FirstCap, an investment banking firm and subsidiary of FirstHoldCo Plc., has successfully closed the ₦4.46 billion Series 1 Bond Issuance by LAPO MFB SPV Plc, reinforcing its strong leadership in Nigeria’s debt capital markets and deepening access to long term funding for high impact sectors.

Acting as Lead Issuing House, FirstCap structured the fund raising on behalf of LAPO MFB SPV Plc (a company sponsored by LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited to mobilise institutional capital targeted at SME financing, renewable energy expansion, and digital financial services, three critical drivers of inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

The transaction is underpinned by a compelling impact thesis, with proceeds strategically deployed to support small businesses and clean energy initiatives. The microfinance sector continues to demonstrate resilience and strong fundamentals positioning the issuance at the intersection of growth, sustainability, and financial inclusion.

Commenting on the transaction, Ukandu E. Ukandu, Managing Director, FirstCap Limited, said: “This successful issuance underscores our strategic commitment to directing capital where it delivers measurable economic impact. At FirstCap, we partner with institutions that have the scale, discipline, and vision to transform markets, and LAPO exemplifies these qualities.

The ₦4.46 billion bond is positioned to be a catalyst for SME growth, expanded energy access, and broader financial inclusion. We remain committed to structuring transactions that are not only bankable, but impactful and aligned with Nigeria’s long term economic trajectory.”

FirstCap Limited remains committed to leading from the forefront of Nigeria’s capital markets, structuring transactions that are bankable, impactful, and investable, while supporting the future trajectory of Nigeria’s economic development.”

International wellness technology brand Amezcua is marking its 20-year milestone with the global rollout of the GX-1 Bio-Reset System, a non-powered grounding mat designed to be used as part of everyday wellness routines.

Amezcua

The launch signals the first phase of Amezcua’s 2026 expansion across the Middle East, Central Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, regions experiencing accelerated growth in consumer-led, lifestyle-oriented wellbeing adoption.

Nigeria’s wellness and personal care market is experiencing a significant surge, with the beauty and personal care sector alone valued at approximately USD 7.8 billion in 2023.

This rapid growth, expected to continue with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 17% in some segments between 2023 and 2027, is driven by a profound shift towards preventive health, natural products, and holistic wellbeing.

Designed for daily use at home or at work, the GX-1 requires no electricity, charging, batteries, or powered connection. As a non-powered mat, it does not generate electrical current or emit signals.

The system includes a conductive connection wire linking the primary mat to a secondary floor contact pad. The portable mat is intended to complement rest, recovery and overall well-being routines as part of broader lifestyle practices.

Amezcua is a wellness technology brand under QNET, a wellness and lifestyle-focused direct selling company. This latest launch reflects the organisation’s continued focus on accessible, nature-inspired wellness solutions.

“Over the past two decades, we have observed a global shift from reactive healthcare to proactive wellbeing”, said Mattias Mildenborn, Chief Executive Officer of QNET.

“The GX-1 reflects that transition by offering a simple, non-powered solution designed to integrate seamlessly into modern lifestyles without requiring additional digital dependency,”

Grounding – sometimes referred to as “earthing” – is a wellness practice that continues to attract interest internationally.

Amezcua emphasises responsible communication in the evolving wellness space and positions the GX-1 as a lifestyle wellness product and not a medical device.

Elena Khoo, Chief Marketing Officer of QNET, said transparency is essential as consumer literacy continues to grow. “The wellness sector is evolving rapidly, and consumers are increasingly discerning.

“Our responsibility is to communicate clearly that grounding is positioned as a complementary lifestyle practice, not a form of medical care or intervention. Transparency builds long-term trust.”

Materials, Safety and Quality

The GX-1 is made with an electroconductive polyurethane (PU) upper layer and Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomer (TPE) foam for the base layer.

Independent testing conducted by Bureau Veritas confirmed that the materials comply with the European Union’s Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) chemical safety regulation, with no Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) detected.

The materials are hypoallergenic and safe for prolonged skin contact. The product is manufactured under an ISO 9001:2015-certified quality management system and is positioned as a non-powered general wellness mat, not a medical device.

Product Formats and Everyday Use

The GX-1 is available as a pack of two: a large mat and a small mat. The large mat is designed for versatile use — for example, placed on a bed beneath a sheet, used on a chair or sofa, or used as a yoga mat as part of a personal wellbeing routine.

The small mat is designed for portability, including use when seated during travel (such as flights) by placing it at the feet or at a work desk. For users who want extended coverage, the two mats can be connected to create a larger continuous grounding surface.

The product is available through the official QNET e-store and via authorised Independent Distributors in participating markets.
As Amezcua expands into new regions throughout 2026, the GX-1 launch signals the brand’s continued focus on nature-inspired wellness technologies adapted for contemporary lifestyles.

For more information, visit www.amezcua.com.

Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc has recorded a significant milestone as two of its foremost leaders were honoured at the recently held 2026 Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) Awards & Recognition Ceremony, underscoring the company’s enduring contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s insurance industry.

The Managing Director, Olufemi Asenuga, was recognised for his outstanding contributions to the industry, particularly through his service as a former Governing Council Member of the NIA from 2023 to 2024.

His recognition highlights a track record of purposeful leadership, industry advocacy and commitment to strengthening trust and professionalism within the insurance ecosystem.

In a moment that further amplified the company’s legacy, the Group Chairman, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, was also honoured for his enduring contributions to the industry during his tenure as a former Governing Council Member of the NIA (2014–2017). He was represented at the ceremony by the Managing Director, Asenuga, who received the award on his behalf.

The dual recognition reflects a powerful continuity of leadership and shared commitment to advancing the frontiers of insurance in Nigeria.

Speaking on the significance of the honours, Head, Corporate Communications, Gideon Ayogu noted that the recognitions are a testament to Mutual Benefit’s longstanding dedication to excellence, integrity and industry development.

“These honours reflect not just individual achievements, but a collective commitment to strengthening the insurance industry and building public confidence in its value.

“At Mutual Benefits, we remain focused on driving innovation, deepening trust and contributing meaningfully to the growth of the sector,” he said.

The Nigerian Insurers Association Awards & Recognition Ceremony celebrates individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of the insurance industry in Nigeria, recognising leadership, service and impact.

For Mutual Benefits, the double honours serve as both recognition and responsibility, reinforcing its commitment to sustaining high standards of governance, delivering value to stakeholders and playing a leading role in shaping the future of insurance in Nigeria.