National News
AICIS 2025: Nigeria Says Africa Must Be Active Architect of Its Own Sustainable Development

AICIS 2025: Nigeria Says Africa Must Be Active Architect of Its Own Sustainable Development
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has expressed its commitment to hosting the Africa Infrastructure and Climate Change Investment Summit (AICIS) between August 11 to 14, 2025.
The Nigerian government also said as the world intensifies action to tackle the twin challenges of climate change and infrastructure gaps Africa, Nigeria inclusive, must be positioned not as a passive recipient of solutions, but as an active architect of its own sustainable development.
The commitment of the government was revealed on Monday in Abuja by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Akume, who was represented at the press briefing the Permanent Secretary for Political and Economic Affairs at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Mr. Nadungu Gagare, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to hosting the summit, scheduled for Aug. 11 to 14, 2025 at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
He commended Africa Business Venture and Investment Group (ABVIG) for partnering the ministries and other stakeholders to take the bold and visionary initiative in driving Nigeria’s lead in tackling climate change issues across Africa.
According to him, government supports the initiative for the summit and encourage all stakeholders to remain steadfast in the shared mission to build a prosperous, climate-resilient Africa anchored on inclusive infrastructure.
He said: “As the world intensifies action to tackle the twin challenges of climate change and infrastructure gaps Africa must be positioned not as a passive recipient of solutions, but as an active architect of its own sustainable development.
“The forthcoming summit is, therefore, not only timely but provides a continental platform to articulate, align and activate collaborative strategies for resilient infrastructure and climate action across Africa.
“President Tinubu’s administration, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, has prioritised strategic infrastructure development, energy transition, environmental sustainability and inclusive economic growth.
“These priorities align with the goals of this summit and underscore Nigeria’s readiness to lead and collaborate on multi-stakeholder approaches toward climate resilience, and development financing.
“Today’s engagement is a clarion call to governments, private sector, development partners and diplomatic community to align efforts, pool resources, and harmonize policies,” he said.
He reiterated that such would reassert Africa’s voice and agency in the global climate discourse, ensuring our peculiar challenges and comparative advantages are well represented in shaping global solutions.
In his part, Chairman of the Africa Infrastructure and Climate Change Investment Summit (AICIS) Planning Committee, Mr Moses Owharo extolled the Nigeria’s lead towards tackling issues that border on climate change across the African continent.
Owharo explained that the event centered on the readiness to host the AICIS-2025 was put together by ABVIG in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Ministry of Environment.
Owharo said: “AICIS-2025 is a landmark gathering that affirms Africa’s unified determination to address climate change through resilient infrastructure and strategic investment.
“The summit represents a continental platform for driving Africa’s sustainable development vision through climate smart solutions.
“It will unite governments, development finance institutions, private investors, technical experts, civil society, the UN system and the diplomatic community to forge actionable partnerships around Africa’s infrastructure transformation, and climate adaptation imperatives.
“This gathering is also an opportunity to echo the vision articulated by President Bola Tinubu, at COP28that Africa must not only participate in global climate discourse, but also lead with urgency, innovation, and collaboration.”
“Strategic investment in green infrastructure is the catalyst for inclusive growth and long-term climate security. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under leadership of Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, continues to champion Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts to attract climate finance and foster multilateral alignment with our development goals.”
He described AICIS 2025 the culmination of sustained engagements including the 2024 International Symposium on Leveraging Green Financing in Abuja, strategic dialogues in Washington D.C. and across West Africa.
AICIS 2025: Nigeria Says Africa Must Be Active Architect of Its Own Sustainable Development
National News
Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria
By: Michael Michael
Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.
A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.
It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.
In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.
He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”
On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.
The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”
He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.
He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.
He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.
The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.
Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.
The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.
Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria
National News
Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President

Buhari’s Passing: FG Declares Tuesday Public Holiday to Honour Deceased Ex-President
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 15 July, 2025, as a Public Holiday in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.
This is in futherance to the seven days of National mourning declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on Monday on behalf of the Federal Government, following the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, stated that the holiday is a mark of respect for the late President’s service to the nation, his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, and his enduring legacy in governance and national development.
He said: “President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of our great nation. This public holiday provides an opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on his life, leadership, and the values he upheld.”
He urged citizens to use the day to honour the late President’s memory by promoting peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, in line with his vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.
He noted that as earlier announced, the National flags are to fly at half mast for the seven days of mourning period from Sunday 13th July, 2025.
The Federal Government extends deepest condolences to the family of the late President, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
End
National News
Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari

Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari
By: Michael Mike
The Chinese Embassy has mourned the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Embassy in a message on X commiserate with the government and the people of Nigeria.
The message read: “The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria extends our deepest condolences to the people of Nigeria on the passing of His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari (Rtd), Former President of Nigeria.
“We mourn a resolute leader whose unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress leaves an enduring legacy.
“His pivotal contributions to advancing China-Nigeria relations will forever remain etched in our shared history. Our thoughts are with his family and Nigerian people.”
Chinese Embassy Mourns Buhari
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