TechPression

Category: Editors Pick

  • Last-minute Valentine tech gifts that will wow him

    Last-minute Valentine tech gifts that will wow him

    Valentine’s Day is here, and if you’re still searching for the perfect gift for the tech-loving man in your life, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Sometimes, life gets in the way, and shopping for that ideal present falls at the last minute.

    But just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean your gift has to be anything less than impressive. With technology on your side, you can still find thoughtful, cutting-edge presents that will make his heart race just as much as he makes yours.

    Whether he’s a gadget enthusiast, a fitness fanatic, or a gamer, there’s a perfect tech gift out there waiting for him. 

    Read also: Father’s Day: How tech is bringing dads and kids closer

    Here are some last-minute Valentine’s Day tech gifts that will wow him and make it seem like you had this planned all along.

    Gadgets He’ll Actually Use

    Gadgets make excellent gifts for the tech-loving man. You don’t have to break the bank; plenty of affordable options will make his day.

    Wireless Earbuds: If he’s a music lover, wireless earbuds are a fantastic choice. Oraimo and Xiaomi offer affordable options with excellent sound quality. The Oraimo FreePods 3, priced at ₦27,900 (down from ₦45,400), provide up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge, extending to 28 hours with the charging case.

    Portable Bluetooth Speaker: A portable Bluetooth speaker is another great option for the music enthusiast. Perfect for house parties, road trips, or relaxing at home, speakers like the JBL Mini or Oraimo will serve him well.

    Power Bank: In Nigeria today, a reliable power bank is a necessity”. The Oraimo Traveler 3 Lit, priced at ₦24,900, boasts 27,000mAh of power and can fully charge most phones five times. Alternatively, power bank prices range from ₦15,000 for a 10,000 mAh to ₦87,000 for a 60,000 mAh capacity.

    Smart Fitness Tracker: For the fitness-conscious man, a smart fitness tracker shows you support his health goals. These watches monitor heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen, and sleep patterns. You can find one for around ₦12,000 at Konga.

    Smartphone Upgrade: For the ultimate smartphone upgrade, consider the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. The Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra feature AI-enhanced cameras, long-lasting batteries, and powerful processors.

    Smartwatches: A smartwatch is more than just an accessory; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 offers health tracking, notifications, and stylish designs.

    Read also: Top tech Valentine’s Day presents for your loved one

    Beyond the Gadget: thoughtful tech accessories

    Sometimes, the best tech gifts aren’t the flashiest. Practical accessories can significantly improve his daily life.

    Laptop Stand: A laptop stand can ease stress by providing comfort and boosting productivity. These stands elevate the laptop screen to eye level, reducing neck, back, and shoulder strain. They also help keep the laptop cool, preventing overheating. Laptop stands range from ₦10,000 to ₦40,000, depending on the specifications.

    Wireless Clipper: Clippers are essential grooming tools for men, and a wireless clipper offers convenience without a power cord. Wireless clippers range from ₦21,000 to ₦60,000.

    Router and Subscriptions: A router can be a thoughtful gift if your partner works remotely or enjoys streaming and gaming. Depending on the network operator, 5G routers range from ₦80,000 to ₦160,000. Don’t forget to follow it up with a subscription to his favourite streaming or creativity platform.

    Smart Home Gadgets: Help him automate his space with smart home devices like a Google Nest Hub (₦60,000–₦100,000), Amazon Echo Dot (₦35,000–₦50,000), or smart LED bulbs from Xiaomi or TP-Link (₦8,000–₦25,000). These tech-savvy upgrades make everyday living more convenient.

    Subscription to a Tech Service: If you want to gift him an experience rather than a gadget, consider a subscription to a service like PlayStation Plus (from $9.99/month), Xbox Game Pass (from $14.99/month), Spotify Premium ($9.99/month), or cloud storage (Google One, OneDrive, Dropbox—starting at 100GB). It’s a thoughtful way to support his hobbies and interests.

    Last minute doesn’t mean carelessness. With so many fantastic tech gifts in Nigeria, you may still pick something unique and exciting. So you don’t miss the big day, Jumia, Konga, and local stores provide speedy delivery on many of these options. Thought and tech matter, regardless of your choice!

  • Glo partners with Samsung to offer exclusive pre-order deals on Galaxy S25 Series

    Glo partners with Samsung to offer exclusive pre-order deals on Galaxy S25 Series

    Glo members have a fresh reason to celebrate in the always-changing world of smartphone technology.

    Offering an extraordinary pre-order chance for the much-awaited Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Globacom, Nigeria’s digital solutions firm, has revealed an interesting partnership with Samsung, the top producer of electronic gadgets.

    The Samsung Galaxy S25 was unveiled on January 22, 2025. It showcases cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) advancements designed to elevate user experience. With this launch, Glo customers are poised to enjoy not just the innovative features of the new smartphones but also a suite of exclusive benefits.

    Read also: Samsung’s next earbuds may ditch Bluetooth for Ultra-Wideband (UWB) wireless audio

    Exclusive benefits for Glo subscribers

    Glo subscribers pre-ordering the Samsung Galaxy S25 or S25+ will receive complimentary gifts that include a Buds FE, a suit cover, and Samsung Care. For those opting for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the benefits, such as a free Buds 3, a standing grip case, and Samsung Care, are even more enticing. These perks are designed to enhance the overall value of the purchase, offering both utility and style.

    In addition to these physical items, Glo has sweetened the deal with a significant data offer. Customers who purchase any model from the Galaxy S25 series will enjoy 18GB bonus data for six months under smartphone festival data plans. This offer provides an immediate benefit and supports the enhanced capabilities of the new Galaxy devices, which are known for their superior connectivity and performance features.

    Samsung S25 pre-order details

    The pre-order window for this exciting deal opened on January 22 and will close on February 18, 2025. Interested Glo customers can secure their pre-order at any Gloworld shop across Nigeria with an advance payment of ₦500,000. All pre-ordered phones will be delivered starting February 19, ensuring customers receive their devices as soon as possible.

    Read also: Samsung launches Galaxy S25 series, AR glasses, and more at 2025 Unpacked event

    Why the Samsung S25 deal stands out for Glo users

    The Samsung Galaxy S25 series is a testament to Samsung’s innovation. Its AI integration promises to revolutionise how users interact with their devices. From improved camera technology to enhanced security features and an ultra-durable Gorilla Armor 2 glass-and-aluminium construction, the Galaxy S25 series is set to redefine smartphone standards.

    This deal represents more than an opportunity for Glo users to own one of the latest flagship smartphones. It’s a chance to experience Samsung’s latest innovations with added benefits tailored specifically for them. As the pre-order deadline approaches, all subscribers are encouraged to visit any Gloworld outlet to take advantage of this exclusive offer. With the combination of cutting-edge technology and substantial perks, this deal is not just exciting; it’s a strategic move by Globacom to deepen customer loyalty and satisfaction in an increasingly competitive market.

  • UTME 2025: Why JAMB suspended two CBT centres

    UTME 2025: Why JAMB suspended two CBT centres

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has taken decisive action by suspending two Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres for violating registration procedures during the ongoing 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). 

    The announcement was made on Tuesday, and the suspension will last 14 days.

    Read also: Nigeria sets 3-year timeline to transition JAMB, NECO, WAEC exams to computer-based testing

    Details of the suspension

    The affected centres are the Federal College of Education (Technical) Potiskum in Yobe State and a CBT Centre in Otukpo, Benue State. JAMB’s spokesperson, Dr Fabian Benjamin, emphasised that these centres failed to comply with established registration guidelines. Specifically, they submitted blank copies of registration templates instead of correctly filled forms. 

    The violation undermines the integrity of the registration process and raises concerns about security measures in place to prevent infractions.

    In his statement, Dr Benjamin expressed disappointment that some centres disregarded clear instructions, stating, “It is concerning that some centres, despite being fully briefed on the implications of failing to adhere to these guidelines, have chosen to disregard them by submitting blank copies of the registration template in a misguided effort to increase candidate submissions”.

    Read also: Nigeria to fully migrate NECO, SSCE to Computer-Based Testing from 2027 to tackle malpractice

    JAMB’s commitment to integrity

    The UTME registration began on February 3, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on March 8, 2025. JAMB has mandated that all candidates manually fill out their details before uploading them to the registration portal. This process is crucial for maintaining accurate records and ensuring that all candidate information is valid.

    Dr Benjamin further warned other CBT centres about potential consequences for similar violations, stating, “Any centre found uploading blank templates in the future will face cancellation and will be barred from participating in the Board’s activities”.This suspension serves as a stern warning to uphold the standards expected by JAMB and protect the integrity of the examination process.

    The founder of JAMB, established primarily to streamline admissions into tertiary institutions in Nigeria, has always advocated for transparency and fairness in educational assessments. By enforcing strict adherence to registration protocols, JAMB aims to foster a credible environment for all candidates participating in the UTME.

  • YouTube expands ‘Communities’ feature to rival Discord for creator-fan engagement

    YouTube expands ‘Communities’ feature to rival Discord for creator-fan engagement

    YouTube is expanding its Communities feature, offering more creators a dedicated space to engage directly with fans—without relying on platforms like Discord.

    First introduced at the Made for YouTube event in September 2024, this mobile-only feature is now rolling out to a wider audience. The expansion aims to enhance creator-fan interactions by providing a central hub for discussions, updates, and fan-generated content. 

    Read also: Netflix announces June 27th premiere for Squid Game’s final season

    YouTube’s Communities

    YouTube’s Communities feature creates an interactive space where both creators and viewers can initiate discussions, share updates, and post content. Unlike traditional YouTube Posts, which are mostly one-way updates, Communities enable two-way engagement, fostering deeper connections among fans.

    Creators can manage these interactions using the Community Hub within the YouTube Studio app, consolidating channel activity and even suggesting responses to fan comments. During the initial testing phase, YouTube has received positive feedback from creators, prompting a broader rollout.

    YouTube ‘Community’ tab becomes ‘Posts’ to avoid confusion

    To avoid confusion between the new Communities feature and the existing Community tab, YouTube is rebranding the Community tab as ‘Posts’. While the functionality remains unchanged, the new name distinguishes standard updates and announcements from the more interactive Communities space.

    Creators can continue using Posts for quick updates, while Communities will act as a more immersive, discussion-driven environment for fans.

    Read also: Tems wins first solo Grammy award for Best African Music Performance

    Exclusive, invite-only access for now

    For now, access to Communities is by invitation only. Selected creators will receive an email notification and a banner alert on their channel pages within the YouTube app. Invited users will be prompted to visit their new Community space and choose whether to activate the feature.

    This expansion signals YouTube’s intent to rival Discord, offering creators a built-in fan community without needing external platforms. As YouTube continues refining Communities, it may eventually open access to more creators, making it a powerful tool for engagement.

  • Amma Gyampo to drive private capital into Ghana as new CEO of GVCA

    Amma Gyampo to drive private capital into Ghana as new CEO of GVCA

    On Tuesday, the Ghana Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (GVCA) announced that Amma Gyampo has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer. This marks a new chapter for the association, which is focused on driving private capital growth in Ghana.

    Gyampo replaced Hannah Acquah, who increased GVCA membership by 150 percent, expanded activities, and established a solid operational structure.

    Read also: Cöte d’Ivoire launches e-Justice platform to simplify, digitise access to judicial services

    Amma Gyampo’s leadership

    Amma Gyampo, a seasoned strategist with over 20 years of experience, brings expertise in impact investing, innovative finance, and private sector development. 

    She co-founded Impact Investing Ghana and ScaleUp Africa and has worked with global organisations like Vodafone and the Mastercard Foundation.

    Amma Gyampo, the New Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (GVCA), expressed her commitment to creating an environment for private capital to thrive, stating, “The Association understands the risk aversion, regulatory ambiguity, and capacity-building gaps that must be addressed. We will execute our strategic action plan with our members, policymakers, regulators, pension funds, investors, and fund managers to create an enabling environment for private capital to thrive. 

    By promoting policies, innovative funding vehicles and strategic collaborations, we aim to build local and international investor confidence and drive sustainable, inclusive economic growth.” 

    GVCA’s strategic goals

    Under Gyampo’s leadership, GVCA aims to reduce investment barriers through policy reforms and advocate for local domiciliation of funds. The association also plans to promote co-investment platforms and enhance professional development for its members. 

    Read also: Dr Johnson Asiamah: The economist President Mahama nominated to lead Bank of Ghana

    Board Chair Matthew Boadu Adjei emphasised her ability to foster collaboration, saying, “Amma’s appointment comes at a time when the industry is championing key reforms in the sector to make it a preferred destination for PE/VC practice in Africa. She is an experienced ecosystem builder with a unique understanding of how to build consensus and pathways to collaborative industry action.

    Building on our strong foundation, Amma’s leadership marks the beginning of a bold new phase for GVCA as it continues to shape Ghana’s private capital ecosystem for job creation and SME growth. We want to use this opportunity to say a big thank you to Hannah for her pioneering role as the first CEO for the association and the good work done!”.

    Gyampo’s vision includes leveraging technology to streamline investment processes and improve access to funding for startups and small businesses. By building strong networks among investors and entrepreneurs, she hopes to stimulate innovation and drive economic growth across various sectors in Ghana.

  • Women in Gaming Africa to debut at SiGMA Africa 2025, championing inclusivity 

    Women in Gaming Africa to debut at SiGMA Africa 2025, championing inclusivity 

    The first-ever Women in Gaming Africa conference, organized in partnership with SiGMA Group, aims to reshape inclusivity and foster professional development within the gaming industry.

    The landmark event is set to take place from March 10 to 12, 2025, at Cape Town’s Grand-West Arena, aligning with International Women’s Day to celebrate the contributions and achievements of women in gaming.

    Read also: Nairobi to host 7th annual Africa Tech Summit in 2025 

    The conference will open on March 10 with an exclusive tour of the Cape Winelands, featuring a mini-wine festival representing five vineyards. A distinguished lineup of speakers, including three special guests from outside the industry, will share insights on leadership, mentorship, and the role of female representation in Africa’s evolving economy. The day will conclude with the Women in Gaming Africa Mentorship and Rising Star Awards, recognizing outstanding talent and fostering an environment of inspiration.

    Driving gender equity and professional development

    As the global iGaming industry continues to expand, Women in Gaming Africa has emerged as a catalyst for gender equity and empowerment in the sector. On March 11 and 12, the conference will integrate into the broader SiGMA Africa event, featuring workshops and panel discussions addressing challenges and opportunities for women in gaming. Topics will include the growing demographic of female gamers, the significance of equitable representation, and the increasing influence of women in eSports. Specialized sessions will also focus on mentorship, leadership, and technical skill development to provide attendees with practical tools for career growth.

    Read also: Africa Energy Summit 2025 opens in Tanzania, targeting universal electricity access for 300 million by 2030

    Networking, recognition, and future opportunities

    Networking opportunities such as the Women in Gaming Africa Brunch and evening networking drinks will be open to all SiGMA ticket holders, fostering collaboration across the industry. The conference will culminate in the prestigious SiGMA Awards Ceremony, where the Award for Excellence will honor those advancing women’s roles in iGaming.

    SiGMA’s commitment to fostering innovation and diversity is evident in the Women in Gaming Africa initiative, which reflects a progressive approach to industry growth. This momentum will extend to the AIBC Eurasia event in Dubai from February 23 to 25, 2025, and the SiGMA Roadshow, ensuring continuous engagement across global markets.

    With the SiGMA Africa event in Cape Town set to mark a transformative moment in iGaming, the industry is embracing inclusivity, innovation, and opportunity. Women in Gaming Africa is poised to shape a future where female voices and leadership play a pivotal role in driving the industry forward.

  • EFT names Farai Tigere to lead operations in Zimbabwe

    EFT names Farai Tigere to lead operations in Zimbabwe

    On Wednesday, EFT Corporation, a leading African fintech company, announced the appointment of Farai Tigere as the Managing Director for its Zimbabwe operations. 

    The appointment supports the company’s plans for national financial inclusion, digital transformation, and economic empowerment.

    Read also: Zimbabwe’s EcoCash and South Africa’s MTN MoMo partner to simplify cross-border transactions

    “EFT Corporation is committed to enhancing Zimbabwe’s digital payments landscape, and Farai Tigere’s leadership will be instrumental in achieving this goal,” the company said in a statement. 

    “With his deep expertise in payment solutions and extensive local market experience, Tigere is well-positioned to lead our efforts in providing innovative and accessible financial services.”

    Tigere to drive EFT’s growth in Zimbabwe

    Tigere has played a significant role in Zimbabwe’s efforts to digitise payments. He began his career as an Implementation Engineer with EFT Corporation before moving into business development and solution architecture in 2018.

    “The primary goal is to maintain and expand EFTCorp’s established role as a major player in Zimbabwe’s payment ecosystem, which involves deepening the company’s reach in underserved sectors and further strengthening its presence in commerce,” said Tigere. 

    “For me, this role represents professional growth, and for the company, it is a chance to steer the Zimbabwean arm of the business through a challenging but opportunity-rich period of expansion.”

    Read also: Zimbabwe: ICT minister denies plan to license WhatsApp group admins for $2500

    EFT focuses on financial inclusion in Zimbabwe

    EFT Corporation highlighted the importance of bridging the financial gap through digital solutions that cater to Zimbabwe’s informal sector. “Financial inclusion is at the core of our mission,” the company stated. 

    “By leveraging market research and innovative technology, we aim to restore confidence in digital payments, ensuring more Zimbabweans have access to formal financial services.”

    EFT Corporation will offer various options to help businesses comply with Zimbabwe’s mandated POS system.

    “By tailoring these solutions to different market segments, EFTCorp will ensure that businesses are equipped to comply immediately with policy changes while benefiting from efficient payment systems,” Tigere stated.

    EFT Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to creating innovative digital financial solutions for businesses and consumers. The company added, “Our ability to innovate and adapt is what enables us to remain relevant.”

  • B.Tech, Egyptian Clothing Bank warm up winter with jobs

    B.Tech, Egyptian Clothing Bank warm up winter with jobs

    On Monday, B.TECH, Egypt’s leading omnichannel retailer of consumer electronics and home appliances, announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Egyptian Clothing Bank. 

    This collaboration aims to sustain winter essentials while creating lasting job opportunities, marking a shift from traditional in-kind donations to a more impactful philanthropy model.

    The initiative establishes a tailoring workshop that offers comprehensive training programs led by industry experts. 

    Read also: KEPSA, KenInvest partner to enhance Kenya’s business climate

    These programs equip participants with the skills necessary to achieve financial independence and secure a stable source of income. 

    Dr. Mahmoud Khattab, Chairman and CEO of B.TECH, emphasised, “Our commitment extends beyond offering winter essentials—we are dedicated to implementing initiatives that foster sustainability and empower individuals economically”.

    B.TECH sustainable development through economic empowerment

    This partnership reflects B.TECH’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development. By focusing on skill development and workforce empowerment, the initiative provides men and women with valuable skills that enhance employability and promote economic self-sufficiency.

    Manal Saleh, CEO of the Egyptian Clothing Bank, noted, “Economic empowerment is crucial for true development. This workshop is an initiative to support individuals and a model for transforming lives and improving living standards by providing genuine and sustainable job opportunities”.

    Dr Khattab further highlighted the importance of empowering women, stating, “Empowering women is not just an act of individual support—it is a strategic, long-term investment in the economic and social growth of our communities”. 

    This initiative is part of a broader approach to community development, aiming to create lasting value for individuals and communities.

    Read also: MoneyHash raises $5.2 million Series A to expand operations to Middle East, Africa

    About B.TECH

    B.TECH is Egypt’s largest retailer and distributor of consumer electronics and home appliances. Established in 1997, the company offers many products, including smartphones, televisions, kitchen appliances, and more. 

    B.TECH operates numerous retail stores across Egypt and provides financing options to make purchases more accessible to customers. 

    The company has also expanded into e-commerce and digital services, offering online shopping and home delivery. Additionally, B.TECH is involved in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as supporting education, entrepreneurship, and community development programs. 

  • Nigeria Telecoms Forum 2025 to address key challenges in digital infrastructure

    Nigeria Telecoms Forum 2025 to address key challenges in digital infrastructure

    Eventhive will host the Nigeria Telecoms Forum tagged “Towards a connected future; Investing in Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure” at Victoria Island, Lagos, on February 13, 2025 by 9.00am.

    The event, which will be held in collaboration with WIOCC, Internet Solutions Nigeria Limited, Africa Hyperscalers Media, and Techpression, will gather telecom stakeholders to discuss important issues ranging from technology to financing and governance while also highlighting the exciting opportunities to improve Nigeria’s digital infrastructure to promote equitable, sustainable development throughout the nation.

    Participants will delve into the development that is redefining the sector and look into chances for expansion and connectivity.

    Read also: Applications open for ‘READY Salone’ to equip 3,000 Sierra Leonean women, youths with tech skills

    Invited key telecom sector stakeholders

    An outstanding array of leaders leading the charge to change Nigeria’s digital landscape will be present at this pioneer gathering, including 9mobile Nigeria’s CEO, Obafemi Banigbe, Backbone Connectivity Limited CEO Ibrahim Dikko, Infratel Africa Managing Director Tunji Alabi, GM of Architecture & Engineering at MTN Nigeria, Bukola Ajayi Bruce Ayonote, CEO, Suburban; Reuben Oshomah, Regional Director, West Africa, Avanti Communications; Ogo Ofomata, Director, Airtel Business, Airtel Business Africa; and Ajibola Olomola, Partner, KPMG West Africa.

    Nigeria, one of the biggest economies in Africa, is at a turning point in its sustainable development and technological improvement.

    Nigeria is now struggling with insufficient infrastructure to facilitate digital transformation in a number of industries.

    The establishment of a strong and long-lasting digital infrastructure is essential to achieving the great promise of the country’s digital future.

    Go to https://ntf.eventhive.ng to register your pass for the event.

  • First Bank recklessly abandoned 93 workers on oil rig without food: Nduka Obaigbena claims

    First Bank recklessly abandoned 93 workers on oil rig without food: Nduka Obaigbena claims

    Nduka Obaigbena, the Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of ThisDay Media Group and Arise Group, has accused First Bank of severely mishandling an oil contract, resulting in 93 workers being stranded and facing life-threatening conditions aboard an oil rig. Obaigbena’s company, General Hydrocarbon Limited (GHL), is involved in a legal dispute with First Bank over an oil exploration deal that went awry.

     

    The disagreement began after First Bank claimed that GHL owed them $225 million and secured a court order in December 2024 to freeze the company’s accounts. However, Obaigbena has refuted these accusations, arguing that it was First Bank’s failure to meet the terms of the agreement that caused the issues, particularly the delayed payments to GHL.

     

    GHL asserts that the bank did not honour the terms of the contract, despite GHL having fulfilled all necessary requirements. The contract, which started in 2021, involved First Bank financing GHL’s oil exploration activities in OML 120, in exchange for 50 percent of the profits over eight years. However, First Bank accused GHL of diverting funds, a claim GHL denies.

     

    Delays lead to life-threatening conditions for workers

    According to GHL, despite having met all the conditions for payment, First Bank delayed the disbursements for months, far exceeding the five-day period specified in the contract. This delay caused severe issues for the workers on the Blackford Dolphin oil rig, who were left without essential supplies such as food and water, placing their lives in jeopardy.

     

    The contract between the two parties clearly stipulated that First Bank was to make payments “not later than 5 (five) business days” after receiving a request for payment, provided GHL had met all conditions. GHL maintains that they had complied with all requirements, yet the bank’s failure to release funds led to the critical situation on the rig.

     

    On 7 October 2023, the situation reached a dangerous point when the rig ran out of fuel, food, and water. GHL described it as a “MAYDAY” situation, with the workers facing imminent danger due to the lack of supplies. There were concerns that the situation could escalate into a full-blown international crisis.

     

    First Bank’s promises and GHL’s intervention

    While senior executives at First Bank were overseas, the bank’s Chief Risk Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, assured suppliers that the bank would make the payments within three days. However, according to GHL, the bank failed to fulfil its promise, leaving them no choice but to cover the costs themselves in order to preserve the safety of the workers.

     

    GHL stated that they provided evidence of the payments made directly to the suppliers, but First Bank allegedly used this documentation as proof of “fund diversion”. GHL strongly rejected these claims, insisting that their actions were purely in the interest of saving lives and preventing further escalation.

    Read also: CBN fines UBA, Zenith Bank, First Bank, 6 others for ATM cash hoarding during yuletide

     

    GHL further explained that they entered into an irrevocable Third-Party Payment Order to directly pay the suppliers, stabilising the operation and ensuring the safety of those aboard the rig. They stressed that the priority was to safeguard the 93 workers, most of whom were foreign nationals, from a potentially catastrophic incident offshore Nigeria.

     

    Legal action and ongoing dispute

    In response to the accusations from First Bank, GHL has vowed to challenge the bank’s claims in court. They plan to present detailed daily reports and log entries as evidence to debunk the allegations of fund diversion and to defend their actions during the crisis. GHL emphasised that they acted to protect the lives of the workers and to prevent an international incident.

     

    The ongoing dispute between First Bank and GHL remains unresolved, with both parties standing firm in their positions. GHL is determined to fight the accusations in court, while First Bank maintains that they are owed the $225 million and is continuing legal action to secure their claims.