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NCOY: FirstBank is powering the Next Generation of Nigerian Innovators and Entrepreneurs
What did (the various territories that were later to be amalgamated into) Nigeria look like in 1894? How about a hundred years later in 1994? And what could Nigeria look like in the year 2094? History provides elaborate answers to the first two questions. Answers – accurate or near-accurate answers, that is – to the third, however, will rely entirely on the ability to predict/envision the future and work to invent and create the predicted future.
With a continuing shining legacy of nation building – supporting innovative financial, commercial and other developments in Nigeria and even Africa – one bank is already projecting beyond today to the year 2094 – exactly 200 years from its founding in 1894. The bank, First Bank of Nigeria Ltd, is not just predicting a bright, innovative future for Nigeria but is going all out to foster what is required to invent it. FirstBank is putting its money where its mouth is. The bank has been betting the farm on Nigeria’s young and emerging generation for decades.
Take the last two decades, for example. FirstBank has been involved with Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) for over twenty years as one of the many ‘fronts’ in the bank’s engagements with the next generation of Nigerians to collaboratively create the bright, innovative future that Nigerians dream of. For ten years now, FirstBank has been supporting the National Company of the Year (NCOY) competition, an extension of the JAN Company Programme, designed to help senior secondary school students better understand how businesses are organised and operated. The students will be required, during the course of the competition, to develop a business plan, establish production and sales of goods and services for their company, monitor progress toward goals at regular department and company meetings, maintain complete financial records, compile a report to stockholders, and liquidate the company at a given period with the support of a volunteer.
FirstBank’s partnership with JAN on the National Company of the Year competition has meant a decade of impact and innovation illustrated by the very nature of innovative products and services created by young minds to solve real problems facing society and the business systems they put in place in form of student companies to successfully produce and market the products and services sustainably and to impact their local communities. Consider the growing problem of fire accidents and deaths from gas explosions resulting from gas leakage in homes, offices and industries. The students from Taidob College, Abeokuta, through their student company, TC Achievers, created an innovative solution to address it.
TC Achievers produced a domestic and industrial gas leakage detector – a device which raises an alarm and sends SMS to the owner’s mobile phone once there is any gas leakage. Their innovative device fetched TC Achievers first position in the regional competition in Ogun State and at the national level in Lagos, earning them the right to represent Nigeria in Ghana at the 2019 African Company of the Year competition. Taidob College emerged from Ghana with four awards, the most by any of the participating Junior Achievement member countries, including Botswana, Eswatini (Swaziland), Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Nigerian representatives won the following: Client Focus Award, Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, Facilitator of the Year Award and were second runners-up for Company of the Year Award.
The 2018 National Company of the Year competition winners who went on to emerge the grand winners at the Africa Company of the Year competition in Ghana same year, Inventive Explorers from Caro Favoured College, Ajegunle, Lagos were concerned about traffic accidents, especially in areas with school children crossing busy streets. Their innovative device, a rechargeable handheld LED traffic light, was designed to solve this real problem faced by various congested communities. Besides the grand prize at the Africa Company of the Year competition, they also brought back home the Access Award, given to the business that best exhibits the principles of global connectivity.
Guided by the same spirit of innovativeness and enterprise and a passionate desire to solve a real problem facing society that were at work when TC Achievers and Inventive Explorers devised their award-winning innovative solutions, the first runners-up in 2018, Brain Max, the student company formed by student representatives of Government Girls Secondary School, Abaji, Abuja designed a website and software application for connecting local produce farmers directly to their customers. Brain Box also won Best Corporate Social Responsibility Project Award on account of which they visited camps of Nigeria’s internally displaced persons (IDPs) to provide financial literacy and entrepreneurship education to occupants, including helping the IDPs to secure seed funding. It was the same inspiration for the second runners-up, Sharon Glory Ventures, the student company formed by students of Sharon Rose College, Saki, Oyo State who produced a water-level indicator to enable homeowners to determine the level of water in their tanks. Sharon Global Ventures also received the award for the Most Innovative Product.
In 2020, given the global COVID-19 pandemic, the FirstBank-sponsored National Company of the Year competition will be conducted virtually. The virtual format will, however, not take anything away from the allure and competitiveness that the competition has been noted for over the years. This year’s unique competition, holding on Saturday, 12 December 2020 at 3 p.m. (West/Central African time), will bring together six outstanding student companies across Nigeria to lock horns for a lifetime opportunity to carry Nigeria’s flag at the JA Africa Company of the Year competition later in the year, and possibly repeat the feat achieved by the 2018 Nigerian representatives.
The Virtual Company of the Year (VCOY) competition is the culminating point for the implementation of the Virtual Company Programme. The goal of the VCOY is to create a signature showcase for JAN and the students who benefited from the impact of the digital JA Company Programme. This pilot programme will be in two stages where the first stage will identify the top business ideas from each region and select the top five most viable business ideas and reward them with seed funding to fully develop their ideas into businesses. The second stage of this competition sees the introduction of top professionals across different sectors who would serve as the panel of judges to determine each student company’s performance against a set of established criteria. Judges look out for evidence of innovation and application of new ideas in all aspects of business and select the best team to represent Nigeria at the Africa Company of the Year competition.
Whichever student companies emerge as winners of the 2020 National Company of the Year competition, one thing is certain: All the participants, not just at the national level but also at the regional levels, will join the ever-growing and rapidly-expanding crop of young minds engaged, trained, prepped and reoriented in a FirstBank-sponsored empowerment programme to become innovative and entrepreneurial thinkers and problem solvers. The bank is supporting such programmes so the young participants will join it in the arduous task of nation building and inventing the desired future for Nigeria. FirstBank is confident that the young minds who come through the JAN Company of the Year competition will be Nigeria’s future Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Richard Branson, Larry Page and Sergey Brin. In their time and in the envisioned future for Nigeria, the country will stand tall, unintimidated by her Western counterparts, having been catapulted to the status of a leading developed nation by the young and emerging generation FirstBank has been betting big on for years.
Every December in Nigeria is a whole mood. The harmattan breeze and the Christmas themed red and white decorations all over the cities and towns; the cousins returning from the UK, US and Europe with “I just came back” stamped on their accents — and of course, the unmissable lineup of street carnivals, concerts, plays, and festivals that keep Lagos, Abuja, Warri and Port Harcourt buzzing deep into the New Year. Since its launch, FirstBank’s “DecemberIssaVybe” (DIAV) campaign has stood at the centre of this cultural energy, giving Nigerians more than just access to premium entertainment — it’s been about creating awesome shared moments, uniting families, and giving the creative industry the big boost it deserves.
For almost a decade, DIAV has quietly shaped the last few months of the year especially December as the season of vibe, through its First@arts initiative, and if you’ve ever danced shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands at a FirstBank-sponsored event, you’ll know exactly what that means.
2018: When the Vybe Began
December 2018 felt different. Nigerians were beginning to embrace “Detty December” as a tradition, and FirstBank cleverly caught the wave. The bank rolled out DecemberIssaVybe with free and discounted tickets to mega concerts and stage plays, pulling crowds that wanted premium vibes without premium stress. Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy were headlining the big music festivals, while stage productions like “Moremi the Musical” got a new audience thanks to FirstBank’s push.
For the over 130-year-old FirstBank, “DecemberIssaVybe is a way of giving back during the festive season. It’s not just about music or theatre; it’s about connecting people, supporting the creative industry, and ensuring families make memories together.
Families who hadn’t been to the theatre in years found themselves seated side by side at Terra Kulture, watching Nigerian history come alive on stage. And for diaspora kids back home with “I just came back” energy? DIAV became their shortcut into Nigeria’s hottest events.
2019: The Year of Mega Concerts
By 2019, the Vybe was unstoppable. DecemberIssaVybe became synonymous with front-row seats at Davido’s “A Good Time” concerts, Kizz Daniel’s explosive Lagos show, and of course, the unforgettable Wizkid Starboy Fest. But it wasn’t just music. DIAV sponsored families into “Mad About You”, a romantic stage play that had couples rediscovering love, and rolled out tickets to AY Live Comedy Show, proving that December isn’t just about music — it’s about laughter too. By year’s end, DIAV had cemented itself as a December passport.
2020: The Pandemic Pause
2020 was strange for everyone. COVID-19 clipped the wings of live entertainment. But even then, FirstBank didn’t fold its arms. DIAV adapted by sponsoring virtual concerts and livestreamed plays, ensuring families could still bond over art and entertainment from the safety of their homes. It wasn’t the usual sweaty concert hall, but for many, DecemberIssaVybe campaign was proof that even in tough times, music and theatre are powerful connectors.
2021: The Big Comeback
With restrictions easing, Nigerians were desperate for a proper December. DIAV answered in full colour. Imagine a December where Adekunle Gold (AG Baby) sang his heart out at sold-out shows, Simi serenaded lovers, and Fireboy lit up the stage with “Peru” before it became an international anthem.
Families returned to KAKADU the Musical, friends reunited at comedy festivals, and for diasporans who hadn’t been home since 2019, the Vybe was a welcome mat rolled out in sound and laughter.
2022: The Golden Year
By 2022, DIAV wasn’t just an add-on to December, it was the main dish. That year, Asake’s breakout concerts shook Lagos, Burna Boy’s Love, Damini show was an electric storm, and the theatre scene — from The King Must Dance Naked to Awo The Musical — had DIAV stamping tickets for culture lovers.
2023: A Night of Queens
DecemberIssaVybe 2023 brought something fresh to the table with “A Night of Queens”, an all-female musical showcase at Eko Convention Centre. It was a dazzling lineup: Tiwa Savage, Simi, Teni, Yemi Alade, Waje, Niniola and Dope Ceaser all shared the stage in one unforgettable night of music.
FirstBank also sponsored the revival of Kakadu the Musical at MUSON Centre — a play that blends highlife, Afrobeat, soul and pop with the turbulent history of 1960s Nigeria. Meanwhile, families trooped out for Ali Baba’s January 1st concert and Basketmouth Unprovoked, while diaspora returnees shared DIAV tickets proudly on Instagram.
2024: From Comedy to Culture
Last December opened with a bang: Kenny Blaq’s Reckless Musicomedy Festival at Onikan Stadium. The crowd roared as Kenny Blaq, DJ Neptune, Aproko, MC Monica, and OvyGodwin delivered a high-energy mix of music and stand-up.
At the same time, FirstBank sponsored Motherland the Musical, Street Souk at Harbour Point, A True Christmas Story, and family-friendly events like Eko Hotel Pride Land Adventures and the Calabar Carnival Festival.
Reflecting on the season, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications said: “FirstBank is facilitating memorable homecoming and unforgettable experiences in December with family reunions, concerts and festivals. DecemberIssaVybe isn’t just about entertainment — it’s about the cultural glue for Nigerians everywhere.
Across the years, DIAV has done more than hand out tickets. It has fuelled the creative economy by investing in theatre, comedy, and music. Families and friends have been reunited, turning concerts into bonding sessions. Given the diaspora a homecoming anchor, it has blended the “I just came back” energy with Nigerian hospitality.
In a country where December is both the busiest and most joyful month, DIAV has positioned FirstBank not just as a financial giant, but as a lifestyle brand that understands culture.
2025: The Vybe Is Loading
Now here we are, on the cusp of another December. Whispers are already flying: who will headline the 2025 DecemberIssaVybe experience? Will it be another electrifying Davido Timeless Experience? Will Asake shut down Lagos again? Will Burna Boy, Rema, Tems, or Ayra Starr bring home the global magic? Or will DIAV surprise everyone with a mix of music legends and fresh new voices?
What’s certain is that FirstBank will once again hold the keys to the hottest tickets in town — concerts, fashion, culture, musicals, plays, comedy shows — all to be rolled out on their social media handles, where lucky fans can get premium access.
So, whether you are keeping it real in Naija or you are planning to visit, DecemberIssaVybe 2025 is coming, and FirstBank is about to make it unforgettable.
By Bolaji Israel
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Access Bank Appoints Mr. Innocent Ike As Substantive GMD/CEO, Recognises Contributions Of Ms Bolaji Agbede As Acting CEO
Access Holdings (‘Access Holdco’ or ‘the Company’) today announces the appointment of Mr. Innocent Ike as the substantive Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective August 29, 2025, following the receipt of regulatory approval.
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ZENITH BANK MARKS 35 YEARS ANNIVERSARY IN GRAND STYLE, RECOGNISES PIONEER CUSTOMERS AND LONG-SERVING STAFF
L-R: Representative of the Nigerian First Lady and Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Chief of Staff to Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo; Group Managing Director/CEO, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Wife of the Founder & Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Mrs. Kay Ovia; Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON; Founder & Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR; Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum; Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi; Chairman of Access Holding Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR; Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; and the Publisher of Thisday Newspaper, Prince Nduka Obaigbena at the Zenith Bank 35th Anniversary and Chairman’s Dinner held at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, at the weekend.
Amidst pomp and pageantry layered with a mixture of glitz and glamour, Zenith Bank Plc marked its 35th year anniversary with a commemorative Chairman’s Dinner at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos on Friday, August 15, 2025. In recognition of their immense contributions to the success of the brand, the bank also presented commemorative awards and plaques to pioneer customers and long-serving staff, who have served meritoriously for 25 years and above. The ceremony brought together key stakeholders of the bank including customers, staff (past and present), regulators, partners, and friends, who all came together to celebrate 35 years of excellent and innovative banking services that has propelled the banking giant to the peak of Nigeria’s financial industry. Among the eminent personalities who graced the occasion were the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas; Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum; Governor of Delta, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who was ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Sir. Monday Onyeme; Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON; and former governors Peter Obi and Udom Emmanuel (also an alumnus of Zenith Bank).In her welcome address, the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON applauded the Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR for his foundational role in building the structures for what has today become a shining example of excellence in the Nigerian banking industry and a globally recognised financial institution. She described him as “the Godfather of modern banking and the Nostradamus of our time, who through sheer tenacity, foresight, and uncompromising integrity transformed a modest vision into the financial powerhouse we celebrate today”.In his goodwill message, the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, a proud alumnus of the bank, praised the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, CFR for being at the heart of the very successful brand that today stands as Nigeria’s largest bank by Tier-One capital. According to him, “Long before technology became the bloodstream of global finance, Jim Ovia had already woven it into the DNA of Nigerian banking industry. He introduced innovation not as a fashion but as a philosophy, placing Zenith Bank on a path where excellence is not an ambition but a standard. Yet his true signature is not only on the balance sheet. For Jim Ovia, the people make an institution. His greatest investment has been in human capital – in transferring his experience and sense of adventure to generation after generation of bankers and investors forged at Zenith Bank”.
Also speaking at the event, the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia, CFR expressed its immense appreciation to all guests for joining the bank in celebrating this momentous occasion. He thanked the bank’s esteemed customers and shareholders for their trust, confidence and shared vision; the regulators, for their guidance over the years; his friends and partners, for being a constant source of strength; the Zenith Bank family led by the exceptional Group Managing Diector/CEO, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, for their loyalty and commitment; and his beloved wife and family for their love and support.Founded in May 1990, Zenith Bank has grown from humble beginnings into one of Africa’s leading financial institutions with branches across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT, Abuja as well as subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, France, UAE and a representative office in China.
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