Business
Ecobank MySME Growth Webinar Series: Expert Makes Case For eCommerce To Grow Small
Ecobank MySME Growth Webinar Series: Expert Makes Case For eCommerce To Grow Small
Operators of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the country have been advised to leverage on eCommerce to boost sales and grow their business. This view was canvassed by Chief Commercial Officer, Jumia Nigeria, Ijeoma Arum, in her presentation titled: Growing your business, presented at the maiden edition of Ecobank Nigeria’s MySME Growth Series.
The MySME Growth Series is an innovative training program of Ecobank Nigeria targeted at empowering SME operators in the country. Under this initiative, the Bank aims to train over 1 million SME operators across the country in 2024.
Ms. Arum observed that small and medium-sized businesses in Africa are faced with challenges such as access to limited access to financing, stiff competition from established brands and regulatory compliance, noting that technology has the potential to transform the subsector.
According to her, eCommerce increases reach and awareness of products and services; allows businesses to gain valuable insights into customer behavior, and can be used to create targeted marketing campaigns and personalized experiences. She added that eCommerce allows customers to shop at their convenience, day or night and small businesses can also streamline the sales process to reduce overhead and achieve greater profitability.
Further, she noted that the eCommerce is faced with constant disruption with social media platforms and other sites competing for wallet share and purchase frequency, inconsistent stock supplies and lack of trust, stressing that “overall, quality, price, delivery fee, and delivery waiting time are found to be some of the most important factors for consumers when choosing a shopping experience.”
Earlier, Head, SME & Partnerships, Ecobank Nigeria, Osahon Akpata, said the webinar series is line with the Bank’s commitment to power the success of SMEs in different sectors of the economy.
According to him, “Ecobank aims to train 1 million SMEs in Nigeria to improve their capabilities and stimulate growth. We are launching the first phase of our training program – MySME Growth Series, a selection of virtual bootcamps led by facilitators who are experts in their fields. SMEs are the growth engine of Nigeria’s economy contributing almost 50% of GDP and 90% of jobs. As a bank that is growth focused, Ecobank is committed to the success of SMEs in different sectors of the economy,” he said.
Further, he disclosed that with an overall theme of “Scaling up your SME in 2024”, the webinar will hold every other Thursday throughout the year. In addition, Mr. Akpata explained that the series will dwell on various topics that cover key areas of concern for small businesses such as accounting, credit, sales & marketing, taxation and inventory management, adding that the Bank is also planning to launch an SME Mentorship program to collaborate with successful entrepreneurs.
“We will also equip SMEs with tools to help their business such as budget templates, calculators for simulating scenarios and links to government forms. They will be trained on resources for starting a business including how to register, market opportunities and key points to consider when running a business. We will also provide articles on key topics including tips to increase sales, advertising ideas, business management practices, case studies and guides to leveraging technology, amongst others,” he enthused.
Business
Diaspora Nigerians to Obtain BVN by Year-End- Cardoso
Naijanewsngr- Nigerians living in the diaspora will soon have the opportunity to acquire Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) before the end of the year, according to Yemi Cardoso, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
During a meeting with the Nigerian community in Washington, D.C., Cardoso announced that the initiative will be managed by the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS). He emphasized that the BVN project will not only improve financial inclusion for diaspora Nigerians but will also bolster remittances sent back home. This strategic move aligns with the CBN’s broader goal of enhancing financial services for Nigerians globally, making it easier for them to maintain financial ties with Nigeria.
In his address, Cardoso stated, “As far as we are concerned, it is totally unacceptable that you should be out here and be having hassles in operating your accounts or doing business in your original country.” His remarks underscored the importance of ensuring that diaspora Nigerians can access and operate their Nigerian accounts without undue complications.
This initiative is expected to significantly impact diaspora remittances, a major source of foreign exchange for Nigeria. With a streamlined process in place, Nigerians abroad will be able to remit funds more easily, contributing to the nation’s economy. The BVN registration will allow for more secure and efficient financial transactions, while also opening doors for diaspora Nigerians to invest more actively in Nigeria.
In a separate meeting with international investors, Cardoso discussed the recent monetary policy reforms in Nigeria. He urged investors to explore the opportunities within the Nigerian market, highlighting the favorable economic climate for foreign investment. This call to action aims to attract international capital into the country, further driving economic growth.
By rolling out the BVN to Nigerians abroad, the CBN seeks to ensure that all citizens, regardless of location, can engage meaningfully with Nigeria’s financial system, strengthening the overall economy.
Business
Abbey Mortgage Bank Excites Customers with Abuja Roadshow
Naijanewsngr– Abbey Mortgage Bank, a leading institution in the mortgage sector, has made significant strides with its groundbreaking roadshow tagged “Abbey Sales Storm” held at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The “Abbey Sales Storm” is aimed at bringing the financial and real estate opportunities to residents of the Federal Capital Territory and sharing valuable information on how it can be achieved with the Abbey Mortgage Banking investment.
The exciting roadshow which kicked off on Thursday, October 17, 2024 made stops at different locations in Abuja including popular spots like UTC and Barnex with Sales reps and activation agents distributing flyers and engaging with prospective clients about its products and service offerings.
Speaking during the roadshow organized by the bank, The Group Head of Retail Sales and E-Business, Abbey Mortgage Bank, Felix Omodayo-Owotuga, noted that “It was a good turnout. We’re thrilled to have finally made a buzz here in Abuja. Our goal is to bring greater awareness to what Abbey has to offer, and today’s roadshow is a big step in that direction.”
Owotuga further noted;
“Abbey Mortgage Bank has a strong presence in Abuja, with branches in key locations including Baze University and Area 11, making it easier for residents to access their trusted mortgage and financial services.
“Abbey continues to lead the industry as an innovator in the Nigerian mortgage sector, not just offering mortgage services but also retail & investment banking solutions, positioning itself as a one-stop-shop for all domestic banking needs.” He added.
Abbey Mortgage Bank recently celebrated the annual Customer Service Week, with daily themed dress codes; ranging from dressing in attires to highlight the bank’s signature corporate navy blue colour, to a fun day in which staff ‘twinned’ outfits and Abbey-branded T-shirts. These activities underscore Abbey’s commitment not only to excellent customer service but also to fostering a positive and engaging work environment.
As Abbey continues to expand its footprint in the Nigerian finance sector, the bank remains dedicated to offering top-tier services in the mortgage space and beyond.
Business
Access Holdings Plc Extend Rights Issue Acceptance Period To August 23, 2024
Access Holdings Plc Extend Rights Issue Acceptance Period To August 23, 2024…
Access Holdings Plc (“the Group”) has announced an extension of the acceptance period for its ongoing Rights Issue. Initially set to close on August 14, 2024, the period has now been extended to August 23, 2024, following the approval of the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC).
The statement, signed by the Group’s Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, confirmed that, “The decision is in response to the recent nationwide protest that disrupted operations of businesses and individuals across Nigeria and to provide shareholders with ample opportunity to subscribe to their rights.
“During the extended period of the Issue, dealings by the Company’s insiders on the Company’s shares will continue to be strictly limited to participation in the Rights Issue as earlier approved by the Exchange in respect of the Non-Dealing Period on the Company’s Audited Interim Financial Statements for the Period Ended June 30, 2024, until 24 hours after the publication of the Interim Financial Statements.”
For further inquiries or additional information regarding the Rights Issue, shareholders and prospective investors are encouraged to contact Access Holdings’ Investor Relations team at Investor.Relations@theaccesscorporation.com.
Access Holdings Plc
Access Holdings Plc is a leading multinational financial services group that offers commercial banking, lending, payment, insurance, and asset management services. Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Access Holdings operates through a network of more than 700 branches and service outlets, spanning three continents, 22 countries, and 60+ million customers.
Access transitioned into a holding company to drive rapid growth and become a full-scale ecosystem player offering interconnected services across customer needs. Established in 2022, Access Holdings Plc consists of the Access Bank Group; Access Pensions; a Payment and Switching Services Company; a Digital Lending Company, and an Insurance Brokerage Company.
The banking vertical serves its various markets through four business segments: Retail, Business, Commercial and Corporate, and has enjoyed what is it arguably Africa’s most successful banking growth trajectory in the last eighteen years, becoming one of Africa’s largest retail banks by customer base and Sub-Saharan Africa’s largest bank by total assets.
Access Holdings strives to deliver sustainable economic growth that is profitable, environmentally responsible, and socially relevant, helping customers to access more and achieve their dreams.
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