Raven Bank, the recipient of the 2022 Neo Bank of the Year BAFI Award, has initiated the Feather Internet program, a pioneering effort that provides free WIFI across various Nigerian campuses. The official launch took place at the Ignatius Ajuru University in Rumolumeli, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Uchenna Nnodim, the CEO of Raven Bank, highlighted that this initiative marks the beginning of the bank’s commitment to empower more than 400,000 students in Federal and State universities across Nigeria with free high-speed broadband internet access, aiming to enhance academic performance.
Nnodim explained that Feather Internet was conceived as a strategic solution to bridge the digital divide prevalent among Nigerian students due to limited internet access. He shared his own experiences as a student, facing challenges in accessing the internet, which spurred the bank’s resolve to address this issue. Raven Bank’s dedication to improving financial literacy among Generation Z and millennials played a significant role in driving this visionary initiative.
Nnodim emphasised, “Approximately 70 per cent of Nigerian students lack internet access. This is a significant number. The wealth of knowledge and information available on the internet in the modern era cannot be overstated. Access to the internet is crucial for educational and academic excellence.”
He noted that the inaugural launch at Ignatius Ajuru University was just the first step of the initiative. Raven Bank envisions expanding to 26 additional locations, aiming to execute in these areas by the second quarter of 2024, after successful discussions with management.
The official launch event included an interactive workshop led by Raven CFO Chidinma Maduwesi. Topics covered savings, investments, entrepreneurship, and more. The workshop featured panelists Uchenna Nnodim, Raven CEO; Benjamin Idisi, Raven POS aggregator; and Kelechi Godfrey, Financial Educator from The Boardroom. The later part of the event featured performances from selected artists.
Professor Okey Okechukwu, Vice Chancellor of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, commended Raven Bank for the successful implementation of the Feather Internet initiative on campus and encouraged students to fully utilize the free internet for academic enrichment and life skills development.
Uchenna Nnodim reiterated the profound impact of Feather Internet, stating, “This program aims to significantly impact the lives of Nigerian students. It’s designed to provide 400,000 Nigerian students with daily access to free internet. This is just the maiden launch in one location; we intend to extend it to other universities.”
The name “Feather Internet” draws inspiration from the feathers of the raven, the bank’s mascot, symbolising swiftness. The initiative aims to transcend boundaries and redefine digital interaction.
