General News
Growing Crime Due To Lack of Central Database – Oyebo
Yemisi Grace Oyebo (Mrs) is head, Document Management, First Bank of Nigeria Plc.
She is also a member of various Associations in the records and information management profession, within and outside Nigeria and has held such positions as senior librarian, records, archives and information management, analyst/consultant.
With 20 years experience in Information Management, and over 24 years experience as a seasoned Historian, she is passionate about the evolving industry in Nigeria.
Oyebo spoke to peter ugwu on the imperatives of delivering proper information management to businesses, government, financial, and private sectors in the country.
Rating Information Management Industry in Nigeria
The industry is an evolving one; not only in Nigeria, but it is a global trend.
Why it has not been well recognized before now is because the awareness on the business or keeping records was very low.
Meanwhile, everybody has records, right from the day we were born. At birth certificate is issued to the baby, even at death, people still ‘receive’ death certificate. So, in one’s life cycle, documents are generated.
While in school, all the admission letter, examination papers, results, certificates, etc are documented.
When you get to work, again the advert for your job should be documented; the interview materials, etc. if you don’t document them, of course there will be no evidence for you in future.
Therefore, in the time past the people failed to realize that such information and records ought to be documented for reference purpose.
Many have lost court cases; it has caused them a lot of stress for failure to keep records.
Thus, at time people started reasoning alongside record keeping, particularly the legal profession which pioneered the records and information documentation.
When the lawyers need evidence to support their litigations they need documents. So, it was in the mid-1950s that the profession started evolving.
And in Nigeria today, people don’t really know how to go about it, that is the reason why few of us who exposed to the intricacies involved in the profession and out of dedication to the course; we are willing to share the knowledge with whoever cares.
Your Passion Suggests You Would Like the National Assembly Legislate on Information Management?
Exactly, there should be legislation on this matter.
It serves as the same thing as having guiding rules, policies and principles and having consequent-management.
That is, there should be sanctions if things are not done right; and in a situation where things are working well you give reward.
Like the adage that say: where there is no law there is no sin; the same thing applies to the issue at stake, if there is no Bill to support the profession, people will not take it serious.
Businesses should also consciously make it part and parcel of their operating guidelines, right from take-off. It should be such that you consider your certificate of registration, how do you keep it; the advert for positions, the interviews as you proceed in your endeavours, etc.
So, upcoming businesses should not make the same mistakes that multi-nationals have made, which they are finding it difficult to leave with.
Some of us are only interested in accumulating documents, no meaningful means of labeling them; neither do they have retrieval method.
Where Does Record and Information Management Comes in Data Security; Especially in the Banking Sector cum Cashless Policy?
If we are looking at cashless economy we should be also considering a paperless economy. But even in cashless economy, there are still elements of paper document flow or control which demands strict adherence to laid down procedure to maintain data security.
Even the online transactions there are records that must be kept. All the ATM transactions, we keep the records.
There is no transaction that does not require record keeping. And it is becoming easier with cashless economy policy.
The same success expected from this economy is accruable from paperless economy if we embrace it.
Paperless documentation is very credible aspect of proper information record. Both the paperless documentation and cashless policy share the agenda of ensuring security of information or data.
So, the enablers to communicate or transact business within the contest of cashless economy are the ICT gadgets, and they are ridden with data or information captured during our transmission from paperless to electronic documentation.
Even the text messages, financial transaction alerts, facebook comments, tweets, etc are information shared and they are recorded somewhere via ICT tools.
The only difference is that ICT is a tool that requires a professional handling. And the people to do that are the records and information managers. We are the real information content managers.
First Bank had bagged Information Security Management Systems Certification, How Was the Bank Able to achieve the Feat?
It started with the management’s decision that First Bank must pursue excellence in information and document management.
The actualization of this certification was a proof of the management’s foresight. I give kudos to them, because they are willing and committed to the course.
This was a solid foundation for the department to operate better.
First of all, they believed in us that work in that department. They provided the fund for and mandated the relevant departments to provide us with necessary documents and supports.
The bank has been apt since it adopted and complied with the highest known management standards, not only in document management, but in information security, IT governance and business continuity.
What Are your Advices to Banks and Corporations yet to Embrace this Important Administrative Approach?
My advice to them is to know that it is not late. They should just include proper information management in their processes and redo all their backlogs while the new once are handled professionally.
As An Evolving Profession, What Are The Career Opportunities Available?
There are so many career opportunities available in the discipline. Looking at the lifecycle of information; starting with the creation, companies need us, (RIM managers) to guide them on various policies they need to put in place.
We need to inform them on how to enforce the policies, how to generate the documents, etc. even when they want to classify and filling, they need information managers. When it comes to storage, forget about it, that one is endless.
You can go into ranking system, document management for the e-information, etc. Currently, ICT experts are doing our job.
For instance, all those selling certain information management software are doing our job, because the sector has not brazen up.
They may not get the actual solution until the professional give them the appropriate information on what to build.
When it comes to archiving, it is still us that will do that, and determine who should have access to what.
So, there is a huge potential in this profession.
Unfortunately, people don’t really know. That’s why I am happy with what Records and Information Awareness (RIMA) Foundation is doing.
We have seen people develop passion for the field just for the fact they have come to understand potentials in this field.
They were exposed to what others are doing through this platform; most of them were overwhelmed.
Information, Document and Archives managers in the Country had at Different Public Fora Decried the State of the National Archives, What Do You Think is the Problem?
We all know that whenever something is within the purview of the government as a parastatal, the situation is not always encouraging.
It’s really unfortunate because I can’t start analyzing our public sector is going through. My colleagues at the national archives are frustrated, because there is no commitment from people at the top echelon, no fund, no support and they don’t buy into programmes that will rejig the institution.
Notwithstanding the challenges, we are coming together to attack the monster of improper information management in Nigeria.
It’s an evolving sector actually, but I want to say that it is paying. It will evolve and get sustained.
Our focus should be to have legacies for the coming generations. Other countries have central database, we don’t have that in Nigeria.
The national information managers are supposed to have collection of certain documents. Over there you can’t forge birth certificate; because they have your data even thumb prints of the citizens, etc.
This sector has capacity to help business grow. Government should provide a platform to enable this happen.
As A RIMA Ambassador, What are your Plans for the Industry?
RIMA ambassador is like an ambassador of a country; you are that country. So, I stand for what Rima is to the society.
It is expected of me to create awareness. Even as a member of the advisory board I have to do more than that.
Although it is going to be a challenging task, but I have accepted it, because we must get thing right and working in our country.
We have that gap that must be closed. For instance, Records management is studied under management Science in University of Ibadan; in other words, it is not even a full-fledged course. How do we address that if we don’t create awareness?
Thus, it is done on us, already practicing to even increase our knowledge. Personally, I have visited warehouses, vaults, libraries, archives, resource centers; wherever information is stored, I do visit them while on tour abroad. We need to sacrifice for others coming up to have where to stand to grow.
General News
NIS Deploys Advanced Surveillance Masts, other Critical Infrastructure to Boost Border Security
Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has said that under the first phase of its e-border solution, surveillance masts equipped with 24-hour thermal and optical monitoring capabilities have been deployed across several border locations, providing surveillance coverage of 10 to 15 kilometres during the day and up to 5 kilometres at night.
The service also assured that it will continue to modernise border security management through the deployment of advanced technology and critical infrastructure.
DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, spokesman for the NIS, who made this known during a news briefing by Spokespersons for security, defence and law enforcement agencies in Abuja, said that the phase two of the e-border solution is expected to expand coverage to additional land border points.
Akinlabi said the Service has also established an Integrated Operating Centre (IOC) to serve as a central hub for real-time intelligence gathering, surveillance, and data harmonisation relating to foreign nationals.
He said the NIS recorded significant operational successes in strengthening border security, combating transnational crime, and enhancing migration management between January and May 2026.
“During the reporting period, the Service intensified enforcement operations against irregular migration and related transnational crimes, resulting in the repatriation of 567 foreign nationals for violations of Nigeria’s immigration laws and regulations.
“In addition, six foreign natio nals were deported, comprising four individuals arrested for their involvement in a visa racketeering syndicate and two others who were deported after completing prison sentences for criminal offences.
“The Service also strengthened efforts to curb identity fraud and abuse of national documentation. Enforcement operations led to the recovery of 47 National Identification Number (NIN) cards from irregular migrants, while 21 stowaways were apprehended at various seaports as they attempted to illegally enter or exit the country through unauthorised means.”
Akinlabi said aside enforcement activities, the Service continued to invest in preventive and community-based initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of irregular migration and cross-border crime.
“In March 2026, the Seme Border Command conducted sensitisation programmes for drivers’ associations, commercial motorcyclists, and community stakeholders to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration practices.
“Similarly, the Idi-Iroko Border Command carried out public awareness campaigns across markets, motor parks, and schools to educate border communities on the dangers and security implications of trans-border crimes.”
Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PufferPay Limited will deliver the keynote paper at the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 scheduled for Friday, July 31, 2026 at Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The theme of the Roundtable is: Fintech: Driving the Future of Digital Financial Ecosystem in Nigeria. Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga is a graduate of Computer Engineering from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State.
He is a technology entrepreneur and business leader with a strong track record in building and scaling innovative digital and enterprise solutions across Africa.
As the CEO of PufferPay, he drives the company’s vision to deliver seamless, secure and inclusive payment solutions tailored for emerging markets.
He is also the Chief Executive Officer of Pufferfish Technology Limited, a Pan-African IT and consulting firm specialising in software development, data analytics and systems integration for both public and private sector clients.
Under his leadership, the company has established strategic partnerships with globally recognised technology providers, including industry leaders in enterprise computing and analytics.
Pufferfish Technologies Limited has in a few years of its existence, birthed PufferPay, a fintech payment business created to enhance financial inclusion and payments facilitation in Africa.
PufferPay is created with best-in-class technology for transaction speed and security that guarantees top-range service delivery to its growing customers.
Reacting to the development, the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Business Journal Media Group, Prince Cookey said:
“Mr. Emmanuel Ovaga represents the next generation of tech leaders in the fintech space in Nigeria and Africa. His laudable accomplishments as the CEO of PufferPay Limited deserve accolades. He has positioned PufferPay as a leading player in the digital financial ecosystem in Nigeria and emerging corporate tentacles across the continent. Accordingly, stakeholders attending the 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 would be looking forward to a robust conversation on the State of the Fintech market today and tomorrow.”
The Special Guests of Honour include Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, Commissioner for Insurance/CEO, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) while Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) will Chair the event.
The Guest of Honour is Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe, President/Chairman of Council, NCRIB.
Distinguished members of the Panel include:
- Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE)
- Mrs. Idu Okeahialam, Group Managing Director/CEO, Royal Exchange Plc
- Mr. Jide Orimolade, Managing Director/CEO, Stanbic IBTC Insurance Limited
- Dr. Obioha Oti, President, Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN)
- Mr. Sarafadeen Fasasi, President, Association of Financial Inclusion Agents of Nigeria (AFIAN)
- Chidubem Emelumadu, Ecosystem Lead (Africa), Lisk
The revolutionary success story of Moniepoint, Opay, PalmPay, Flutterwave and others in the digital payment system in Nigeria represents a positive expansion of the financial services sector in the country.
With millions of Nigerians and businesses lacking access to basic financial services, the importance of Fintechs remain sacrosanct in achieving substantial level of Financial Inclusion and expanding the frontiers of the industry.
According to AI Overview, Fintechs in Nigeria have revolutionised the financial landscape by dramatically increasing access to banking services, driving, for example, a 20% increase in financial inclusion and helping to bring the banked population to roughly 63%. These firms have introduced faster, affordable digital payments, lending, and investment services, forcing traditional banks to adopt digital transformation.
On investment, AI Overview stated: “Fintechs in Nigeria dominate the tech landscape, securing 35% of total tech funding ($2 billion total) in 2024, with over 430 companies attracting roughly 36% of all African fintech investment. Despite global challenges, the sector remains highly resilient, driven by high demand, with significant deals including Moniepoint’s $110 million series C.”
In January 2026, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) granted national licences to Moniepoint, Opay etc, giving them the regulatory authority to operate across the 36 States of the Federation. The decision firmly underscores the great strides by Fintechs in driving Financial Inclusion and supporting sustainable economic growth in the country.
The 3rd Business Journal Fintech & Financial Inclusion Roundtable 2026 aims to underscore the positive contribution of Fintechs in deepening Financial Inclusion, expanding access to financial services and contributing to economic growth in the country.
Expected participants at the Roundtable include regulators, operators from key sectors of the economy, media and members of the public.
The Bank of Industry (BoI), Nigeria’s foremost Development Finance Institution (DFI), has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), setting the stage for deeper economic cooperation, expanded investment flows, and stronger industrial partnerships between Nigeria and Belgium.
The agreement was signed during a high-level breakfast meeting jointly hosted by BoI and the NBCC under the theme, “Scaling Operations, Expanding Capacity, and Accessing Competitive Finance.” The event convened senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, development partners, MSMEs, and private sector stakeholders committed to advancing bilateral trade and industrial development.
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, the Executive Director, Corporate Finance, Sustainability and Investments, Mr. Rotimi Akinde, described the partnership as a strategic milestone in BoI’s drive to expand global collaborations that accelerate Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
“As Nigeria’s leading Development Finance Institution, the Bank of Industry has consistently recognised that sustainable industrial development is built not only on access to finance but also on enduring strategic partnerships.
“This collaboration with the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce reflects our commitment to creating stronger international business corridors that unlock investment, facilitate technology transfer, support MSMEs, and strengthen Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness,” he said.
Akinde noted that Belgium remains one of Europe’s most dynamic trading and investment destinations, making the partnership an important platform for promoting co-investment opportunities, export development, enterprise growth, and knowledge exchange between businesses in both countries.
The two-year renewable MoU establishes a framework for joint business forums, investment roadshows, trade missions, business matchmaking, enterprise capacity development, and increased promotion of BoI’s financing solutions to Belgian investors and businesses operating in Nigeria.
The collaboration is also expected to improve access to foreign direct investment, expand export-oriented industrial projects, and create stronger commercial linkages between BoI-supported enterprises and the Belgian business community.
Delivering the welcome address, His Excellency Pieter Leenknegt, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Nigeria, commended the growing economic relationship between both countries and expressed optimism that the partnership would create new opportunities for businesses on both sides.
The General Manager of the Nigerian Belgian Chamber of Commerce, Marc Eeckhout, described the agreement as a practical platform for translating business interest into measurable economic outcomes.
“This Memorandum of Understanding represents more than an institutional partnership; it creates a structured bridge between Belgian innovation and Nigerian enterprise. By working closely with the Bank of Industry, we are opening new pathways for investment, technology exchange, and business collaboration that will enable companies from both countries to scale with confidence while contributing to sustainable industrial development,” he said.
The breakfast dialogue featured presentations on business expansion, industrial financing, and competitiveness, with contributions from industry leaders, including Engr. Vincent Adegbotolu, Managing Director/CEO of DWC Engineering, and Mudiaga Okumagba, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Direct Logistics Plus.
The partnership aligns with BoI’s 2025–2027 Corporate Strategy, which prioritises industrialisation, MSME development, youth and skills, women’s economic empowerment, climate finance, digital transformation, infrastructure, and export promotion. With assets valued at over ₦6.8 trillion, the Bank continues to strengthen strategic international partnerships that support the Federal Government’s industrialisation agenda while creating jobs, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Through the collaboration, BoI expects to attract new investment opportunities from the Belgian business ecosystem, increase financing for high-impact industrial projects, strengthen export value chains, and improve the investment readiness of Nigerian enterprises through joint advisory and capacity-building initiatives.
The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to working with global partners to unlock long-term capital, accelerate industrial growth, and position Nigeria as a competitive investment destination within Africa and beyond.
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