ahead of their next fixture if they are to justify pre-tournament expectations. DR Congo’s tactical discipline has drawn praise from observers who noted their effective containment of Ronaldo’s threat.

Both nations will look ahead to their upcoming group matches, with Portugal expected to make tactical adjustments while DR Congo aim to build on this solid performance. The group remains wide open following this result.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/football/888509-ronaldo-fires-blank-as-dr-congo-hold-portugal-in-world-cup-opener.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Lagos Investors Turn to Trading Education as Market Volatility Shakes Confidence

Surge in demand for financial literacy follows sharp price swings; experts warn access alone does not guarantee success

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June 17, 2026

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Surge in demand for financial literacy follows sharp price swings; experts warn access alone does not guarantee success

Heightened market volatility has triggered a spike in demand for trading education among investors in Lagos and other major Nigerian cities, as individuals seek to better understand risks and navigate unpredictable price movements. The trend became more pronounced in June 2026, according to market observers, following a series of sharp fluctuations affecting both local and international financial markets.

Previously, opening a trading account was considered difficult and information was less accessible, limiting participation to professionals. However, the removal of these barriers in recent years has not translated into automatic success for new entrants. Market analysts note that many retail investors now realise that simply having access to trading platforms is not enough without proper knowledge, especially during turbulent periods.

Market volatility often exposes the limits of superficial strategies. When prices rise steadily, poor decisions can still result in gains, masking underlying risks. “Periods of uncertainty take away that comfort from traders,” said one Lagos-based financial educator. With recent currency fluctuations and unpredictable swings in the Nigerian Stock Exchange, more investors are enrolling in training programmes focused on risk management and market analysis.

Education providers report increased attendance at seminars and online courses designed to help traders understand complex market dynamics. Financial experts urge caution, emphasising that while technology has made markets more accessible, informed decision-making remains critical. “Trading without education is like driving without knowing the rules,” said another industry stakeholder.

As market uncertainty persists, sector observers predict continued growth in demand for trading education across Nigeria. They stress that improved financial literacy will not only help individual investors but also contribute to greater stability in the broader capital market.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/why-market-volatility-is-driving-greater-interest-in-trading-education/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Xpress Payments Unveils Week-Long 10th Anniversary Celebration in Lagos, Showcasing Fintech Milestones

Firm highlights decade of digital innovation as activities include CSR projects, industry forums and gala night

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June 17, 2026

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Firm highlights decade of digital innovation as activities include CSR projects, industry forums and gala night

Xpress Payment Solutions Limited has commenced a week-long celebration in Lagos to mark its 10th anniversary, rolling out a series of events under the theme “Xpress @10: A Decade of Innovation, A Future of Possibilities.” The fintech company, which began operations in 2016, is celebrating its growth and impact within Nigeria’s digital payments sector from Monday.

The anniversary programme features intellectual engagements, corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects, stakeholder forums and a gala night. According to the organisers, these activities are designed to highlight the company’s commitment to innovation, service excellence and financial inclusion across Nigeria.

Since inception, Xpress Payments has played a notable role in simplifying payment processes for businesses and individuals nationwide. The company has focused on bridging gaps in access to digital finance, helping drive the adoption of cashless transactions and supporting broader financial inclusion objectives set by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Wale Olayisade, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Xpress Payment Solutions Limited, said the week will also serve as an opportunity for reflection on the company’s journey so far. He emphasised that stakeholder engagement remains critical for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s fast-changing technology sector. “Our anniversary is not just a celebration but a chance to deepen our contributions to society and reaffirm our resolve for future possibilities,” Olayisade noted ahead of the events.

Industry observers see Xpress Payments’ decade-long achievements as reflecting wider shifts in Nigeria’s financial landscape. With fintech adoption rising amid ongoing regulatory reforms and increased smartphone penetration, expectations are high for further expansion within the sector. The company said it will use this milestone to announce new initiatives aimed at enhancing digital payment accessibility nationwide.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/xpress-payments-marks-10-years-of-innovation-with-week-long-anniversary-celebration/

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