Connect with us

Economy

UK govt unlocks £150 million from dormant accounts for coronavirus response

Published

on

The Culture Secretary has announced today (Wednesday 20 May) that £150 million from dormant bank and building society accounts is to be unlocked to help charities, social enterprises and vulnerable individuals during the coronavirus outbreak.

This includes accelerating the release of £71 million of new funds from dormant accounts alongside £79 million already unlocked that will be repurposed to help charities’ coronavirus response and recovery.

Accordingly, the funding will support urgent work to tackle youth unemployment, expand access to emergency loans for civil society organisations and help improve the availability of fair, affordable credit to people in vulnerable circumstances.

Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden said:

Charities and social enterprises are playing a vital role in our national effort against coronavirus.

This funding will support organisations that are at the heart of their communities, building on our unprecedented package of financial support for the voluntary sector.

Through our proposals to further expand the dormant assets scheme, we want to unlock hundreds of millions more pounds for good causes, while keeping customer protection at the heart of the programme.

Of the £150 million:

£10 million will be brought forward for the Youth Futures Foundation to help organisations who support unemployed, disadvantaged young people across the country into jobs. They will be launching an Emergency Levelling Up Youth Fund to support young people from hardest hit communities; and will expand their Development and Impact grants programme to rapidly increase youth employment provisions.

£45 million will be deployed by Big Society Capital to allow better access to investment including emergency loans for charities, social enterprises and some small businesses facing cash-flow problems and disruption to their trading following the coronavirus outbreak.
The demand for affordable credit is expected to rise substantially in light of the coronavirus outbreak. Fair4All Finance will use £65 million to support affordable credit providers to increase access to fair, appropriate products and services for those struggling financially, providing them with an alternative to high cost loans. This includes an expanded Affordable Credit Scale-up Programme and other initiatives for those in financially vulnerable circumstances.

READ ALSO:  Naira exchange rate for Saturday, October 21, in Abuja and Lagos

£30 million will go to Access – The Foundation for Social Investment who will support social enterprises helping people in vulnerable circumstances. They will make up to £10 million available for emergency support through social lenders while also developing a wider programme of recovery finance for the social sector. Both initiatives will work alongside Big Society Capital and other social lenders, and will enable a wider range of organisations to access affordable and flexible finance.

Since its launch in 2011, 30 firms – including all major high street banks – have voluntarily transferred funds from accounts that have been inactive for 15 years into the scheme and so far over £600 million has been distributed to good causes.

In addition to this funding, following the Chancellor’s announcement of an unprecedented £750 million package of support for frontline charities during the coronavirus outbreak, the “Coronavirus Community Support Fund” distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund will open for applications this Friday, 22nd May.

£200 million worth of grants will be available for organisations who are supporting people and communities experiencing disproportionate challenges and difficulty during the pandemic, and those that provide services and support for vulnerable people and have seen an increase in demand or have lost income. Further funding will be committed and informed by emerging priorities, as the impact of the pandemic on vulnerable groups and charities is understood.

Funding from the Coronavirus Community Support Fund will start to reach frontline organisations within a few weeks. Applications to the Fund will be handled through The National Lottery Community Fund’s well-established funding infrastructure, which they use to deliver around £500 million of grants to local organisations each year. A joint panel set up by DCMS and NLCF will advise on distribution of funding.

READ ALSO:  Lifting 100 million out of poverty isn’t by accident, we will deliver on it, says Buhari

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen, said:

This funding will provide vital support to some of the most vulnerable in our society, and comes on top of the unprecedented package we have put in place to help individuals, businesses and the economy through this difficult time.

“Thank you to the banks and building societies for taking part so we can continue to support so many good causes. I look forward to the potentially millions more we can unlock for good causes through expanding the Dormant Assets Scheme.”

The Government is currently consulting on expanding the dormant assets scheme to include a range of financial assets from the insurance and pensions, investment and wealth management, and securities sectors. The expansion has the potential to bring billions more pounds into the scheme.

Consumer protection will remain at the heart of an expanded scheme, with the priority continuing to be reuniting customers with their money. Only where this is not possible, following repeated, unsuccessful efforts to locate the asset owner, will funds be released to support good causes.

If at a later date a consumer discovers that they had a dormant account and their funds have been transferred into the scheme, they will also always be able reclaim the full amount owed to them.

 

 

Continue Reading

Economy

Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions on Naira Debit Cards

Published

on

Fidelity Bank

Tier-one Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc., has announced the resumption of international transactions on its Naira Debit Cards.

This recommencement gives customers the freedom to make seamless payments abroad, online, and at ATMs outside the country.

The Divisional Head of eBanking, Fidelity Bank, Ifeoma Onibuje, shed light on the development.

Onibuje said: “We are delighted to inform the public that Fidelity Naira Cards are now enabled for global use.

“This means that our travelling customers can now utilize their Naira Debit cards outside the country to shop, spend and withdraw internationally without hassles.”

“Consequently, our customers can now spend up to $1,000 quarterly for international POS and online transactions; and withdraw up to $500 quarterly on international ATMs.”

The announcement offers Fidelity Bank customers another way to complete international transactions, in addition to the Bank’s existing foreign currency debit and credit cards.

The bank stated that it further reinforces its commitment to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into customers’ lifestyles.

With Fidelity Bank’s VISA and Mastercard Naira Debit Cards, Nigerians can now enjoy effortless global access.

Beyond payments, Fidelity VISA cardholders, one of the variants of the bank’s card offerings, also enjoy premium travel and lifestyle benefits.

The benefits range from airport lounge and spa access via the Visa Airport Companion App, to fast-track immigration lanes and 20% discounts on SIXT car rentals worldwide.

This move, the bank said, also reflects its commitment to provide secure, convenient, and reliable banking services that empower customers in Nigeria and beyond.

The bank noted that it has deliberately made the process of getting a Fidelity Naira card seamless.

READ ALSO:  FG approves banks to issue ATM cards that double as National Identity Card

It stressed that customers can easily apply for their Fidelity VISA or Mastercard Naira Debit card via the Fidelity Mobile App or simply visit the nearest Fidelity bank branch to request for one and they can start transacting globally with ease.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

Continue Reading

Celebrity/Entertainment

How Nigerian TikToker Geh Geh Made ₦45 Million in One Night

Published

on

A Nigerian TikTok sensation known as “Geh Geh” has stunned the internet after pulling in over $30,000 from a single live session that attracted more than 177,000 viewers.

The young entertainer, who calls his platform the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” has quickly built a cult following with his raw and unfiltered lectures about women, money, and survival in Nigeria.

During the live broadcast on Thursday, August 21, viewers showered him with virtual gifts that he later calculated to be worth over $30,000.

The milestone instantly pushed him into the spotlight as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising online personalities.

 

Reacting in disbelief after the stream, Geh Geh said:

“More than 177,000 people watch my lectures today. Jesus! University of wisdom and understanding, the only university where once you graduate, woman go fear to ask you for money.”

 

Despite not having a formal education, Geh Geh proudly calls himself “the first illiterate to find a university in the history of Nigeria.” In a video after the viral live, he reminded fans of his humble background:

“I no be graduate too, but by the grace of God, I don find school. I be orphan, but now Nigerians don show me love.”

 

The TikTok star admitted he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his supporters.

“See gift I made over… more gift when they give me today is worth about $30,000. I no go take this love for granted, because I no really do anything for am.”

 

His rise has been hailed as proof of how social media is transforming lives in Nigeria. With no degree, no rich background, and no industry connection, Geh Geh has managed to build a fanbase that now calls themselves “students” of his unusual university.

READ ALSO:  Naira exchange rate for Saturday, October 21, in Abuja and Lagos

 

Still, his controversial views on women and relationships continue to spark heated debates. While some dismiss his advice as reckless, others insist his boldness speaks directly to Nigeria’s frustrated youth.

 

Reflecting on his sudden fame, Geh Geh compared himself to great thinkers:

“If Nigeria be country wey value great people, by now them suppose dey compare people like me with Aristotle, Wole Soyinka, Einstein… but I thank God say people dey see my head and my own difference.”

From an orphan with no prospects to a viral star earning in dollars, Geh Geh’s story has become one of digital empowerment.

His journey shows how platforms like TikTok are creating new forms of fame, money, and influence for Nigerians especially those once written off by society.

Continue Reading

Africa

UK Dominates Nigeria’s Q1 2025 Capital Inflows With N5.5tn — NBS

Published

on

The United Kingdom has once again cemented its position as Nigeria’s leading source of foreign capital, accounting for more than N5.5 trillion in inflows during the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Figures from the Capital Importation Report show that capital from the UK rose to $3.68bn (N5.52tn) in Q1 2025, representing 65.26% of Nigeria’s total $5.64bn inflows for the quarter.

This marked a 29.2% rise from the $2.85bn recorded in Q4 2024 and more than double the $1.81bn inflows seen in Q1 2024.

This underscores Britain’s dominance in Nigeria’s external financing profile and highlights the strong bilateral financial ties between both nations.

Breakdown of Q1 2025 Capital Inflows by Country

United Kingdom: $3.68bn (65.26%)

South Africa: $501.29m (8.88%)

Mauritius: $394.51m (6.99%)

United States: $368.92m (6.54%)

United Arab Emirates: $301.72m (5.35%)

Together, these top five countries accounted for over 92% of Nigeria’s capital inflows, reflecting both the concentration of Nigeria’s foreign investments and the risks of over-dependence on limited markets.

Other contributors included:

Cayman Islands: $114.76m (up sharply from $0.64m in Q4 2024)

Belgium: $70.54m

France: $47.33m

Netherlands: $42.68m (down significantly from $425.61m in Q4 2024)

Singapore: $36.79m

Overall, capital importation into Nigeria stood at $5.64bn in Q1 2025, up 10.9% from Q4 2024’s $5.09bn, and a remarkable 67.1% higher than the $3.38bn recorded in Q1 2024.

The NBS noted:

“Capital Importation during the reference period originated largely from the United Kingdom with $3,681.96m, showing 65.26 per cent of the total capital imported.”

READ ALSO:  HURIWA carpets Sylva over N300/litre petrol comment, says Buhari didn’t fulfill campaign promises

A separate survey by Strategy Management Partners (UK) reveals that British companies are increasingly targeting Africa as a strategic growth frontier.

50% of UK firms with annual turnover above £20m are already operational in Africa and planning expansions.

Another 28% of executives said they are interested but remain cautious about entry strategies.

Africa’s appeal lies in its resource wealth and demographic potential:

30% of the world’s mineral reserves

8% of natural gas reserves

12% of oil reserves

65% of the world’s arable land

Projected to host 25% of the global workforce by 2035

Seven key sectors remain magnets for foreign capital inflows into Nigeria and Africa at large:

1. Technology

2. Oil & Gas

3. Power and Renewable Energy

4. Agriculture

5. Manufacturing

6. Infrastructure

7. Strategic Minerals

Analysts warn that while Nigeria’s reliance on UK-driven inflows reflects strong global confidence, the concentration of sources exposes the economy to external shocks if investor sentiment shifts in these countries.

Diversification of investment partnerships  particularly within Asi

a, the Americas, and intra-African trade will be crucial to ensuring long-term resilience in capital inflows.

Continue Reading

Africa

U.S. Govt Reacts to Nigerian Minimum Wage

Published

on

The United States government has said that Nigeria’s new N70,000 minimum wage has lost real value due to the sharp fall of the naira, leaving millions of workers trapped in poverty.

According to the 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, released by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour, the wage translates to just $47.90 per month.

The report noted that currency devaluation and weak enforcement have undermined the wage increase.

The report also revealed that many states are yet to implement the new wage law. Several governors cited financial challenges as the main excuse.

Even where the law exists, compliance remains poor because of limited labor inspectors and weak oversight from authorities.

Wage Devaluation and Exclusion

The report highlighted that firms with fewer than 25 workers are excluded from the minimum wage law, leaving millions of employees without protection.

This also explained that about 70 to 80 percent of Nigeria’s workforce operates in the informal sector, where wage and labor rights are almost never enforced.

This means a majority of Nigerians continue to earn far below the national benchmark, despite the government’s approval of N70,000 as the new minimum wage.

The U.S. report stressed that the naira’s sharp decline, trading above N1,500 to the dollar, had worsened the wage erosion. This has left workers unable to afford basic needs, pushing many deeper into poverty.

Human Rights and Labor Challenges

The document pointed out that weak enforcement of labor laws contributes to worsening poverty levels in the country.

READ ALSO:  Governor Sanwo-Olu inaugurates Lagos’ first Syringe Manufacturing Plant

Workers in the informal sector, such as street vendors, artisans, and small traders, rarely benefit from labor protections.

The report also noted that Nigeria’s minimum wage is rarely sufficient to cover basic food, housing, and transport needs.

This has further exposed structural gaps in the government’s approach to economic reforms and poverty reduction.

Governors Push Investment Platform

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has launched a new investment initiative called NGF Investopedia.

The platform seeks to attract capital flows into bankable projects across all 36 states, with the goal of tackling Nigeria’s annual $100 billion infrastructure financing deficit.

The launch event in Abuja gathered governors, international partners, and investors. The forum described the platform as a long-term strategy to unlock growth opportunities across states and strengthen Nigeria’s subnational economies.

NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, said Nigeria must urgently leverage its human and natural resources to address poverty and joblessness.

“Here is Africa’s largest economy, endowed with abundant human and natural resources,” he said, stressing that state governments must play a bigger role in attracting investments and supporting local industries.

A Widening Gap

The contrast between the U.S. report on wage decline and the governors’ push for investment highlights Nigeria’s economic paradox.

While authorities promote foreign capital inflow, millions of workers continue to survive on wages that have lost most of their value.

With inflation rising, food prices soaring, and the naira weakening, the gap between earnings and cost of living keeps widening.

Unless enforcement improves and the informal sector is integrated into wage protections, the N70,000 benchmark may remain symbolic rather than effective.

Continue Reading

Economy

Global Card: Fidelity Bank Hits Milestone As Fidelity Naira Card Accepted Globally

Published

on

Fidelity Bank

Fidelity Bank may have hit another milestone the Fidelity Naira Card is now accepted globally.

This was disclosed in a message sent to Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) via email on Monday.

According to the statement entitled “Your Fidelity Naira Card Now Works Globally; Shop, Pay and Withdraw with Ease!“, customers can buy favourite global brands online using their Fidelity Naira Card.

The band also stated that they can equally pay at POS terminals abroad and make cash withdrawals at ATMs as they travel.

The message reads:

“We’re excited to let you know that your Fidelity Naira Card is now enabled for global use — so you can shop, spend and withdraw internationally with confidence.

“Here’s what you now enjoy every quarter:

Channel

Transaction Limit
ATM Withdrawal abroad $500
Online/Web & POS Payments $ 1,000

“What does this mean for you?

  • Shop your favourite global brands online
  • Pay at POS terminals abroad with ease
  • Withdraw cash at ATMs when you travel.”

The statement, however, noted that the $1,000 quarterly limit applies to all international transactions combined, including ATM withdrawals, online purchases, and POS payments.

The bank urged customers who may need assistance with setting card limits or activating their cards for global use, to contact the bank’s customers care “Centre Trueserve”, which is available round the clock, whether in Nigeria, or outside the country.

“Your world, your card — spend smart, spend globally with Fidelity,” the message concludes.

Continue Reading

Latest from DDM TV

Latest Updates

VIRAL VIDEO: Moment Yahaya Bello Orders Kogi State House Members to Sit on Floor, Gives Strict Directives

Why Every Nigerian Should Learn Combat Skills — CDS

Police Arrest Fake Doctor as Woman Dies During Abortion

Trump Orders Review of 55 Million US Visa Holders in Mega Crackdown

2027: ADC Coalition Deceiving Nigerians – Baba-Ahmed

Tinubu Secures Fresh $238m Loan from Japan

‘Gate of Hell’ Will Open on Gaza’– Israeli Defence Issues Finally Warning to Hamas

NAFDAC Raises Alarm as Fake Cowbell Milk Floods Nigerian Markets

‘Misplaced Priority’: Peter Obi Blasts FG’s ₦142bn Bus Terminal Project

Why I’ll never encourage my son to visit Nigeria — Taribo West

Subscribe to DDM Newsletter for Latest News

Trending

Copyright © 2023 -2024 Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) www.diasporadigitalmedia.com. All Rights Reserved . NOTE: All opinion articles published on Diaspora Digital Media are ENTIRELY those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publishers.

Get Notifications from DDM News Yes please No thanks