Connect with us

General News

NIWSF Critical in Tackling Wine & Spirit Adulteration- Sobodu

Published

on

One of the participating companies at NIWSF in Lagos…on Thursday
Kindly share this post

Spronks Creations Limited, organisers of the yearly Nigeria International Wine & Spirit Fair (NIWSF), has described the platform as critical in tackling adulteration wine and spirit adulteration in the country.

NIWSF is the foremost business event that brings wine and spirit producers, traders and consumers together.

Mrs. Aderonke Sobodu, managing director, Spronks Creations, said at the commencement of the fair in Lagos on Thursday, that NIWSF, apart from being a world class platform for on-and-off trade businesses aimed at fostering inter-cultural business relationship between wine and spirit producing countries and sub-Saharan African countries, consumers are using the process to identify with traders and producers of different brands in the market.

According to her, “the fair enables interface with the traders-wholesalers and retailers. So, instead of people falling into the dangers of adulterated drinks, they can use this platform to identify with you (the producer or sellers)”.

The fair, now fourth in the series, with the theme: Wine, Spirit, Trade, Consumer Experience and More, is sponsored by Louis Roederer; the prestigious producer of the number one Champagne in the world – Cristal Champagne and other expressive Champagnes.

Over 30 wine and spirit exhibitors drawn from over 10 countries including Spain, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, United States of America, Argentina, Chile, Italy, France and Nigeria are expected grace this edition.

Thousands of wine lovers, trader, restaurateurs, beverage and hospitality industry, connoisseurs, major retail chains, independent wine shops and those seeking joint ventures partnership were seen at the fair, which also offers networking opportunities.

Sobodu added that, “The growth and acceptance of wine and spirit into our social lifestyle has made the country one of the fast emerging markets in the world, which in turn offers great opportunity for tourism, trade and commerce.

“This also created the need to expose indigenous wine and spirit producers to the global trade environment with Nigeria ranking as a fast growing market. Currently consumption figure of wine and spirit in the country is valued at over $350million based on our exportation”.

Speaking on the sustainability of the feat, the Spronks Creations Boss said, “What keeps us going is passion. For us, we know that for every good thing, there are phases. We need to grow with it; it is like having new born. Before they will walk they will crawl. The driving force to us is to do something right. We will keep moving.

“According to statistics, the chances for SMEs to survive can be deduced from the operations within the first five years. We have passed the through the third year, now in the fourth and we will keep going. Also, there are people who shared in our passion and dream.

“We believe that the Nigerian consumer should be aware to the platform for quality wine and spirit.

“The concept for the fair was carved out of the gap in the market; for wine & spirit manufacturers and distributors. Nigerian market is ripe, but there are still areas to be addressed. Some people organizing events, sometimes, do not know who to approach to make orders, directly, from the producers. This is a right platform for consumer experience; where they can have face-to-face discussions with the producers, express themselves and get appreciated.

“I think this is one of the ways to contain brewing or selling of adulterated wine. If you are a producer or an importer a brand of wine and could showcase it at the fair, it shows you are sure of your product. We are not just meeting with the consumers”.

The Nigerian International Wine and Spirit Fair (NIWSF) 2014 provided enthrall atmosphere with assorted display of wines and spirit for visitors to taste and savour.

Exciting activities include special Piano & Cigar Lounge designated for VVIP guests. Guests in this room will be treated to live smooth Jazz music, luscious canapés, Cognac and champagnes courtesy of Louis Roederer- world number one champagne house and complimentary cigar stick by the Lagos Cigar Club.

The General Relaxation Hub is the perfect spot to relax, have fun, network, play games and enjoy good smooth and jazz tunes.

Other features include the top twenty wine tasting, raffle draws, press hub and many more.

 


Kindly share this post

Nigeria CommunicationsWeek believes that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. So since 2007, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and how they affect lives.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Comments

General News

NDIC Reinforces Full Oversight Compliance to Safeguard Depositors

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Mr. Thompson Sunday, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), has reaffirmed the Corporation’s strict compliance with fiscal and financial regulations, including the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007, noting that the NDIC has consistently remitted the required percentage of its earnings to the Federal Government.

Mr. Sunday made this known during a courtesy visit to the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Dr. Armstrong Takang, as part of NDIC’s ongoing engagement with key stakeholders following his formal assumption of office in July 2025.

According to him, NDIC takes financial accountability and transparency seriously, stressing that the Corporation complies fully with statutory remittance obligations, including the payment of 20 per cent of gross earnings or 80 per cent of net surplus to the Federal Government, as applicable. He added that NDIC also submits its financial statements ahead of statutory deadlines.

The NDIC MD/CE explained that this culture of compliance aligns with the Corporation’s role as a key institution within Nigeria’s financial safety-net, charged with protecting depositors and promoting confidence in the banking system. He emphasized that adherence to fiscal discipline remains central to NDIC’s credibility and effectiveness.

Mr. Sunday further disclosed that NDIC also complies with the Federal Government’s 50 per cent cost-to-income ratio policy, although he noted that the policy poses operational constraints. He explained that the deductions affect NDIC’s ability to build a strong Deposit Insurance Fund, which is needed to respond effectively to bank failures.

He stressed that international best practices under the Core Principles for Effective Deposit Insurance issued by the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI) require deposit insurers to maintain adequate funds to reimburse depositors when banks fail without recourse to government, adding that the NDIC is seeking an exemption to strengthen its capacity in this regard.

Mr. Sunday described MOFI as a critical stakeholder, noting that the Federal Government, through MOFI, holds a 40 per cent equity stake in NDIC. He said sustained collaboration with MOFI is essential to ensuring that NDIC continues to meet its obligations to government while effectively safeguarding depositors’ funds.

In his remarks, Dr. Takang commended the NDIC for its exemplary collaborative spirit and acknowledged the Corporation’s compliance with fiscal regulations. He assured that MOFI would continue to engage the Federal Ministry of Finance on NDIC’s behalf, noting that a strong NDIC is vital to sustaining confidence in Nigeria’s financial system.

Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation, transparency and accountability, with Mr. Sunday reiterating that NDIC remains focused on balancing regulatory compliance with its overriding mandate of depositor protection and financial system stability.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

T2 Backs Youth Excellence as NCBC Wins Bosun Tijani Foundation Basketball Tournament

Published

on

Kindly share this post

T2 has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development and excellence through sport as the NCBC basketball team, adopted by the brand, emerged champions of the Bosun Tijani Foundation Youth Basketball Tournament held at the Alake Sports Complex, Ijeja, Abeokuta.

The tournament, organised by the Bosun Tijani Foundation in collaboration with the Ogun State Government and supported by several partners including T2, brought together 12 competitive teams from across Nigeria, positioning basketball as a powerful platform for youth engagement, discipline, and opportunity.

NCBC’s championship run reflected the values T2 seeks to champion, work ethic, intelligence, teamwork, and resilience. The team recorded commanding victories over Team Vision, Warlords, and Elevate before defeating the Ilupjeu Raiders 66–52 in a gripping final.

Commenting on the adoption of the team, Seni Ogunkola, Vice President, Brands and Communication, T2 stated “NCBC embodies the qualities we believe in, exceptional work rate, intelligence on the ball, discipline, and a hunger to excel. By supporting them, T2 is investing in potential, purpose, and the next generation of leaders on and off the court.”

The climax of the event saw His Royal Highness, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, alongside Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, present the trophy to the victorious team, drawing rapturous applause from spectators. The event was also attended by the Chief of Staff to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Mr. Lere Olayinka, and the Ogun State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Wasiu Isiaka, underscoring strong institutional support for youth-focused initiatives.

Through its participation in the tournament, T2 continues to position itself as a brand that goes beyond sponsorship, championing platforms that unlock talent, inspire ambition, and create lasting social impact for Nigerian youth.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

Ecobank Guarantees Seamless Digital Banking Services Throughout the Christmas and Year-End Period

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Ecobank Nigeria, a member of Africa’s leading pan-African banking group, has assured customers of uninterrupted access to banking services throughout the year-end holiday period via its secure and robust digital platforms. The Bank also urged customers to remain vigilant against fraud and scams during the festive season.

Ecobank Guarantees Seamless Digital Banking Services Throughout the Christmas and Year-End Period

Ecobank Bank

Speaking on the development, Victor Yalokwu, Head, Products & Analytics, Consumer & Commercial Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, said the Bank’s digital channels – including the Ecobank Mobile App, Ecobank Business App, USSD *326#, Ecobank Online, OmniPlus, Omnilite, EcobankPay, RapidTransfer, Ecobank Cards, ATMs, PoS terminals, and over 35,000 Ecobank Xpress Point (Agent Banking) locations nationwide – will remain fully available to support customers throughout the yuletide and year-end holiday period.

He noted that customers will continue to enjoy a wide range of services during the period, including local and international funds transfers, bill payments and airtime top-ups, merchant payments, balance inquiries and account statements, as well as cardless cash withdrawals via ATMs.

According to Yalokwu, “Ecobank encourages customers to leverage these digital solutions for safe, fast, and efficient banking, especially during the festive season when convenience and reliability are essential.

“While physical branch operations may be subject to adjusted working hours in line with public holidays, customers can be assured that Ecobank’s digital platforms are designed to deliver uninterrupted service and enhanced security at all times.

“Ecobank remains committed to providing innovative financial solutions and exceptional customer service, and we wish all our customers a joyful festive season and a prosperous New Year.”

Yalokwu also cautioned customers to remain vigilant against fraudsters and scammers during the period. “Before you wrap up the year, tighten your security. December brings online sales, travel, and year-end distractions—this is exactly when scammers are most active. From fake festive deals to cloned merchant sites and suspicious messages, staying vigilant helps keep your money safe.”

He advised customers to shop only on trusted websites, never share their PINs, passwords, or one-time passwords (OTPs), avoid banking on public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious of urgent or emotionally charged messages, and regularly review their account activity.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending