Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria has officially launched its newly redesigned website, marking a significant step toward enhancing digital engagement, regulatory transparency, and investor protection.

The regulator, in a statement on Monday, said the upgrade introduces a modern design, enhanced functionality, and a streamlined user experience aimed at investors, market operators, and the general public.

According to the SEC, the new platform features improved navigation, consolidated resources such as regulatory guidelines and publications, and a mobile-friendly design.

“This comprehensive upgrade introduces a modern design, enhanced functionality, and a streamlined user experience,” SEC said.

“The restructured platform ensures critical information is better organized and more accessible for all stakeholders, including investors, market participants, and the general public.

“Key enhancements include an intuitive menu and site structure for finding information quickly.

“Consolidated Resources: Key documents, regulatory guidelines, and publications are now easier to locate. A responsive design optimized for desktop and mobile devices.

“The initiative underscores the Commission’s ongoing commitment to transparency, operational efficiency, and improved stakeholder engagement.”

According to Emomotimi Agama, director-general (DG) of SEC, the website redesign reflects “our dedication to continuous improvement in service delivery and communication”.

“This digital advancement is a significant step in building a more transparent and accessible Commission, enhancing our engagement with the capital market and the investing public,” Agama said.

Also speaking, Samiya Usman, executive commissioner for corporate services at SEC, said the focus went beyond aesthetics.

“By simplifying access and logically organizing content, we have created a powerful platform that supports our mission to develop and regulate a fair, efficient, and transparent capital market,” the commissioner said.

The SEC urged stakeholders to explore the website and use its features to access regulatory updates, news, and services.

Fidelity Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, has announced its intention to establish a lasting presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, group managing director, Fidelity Bank Plc, met with the Augustin Kibassa Maliba, Congolese Minister of Digital Economy, in Kinshasa on last week to discuss the plan.

Onyeali-Ikpe stated that the Congolese subsidiary would focus on funding digital projects and financial inclusion.

If the expansion proceeds, Fidelity Bank would become the 16th active bank in the DRC and the fourth Nigerian-owned institution, joining Access Bank, FirstBank and United Bank for Africa (UBA).

The Congolese government views the move as a way to broaden financing options for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), tech startups, and public digital transformation initiatives.

Fidelity Bank is already involved in a project to launch a Congolese satellite aimed at improving internet connectivity and bolstering the digital economy.

The DRC’s banking sector remains significantly underdeveloped.

In 2024, with a population exceeding 100 million,  the country had approximately 15 commercial banks, most of which were subsidiaries of foreign banking groups.

The banking penetration rate was only about 6% in 2022, well below the African average of 15%.

Additionally, bank loans to the private sector accounted for just 9% of GDP in 2023, compared to a continental average of 25% to 28%.

Also, according to the Central Bank of Congo, total bank deposits reached $12.87 billion by the end of May 2024, with households contributing 33.5% of the total.

Union Bank of Nigeria, one of the nation’s longest standing financial institutions, today announced the successful completion of its merger with Titan Trust Bank Limited, following final approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This milestone, according to a statement from Mrs. Olufunmilola Aluko, head, Brand and Marketing Officer, Union Bank concluded a process that began with the signing of a Share Sale Agreement in 2021 and positions.

Union Bank as an even stronger force within Nigeria’s financial services sector. Under the terms of the merger, Union Bank has fully absorbed Titan Trust Bank’s operatons and assets.

The combined institution will continue to operate under the Union Bank brand, while Titan Trust Bank ceases to exist as a separate entity.

With an expanded footprint of over 293 service centres and 937 ATMs nationwide, supported by strengthened digital channels, Union Bank is poised to deliver enhanced value across retail, SME, and corporate segments.

The merger combines Union Bank’s trusted heritage with Titan Trust’s agility and innovation, creating a platform for sustainable growth and broader financial inclusion.

Mrs. Yetunde Oni, managing director and chief executive officer, Union Bank, described the development as “a pivotal moment in our 108-year journey, and a launchpad for delivering greater value to our customers. By blending stability with innovation, we are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of Nigerians and to be their most trusted financial partner.”

Also speaking on the transaction, Mr. Bayo Adeleke, chairman of the Board of Directors,  Union Bank, said: “This is a new era of growth, collaboration, and shared prosperity. By bringing together the strengths of both institutions, we are committed to creating lasting value for our customers, shareholders, and communities while advancing Nigeria’s financial inclusion agenda.” The Bank has assured customers that there will be no disruption to existing services.

Account details remain unchanged, and customers will continue to access a full suite of products and services seamlessly, with an accelerated push towards enhanced digital solutions.

This strategic consolidation strengthens Union Bank’s market position, unlocks operational synergies, and underscores its ambition to deliver a modern, robust, and inclusive banking experience for all.