FirstBank, through its First@arts initiative, has launched the annual DecemberIssaVybe campaign to inspire and empower Nigerians to create and enjoy thrilling memories.

The campaign provides fully paid access to concerts, shows, plays, and festivals featuring A-list entertainers, including Kizz Daniel, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, and Tiwa Savage.

FirstBank has consistently supported festive concerts and events, creating unforgettable experiences for music lovers.

This year’s campaign kicked off with Kenny Blaq’s Reckless Musicomedy Festival at Onikan Stadium, Lagos, featuring performances by DJ Neptune, Kenny Blaq, Aproko, MC Monica, and others.

FirstBank distributed free tickets to young Nigerians and entertainment enthusiasts through engaging social media activities.

The bank’s Ag. Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, emphasized FirstBank’s commitment to delivering a ‘Wow December to Remember’ experience.

To participate, follow FirstBank on social media:

Facebook: First Bank of Nigeria Limited
Instagram: @firstbanknigeria
Twitter: @firstbankngr

Stay updated on ticket giveaways and experience the vibrant party atmosphere this season!

United Bank for Africa(UBA) through UBA Foundation, its corporate social responsibility arm, has donated the sum of N500 million to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), as part of its continued commitment to secure environment for individuals and businesses

l-r: Group Deputy Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Muyiwa Akinyemi; Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Group Chairman, UBA, Mr. Tony Elumelu, during the presentation of N500m to Lagos State Security Fund by UBA Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of UBA, held at Lagos House, Marina on Sunday.

The N500m cheque was presented to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who was accompanied by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, at the State House, Marina, Lagos on Sunday.

Speaking during the presentation, Elumelu reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that ensure the safety and prosperity of communities across Nigeria adding that “At UBA, we understand that security is critical for economic growth and societal well-being.

“Our donation to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund is a reflection of the bank’s belief in building safer communities to enhance the quality of life for all.

“We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to achieve this shared vision of a secure environment conducive to investment and development.”

While receiving the N500m cheque, the Lagos State Governor expressed appreciation to the UBA Group and UBA Foundation for the significant contribution and commended Mr. Tony Elumelu for its unwavering commitment to impactful projects, state’s progress and well-being.

He said, “we are grateful to the UBA Group for their significant contribution to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.

“This donation will strengthen our efforts to enhance security and protect our citizens. Together we are building a safer Lagos for all”

This latest gesture aligns with UBA Foundation’s Special Projects initiative, which focuses on addressing pressing societal issues through strategic partnerships and impactful interventions.

Over the years, UBA Foundation has actively contributed to enhancing education, the environment, and economic empowerment and special projects such as these critical donations across Africa.

The Foundation’s commitment to security as a driver of sustainable development is evident in its support for programs like the LSSTF.

Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa (UBA), emphasised the bank’s role as a leader in giving back to society.

He explained that in pledging its support to the state’s efforts at improving security, UBA recognizes the vital link between safety and economic stability.

He said, “This partnership with the Lagos State Government reinforces the Bank’s belief in collaborative efforts as the key to addressing security challenges and creating environments where individuals and businesses can thrive.

“We believe that a secure Lagos State is integral to a secure Nigeria. UBA Foundation will continue to support transformative initiatives that uplift lives and drive development.”

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, the Environment, Economic Empowerment and other Special Projects.

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced a fine of N150 million on Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) found guilty of illegally distributing mint naira notes to currency hawkers across the country.

This move follows the apex bank’s recent clarification on the validity of the old N1000, N500, and N200 banknotes, which remain legal tender in line with a Supreme Court ruling issued on November 29, 2023.

A statement signed by Sidi Ali Hakama, acting director of corporate communications, reaffirmed the validity of these denominations and warned against hoarding.

In a circular signed by the Acting Director of the Currency Operations Department, Mohammed Olayemi, the CBN expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of mint naira notes being traded by hawkers, describing the practice as impeding efficient and effective cash distribution to customers and the general public.

The circular, which referred to an earlier directive dated November 13, 2024, highlighted the CBN’s determination to address the commodification of the naira. Under the directive, any branch of a financial institution found culpable will face a penalty of N150 million for the first violation. Subsequent infractions would attract stricter sanctions under the provisions of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020.

To ensure compliance, the CBN stated that it would increase periodic spot checks in banking halls and ATMs while deploying mystery shoppers to uncover illicit cash hawking spots across the country.

The CBN further urged DMBs to strengthen controls, processes, and procedures around their Cash Management Centres, branches, and teller operations to prevent their systems from being exploited for illegal transactions.