Broadcasting
V-Convention 2023: Account of Three Nigerian Journalists
The 2023 V-Convention event held in Malaysia has come and gone but its impact in the lives of Nigerian journalists who participated in the august event, still resonates as they shared their experiences on Wednesday, November 1, 2023.
The webinar themed: “My V-CON Malaysia 2023 Experience: A Media Sharing Webinar.” was put together by International direct selling company, QNET, organizers of V-Convention in Malaysia, was held to give the journalists an opportunity to share their experiences at the convention.
Narrating her experience at the global convention, Veronica Dan Ikpoyi, a presenter with TVC News, said her experience at the V-Convention in Malaysia was electrifying.
According to her, “VCON was an electrifying experience for me. From the venue, I witnessed the energy of over 12 thousand participants, and how they all trooped out to learn from the QNET founder, Vijay Eswaran.
“It was electrifying, and like a carnival. A lot of people were looking forward to when the Founder of the company, Vijay Eswaran, “Eswaran worked in like a sun-god, yet showed so much humility to every participant, and acknowledge the contributions people have made in the QNET brand. Such humility is one leadership quality business leaders should learn from.
“Then, hearing QNET’s story and how they have run for 25 years, I deduced the resilience and impact that they have embodied. To run a business for such length shows how they have excelled in handling challenges and continued to impact in people lives.
“I like that QNET give multifaceted approach to training their marketers on ethical direct selling approach.
“And with what I saw at VCON, I now understand that QNET is not a get-rich-quick scheme that creates jobs through networking,” she said.
Also, Funmilola Gboteku, a reporter with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), expressed that VCON was an enlightening, and networking session that allowed her to connect with fellow journalists and QNET’s community.
“I was excited to attend such an event. I have never seen such a huge crowd converged at an event. VCON was an opportunity for customers to have deeper understanding of the company.
“I also gained eye-opening insights into several QNET products that were on display. Some of the products that impressed me the most are the Chi-Pendant, worn to protect one from electromagnetic fields, and other pollutants that pose real threats to health, and the Homepure Nova water filtration system, improves the antioxidant benefits in one’s drinking water.”
N’ankwat, sharing her experience and impression on some of QNET’s products, said “The Chi-Pendant is one technology that impressed me most.
“As I journalist, the pendant helps me relax better and wades off stress. I was also amazed at what I saw at the Quest International University in Malaysia. It is topnotch research based with a very innovative concept.
“The in-depth discussions and firsthand experiences, I got speaking with the QIU students, plus QNET customers and other stakeholders that converged at VCON debunked the misconception that direct selling is get-rich-quick scheme,” she pointed out.
Earlier, Biram Fall, QNET’s Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Manager, disclosed how the company entered Nigeria, saying “In April 2022, our official entry into Nigeria was marked by a significant partnership with Transblue Limited, a local customer service compliance and logistics company. Serving as our legal representative, Transblue aims to address logistical challenges in Nigeria’s market landscape. This partnership has been instrumental in connecting Nigerians to QNET’s global network and empowering the youths.”
On the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSRs) Fall said “Since our entry into the country, we have maintained our promise to introduce initiatives that foster growth and equip Nigerian youths with entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and anti-fraud awareness skills. One such initiative is FinGreen.
“FinGreen is QNET’s Signature Financial Literacy Programme, which aims to empower the youth and women to be financially literate and achieve financial freedom while building generational wealth. FinGreen plays a pivotal role in supporting the youth in emerging economies to reduce poverty through capacity building while equipping participants with basic financial literacy knowledge for better decision-making in their daily lives. Launched in June 2022, FinGreen has equipped over 1,200 youths in Nigeria with financial literacy.
“We have continued in our efforts to create a positive social impact for the underprivileged in society through donations to institutions such as the Bab Es Salaam Orphanage and The Little Saints Orphanage in Nigeria. These donations highlight our fundamental principles, which include providing support to all, including the vulnerable in society.
“In May, QNET, in partnership with Manchester City, organised a football clinic which saw 26 players aged Under 18 from six states in Nigeria engage in five training sessions, with one organized match to assess their capabilities. The footballers were given access to world-class football training and coaching by a team of experts led by Nigerian football legend and veteran coach Johannes Bonfrère,” Fall stated.
On QNET Product Expo in Abuja and Lagos the regional manager stated “In July and August 2023, QNET hosted two notable Product Expos in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. These expos presented a platform to showcase QNET’s diverse array of health and wellness products and services while deepening the understanding and appreciation of QNETS’s invaluable contributions to the communities in which we operate.
Speaking on VCON, he said “Annually, QNET brings together a diverse assembly of business leaders from different sectors and countries, including network marketing experts, international entrepreneurs and other stakeholders in Penang, Malaysia, for our flagship event – V-Convention. In September, QNET held V-Con 2023 in Malaysia, which had some selected journalists from tier-1 media outlets in Nigeria were invited to attend the event.
“V-Con 2023 in Malaysia was a pivotal five-day event for QNET’s customers and distributors. It provided a platform for deepening product knowledge, engaging with experts, and experiencing dynamic demonstrations. Attendees also benefited from business-building sessions and gained insights from accomplished distributors, solidifying our global commitment to growth and learning in the network marketing community,” Fall stated.
Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has withdrawn its criminal case against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its top executives after both parties reportedly reached an amicable settlement.
Recall that the FCCPC and MultiChoice have been at odds for months since the pay-TV operator hiked the pricing of its DStv and GOtv services in March.
The FCCPC then summoned the company to explain the rationale for the increases and submit supporting papers, after which it said MultiChoice failed to comply.
Viewing this as a violation of the FCCPC Act’s regulatory directives, the Commission filed a seven-count criminal lawsuit accusing MultiChoice and several of its top officials of hindering investigations and failing to comply with summons.
Nonetheless, the parties informed Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday that they had reached an amicable agreement, bringing the legal dispute to a conclusion.
Daniel Amadi, lawyer to the FCCPC, informed the court that a notice of withdrawal had been filed on August 16, following the resolution of all outstanding issues.
With no objections from the defence, Justice Omotosho dismissed the case, effectively ending the proceedings.
The commission underlined that compliance and transparency are still critical for sustaining trust between firms and regulators in Nigeria’s consumer market.
More than 700 Nigerians have successfully transitioned from renters to homeowners within six months, following the implementation of landmark mortgage reforms spearheaded by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).
The milestone, announced on Tuesday, marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s housing sector, which has long faced challenges including high interest rates, limited financing options, slow mortgage processing, and a housing deficit exceeding 28 million units.
Central to this transformation is the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-registered ₦1 trillion fund designed to provide long-term, affordable mortgages to ordinary Nigerians.
The fund offers interest rates as low as 9.75 percent per annum and repayment periods of up to 20 years, making homeownership more accessible than ever.
At full utilization, MREIF aims to enable at least 12,000 Nigerians to own homes, with additional refinancing support planned through the Nigerian Mortgage Refinancing Company.
For decades, many Nigerians have been trapped in a cycle of rent payments, often described as “funding their landlord’s retirement.” Now, with MREIF, homebuyers can secure loans and move into their own homes within weeks.
Since its launch, MREIF has disbursed funds to over 700 homebuyers through 11 Eligible Financial Institutions across five regions of the country.
These institutions, licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria and preapproved by MREIF, include Abbey Mortgage Bank, Access Bank, AG Mortgage Bank, FCMB, FHA Mortgage Bank, Gateway Mortgage Bank, Globus Bank, Homebase Mortgage Bank, Imperial Homes Mortgage Bank, Infinity Trust Mortgage Bank, Living Trust Mortgage Bank, Nigeria Police Mortgage Bank, Providus Bank, Stanbic IBTC, and Union Bank. Each mortgage represents a family moving from rent into ownership, building equity, stability, and generational wealth.
The Federal Government committed ₦150 billion under Series 1 funding, fully subscribed in December 2024, while private sector investors added another ₦100 billion under Series 2. Additional tranches could scale the fund to ₦1 trillion, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The fund is professionally managed by ARM Investment Managers, with a structure anchored in public–private collaboration to ensure affordability, transparency, and efficiency.
Wale Odutola, CEO of ARM HoldCo, said MREIF embodies the kind of partnership Nigeria has long needed—government resolve combined with private sector rigour.
He added that together with MOFI, they are laying the structural foundation for a housing sector that rewards citizens, unlocks investor confidence, and drives inclusive growth.
Beyond individual mortgages, MREIF also offers offtake guarantees to developers, encouraging new construction projects, creating jobs, and strengthening the housing supply chain. Nigerians in the diaspora now have a transparent, government-backed platform to invest in secure homeownership.
Despite challenges such as inflation, forex volatility, and high construction costs, MREIF’s long-term financing model is designed to withstand economic shocks. As more financial institutions, pension funds, and developers join the initiative, thousands more Nigerians—both at home and abroad—are expected to benefit.
The message is clear: the era of affordable homeownership has arrived in Nigeria. With Federal Government backing and private sector management, MREIF is not just a housing scheme—it is a national economic reform poised to reshape lives and communities across the country.
By Terry Kunle
Nigeria’s first-ever podcast festival is almost here, and it promises to be a cultural moment you won’t want to miss. From powerful voices to vibrant experiences, 40 storytellers, six stages, one innovation session, two live podcasts, one masterclass, the unveiling of the next big podcaster, cultural showcases, and brand activations.
Here are five reasons this first-of-its-kind festival deserves a spot on your calendar:
1. 40+ Storytellers Taking the Stage
Get ready for an incredible lineup of Nigeria’s most influential voices. From Chude Jideonwo and Seun Okinbaloye to Tunde Onakoya, Adaora Mbelu, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Rufai Oseni, and many more, the festival brings together podcasters, creators, and cultural icons who are shaping conversations across the nation. Expect powerful storytelling, fresh perspectives, and voices that inspire.
2. Live Podcast Shows You Can Experience in Person
PodFest Naija brings your favorite shows to life. Watch live podcast recordings happen in real-time, engage with hosts and guests, and be part of the audience that shapes these conversations. It’s podcasting like you’ve never experienced before.
3. Brand Activations and Interactive Experiences
Major brands including Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank, UAC Foods, Bet9ja, Crown Flour Mills, and others are creating immersive activations throughout the venue. Explore interactive booths, participate in brand experiences, and discover how storytelling intersects with innovation and business.
4. Gifts, Freebies, and Exclusive Surprises
Who doesn’t love free stuff? PodFest Naija is packed with giveaways, freebies, and surprise gifts for attendees throughout the day. From branded merchandise to special goodies from sponsors, there’s something for everyone who shows up ready to celebrate stories.
5. A Thriving Community of Creators and Podcast Lovers
PodFest Naija isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Connect with 1,500+ storytellers, creators, brands, and podcast enthusiasts who share your passion. Network, collaborate, and be part of a community that’s shaping the future of podcasting and storytelling in Nigeria.
Important: Free Entry, But First Come, First Served!
PodFest Naija 2025 is completely FREE to attend, but space is limited. With expected attendance of 1,500 people, you’ll need to arrive early to secure your spot at Harbour Point. If the venue reaches capacity, don’t worry—you can still join the action virtually and experience the festival from wherever you are.
PodFest Naija 2025 takes place on Friday, October 10, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos. Don’t just hear about it, be part of the story.
Terry Kunle is the media manager, AT3 Resources
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