General News
Unity Bank Upgrades Corpreneurship Prize Money to N16M Per Stream as 30 New Winners Emerge

In a bid to boost start-up capital and place more resources at the disposal of aspiring young entrepreneurs in Nigeria, retail lender, Unity Bank Plc has increased the prize money for winners of its flagship Entrepreneurship Development Initiative, known as Corpreneurship Challenge to 16 million Naira per stream.

Head, SME Banking, Dr. Opeyemi Ojesina addresses the participants at Delta NYSC Orientation camp before the commencement of the pitch presentation
Consequently, participants who emerge winners in the business pitch will henceforth win N800,000, N500,000, and N300,000 Business grants for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions respectively as against the previous editions in which the sum of N500,000; N300,000 and N200,000 were handed out to respective winners in the Corpreneurship Challenge.
Launched in 2019 with pilots in 4 states – Lagos, Edo, Ogun, and Abuja and scaled to 10 States in 2020, the Corpreneurship Challenge initiative is promoted in partnership with the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, SAED. The initiative features a business pitch presentation where participants have the opportunity to present their business plans and stand a chance to win business grants.
At the recently concluded edition of the Corpreneurship Challenge for 2024 NYSC Batch A, Stream 1 NYSC service, 30 winners emerged including upcoming entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions in several business value chains such as Poultry farming, Fashion, and Pastries, among others, after participating in the business pitch that took place across the 10 NYSC Orientation Camps in Rivers, Delta, Anambra, Abia, Oyo, Ogun, Kebbi, Niger Sokoto and Zamfara States.
At the Delta State NYSC Orientation Camp in Issele-Uku, Folorunsho Kolade who pitched a Poultry farming business plan emerged as the overall winner to claim the N800,000 grand prize; Samuel Ayodotun. J. whose innovative footwear venture idea, Basky Footprint took the second spot to win the N500,000 cash prize; while another corps member, Udoji Chibuike Peter, whose venture plan on the footwear fashion value chain also emerged as the second runner-up to claim the N300,000 grant.
Also, at the NYSC Orientation Camp at Nonwa Gbam Tai, Rivers State, Dan Betobong Samuel’s business plan on food production claimed the top spot to clinch the N800,000 grand prize; while Linda Christopher’s Lily Pastries’ business plan emerged as the first runner-up to claim the N500,000 grant. Esther Jacob’s business pitch on the poultry value chain emerged as the second runner-up to win the N300,000 cash grant.
Speaking at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Rivers State, the Divisional Head, Retail and SME Banking, Mrs. Adenike Ambimbola commended the participating Corps Members for the quality of their business plans and pledged the Bank’s commitment to sustaining the Entrepreneurship Development Scheme.
While congratulating the winners, Mrs. Ambimbola said, “Unity Bank is proud to associate with the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) scheme of NYSC in providing interventions and support to budding entrepreneurs with promising ventures through the business grants to help turn these ideas into reality. We recognize the importance of investing in our youths and empowering them to drive positive change within our economy.”
Also speaking at the grand finale held in Delta State NYSC Orientation Camp, Dr. Opeyemi Ojesina, Head of SME Banking, Unity Bank expressed delight at the Unity Bank Corpreneurship Challenge’s growing profile as a leading business incubation platform and catalyst for entrepreneurship development in Nigeria.
He said, “Over the past five years, Unity Bank has steadfastly supported the Corpreneurship Challenge, witnessing its profound impact on youth empowerment and job creation nationwide.
“The programme has earned a reputation for its innovative approach, seamlessly integrating financial backing, mentorship, and skill development to nurture aspiring entrepreneurs.”
Ojesina further underscored the invaluable mentorship offered to participants, connecting them with seasoned professionals who provide crucial insights, guidance, and a roadmap for success.
He emphasized Unity Bank’s belief that true empowerment extends beyond financial aid to the cultivation of entrepreneurial acumen.
So far, Unity Bank has invested over N120 million in the initiative, which has now produced 369 winners since it was launched in 2019.
In 2021, the leadership of the NYSC bestowed on Unity Bank the “Icon of Youth Empowerment” award in recognition of the impact of the initiative.
The Corpreneurship Challenge continues to elicit growing interest among the corps members, attracting over 4,000 applicants and participation in every edition.
General News
Tripoint Travels Hosts Pre-GEC Brunch for Nigerian Delegates Ahead of Global Entrepreneurship Congress 2025

In a vibrant celebration of national pride, global relevance, and entrepreneurial drive, Tripoint Travels, the official logistics partner of GEN Nigeria hosted an exclusive pre-congress brunch for Nigerian delegates attending the upcoming Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) 2025.
Held at Tripoint’s Lagos headquarters, the event brought together top entrepreneurs, investors, ecosystem leaders, and government officials, including Dr. Peter Bamkole, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Pan Atlantic University; Dr. Olawale Anifowose, Managing Director of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress Nigeria (GEN Nigeria); Dr. Babangida Ruma from The Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), Mrs. Uche Uzoebo, CEO of the Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF) Limited; Actor and influencer Mr. Umar Gombe; along with other distinguished guests and representatives from various government bodies, all in anticipation of their journey to Indianapolis, Indiana this June.
The Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC), Organized annually by the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), the GEC brings together more than 5,000 participants from over 200 countries, including Entrepreneurs, Investors, Policymakers, Researchers, & Support organizations to build stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems worldwide. Since its inception in 2009, the GEC has become a cornerstone of international collaboration and entrepreneurial innovation.
This year’s GEC, hosted in partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), marks the Congress’ return to the United States after 16 years. Held in Indianapolis from June 2–5, 2025, the event aims to spotlight Indiana’s pro-growth business climate while strengthening global ties that promote sustainable economic development and innovation.
The brunch allowed the delegation to connect in an intimate and engaging setting, sharing expectations, ideas, and goals ahead of one of the most impactful convening in the global entrepreneurship calendar. Designed to build camaraderie, align visions, and foster a sense of shared identity, the event emphasized the importance of collaboration as Nigerian representatives prepare to take the global stage.
“The Global Entrepreneurship Congress is not just a conference, it’s a platform that is deliberate about global innovation meeting local action, said Mrs. Shuhda Muhammed, Founder of Tripoint Travels. We wanted to set the tone for our delegates, to ensure that they feel connected to this year’s theme – The Bold Change the World, as well as foster the necessary collaborations to make that happen at the local and global stage.. As a company rooted in both logistics and empowerment, we are proud to play a role in making their journey seamless and meaningful.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Olawale Anifowose, Managing Director of the Global Entrepreneurship Network Nigeria (GEN Nigeria), emphasized the significance of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) as both a meeting point and a growth platform, where Nigerian entrepreneurs engage with global ecosystems to connect, learn, and thrive. He noted that Nigeria’s presence at the GEC is not just symbolic but essential, reflecting the country’s growing influence in the global entrepreneurial landscape. Dr. Anifowose also commended Tripoint Travels for their pivotal role as a trusted partner in mobilizing Nigeria’s brightest talent and making the journey to GEC 2025 a reality.
GEN Nigeria has emerged as a critical force in supporting entrepreneurship at the grassroots and policy level, and with a Partner as Tripoint Travels, its expansive network and initiatives, continues to actively shape the country’s innovation landscape, championing inclusive growth, and equipping thousands of Entrepreneurs with the tools, exposure, and networks needed to succeed in both local and international markets.
With delegates selected for their contributions to Ecosystem building and Entrepreneurship, Nigeria’s representation at The GEC 2025 would reflect the country’s diversity, resilience, entrepreneurship spirit and creative potential. The presence of Founders and Innovators like Mr Rotimi Awofisibe – MD, VFD bank, one of the officially invited participants, is testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in the Global Entrepreneurship arena.
“We’re proud to be a longstanding partner of GEN Nigeria, supporting the Entrepreneurs shaping Nigeria’s future. Attending the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) is about learning, contributing, and returning with a renewed, broader vision. It’s through committed partnerships like ours that such visions become reality,” said Mrs. Muhammed.
More than just a travel management company, Tripoint Travels is a trusted enabler of dreams, mobility, and opportunity. As GEN Nigeria’s official travel partner for GEC 2025, Tripoint is overseeing every aspect of the delegation’s journey, from visa coordination and flight logistics to accommodation and ground transportation, ensuring a seamless and empowering experience.
Tripoint Travels also extends its commitment to ecosystem development through Tripoint Academy, its nonprofit arm that supports early-stage entrepreneurs with training, mentoring, and access to local and global opportunities. Tripoint’s partnership with GEN Nigeria reflects its broader mission: to use travel as a tool for empowerment, education, and national development.
“Every single ticket we issue is a bridge, a bridge between where someone is now, and where they’re meant to be,” added Mrs. Muhammed. “We don’t just book travel. We open up the world for Nigerian entrepreneurs.”
The highlight of the Pre-Congress brunch was the piece of art done by all the delegates present at the event. The interactive art was introduced as an inclusive way to showcase the multiculturalism and pivotal position of the Nigerian business mind, and so the essence of the Nigerian delegation materialised through the painting. The art work will be exhibited and gifted at a special event during the Congress.
General News
FG to Provide High-fibre Internet in 12 Universities by Year End

Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, on Wednesday said that no fewer than twelve federal universities will benefit from high-fibre digital infrastructure before the end of the year.
In addition, some Nigerian universities are set to begin enjoying 24-hour electricity supply to enhance teaching, research, and learning on campuses, according to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa.
Dr. Tijani disclosed this at the commissioning of a High-Fibre Digital Facility at the University of Abuja’s old Boys Hostel. He said the initiative aims to equip students with digital skills and access needed to explore emerging opportunities in the global tech ecosystem before graduation.
Citing examples of young Nigerians who have successfully built billion-dollar online payment firms, Dr. Tijani urged students to leverage the digital infrastructure being provided by the current administration to develop themselves and build a future in tech.
The project is a collaboration between the federal government, Galaxy Backbone Nigeria Ltd, Huawei Technologies Nigeria, and other tech firms. It will deliver free Wi-Fi services across campuses, serving as a digital equalizer for students.
Present at the inauguration were the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa; the National Commissioner for the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, Dr. Vincent Olatunji; the Managing Director of NigComSat, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen; and the Postmaster General of the Federation, Mrs. Tola Odeyemi.
Also the Vice chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof Patricia Lar and the institution’s Registrar and the Managing Director of Huawei Technologies Nigeria, Mr Teorens Wu attended the event.
Dr Tijani further said digital inclusion was necessary especially for the students to navigate contemporary challenges and become successful in the digital space without waiting for white collar jobs on graduation.
He said the University was the first of the seven universities for the first phase of the pilot scheme. And that by the end of June, they would have connected the seven universities for the first phase.
“This initiative we are launching here today is the first of the seven in a pilot scheme, and by the end of July, we will have connected the seven universities”, he said.
“Galaxy Backbone has the infrastructure in place already; all we are doing is to take the fibre to hostels,” the Minister added.
“Your challenge today is what you do with the knowledge that you’re being given. And this is why to actualise the dream of our president, we’ve taught it to be important that Nigerian university students cannot continue to learn without access to meaningful connectivity.
“It is unacceptable because we know when we give you this access that not only are you going to be better in what you’re learning, but you’re actually going to create the future that our president is asking that we create as a nation”, Dr Tijani said.
Dr. Alausa, on his part, noted that the University was a special institution selected by the government to enjoy a 24-hour power supply. And that other special institutions will enjoy 24hrs power before the end of 2026.
“The president is energising institutions. We have special institutions in the country today enjoying 24-hour electricity via the presidential renewable mini-grid project, the solarisation project.
“The University of Abuja is one of the beneficiaries. You have a 3.3 megahertz mini-grid here and everybody can attest to it now that you have a 24-hour electricity supply.
“The president is not stopping there. Before the end of next year, all the special institutions will have a mini-grid. You will all enjoy a 24-hour electricity supply, “Dr Alausa said.
The Acting Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Prof. Patricia Lar in her welcome address described the project as a laudable one that would benefit the school community.
“It’s a special initiative that’s going to create opportunities for students of all economic status to access data to be able to use for knowledge and education, and to feed their creativity with ease.
“We are grateful for deploying fibre to our hostels. This also works with the solar power backup that has been installed in our campus,” she said.
General News
Nigeria Approves $500m for AfDB’s Trust Fund Replenishment over Next 15 Years

Nigeria has approved a fresh $500 million replenishment of the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF) at the African Development Bank (AfDB), extending the facility for another 15 years.
President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, announced this during his opening remarks at the ongoing AfDB Annual Meetings in Abidjan as he expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their continued support.
“To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to Vice President Kashim Shettima, for your support over the past two years, I am profoundly grateful. Thank you for graciously approving the replenishment of the Nigeria Trust Fund for another 15 years for $500 million.”
The Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF) was set up in 1976 through an agreement between the Nigerian government and the African Development Bank Group. It’s a revolving fund that sustains itself over time and is designed to support the development of low-income African countries in need of concessional financing.
The fund can be used in a number of ways—either to co-finance projects alongside the African Development Bank and the African Development Fund (ADF) or to finance projects independently. It supports both public and private sector initiatives and can also be used to top up funding for ongoing Bank Group-backed projects.
Unlike the ADF, which allocates funds to countries, NTF resources are tied to specific projects. This allows for more flexible, needs-based support where it’s most effective.
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