Business
Forex deal: CBN lists ‘infractions’ of RiseVest, other fintech platforms
The federal high court sitting in Abuja on Tuesday granted the request of the Central Bank of Nigeria to freeze accounts belonging to some technology trading platforms offering local and foreign stocks.
In his ruling, Ahmed Mohammed, the judge, granted the prayers of the apex bank to freeze the accounts of RiseVest Technologies Limited, Bamboo Systems Technology Limited, Chaka Technologies Limited, and Trove Technologies Limited for 180 days.
This is not the first time the apex bank is clamping down on major fintech platforms offering foreign stocks to its customers.
In February 2021, the CBN directed banks and other financial institutions to close any accounts dealing in cryptocurrency or facilitating payment for cryptocurrency exchange, with immediate effect.
While delivering the ruling, Mohammed added that any person who feels aggrieved about the freezing order is entitled to approach the court within the period to seek redress.
He then adjourned further hearing till February 20, 2022.
RISEVEST – NO LICENCE/ALLEGED CRYPTO TRADING
The CBN accused Risevest of engaging in cryptocurrency trading which contravened it’s circular referenced BSD/DIRUPUB/LAB/014/001, dated February 5, 2021.
“Our review revealed that the company consummated its asset management activities through its account 1017558580 with Zenith Bank PIc, which recorded a turnover of N1.8billion between January 1, 2019, and April 27, 2021,” CBN said in a court filing.
“Inflows to the account ware mainly from retail investors through two Payment Service Solution Providers (PSSPs): Flutterwave (N588.81 million) and Monnify (N987.58 million). Outflows from the account were to a PSSP-Paystack (N500 million) and cryptocurrency traders like BuyCoins (N110.00 million) and Beltium Ventures (N350.00 million).
“Inquiries on the transactions confirmed that the transfers to Buycoins were for the purchase of cryptocurrency.
“The above is indicative that Rise Vest Technologies Limited traded in cryptocurrencies in contravention of the CBN circular referenced BSD/DIRUPUB/LAB/014/001, dated February 5, 2021.”
BAMBOO SYSTEMS – No licence
The apex bank said Bamboo operates an online app for trading in stocks, exchange-traded fund and derivatives listed in major US exchanges.
“Bamboo Systems Technology Limited is owned by Us-based Bamboo Global LLC (99.99%) and Oluwole Ralph Olugbenga (0.01%). The company was incorporated in December 2018 to carry on the business of software design, implementation, development, maintenance and consultancy amongst others,”
“It is related to One Global Med. Technology. BSTL Lambeth and Grag Concepts Limited.
“Further reviews showed that Bamboo Systems Technology Limited operates an online App. Bamboo, that provides a medium for investors to buy and sell stocks, Exchange traded funds (ETFS), index funds and derivatives listed in major exchanges in the U.S.”
CHAKA TECHNOLOGIES – No licence
The CBN accused Chaka of engaging in the purchase of forex from illegal operators for trading in naira and dollar securities.
The financial regulator said, “Our review showed that transactions on Chaka.com are settled through Guaranty Trust Bank Plc accounts of Citi Investment Capital Limited. A detailed review of the transactions are provided below:
“Citi Assets Management Limited, owned by Victor Gbolade Osibodu, Olufunke lyabo Osibodu Foluso Olajide Philips and Vigeo Capital Limited, was incorporated in 2006 to carry on the business of financial and investment advisory services for unit Trusts and Funds.
“The company also owns a mobile/digital investment app (Chaka.com), which provides a gateway for investors willing to invest in local and foreign securities from as N1,000 or USD10. It maintains Naira and domiciliary accounts with Guaranty Trust Bank PLC. The domiciliary accounts (0462887053, 0005577559 & 0137921143) recorded an aggregate turnover of $0.91 million between January 1, 2019, and April 27. 2021.
“Inflows to the account were from offshore investment companies like 4DX Ventures LP ($O. 15 million), Drivewealth LLC ($0.14 million). Golden Palm Investments Corporation $0.10 million), Angellist Holdings. LLC ($0.05 million), Microtraction Investments LLC ($0.03 million) and Blue Rinc Capital ($0.04 million).
“There were also inflows from local investment firms like VGo investment Company ($0.07 million), and Tag Capital Nigeria Limited ($0.02 million). Other inflows were cash deposits from sundry investors ($0.13millon) and FX purchased from an illegal FX operator, Salt River Energy & Allied Limited ($0.05 million).
“Outflows from the account consisted of transfers to offshore investment companies like Drivewealth, LLC ($0.17 million), Oro Development Company ($0.09 million), ABTA Investment Limited ($0.08 million. Dendrobium Limited ($0.02 million), and Trading view incorporated (00.01 million), as well as local online investment service providers like VGO investment Company Limited ($0.06 million) and Rolaid Company Limited ($0.02 million).
“The company also made transfers to Chaka Technologies Limited ($0.12 million) and an offshore cloud service provider, Rackpace international Gmbh (S0.02million).
“Other transfers were to Leadway Assurance Company Limited ($0.05 million) and individuals suspected to be investors like Kehinde Balogun ($0.11 million), Toluwalase Usman ($0.04million) and Alero Patricia Azazi ($0.02 million).”
It stated further that the fintech startup has an aggregate turnover of N9.26 billion in more than two years.
“A review of the Citi Assets Management Limited’s Naira accounts showed an aggregate turnover of N9.26 billion between January 1, 2019, and April 27 2021. Inflows to the account consisted of own account transfers (N3.43 billion) and transfers from a power distribution company Global Utilities Management Company (N3.94 billion), an Australian-based consulting and training company -Oversight Consulting (N0.21 billion), Vigeo Shipping Limited (N0. 10 billion), Oxygron Oll and Gas (N0.05 billion) Holborn Associates Limited (N0.03 billion), VGO investment Company Limited and Munak Group Limited (N0.02 billion), Others were inflows vaguely described as “2020 2nd Tranche” (0.93 billion) and cash deposits by sundry investors (N0.04 billion).”
In June, it was reported that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) granted Chaka Technologies, a licence to offer stocks directly to investors in the country.
TROVE TECHNOLOGIES – No licence
The CBN accused Trove of engaging in cryptocurrency trading as well as operating mobile and digital investment app for local and foreign securities without approval.
“A review of the company’s domiciliary account 5071080410 with Zenith Bank Pic showed a turnover of $1.42 million between May 1, 2019, and April 27, 2021.
“Inflows to the account were from investment partners like USA-based Drivewealth LLC ($0.69 million) and ARM Securities Limited ($0.18 million). Other inflows were from illegal FX operators like Vertos Financial Technologies Limited ($0 10 million), West Continental Prospecting
Limited $0.03 million) and West Atlantic Drilling ($0.02 million). The company also received inflows from individuals like Abosede Abibat Oyewole ($0.12 million), Ahutu Amina $0.05 million) Ayobamidele Oni ($0.04 million), Babatunde Olakunla Edun ($0.03 million) and Arinze Alexander Anyaeche ($0.02 million). Outflows from the account included offshore transfers to Drivewealth LLC (51.10 million) for investments on behalf of its clients. Other outflows were to Docklands Enterprises $0.06 million which the transfer instruction described as payment for FX transfer and Simon Olaleye ($0:06 million).”
On the naira account, the apex bank said Trove engaged in ‘illegal forex transactions’ with BDC operators.
“A review of the company’s Naira accounts (1016068138 &1010785581) with Zenith Bank Plc showed an aggregate turnover of N3.27 billion. Inflows to the account were from PSSPs like Teamapt Lid (N2.49 billion), Paystack (N0.22 billion) and Flutterwave (N0. 11 billion)
“Outflows were in companies involved in B2B payment solutions as well as cryptocurrencies like Verto Financial Technologies Ltd (N1.09 billion) and Paystack (N0.36 billion), Quidax Technologies Ltd (N0.04 billion) and BT Pesa (N0.002 billion). Other outflow included transfers to sundry individuals and payments for bulk purchase of FX from HFT BDC (N0.02 billion, Kiakiafx Services International Limited (N0.006 billion) and BLK Prestige (N0.002 million).
“The foregoing is indicative that Trove Technologies Limited was actively engaged in trading in foreign securities and cryptocurrencies using FX sourced from illegal FX operators and Nigerian FX market in contravention of the CBN circular of 2015.”
The tech platforms immediately informed the public that investors and traders’ funds are in safe hands and accessible.
Bamboo, Trove, Chaka and Risevest have also assured investors that they will work with regulators to resolve all contending issues.
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Auto
Toyota Corolla Cross: The SUV That Blends Everyday Comfort With Practicality
Toyota Corolla Cross: The SUV That Blends Everyday Comfort With Practicality

With its elevated driving position, spacious cabin, advanced safety technologies and fuel-efficient hybrid options, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers motorists a compelling blend of SUV versatility and everyday convenience.
For motorists seeking a vehicle that combines the comfort of a family car with the versatility of a sport utility vehicle, the Toyota Corolla Cross presents an attractive option in the increasingly competitive crossover market.
Developed around the familiar Corolla nameplate, the Corolla Cross brings together the practicality associated with the Corolla range and the elevated stance, generous interior space and utility expected of an SUV.
Toyota describes the model as combining spacious interior accommodation and outstanding utility with responsive performance and fuel efficiency.
The result is a vehicle designed to appeal to families, professionals and urban motorists who want a versatile vehicle for daily commuting, business engagements, weekend outings and longer journeys.
SUV styling meets everyday functionality
The Corolla Cross adopts the raised body profile and commanding road presence of an SUV while retaining proportions intended to make it manageable for everyday driving.
Its design seeks to balance visual appeal with functionality, giving buyers an alternative to conventional saloon cars without requiring them to move into a larger SUV.
The elevated seating position can provide drivers with a more commanding view of the road, while the crossover format offers flexibility for passengers, shopping, luggage and other everyday transportation needs.
For Nigerian motorists navigating a combination of busy city streets, highways and varying road conditions, these characteristics make the model worth considering as an all-round family and business vehicle.
Comfort and space for modern motorists
Interior space is an important part of the Corolla Cross proposition. Its cabin is designed to accommodate passengers comfortably while providing practical storage and luggage-carrying capability for everyday activities.
The model’s SUV-inspired layout offers an alternative for customers who need more versatility than a conventional compact saloon but do not necessarily require a full-size SUV.
Depending on the grade, Nigerian buyers should confirm the availability of specific convenience and infotainment features, including touchscreen functions, smartphone connectivity, climate control and other equipment, with an authorised Toyota dealer.
Fuel efficiency and hybrid technology
Fuel economy remains a significant consideration for Nigerian vehicle buyers, particularly households and businesses seeking to manage running costs.
Toyota’s Corolla Cross range includes hybrid versions in selected markets, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor to improve efficiency. The official Toyota Corolla Cross product information highlights fuel-saving hybrid technology as one of the model’s major strengths.
Toyota also lists an E-Four electric four-wheel-drive system on applicable hybrid versions. Availability of this drivetrain and the associated features depends on the specific version.
Actual fuel consumption will vary according to the powertrain, driving conditions, traffic, vehicle load and driving style. Prospective Nigerian buyers should therefore confirm the engine, transmission and hybrid availability of the exact vehicle being offered locally rather than assume that every international specification is available in Nigeria.
Safety and driver assistance
Safety is another important element of the Corolla Cross package.
Toyota’s international product information highlights Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies designed to support drivers in everyday traffic situations. Depending on the model grade and market, the package may include functions intended to help detect potential collisions and support safer driving.
The manufacturer’s information also identifies parking assistance and a back-guide monitor on applicable grades, helping drivers manoeuvre in confined spaces.
However, equipment can differ by market and specification. Buyers should request confirmation of the safety features fitted to the particular Corolla Cross being sold by Toyota (Nigeria) Limited or its accredited dealers.
Backed by Toyota’s Nigerian dealer network
Beyond the vehicle’s design and equipment, the availability of authorised sales, servicing and genuine spare parts is an important consideration for buyers.
Toyota (Nigeria) Limited, appointed distributor of Toyota Motor Corporation in Nigeria, operates through seven accredited dealers across the country. The company says its network supports vehicle sales, after-sales services and the supply of genuine parts.
Purchasing an eligible new vehicle through an accredited dealer also provides access to Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s stated basic warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, subject to the manufacturer’s terms and conditions.
The company says its Nigerian-market vehicles are configured with local operating conditions in mind, including a Severe User Package designed to help vehicles cope with challenging road and environmental conditions. Customers should confirm the precise specification applicable to the Corolla Cross they intend to purchase.
Where to enquire about the Toyota Corolla Cross
Customers can contact Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s accredited dealers to confirm the Corolla Cross’s availability, current price, engine and transmission options, colour choices, warranty coverage and delivery arrangements.
The seven dealers listed on Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s official website are:
Elizade Nigeria Limited, R.T. Briscoe (Nigeria), Omoregie Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Mandilas Enterprises Limited,
Kojo Motors Limited and Metropolitan Motors Limited.
Dealer contacts and locations can be checked on Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s official website at www.toyotanigeria.com/dealers/.
A versatile choice for the modern driver
The Toyota Corolla Cross brings together the elevated stance of an SUV, the everyday practicality of the Corolla nameplate and the availability of fuel-efficient hybrid technology in selected versions.
For Nigerian buyers weighing comfort, utility, safety and long-term ownership support, the model deserves consideration as a versatile vehicle for both personal and family use.
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Auto
Hyundai Unveils Mufasa, Grand Creta SUVs to Strengthen Nigeria Line-up (Updated)
Hyundai Unveils Mufasa, Grand Creta SUVs to Strengthen Nigeria Line-up (Updated)
Hyundai Motors Nigeria has expanded its sport utility vehicle (SUV) range with the introduction of the all-new Mufasa and Grand Creta, offering Nigerian motorists more choices in styling, performance, technology and passenger comfort.
The two models, unveiled in Lagos on Wednesday, are targeted at different customer segments, with the Mufasa designed for motorists seeking a stylish, five-seater SUV, while the Grand Creta offers a three-row, seven-seater configuration suited to larger families and customers requiring additional passenger space.
The launch underscores Hyundai’s efforts to strengthen its presence in Nigeria’s competitive automotive market, where demand for versatile vehicles that combine comfort, safety, performance and practicality continues to shape consumer preferences.
Speaking at the launch, Hyundai Motors Nigeria’s General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Mr Gaurav Vashisht, said the new models reflected the company’s commitment to providing vehicles that meet the changing needs of Nigerian customers.
“The SUV segment continues to attract strong interest in Nigeria, as customers increasingly prioritise comfort, safety, technology and versatility,” Vashisht said.
He also gave a rundown of the two new vehicles’ features even as he stated that the Mufasa and Grand Creta were designed to meet different lifestyle requirements while maintaining Hyundai’s global standards of quality and innovation.
Mufasa targets style-conscious motorists
The Hyundai Mufasa combines bold exterior styling with a spacious cabin and features designed for everyday driving. Its distinctive front grille, signature LED lighting and muscular bodywork give it a commanding road presence.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre Smartstream multipoint fuel injection (MPi) petrol engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the market specification, the engine produces approximately 150–160 horsepower and 193Nm of torque.
The five-seater SUV measures about 4,475mm in length, with a 2,680mm wheelbase, providing room for passengers and luggage while retaining a practical footprint for urban driving and longer journeys.
Its cabin features a modern dashboard, digital displays and storage spaces, while available equipment, depending on the variant, includes touchscreen infotainment, smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, wireless charging and selectable driving modes.
Safety and driver-support features include anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, airbags and parking assistance, subject to the vehicle specification.
The Mufasa is positioned as an option for professionals, younger motorists and families seeking a combination of contemporary design, technology and everyday usability.
Grand Creta offers seven-seat flexibility
The Grand Creta complements the Mufasa with a larger cabin and seating for up to seven occupants, making it suitable for families and motorists who prioritise passenger capacity and interior flexibility.
The SUV is powered by an available 2.0-litre Smartstream petrol engine producing approximately 159 horsepower and 191Nm of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is offered on automatic variant.
Its 2,760mm wheelbase supports a spacious three-row layout, while the flexible seating arrangement allows occupants to adjust the cabin to accommodate passengers or luggage.
Depending on the trim, convenience features include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, rear air-conditioning vents, keyless entry, push-button start and a digital instrument cluster.
Higher-specification versions may also feature leather-appointed seats, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, wireless charging and a panoramic sunroof.
Safety equipment offered across the range includes six airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points.
The model is aimed particularly at larger families seeking additional space and comfort without sacrificing the styling and versatility associated with SUVs.
After-sales support in focus
Beyond the new models, Hyundai Motors Nigeria says it is focused on delivering a comprehensive ownership experience through its authorised dealership network, after-sales services and access to genuine spare parts.
Vashisht said the Mufasa would appeal to customers seeking bold styling, modern technology and dynamic performance, while the Grand Creta would cater to those requiring greater passenger capacity, comfort and versatility.
“Our objective is not simply to introduce new vehicles but to deliver a complete ownership experience,” he said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to building long-term customer confidence in the Hyundai brand.
The two additions expand Hyundai’s existing SUV portfolio, which includes the Creta, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade.
Their introduction comes as automakers compete to attract Nigerian buyers with vehicles offering a balance of comfort, safety, technology, performance and long-term ownership value.
With the Mufasa and Grand Creta, Hyundai is seeking to broaden its appeal across different customer categories while strengthening its position in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive SUV market.

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Auto
Happening now: Hyundai unveiling of Mufasa and Grand Creta
Happening now: Hyundai unveiling of Mufasa and Grand Creta (photos)

Two latest models of Hyundai auto brands are currently being officially rolled out in Lagos. The new vehicles are Mufasa and Grand Creta.
The unveiling is taking place at the Hyundai showroom on Akin Adesola Street Victoria Island, Lagos.


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