Osun Free Trade Zone: A Renewed Engine for Industrial Growth, Export Potential and Investment

The Osun Free Trade Zone has re-emerged as one of Nigeria’s most promising industrial assets, following a period of inactivity and renewed government commitment to reposition it as a hub for export-driven manufacturing, green technology and value-adding industries. Formerly known as the Living Spring or Omoluabi Free Trade Zone, the site is now central to Osun State’s industrialisation drive, with the government working closely with NEPZA, private partners and international investors to reactivate and expand the zone’s potential.

Over the last two years, Osun has intensified engagements with foreign delegations from the UK, China, Europe and the Middle East, attracting expressions of interest in agro-processing, renewable energy, battery production, minerals processing and light manufacturing. These investors are responding to the state’s promises of streamlined operations, improved ease of doing business, and a long-term plan to power the zone with clean and reliable energy. Some companies have already commenced early-stage activities, an indication that confidence in the zone is gradually being restored.

The vision for the zone is broad and future-focused. Osun intends to build an industrial ecosystem where agro-processing, solar and battery manufacturing, electronics assembly, automotive components, packaging, warehousing and mineral beneficiation can operate side by side. This transformation is supported by the state’s abundant workforce, proximity to multiple higher institutions, and strategic location in the Southwest corridor with access to Lagos ports and neighbouring state markets. As infrastructure upgrades continue, particularly road improvements, industrial estates and new power initiatives, the zone is expected to become a major employer, generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs and stimulating the growth of local suppliers and service chains.

Like many free zones across Africa, the success of the Osun Free Trade Zone will depend on sustained infrastructure delivery, clear PPP frameworks, reliable power, and consistent policy implementation. The state government appears aware of these realities and is pushing for stronger partnerships with NEPZA, concessionaires and anchor investors to ensure that the renewed momentum does not fade. With ongoing work and continued political commitment, the zone has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most competitive industrial platforms, particularly for businesses seeking green manufacturing and export-led growth.

To support investor decisions, Osun has developed a concise, one-page investment brief that forms part of the overall pitch for the zone. Investors entering the Osun Free Trade Zone enjoy 100% tax exemptions, duty-free import of equipment and raw materials, guaranteed repatriation of profits, and a streamlined regulatory process managed within the zone. They also gain access to a central location in the Southwest, offering both domestic market reach and West African trade connectivity. The state aims to build the zone as a sustainable industrial area powered by renewable-energy solutions, which makes it particularly attractive to companies in solar panel production, battery manufacturing, and other clean-tech sectors. The availability of affordable labour and technical talent further strengthens the zone’s competitiveness, alongside planned infrastructure for water supply, waste management, warehousing and logistics.

Investment opportunities cut across solar and battery assembly, agro-processing plants, lithium-based mineral processing, electronics and appliance assembly lines, packaging facilities and export-ready logistics hubs. New investors can expect rapid land allocation, guided licensing support, immediate access to free-zone incentives, and linkages to local agricultural and mineral supply chains. The state is also providing security and operational support to ensure investor confidence during project rollout. Companies interested in larger-scale partnerships may explore concession arrangements or joint ventures with the state government and the FTZ management.

Taken together, the renewed activity, the incentive framework, the strategic location, and the push for green industrialisation present a compelling case. The Osun Free Trade Zone is steadily evolving into a modern, secure and opportunity-rich environment where manufacturing, processing and export business can scale with confidence. For investors seeking stability, incentives, market access and long-term growth potential, Osun is positioning the Free Trade Zone as a destination where ambitions can translate into real industrial success.

A Digital Start to Life: Lagos Launches E-Birth Registration for Infants

Lagos State on Thursday launched a new electronic birth-registration system designed to capture the details of newborns and children aged 0 to 12 months through a fully digital process. The initiative marks a major step in the state’s transition toward data driven governance, enabling accurate, real-time population records and ensuring that every child begins life with a recognized identity.

The programme, introduced in collaboration with the National Population Commission and supported by UNICEF, replaces the traditional paper-based registration method with a modern digital platform. At various local government and local council development areas, primary healthcare centres conducted on-the-spot demonstrations of the system, using newly supplied tablets to enroll babies immediately after birth. The digital process also links each registered child to the national database, allowing for the automatic issuance of a National Identification Number (NIN) from infancy.

Governor Sanwo-Olu described the initiative as a vital investment in the future of Lagos. According to him, accurate birth data is the foundation for effective planning in health, education, nutrition and social-protection services. With precise numbers on newborns and infants, government agencies can better forecast school admissions, strengthen immunization campaigns, allocate health resources and design targeted child-welfare programmes.

Lagos already records one of the highest child-registration rates in the country, yet the new system seeks to close the remaining gaps, especially among families in informal settlements who may lack access to formal registration centres. UNICEF representatives emphasized that unregistered children risk being excluded from essential services throughout their lives, making early digital registration a matter not just of documentation but of rights and protection.

Community engagement is central to the rollout. The governor urged local government chairmen, traditional rulers and community leaders to intensify awareness efforts so parents understand the importance of registering their babies promptly. He noted that birth registration is not merely a bureaucratic exercise but a guarantee that every child is visible in government planning and included in the state’s development agenda.

Although the launch signals significant progress, the long-term success of the programme will depend on the continued availability of digital equipment, sustained training for healthcare workers, strong data-protection measures and a widespread public-awareness campaign. Authorities have committed to working closely with local councils and partners to ensure smooth statewide implementation.

Overall, the introduction of the electronic birth-registration system positions Lagos State at the forefront of digital governance in Nigeria. By ensuring that every child is registered from birth and supported by reliable data, the state strengthens its ability to plan effectively, deliver essential services and secure a brighter future for its youngest citizens.

The Unstoppable Spark: How a 16-Year-Old Medical Student Rose to National Glory

At just 16 years old, when many teenagers are still finding their feet, Akande Oyinkansola Josephine has already stepped into a spotlight bright enough to illuminate a generation. A 200-level medical student at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife, she has emerged as the overall winner of the 2025 Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Annual National Undergraduate Essay Competition, an achievement that not only stunned the academic community but also inspired thousands of young Nigerians across the country.

The NCDMB Annual National Undergraduate Essay Competition is a flagship initiative by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board. First launched around 2017, the contest is now in its ninth edition (2025) and invites undergraduates nationwide to submit essays on themes centred on local content and Nigeria’s oil & gas sector. Beyond the impressive prizes - a ₦1 million cash award for the winner and laptops for top finalists, the contest is fundamentally about nurturing young Nigerian minds, promoting local capacity and elevating writing, reasoning and innovation skills.

Oyinkansola’s story is one stitched with brilliance, discipline, and an uncommon sense of purpose. Entering university at an age when others are just settling into senior secondary school, she carried with her a quiet confidence and an insatiable hunger to learn. Her professors often described her as a “rare mind”, the kind that absorbs knowledge with the ease of breathing and transforms it into insightful, creative output.

When she decided to participate in the NCDMB National Essay Competition, she didn’t just aim to compete; she aimed to make a statement. Her essay, a compelling piece that combined deep analysis with visionary thinking, set her apart from hundreds of undergraduate participants from universities across Nigeria. Judges praised her for her clarity of thought, mastery of language, and her ability to chart bold solutions for Nigeria’s future through the lens of local content development.

But behind this shining moment lies a quieter, more powerful narrative, the story of a young girl who refused to be boxed in by age, expectation, or circumstance. Oyinkansola spent late nights poring over research materials, balancing the demanding workload of medical school with the intellectual rigor required for the competition. While her peers marveled at her ability to juggle both worlds, she remained anchored by a simple belief: “The mind can do extraordinary things when you feed it with discipline and dreams.”

Her victory has now become a symbol of what is possible when passion meets preparation. It is a reminder that excellence has no age limit and that brilliance can bloom anywhere, whether in a bustling lecture hall, a quiet library corner, or the determined heart of a young girl with a pen in her hand and a vision in her mind.

For Nigeria’s young scholars, Oyinkansola’s story shines as a beacon, proving that their voices matter, their ideas matter, and their efforts can rise beyond classrooms to national platforms. For the nation, her triumph is a reassurance that the next generation is filled with minds capable of redefining possibilities.

As she stood on stage, receiving her award with grace beyond her years, one thing became clear: Akande Oyinkansola Josephine is not just a winner of an essay competition, she is a rising force, a promise of the future, and a living testimony that greatness often begins quietly, in moments when you dare to try.

And this is only the beginning.

Built in Lagos, Running the Continent: The Paystack Story

Paystack’s story is one of those rare Nigerian tales where grit meets opportunity, and a simple idea grows into a continental force shaping how an entire region pays and gets paid. It begins in 2015, in Lagos, with two young developers, Shola Akinlade and Ezra Olubi, who felt the frustration of countless entrepreneurs trying to accept payments in Africa. The banking systems were fragmented, the processes tedious, and the gap between ambition and execution was unnecessarily wide. They believed something better could exist, something built with local realities in mind but executed with global precision. And so they wrote the first lines of code that would become Paystack.

What started modestly, late nights, small rooms, and tight budgets, quickly caught the attention of merchants who had long yearned for a simpler way to do business online. Early wins came fast. Businesses, from small boutiques to major startups, embraced the platform for how uncomplicated it made payments. And as transactions grew, so did confidence. In those early years, Paystack became proof that solving a local problem with sincerity and excellence could spark continental momentum.

As the numbers rose, so did the impact. Paystack soon powered tens of thousands of businesses across Nigeria, helping entrepreneurs get paid on time, opening doors for creators, enabling schools to accept fees digitally, and giving countless small businesses the confidence to scale. Before long, the company hit transaction volumes that once felt impossible for a local fintech. The world took notice.

Then came a defining moment that echoed far beyond Nigeria. In 2020, Paystack was acquired by Stripe in a landmark deal that instantly signaled something bigger: African companies could build globally respected technology, compete on world standards, and rewrite narratives about what is possible from this continent. But even after the acquisition, Paystack remained proudly African in identity and mission, a payments engine built for African businesses, run by Africans, scaling across Africa.

Today, more than 200,000 businesses use Paystack across Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, and beyond. In a single month in 2024, the company processed an astonishing ₦1 trillion in payments, money that represents salaries, school fees, rent, market transactions, shipping orders, customer subscriptions, and the everyday hustle that keeps the continent moving. Even more inspiring is how far African businesses now reach. Buyers from over 130 countries pay local merchants through Paystack, proving that the world is ready to buy African products when the rails are smooth and reliable.

The company continues to evolve, introducing bank-to-bank transfers, mobile wallet integrations, enterprise-grade tools, in-person payment solutions, and even consumer apps designed to simplify everyday financial behaviour. In each market, Paystack adapts to local habits, bank transfers where customers prefer them, mobile money where it’s dominant, cards where that works best. It’s not one-size-fits-all. It’s Africa-sized: thoughtful, flexible, and intuitive.

And while the numbers are impressive, the true magic lives in the everyday stories. A fashion designer who can now receive payments instantly from Lagos and Los Angeles alike. A small school in Ibadan that manages fees with ease. A creator in Accra selling digital content to fans worldwide. A tech startup in Nairobi onboarding global clients with professional, seamless invoicing. Each transaction strengthens a dream, funds a vision, and supports a family.

Challenges still exist, from regulatory complexities to infrastructure limitations, but Paystack’s journey has shown that obstacles in Africa can be transformed into opportunities for stronger products and smarter innovation. The company’s resilience has become a blueprint for other startups, proving that ambition backed by persistence can create solutions with generational impact.

Paystack’s rise is more than a business success. It is a Nigerian and African affirmation. It reminds us that you can build world-class technology in Yaba, launch it to the continent, and have it recognised globally without losing your roots. It reminds entrepreneurs that the rails are being laid for them, that dreams can travel farther now, that the next big African stories are already brewing in small rooms somewhere with endless hope.

This is Paystack, a symbol of what happens when talent refuses to accept limitations, when local challenges spark global solutions, and when a continent decides to build its future with its own hands. It is innovation inspired by the Nigerian spirit: resilient, ambitious, unbroken and the brightest chapters of its story are still ahead.

Nigerian Content Equity Fund to Boost Local Ownership in Oil & Gas Unveiled

Nigeria has taken a major step toward strengthening indigenous participation in it's oil and gas industry with the unveiling of the Nigerian Content Equity Fund (NCEF). Announced by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), the new fund is designed to help Nigerian oil and gas companies secure real equity stakes in key assets across the sector.

For decades, Nigeria’s oil industry has been dominated by foreign players who control most of the infrastructure, assets, and strategic decisions. Local firms, despite their growing technical capacity, have often been limited to subcontractor roles because they lack the financing required to move into genuine asset ownership. The launch of the NCEF is meant to change this dynamic by providing equity financing rather than just loans, enabling indigenous companies to become co-owners in oil and gas ventures and participate fully in the profits, governance and long-term development of the sector.

The equity fund will support qualified Nigerian companies or consortiums that meet strict local content requirements, including significant Nigerian ownership and management, demonstrated technical competence, strong local procurement commitments, and clear plans for developing Nigerian talent. Managed by the NCDMB, the fund will operate in a sustainable way, allowing returns from investments to be reinvested into new equity opportunities, creating a long-term cycle of growth for indigenous participation.

Its unveiling comes at a strategic moment. As international oil companies continue divesting from onshore and shallow-water assets, new openings are emerging for Nigerian firms to step into roles previously beyond their reach. Without sufficient capital, however, many qualified indigenous companies risk missing out on these opportunities. The NCEF aims to close this long-standing financing gap and aligns strongly with the government’s push to deepen local content, retain more value within the country and empower Nigerian firms to take on leadership roles in the industry.

If successfully implemented, the Nigerian Content Equity Fund could transform the ownership structure of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. It has the potential to significantly increase local equity, ensure that more profits and reinvestment stay within the country, expand the technical and managerial capabilities of indigenous companies, and stimulate economic activities through increased procurement, supply chain development and job creation.

The initiative, however, will require strong governance to deliver on its promise. Transparent beneficiary selection, prudent investment decisions and close monitoring will be essential. Ensuring that beneficiary companies have the capacity to manage large-scale oil and gas assets will also be crucial in safeguarding the fund’s sustainability.

In the coming weeks, the NCDMB is expected to publish detailed guidelines on the operation of the fund, including eligibility criteria, target asset classes and investment structures. Across the industry, interest is high, as indigenous operators see in this fund a rare opportunity to move from service provision to true asset ownership. If effectively executed, the Nigerian Content Equity Fund could become a historic step toward giving Nigerians a stronger stake in one of the nation’s most important economic sectors.

A Journey Forged in Hard Work: The Inspiring Life of Tajudeen Owoyemi

Tajudeen Owoyemi’s story begins in the quiet town of Offa in Kwara State, where a young boy spent his childhood hawking food for his grandmother, carrying sand by the riverbank, and assisting bricklayers just to support the home. Born on April 16, 1956, he grew up without the comfort of wealth or the advantage of privilege. His parents had moved to Ghana shortly after his birth, so the responsibility of raising him fell on his grandmother. From her he learned the value of work, dignity and patience, lessons that would shape the extraordinary journey ahead.

As a teenager, he understood early that his future would depend on his willingness to learn and his determination to rise. After completing secondary school, he left Offa for Kaduna, not in search of a miracle, but in search of a skill. There, he began a four-year apprenticeship as a plumber. It was tough, physical work, days filled with pipes, fittings, and long hours but Tajudeen embraced it fully, seeing in it the foundation of his independence.

Yet deep inside, he nurtured a bigger dream. Every evening, after tiring hours of manual labour, he would clean up and head to Kaduna Polytechnic to attend night classes in Civil Engineering. For three years he balanced plumbing in the day and academics at night until he finally earned his National Diploma. These long nights and early mornings honed his discipline and broadened his technical knowledge, silently preparing him for the empire he would one day build.

In 1978, with courage that far exceeded his resources, he established his first company—Tajudeen Owoyemi & Co. Ltd (TOCL). He started small, handling modest plumbing and construction jobs, but his reputation for honesty, reliability and quality workmanship spread quickly. Soon TOCL began executing contracts for major government agencies including the Nigerian Ports Authority, NIMASA, FAAN, and various state and federal institutions. What began as a plumber’s toolbox gradually evolved into a full-fledged engineering company trusted to handle complex national projects.

But Tajudeen was not a man who stopped growing. After more than two decades mastering the world of construction, he envisioned a more stable and lasting legacy. He wanted to build something that would not rise and fall with government cycles, something that would outlive him, employ thousands, and stand as a symbol of excellence. This dream led him to the hospitality sector.

In 2003, he founded Avalon Intercontinental Nigeria Ltd, marking a bold entry into an industry dominated by foreign investors. His transition was strategic, visionary and daring. Through Avalon, he developed and partnered with globally respected hotel brands such as Protea Hotels, Park Inn by Radisson, and ultimately the prestigious Radisson Blu. The iconic Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja GRA, one of Lagos’ finest luxury hotels, stands today as a testament to the mind that once studied engineering by lamplight and repaired pipes for a living. It is proof that no beginning is too humble to lead to greatness.

Despite his remarkable rise, Tajudeen has never forgotten his roots. Offa recognized his contributions with the titles of Bashorun of Offa in 2005 and later Asiwaju of Offa, honours reserved for community pillars and transformative leaders. Through philanthropy, empowerment programs, and youth initiatives, he continues to give back to the place where his journey began.

Those who know him often speak of his humility. He is a man who avoids unnecessary publicity, preferring to let his work and the thousands of lives touched by itspeak for him. His philosophy is simple yet profound: invest only in what you understand, build on your strengths, and stay true to your values.

Today, Tajudeen Owoyemi stands not just as a successful engineer or hotel owner, but as a symbol of what is possible when discipline meets vision and perseverance meets opportunity. His life is a powerful reminder that greatness does not require privilege, only purpose. That a child who once hawked food can one day build a luxury hotel empire. And that the story of success is written not in sudden miracles, but in years of steady, determined steps.

This is the legacy of Tajudeen Owoyemi, a testament to his hard work, 0l0ll helloresilience, reinvention and the boundless possibilities of the human spirit.

Dominance Redefined: Falconets Sweep Benin to Claim the Throne!

The Falconets produced a commanding and unforgettable campaign in Benin Republic as they emerged champions of the WAFU Zone B U-20 Women’s Championship, completing the tournament with a perfect record. Across four matches, Nigeria won all four, scored ten goals, and conceded only one, an achievement that underscored their dominance from start to finish.

Their journey opened with a strong victory over Ghana, a match where Nigeria’s quality immediately shone through. The Falconets found the goals they needed through a combination of sharp finishing and intelligent buildup play, establishing early momentum in the tournament. What stood out from this opening fixture was how quickly the team settled into rhythm, pressing Ghana high and converting their chances with composure. The result set the tone for what would become a flawless campaign.

Next came the first meeting with hosts Benin Republic, where the Falconets delivered a confident 3-0 performance. This win demonstrated the team's balance: the attack remained fluid and dangerous, while the defensive structure looked assured and in control. Nigeria created opportunities with ease and converted them efficiently, reflecting the players’ understanding and the technical superiority that separated them from their opponents.

The third match, another encounter against Ghana, became the decisive moment of the tournament. Nigeria delivered a commanding 3-0 victory that mathematically sealed the championship with one match still to play. It was a complete performance: disciplined defending, creativity in midfield, and clinical finishing. This win confirmed that the Falconets were not only the best team in the competition but also the most consistent and mentally strong.

The final fixture against Benin Republic served as the perfect finishing touch. A first-half strike from Ramotalahi Kareem earned Nigeria a professional 1-0 win, capping an unbeaten run and completing a perfect four-match sweep. With that goal, Kareem also secured her place as the top scorer of the tournament, finishing with four goals.

Across the competition, Nigeria’s goals came from a reliable group of attacking talents. Ramotalahi Kareem led the scoring with four goals, including the decisive winner in the final and a brace in one of the earlier matches against Benin. Janet Akekoromowei and Alaba Olabiyi both scored important goals in the victories over Ghana, consistently contributing to Nigeria’s early breakthroughs in key moments. Precious Oscar added another goal in the 3-0 win over Benin, rounding out Nigeria’s tournament tally of ten goals. Each of these scorers delivered at least one impactful moment that influenced Nigeria's march to the title.

At the heart of the team’s stability was their ability to keep games controlled from midfield. Kafayat Oluwatosin Mafisere was particularly influential, delivering a standout performance in the final match where she was named Woman of the Match. Her role in breaking up play, sustaining pressure, and linking defence to attack ensured that Nigeria dictated the tempo throughout the tournament.

Behind the midfield, goalkeeper Christiana Ijeoma Uzoma anchored a disciplined defensive unit, conceding just one goal in the entire competition, an achievement that earned her the award for Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament. Her presence inspired confidence, allowing the Falconets to play with freedom and assertiveness in the attacking phase.

By the end of the championship, the Falconets had made their statement clear: they are the benchmark for youth women’s football in West Africa. Their perfect record, dominant performances, and individual brilliance combined to create a title run worthy of celebration. With players who showed maturity beyond their years and a collective identity built on skill, resilience, and ambition, Nigeria’s U-20 women have once again proven why they remain one of the continent’s most formidable football forces.

Kebbi State Earns UNICEF Praise for Child Protection Milestone

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has applauded the Kebbi State Government for the successful passage of the Child Protection Bill, describing the development as a major milestone in the collective effort to safeguard the rights, dignity and overall welfare of children across the state.

UNICEF noted that the passage of the bill demonstrates Kebbi State’s growing commitment to creating a safe, supportive and protective environment for every child, especially the most vulnerable. According to the organisation, the move reflects a progressive shift towards strengthening legal frameworks that shield children from abuse, exploitation, neglect and harmful practices that have long threatened their wellbeing.

By aligning with global child-rights standards and national policy expectations, the new Child Protection Bill is expected to reinforce structures that promote access to education, healthcare, justice, and essential social services. It also lays the groundwork for more effective response systems in cases of child abuse, trafficking, early marriage and other violations that hamper healthy development.

UNICEF commended state lawmakers, government officials, civil society actors and community stakeholders whose collaboration made the bill’s passage possible, urging them to maintain the momentum as the state moves toward full implementation. The organisation emphasised that beyond legislation, consistent enforcement, awareness campaigns and community engagement will be critical in ensuring that the spirit of the law translates into real protection for children on the ground.

The passage of the Child Protection Bill marks a significant step forward for Kebbi State, signalling a renewed determination to prioritise the safety and future of its youngest citizens. With the support of UNICEF and other partners, the state now stands on firmer ground to build a child-friendly society where every young person can grow, learn and thrive without fear or limitation.

Nigeria Outclass Gabon, Set Up Decisive Final vs DR Congo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a thrilling 4-1 extra time victory over Gabon in Rabat, showing character, resilience and attacking firepower after conceding a late equaliser in the 89th minute. What looked like a heartbreaking collapse turned into a commanding extra-time performance, with Chidera Ejuke restoring Nigeria’s lead before Victor Osimhen struck twice to seal a decisive win. Earlier in normal time, Akor Adams had opened the scoring with a well-taken finish. The result not only lifted the team’s spirits but also reaffirmed Nigeria’s pedigree as one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations.

With the win, Nigeria now advances to Sunday’s play-off final against DR Congo, a match that carries huge stakes. Victory on Sunday will send the Super Eagles into the inter-confederation play-offs scheduled for March 2026, placing them one step away from booking a spot at the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup. It is not yet a direct ticket, but it puts Nigeria into the final qualification window where a two-legged clash could secure their place on the global stage.

Nigeria’s history at the World Cup amplifies the significance of this moment. Having appeared at six editions - 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014 and 2018, and reaching the Round of 16 three times, the Super Eagles are accustomed to performing on the world stage. Missing out on Qatar 2022 still lingers, making this campaign a crucial opportunity for redemption and for the new generation of talent to stamp their authority.

Thursday’s match also revealed the players who could define Nigeria’s path forward. Osimhen once again underlined why he is regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous forwards, combining power, movement and clinical finishing. His extra-time double was the decisive factor. Chidera Ejuke’s energy, penetration and goal made him one of the standout performers, while Akor Adams looked sharp and instinctive in the box. These players, along with the pacey wide attackers and ball-winning midfielders and defenders, will be crucial on Sunday.

Going into these playoffs, Nigeria’s FIFA ranking placed them among Africa’s top contenders, reflecting both their heritage and recent improvements. That status increases expectations, but also adds pressure to execute properly in the final.

Sunday’s showdown will demand tactical intelligence. To beat DR Congo, Nigeria must control the midfield tempo, preventing the Congolese side from turning the game into a physical, fragmented battle. Quick transitions will be essential, using the speed of Nigeria’s wingers to stretch the defence and create space for Osimhen. Set-piece concentration must be at its highest, as DR Congo have shown strength in late-game aerial situations. The Super Eagles will also need smart rotation to keep legs fresh, given the short turnaround since the Gabon match.

Against DR Congo specifically, Nigeria should avoid unnecessary fouls in dangerous areas, remain compact in defensive shape and use calculated pressing triggers rather than continuous high pressure. The flanks may offer the best attacking routes, with early crosses and cutbacks likely to trouble DR Congo’s defensive line. Above all, Nigeria must maintain emotional control and avoid lapses in the closing stages, where their opponents have often proven opportunistic.

If the Super Eagles rise to the occasion on Sunday, they move within touching distance of returning to the World Cup, a stage where Nigerian football has historically shone brightest. The victory over Gabon was a reminder of the team’s fighting spirit; the final against DR Congo will determine whether that spirit can carry them to within one step of global football’s biggest event.

CIES Names Sani Suleiman World’s Most Creative U-21 Star : Nigeria’s New Spark!

When the CIES Football Observatory, a Swiss-based football research body known for its deep data analysis, unveiled its latest global rankings of young talents, one name from Nigeria echoed across the football world - Sani Suleiman. The 19-year-old midfielder was rated the most creative under-21 player in world football, a recognition that instantly catapulted him from promising prospect to global spotlight.

For Suleiman, the journey to this point has been nothing short of extraordinary, a tale of raw talent, fearless ambition, and relentless hard work. Born in 2006 in northern Nigeria, he first caught attention in local football circles for his quick feet, effortless dribbles, and an eye for threading impossible passes. Coaches described him as a “visionary on the pitch,” the kind of player who could turn a tight defensive wall into a scoring opportunity with one flick of the ball.

His rise began with Wikki Tourists, where his performances as a teenager defied expectations. A transfer to Akwa United soon followed, and it was there that he exploded, scoring 11 goals in 19 appearances while orchestrating the team’s attack with poise far beyond his years. Scouts from Europe took notice, and before long, Suleiman found himself in Slovakia with AS Trenčín, a club renowned for developing young African talents.

In Slovakia, Suleiman didn’t take long to make his mark. In just seven matches of the 2025/26 season, he had already scored twice and provided two assists. But beyond the numbers, what impressed analysts most were the underlying statistics that define true creativity: almost two key passes per game, a high expected-assist (xA) rate, and strong dribbling success in tight spaces. According to data from FootyStats, he averages around 0.66 goal contributions per 90 minutes, an impressive figure for a player adapting to European football at such a young age.

CIES researchers evaluated under-21 players globally using seven performance metrics - aerial duels, finishing, assists, take-ons, orchestration, build-up play, and defensive ground duels. In all, Suleiman ranked among the best across the board, earning him the distinction of being the “most complete U-21 winger” in the world. His balance of flair and work rate places him in rare company.

For context, some of his contemporaries include Spain’s teenage phenomenon Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, averaging over one goal or assist per match and France’s Désiré Doué, a rising midfield star at Paris Saint-Germain. Compared to these names, Suleiman’s statistics may come from a smaller European league, but his creative output and all-round influence on the pitch show a player capable of reaching similar heights with time and experience.

It is little wonder that clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Rangers, Bayer Leverkusen, and Brighton & Hove Albion have reportedly been monitoring his progress. His performances at the FIFA U-20 World Cup further enhanced his reputation, where he was one of Nigeria’s standout players, registering an assist and consistently creating chances against tougher opposition.

Beyond the numbers and attention, however, lies a deeper significance for Nigerian football. The Super Eagles have long been known for their physicality and speed, but creativity in midfield has sometimes been their missing ingredient. Suleiman’s emergence hints at a new era, one where Nigeria produces not just athletes, but artists of the game.

His playing style is reminiscent of the rare blend of discipline and daring. He thrives on taking on defenders, yet remains focused on team play. In interviews, he’s described as humble, focused, and hungry, attributes that will serve him well as he continues his climb through the football ladder.

For Sani Suleiman, being ranked the most creative young footballer in the world is both a triumph and a challenge. The recognition affirms what those close to him have always known, that Nigeria’s next great playmaker has arrived but it also sets a new standard for consistency, professionalism, and adaptation to the pressures that come with global attention.

If he continues on this trajectory, maintaining his creative spark and work ethic, Suleiman could soon become more than a name on a ranking list, he could become the heartbeat of a new generation of Nigerian footballers redefining the game with intelligence, flair, and artistry.

A star has emerged, not just for Nigeria, but for world football. And his name is Sani Suleiman!

Nafisa Abdullah Aminu: The 17-Year-Old Nigerian Who Conquered the World with Words

In a remarkable display of intellect and grace, 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullah Aminu from Yobe State, Nigeria, has etched her name in global history by emerging as the overall best student in the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals, held in London from June 22 to 29, 2025.

Competing against over 20,000 students from 69 countries, Nafisa showcased not only her mastery of the English language but also the power of determination, discipline, and Nigerian excellence on the world stage. Representing the Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC), she stood tall as she received the coveted award, making her the first Nigerian and one of the youngest Africans to achieve this distinction in the competition’s history.

The TeenEagle Global Finals is a highly competitive English language event that evaluates participants’ skills in writing, reading comprehension, communication, and critical reasoning. Students from elite schools across continents participate yearly, yet this time, it was a young girl from Yobe, Nigeria, who became the world’s best.

Born and raised in Yobe State, a region often defined by its educational and infrastructural challenges, Nafisa’s story is one of faith, focus, and resilience. Guided by dedicated teachers and a strong family support system, she cultivated a love for learning early on, spending countless hours reading, writing, and refining her language skills. Her success did not come overnight. It was the result of years of consistent effort, academic discipline, and the belief that excellence can emerge from anywhere, even from the most unlikely places.

Nafisa’s achievement has been widely celebrated by Nigerians both home and abroad. The Federal Government of Nigeria officially congratulated her, describing her victory as “a reflection of Nigeria’s intellectual resilience and the boundless potential of its youth.” Her school, NTIC, praised her brilliance, highlighting that her win was proof that Nigerian students can compete and win against the world’s best.

Her story is a reminder that excellence knows no boundary; it can flourish in any environment where effort meets opportunity. It also reinforces the truth that education remains a transformative tool, shaping not only individuals but the destiny of nations. And above all, her journey proves that preparation and confidence are key, great results are born from consistent learning, hard work, and courage.

Nafisa hopes to pursue a career in linguistics and international relations, with a vision to promote global education access for young girls in underrepresented communities.

Her journey from Yobe to London is not just an academic feat; it is a testament to what’s possible when talent is nurtured, opportunities are created, and hope is sustained. In a single moment on an international stage, Nafisa reminded the world that brilliance has no postcode and that from the heart of Nigeria, a new voice has risen to inspire a generation.

Tacha’s World: How a Beauty Festival in Lagos Became a Guiness World Record-Breaking Stage

The John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos, glowed with energy as the sun dipped behind the city skyline. It was October 2025, and the maiden edition of the Tacha Beauty Festival was underway. The air was filled with music, laughter, perfume, and the soft buzz of hairdryers. Inside, something far greater than makeup artistry was unfolding - history in the making.

Anita Natacha Akide, fondly known as Tacha, had transformed her festival into a world stage. What began as a celebration of creativity and entrepreneurship soon evolved into an audacious attempt to set not one, but two Guinness World Records. By the end of that weekend, the world would know that a Nigerian woman had just rewritten the global beauty narrative.

The Tacha Beauty Festival wasn’t designed as just another social event. It was a movement, a gathering to celebrate African creativity, elevate young entrepreneurs, and amplify the voices behind Nigeria’s booming beauty industry. The three-day festival featured masterclasses, exhibitions, fashion showcases, music, and live makeovers. But the highlight came when Tacha, ever the bold visionary, decided to attempt something extraordinary: a 24-hour marathon of cosmetic transformations that would test her endurance, artistry, and willpower.

With cameras rolling, judges observing, and supporters cheering from behind the glass panels, Tacha got to work. Every brushstroke carried precision. Every model that took a seat before her became part of a larger story, one about ambition, faith, and focus. The first milestone came after eight intense hours. She had completed eighty-two makeovers, setting her first Guinness World Record for the most cosmetic makeovers in eight hours by an individual.

But she didn’t stop there. The lights stayed on through the night as fatigue set in, yet she kept going, blending, brushing, smiling, pushing through the haze of exhaustion. After twenty-four relentless hours, Tacha had transformed one hundred and forty-four faces. It was a triumph of skill, endurance, and spirit. She shattered the previous world record of 111 makeovers, setting a new global benchmark and securing a second Guinness World Record title.

For many, it was a record. For Tacha, it was proof of purpose. “This record was born from resilience and courage,” she said afterward, surrounded by an emotional team. “I wanted to show that Nigerian women can achieve anything they set their minds to, that our creativity and drive deserve global recognition.”

The achievement was deeply symbolic. Setting the record in Lagos, Africa’s cultural heartbeat, gave it a resonance that went beyond cosmetics. It was about representing Nigerian excellence on the world stage, proving that beauty is not superficial; it’s a language of power, artistry, and identity.

Those who attended the festival remember the moment vividly: the beauty of the night at 3 a.m., the crowd counting down as she completed her final makeover, the tears, the cheers, the confetti. The makeup brushes may have rested, but what lingered was something profound, a shared sense of national pride.

When the Guinness World Records certification arrived, it confirmed what everyone present already knew: that Tacha had turned a local celebration into a global statement. From reality TV fame to record-breaking legacy, she had evolved from star to symbol of ambition, endurance, and unapologetic Nigerian brilliance.

As the festival ended and the last lights dimmed, Lagos carried a new kind of glow. The Tacha Beauty Festival had done more than showcase cosmetics; it had painted a portrait of courage. And at its heart stood a woman who dared to dream loud enough for the world to hear.

Nigerian teen invents AI menstrual pad that generates medical-grade health reports

Nineteen-year-old Nigerian innovator, Titilope Olotu, is redefining women’s health with a groundbreaking invention: a biodegradable menstrual pad capable of generating digital health insights from period blood using artificial intelligence. Her innovation, called PADÍ, blends biotechnology, sustainable materials and AI-driven analysis to turn a monthly routine into a window into women’s health.

At first glance, PADÍ looks like a regular sanitary pad, soft, disposable and made from eco-friendly banana fiber instead of plastic. But beneath the simple design lies a bio-sensing layer that reacts to menstrual fluid, producing color changes linked to biomarkers such as iron indicators, pH balance and infection markers. After use, a user flips the pad to view the results, scans it with the PADÍ mobile interface, and receives a personalized health summary and preliminary medical-style report powered by machine-learning interpretation of the captured data.

The idea is elegant: instead of waiting for symptoms or scheduling expensive lab tests, women can get early clues about issues like anemia, bacterial infections, hormonal imbalance or low-grade inflammation simply by tracking what their body already reveals each month. While the system doesn’t replace medical diagnosis, it gives women a proactive tool, particularly those who lack easy access to healthcare or regular check-ups.

Olotu says her vision grew from two realities many women face: limited menstrual health support and rising concerns over plastic-based pads that take centuries to decompose. By combining biodegradable pads with real-time health screening, she hopes to solve both a health and environmental problem at once.

Her journey has already drawn global attention. She has secured grant funding of about $38,000 to build and test the technology, rolled out early-stage pilot programs, and developed an initial platform where users can store results, track cycle-linked changes and even share reports with medical professionals. The innovation has earned her recognition in the global youth innovation space, and her nonprofit outreach through Period Padi has reached thousands of girls across multiple countries with pads, reproductive-health education and wellness support.

Still, PADÍ is in its pre-clinical phase, meaning laboratory testing and validation are currently underway. Regulatory approvals and larger clinical studies lie ahead, a necessary step before mass-market release. Olotu is clear that her goal is not to replace medical laboratories or doctors, but to give millions of women a way to spot warning signs early, stay informed and seek help sooner.

For a 19-year-old university student, the ambition is bold: democratize women’s health diagnostics, bring dignity and intelligence to menstruation, and use technology to close gender health gaps that have existed for generations. If the technology succeeds at scale, menstruation could transform from a silent biological process into a vital monthly health check, empowering women across Africa and beyond.

From a biodegradable pad made from banana fiber to artificial intelligence analyzing period blood, Titilope Olotu has shown what happens when innovation meets empathy and a real need. Her work represents a new frontier in femtech, sustainability and preventive care and it began in the mind of a Nigerian teenager determined to change the story of women’s health.

Nigeria Sets Stage for 2025 Oil Licensing Round to Unlock New Energy Frontiers

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced that the 2025 oil and gas licensing round will officially begin on December 1, 2025. The Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, made the announcement during the Project 1MMBOPD Additional Production Investment Forum held in London. The declaration was later confirmed by the Commission in a statement released online.

According to Komolafe, the exercise has received full approval from the Minister of Petroleum Resources and will be conducted in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021. He explained that the purpose of the new licensing round is to unlock Nigeria’s undeveloped and fallow oil and gas fields, with a special focus on gas-rich assets that can drive the country’s energy transition and industrial growth. The Commission believes that this initiative will accelerate upstream production, create new investment opportunities, and bring previously discovered but unexploited fields into commercial operation.

The upcoming round builds on earlier reforms introduced by the PIA, which reorganised Nigeria’s oil and gas regulatory structure and created a transparent framework for licensing and fiscal management. In 2024, the NUPRC had carried out a licensing exercise covering onshore and deep offshore assets, aimed at boosting reserves and production. The 2025 round is expected to go a step further by targeting assets that can be quickly developed and brought into production, helping Nigeria strengthen its position as Africa’s leading oil producer.

A major focus of this new round is natural gas. The Commission’s emphasis on gas reflects the government’s broader “Decade of Gas” policy, which seeks to use the country’s vast gas reserves to power industries, generate electricity, and provide cleaner alternatives to oil. By prioritising gas-rich blocks, the licensing round aligns with global trends toward cleaner energy and supports Nigeria’s goal of reducing emissions while maintaining energy security.

Although the NUPRC has announced the date, the full bid documents and detailed guidelines for the 2025 round have not yet been released. The Commission has assured that these will be made public ahead of the opening date, providing information on the blocks available, technical and financial requirements, and timelines for participation. Investors and analysts are watching closely for these details, as they will determine how attractive the round will be to both local and international oil companies.

Experts believe the success of the upcoming round will depend on several factors, including the clarity of the fiscal terms, transparency of the process, investor confidence, and the government’s ability to provide supporting infrastructure, particularly for gas development. Past challenges such as underdeveloped infrastructure, regulatory delays, and funding constraints have slowed progress in the upstream sector. However, the Commission’s recent reforms and insistence on compliance with the “drill or drop” provisions of the PIA suggest a stronger push toward accountability and efficiency.

As Nigeria prepares to open the 2025 licensing round, there is a renewed sense of optimism about the future of its oil and gas industry. If successfully implemented, the initiative could not only boost national production but also attract new investments, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy transition agenda. The December launch will mark another critical step in the country’s effort to modernise its petroleum sector, maximise resource development, and ensure that its vast energy potential translates into sustainable economic growth.

Safari’ Shines as Best Film at Abuja International Film Festival

Nigeria’s film industry celebrated another major win as Nollywood title ‘Safari’ clinched the Golden Jury Award for Overall Best Film at the 22nd Abuja International Film Festival.

The coveted recognition, announced at the closing ceremony in Abuja, underscores the film’s powerful storytelling and the growing global appeal of Nollywood productions. ‘Safari’ stood out among a competitive lineup of entries from across Africa and beyond, earning praise for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and standout direction.

Festival organisers described the film as “a deeply engaging and emotionally resonant piece of cinema,” highlighting its capacity to elevate Nigerian filmmaking standards and inspire regional creatives.

The Abuja International Film Festival, one of West Africa’s longest-running film events, continued its tradition of spotlighting exceptional filmmaking talent and celebrating works that advance the art and craft of cinema in Africa.

With this achievement, ‘Safari’ joins a distinguished list of award-winning Nollywood films that have made a mark on the international stage, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a powerhouse in global storytelling.

Further details on the film’s cast, production crew, and release plans are expected to be announced as the award fuels audience anticipation nationwide.

Nigeria’s Alade Ajibade Makes Historic Breakthrough at 2025 World Sambo Championships

Nigeria added a remarkable chapter to its sporting history as Alade Ajibade secured a groundbreaking medal at the 2025 World Sambo Championships in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, becoming the first Nigerian and the first African to ever win a medal in the blind Sambo category.

Ajibade’s achievement marks a monumental moment not only for Nigeria but for the African continent, positioning him as a trailblazer in a sport that has seen limited African participation, particularly in visually-impaired categories. His performance underscores Nigeria’s growing presence on the global martial arts stage and highlights the strength, resilience, and competitive spirit that define Nigerian athletes.

Blind Sambo, an adaptive combat sport variant tailored for visually impaired athletes, demands exceptional skill, heightened reflexes, and tactical intelligence. Ajibade showcased all these attributes, demonstrating elite mastery, strategic brilliance, and unwavering determination throughout the competition.

Speaking after his historic win, Ajibade expressed pride in flying Nigeria’s flag and breaking new ground for African participation in the sport. “This medal is not just for me, it is for Nigeria, for Africa, and for every athlete who believes disability is not a barrier to greatness,” he said.

The Nigeria Sambo Federation hailed Ajibade’s performance as a watershed moment, calling it evidence of what Nigerian combat sports athletes can achieve with support, preparation, and global exposure. Sports analysts have also pointed to the victory as a key milestone capable of inspiring broader development of Sambo and Paralympic-adapted martial arts disciplines across the country.

Beyond the medal, Ajibade’s triumph serves as a powerful testament to the limitless potential within Nigeria’s sporting community where passion continues to rise despite infrastructural and funding challenges. His success adds to the nation's growing list of global achievements in non-traditional and emerging sports, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a reservoir of exceptional talent across diverse disciplines.

As celebrations continue, Ajibade stands as a symbol of hope, courage, and excellence, an athlete who defied odds, made history, and paved a path for future generations of Nigerian and African combat sports champions.

Nigeria salutes a true pioneer.

Dr. Kase Lawal: A Hidden Nigerian Jewel

In every era, nations are defined not only by what they build within their borders, but by the strength and excellence of their sons and daughters across the world. Dr. Kase Lukman Lawal stands in that quiet league of Nigerian greatness, one of the world’s least-celebrated yet most impactful corporate leaders, forged in Ibadan, polished by discipline, and elevated by the timeless Nigerian spirit to shape industries far beyond its shores.

To many outside Nigeria, he is the formidable Chairman of Unity National Bank in Houston, one of the last and most resilient African-American-owned banks in the United States. But to those who understand legacy and nationhood, he is first and forever a Nigerian export of excellence, a proof of intellect, resilience, and business power.

Before boardrooms, energy empires, and global influence, there was Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, a Nigerian classroom where ambition first took root. There was the Nigerian upbringing, that priceless fire that teaches perseverance through challenge, ambition without apology, humility without weakness, and confidence without noise.

He later attended the University of London and earned further degrees in the United States.

From founding CAMAC International Corporation, to establishing Allied Energy, to steering Erin Energy, Lawal has operated in the most competitive sectors on earth, not as a follower, but as a builder and owner. This is not a story of an immigrant “making it in America,” but of a Nigerian taking Nigerian competence to the world and performing at the highest levels.

When he joined Unity National Bank in the early 1990s, he did not come in as a token success story. He arrived as a strategist, a Nigerian business architect contributing intellect, capital, and vision. Through years of consistent leadership, he moved from Board Member, to Vice Chairman, and eventually Chairman, strengthening the bank and ensuring its survival in a country where such institutions rarely endure.

History has its loud heroes. Nigeria also has its quiet giants.

Dr. Kase Lawal is one worthy giant. 

Nigeria is not waiting to shine but shining through men like Dr. Lawal.

MTN Nigeria: The Giant That Fell, Fought, and Rose Stronger

In the high-stakes world of African telecoms, few stories have swung as dramatically as MTN Nigeria’s. Only a year ago, analysts were whispering doubts: could the once-dominant giant survive the perfect storm of a currency collapse, crippling finance costs, and an economy rewriting the rules of corporate survival? Losses piled up on its books, more than ₦137 billion in red ink in 2023, followed by an even deeper after-tax loss of about ₦400 billion in 2024 as the naira’s sharp devaluation tore through balance sheets across corporate Nigeria. For the first time in its history, the company slipped into negative equity and halted dividends, a move that stunned markets and shook investor confidence.

But giants, as history reminds us, do not simply vanish, they recalibrate and MTN Nigeria did more than that: it fought back with the precision of a seasoned player that understands both the terrain and the stakes. The turnaround was not loud, nor emotional. It was technical, strategic, and deeply disciplined.

By the third quarter of 2025, the same company that had bled under currency pressure was posting numbers that read like a redemption arc. Profit after tax surged to roughly ₦750 billion for the first nine months of the year, a staggering recovery from the ₦515 billion loss recorded in the same period the year before. Service revenue soared up nearly 58% year-on-year to about ₦3.7 trillion, while EBITDA doubled to almost ₦2 trillion, lifting margins above 51% and comfortably past global telecom benchmarks. The wounds of the past year healed quickly: equity turned positive again, retained earnings returned to black, and MTN reinstated dividends with a ₦5 per share payout, a symbolic and financial statement that the worst was behind it.

The engine of this rebirth? Data. Nigeria’s hunger for the digital economy - streaming, cloud work, fintech adoption, content creation, virtual learning, met a company ready to supply it. Data revenue jumped more than 70%, data traffic surged, smartphone penetration continued to rise, and MTN pushed coverage deeper, bringing high-speed connectivity to more homes and businesses. Nearly 4 million households now sit on MTN’s home broadband network, a figure that barely existed a few years ago. The company also strengthened its fintech play, expanding wallets and merchant services, answering the call of a country where payment rails and telecom infrastructure are merging into one digital superhighway.

But perhaps the most compelling part of MTN’s revival is not in the numbers but in the philosophy behind them. In a year when many corporates froze, retreated, or waited for clarity, MTN made audacious moves: tower lease renegotiations, spectrum deals, operational efficiency programs, price adjustments aligned with market realities, and continued fibre-and-5G investments. It was a bet on Nigeria, not the Nigeria of inflation and volatility, but the Nigeria of 220 million people, rising tech talent, frontier entrepreneurship, and digital-led economic destiny.

Critics may point out that challenges remain, regulatory pressures, infrastructure costs, and the never-ending test of operating in Africa’s most dynamic market. Customers still demand better speed, wider coverage, fewer downtimes but resilience is not the absence of difficulty; it is the ability to grow through it, and MTN has shown resilience in its purest form: not denial, not defiance, but adaptation.

To watch MTN Nigeria today is to witness a company that nearly stumbled out of the ring, only to return swinging harder, smarter, and more focused than ever. It has become a case study in emerging-market corporate endurance; proof that even when the macroeconomy bends the biggest players, strategy, belief, and execution can still carve a path back to strength.

Nigeria loves a comeback, but what MTN has offered is something deeper , a reminder that those who invest with conviction in this market, who build in the downturn and not only in the sunshine, often rise to own the future.

The giant did not just return.

It redefined what a comeback looks like.

Nigeria synchronises national grid with West African power network in landmark test

Nigeria has recorded a major milestone in its energy sector with the successful synchronisation of its national electricity grid with the broader West African power network, a first-of-its-kind achievement that paves the way for a unified regional power market and deeper energy cooperation across ECOWAS states.

The landmark test, conducted on Saturday, November 8, 2025, linked Nigeria’s grid along with Niger Republic and parts of Benin and Togo to the rest of the West African Power Pool (WAPP) between 5:04 a.m. and 9:04 a.m. The operation marked the first successful regional synchronisation at a single frequency across participating countries, bringing West Africa a step closer to a fully integrated electricity system that could eventually serve over 400 million people.

The exercise was coordinated by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) in partnership with the WAPP Information and Coordination Centre, the regional control hub responsible for system monitoring and market operations. NISO leadership described the breakthrough as the result of years of technical upgrades, regulatory alignment, and real-time operational testing designed to ensure Nigeria's grid could operate seamlessly with its regional counterparts.

Energy experts say the development could prove transformative for the region. A synchronised grid means countries can share power reserves, stabilise supply during shortages, and benefit from more competitive electricity markets. For Nigeria, it represents an opportunity to improve grid resilience, tap into surplus power from neighbouring countries when needed, and export excess electricity under the emerging West African electricity market framework.

This successful synchronisation test also positions West Africa for a future where power flows freely across borders, allowing economies of scale, lower overall generation costs, and enhanced reliability, especially during peak demand or unexpected system disturbances. It moves the region closer to the vision long promoted by ECOWAS: a single electricity market where infrastructure and energy generation assets are shared for collective benefit.

With this historic step completed, further operational assessments, harmonisation of protection systems, and commercial arrangements are expected in the coming months. But for now, the achievement stands as clear evidence that regional energy integration, once seen as a distant goal is increasingly becoming a reality.

PalmPay, Wema Bank Execute First Live Transaction on Nigeria’s National Payment Stack

Nigeria has taken another bold step toward digital transformation with a landmark achievement in its financial sector. On Friday, November 7, 2025, PalmPay and Wema Bank successfully completed the first-ever live transaction on the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System’s newly launched National Payment Stack (NPS), a milestone that signals the dawn of a smarter, faster, and more inclusive era of payments in Africa’s largest economy. The transaction, processed at 11:56 AM and settled within milliseconds, showcased the power of the country’s next-generation financial infrastructure, one designed to unify banks, fintechs, mobile money operators, and merchants on a single seamless rail.

The National Payment Stack represents more than a system upgrade; it embodies Nigeria’s ambition to lead the continent in digital payments. Built with advanced, cloud-based architecture and modern global messaging standards, it is expected to eventually replace the long-running NIBSS Instant Payment platform. With this evolution, Nigerians can look forward to instant transfers with improved reliability, fewer transaction failures, fairer access for fintech innovators, and smoother, more efficient payment experiences for individuals, SMEs, and large enterprises alike. It is a sign that Nigeria is not just keeping pace with global innovation, it is laying a foundation capable of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with world-class financial systems.

This historic milestone also comes with a healthy awareness of the road ahead. Industry experts note that nationwide deployment will require careful onboarding, consistent investment in cybersecurity, robust infrastructure support, and continued regulatory clarity. Ensuring a smooth transition from legacy rails will be critical to avoid disruptions during peak transaction volumes. Yet, the success of this live transaction offers strong proof that the vision is achievable and that Nigeria is ready to push forward.

The launch of the NPS carries profound implications for financial inclusion and trust. Millions of Nigerians remain outside formal banking systems, and the new architecture promises easier account onboarding, faster settlement cycles for merchants, and better dispute-resolution tools, building confidence in digital transactions and supporting small businesses that rely on efficient payments to grow. Stakeholders across banking, technology, and government circles have hailed this achievement as a defining moment that will open the door to greater economic participation.

As this infrastructure scales, it will influence how Nigerians move money, run businesses, and connect with government services. There will be challenges, from infrastructure expansion to user adoption and cyber-readiness, but Nigeria’s commitment is unwavering. The nation is advancing. The rails are evolving. And the digital future is being built right here at home. A new phase in Nigeria’s payment revolution has begun and the world is watching.

Celebrating a visionary who weaves culture into couture - Michelle Adepoju, the Nigerian spirit elevating global luxury.

Michelle Adepoju’s journey into fashion is a story rooted in memory, heritage, and a quiet determination to show the world the richness of African luxury. Born and raised in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, she grew up surrounded by Yoruba culture, its language, artistry, and deep pride shaping her imagination long before she ever dreamed of runway lights or global headlines. As a young girl, she gravitated toward textiles and silhouettes, reworking thrifted garments and piecing together fabrics to form new stories. What began as creative instinct soon revealed itself as calling: she was meant to build a brand that honoured where she came from and elevated it onto the world stage.

In 2019, that calling took form when she founded KÍLÈNTÁR, a name drawn from the Yoruba phrase “Kí lèn tá?” meaning “what are you selling?” Her answer would become a mission: to sell a narrative of African excellence and cultural memory, told through meticulously crafted garments. KÍLÈNTÁR was never meant to be another trend-driven label. It was conceived as a celebration of tradition, femininity, and craftsmanship, weaving together African artistry with contemporary luxury. From the very beginning, Michelle chose to work closely with artisans across the continent, bringing techniques like hand-weaving, beadwork, and traditional dyeing into dialogue with sharp tailoring and elegant silhouettes. Every bead and every thread held a story, one of legacy, care, and pride.

Her rise was graceful yet powerful. As the world began to pay more attention to fashion voices grounded in authenticity, KÍLÈNTÁR quickly stood out. The brand’s early collections were met with admiration for their depth and beauty, pieces that didn’t simply clothe the body, but adorned it with heritage. Michelle’s work caught the attention of international media and industry tastemakers who recognized that she was redefining what modern African luxury looks like. Her designs carried the rhythm of Lagos markets, the elegance of Yoruba ceremonial dressing, and the touch of London’s fashion capital energy, an effortless fusion that felt both timeless and revolutionary.

By 2023, she was receiving invitations to some of fashion’s most respected platforms. When KÍLÈNTÁR debuted with the Black in Fashion Council at New York Fashion Week, the world saw what those who had followed her journey already knew: Michelle was building a global brand with a deeply personal heart. Beaded gowns shimmered under runway lights, cowrie-inspired motifs told ancestral stories, and silhouettes embodied power softened with romance. It was African sophistication presented not as novelty, but as undeniable luxury.

Her star continued its ascent. In 2024, KÍLÈNTÁR staged its own New York Fashion Week runway show, a moving display of craftsmanship and culture that confirmed her place among fashion’s rising forces. And in 2025, the industry crowned her triumph: Michelle Adepoju was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list, gracing the cover as one of the visionaries shaping global culture. It was a proud moment not just for her, but for Nigeria, Africa, and every young creator who dreams with both feet grounded in heritage.

Through every milestone, Michelle has remained unwavering in her values. Her brand stands for artistry, not excess; legacy, not speed; cultural preservation, not appropriation. She designs with reverence for those who came before her and responsibility to those who will come after. Sustainability, for her, is not a trend but a tradition, a way of honouring the environment and the artisans whose hands breathe life into each garment.

Today, KÍLÈNTÁR is more than a fashion house. It is a movement, a reclamation of narrative, a modern archive of African craftsmanship and femininity. And at its heart stands a woman guided by her roots, inspired by her heritage, and driven by a belief that luxury is at its most powerful when it tells the truth of who we are.

Michelle Adepoju is not simply designing clothes, she is preserving culture, celebrating womanhood, and elevating African excellence on the world stage. Her journey is still unfolding, but already her legacy is clear: she is shaping a future where African luxury is not a category, but a global benchmark; where tradition and innovation walk hand in hand; and where a young woman of Nigerian heritage can stand proudly before the world and say, this is who we are and this is what we are capable of.

Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, Davido & Wizkid, Nominated For Grammys 2026

Nigeria’s global music power surged again as Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid secured major spots among the 2026 Grammy nominees, a testament to Afrobeats’ continued rise and influence on world soundscapes. The Recording Academy announced the nominations for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, set for February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, covering works released between August 31, 2024 and August 30, 2025. This year’s list places Nigerian artists firmly at the centre of global music excellence, strengthening their dominance across the African and Global categories.

The Best African Music Performance race captures the continent’s sonic richness, and Nigeria’s presence is undeniable. Burna Boy earned a nod with “Love,” Davido received recognition for his Omah Lay, assisted “With You,” while Ayra Starr’s “Gimme Dat” featuring Wizkid cemented her status as one of the leading voices of the new Afrobeats generation. They are joined by Uganda’s Eddy Kenzo alongside Mehran Matin, and South Africa’s Tyla with “PUSH 2 START,” showcasing a blend of Afropop, amapiano, and East African rhythms all united under a category created just two years ago to honour Africa’s evolving music culture.

Burna Boy’s influence continues to stretch beyond singles. His album No Sign of Weakness earned a nomination for Best Global Music Album, solidifying his position as a modern global music powerhouse. The recognition reflects not only his artistry but also the maturing structure of African albums, proving that African projects are no longer viewed solely through the lens of hits, but as cohesive, culturally impactful bodies of work.

Davido’s nomination highlights the collaborative energy that defines the Afrobeats movement. “With You” thrives on polished production, emotional warmth, and melodic fluidity, hallmarks of contemporary Nigerian sound. For Ayra Starr, her nomination is a new milestone in a career built on versatility, youthful appeal, and genre-bending creativity. With Wizkid on her record, the moment also underscores an ongoing synergy between Afrobeats’ pioneers and emerging global stars.

The global stage surrounding these nominations makes Nigeria’s triumph even more significant. International powerhouses such as Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Bad Bunny, and Tyler, the Creator dominate the overall Grammy lists, yet Nigerian artists continue to carve out critical positions alongside them. Afrobeats, once seen as a regional wave, now stands firmly as a global cultural force, a genre that shapes playlists, stage lineups, festival calendars, and charts in every major market.

Beyond artistic validation, these nominations carry economic and cultural weight. Grammy recognition boosts global touring value, enhances endorsement opportunities, and opens new doors for cross-continental collaborations. It uplifts Lagos-driven creative infrastructure - producers, songwriters, video directors, performance venues, and digital distribution systems that form the heartbeat of Africa’s most dynamic music ecosystem.

More importantly, it signals a shift in global listening cultures. African voices are not simply breaking into Western platforms; they are shaping them. Nigerian stars are no longer guests in the global pop room, they are hosts rewriting the soundtrack of the global generation. From stadium tours to Billboard placements and now continuous Grammy dominance, Afrobeats is proving itself not just as a genre but as a cultural language the world is learning to speak.

As the world awaits the 2026 Grammy Awards, one thing is already clear: regardless of who claims the trophies on the night, Nigeria has already won. Its music no longer asks for recognition, it commands it. And with every beat, hook, and chorus, Nigerian artists continue to show that Africa is not the future of global music - Africa is the present, setting the rhythm for the world to follow.

A Win for Nigeria, A Win for the Earth: Omoyemi Akerele’s Lagos Fashion Week Triumphs at the 2025 Earthshot Prize

In a world increasingly driven by the urgent need for sustainability, few stories capture the fusion of creativity, culture, and environmental action like that of Omoyemi Akerele, the Nigerian visionary whose pioneering work in fashion has now earned her global acclaim as a 2025 Earthshot Prize winner.

When the winners of the Earthshot Prize 2025 were unveiled at the breathtaking Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Lagos Fashion Week, founded and directed by Akerele, was announced as the winner in the category “Build a Waste-Free World.” It marked a historic moment: not only was it the sole African enterprise among the year’s five winners, but it also signaled that innovation in sustainability can rise from Africa’s creative industries, not just its laboratories or farmlands.

Akerele’s journey began far from the runways of Lagos. Trained as a lawyer at the University of Lagos and later the University of Warwick in the UK, she worked briefly in corporate law before pivoting to her true calling-fashion. In 2008, she founded Style House Files, a fashion-business development agency designed to help Nigerian designers navigate an industry still fragmented and undervalued on the global stage. Three years later, in 2011, she launched Lagos Fashion Week, a platform that has since become the heartbeat of African fashion, connecting local talent to international buyers, fostering craftsmanship, and more recently, reimagining the continent’s fashion ecosystem through sustainability.

But what truly distinguished Akerele’s work in the eyes of the Earthshot Prize Foundation was her bold attempt to redefine what fashion can mean in the 21st century. Lagos Fashion Week has evolved beyond a showcase of style into a sustainability movement. Under her leadership, designers are now required to demonstrate responsible sourcing, ethical production, and circularity before taking the stage. Her initiatives, such as Green Access, nurture young eco-conscious designers across Africa, while the Woven Threads series highlights the fusion of heritage crafts with modern sustainable practices. Even consumer habits are being challenged through creative projects like the Swap Shop, where fashion lovers exchange used clothing instead of buying new pieces.

Through these innovations, Akerele has positioned Lagos Fashion Week not just as a fashion event but as a climate-action platform. The Earthshot Prize committee cited her success in addressing one of the world’s most wasteful industries by creating a circular model rooted in African ingenuity. Her next goal, backed by the £1 million Earthshot grant, is to build a fully-fledged Circular Fashion Hub in Lagos, an ecosystem where waste is redesigned into value, and where Africa’s fashion future is written in green.

Akerele’s recognition came alongside four other global winners whose projects each address a distinct environmental challenge. From Brazil’s re.green, restoring vast tracts of the Atlantic Forest using AI and drone technology, to the City of Bogotá in Colombia, which has transformed its urban transport and air quality, and Friendship from Bangladesh, bringing climate resilience and healthcare to vulnerable coastal communities. The global High Seas Treaty, protecting marine biodiversity across international waters, rounded off the group of five, collectively illustrating how diverse and creative environmental solutions can be.

The Earthshot Prize, launched in 2020 by Prince William and inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s “moonshot” challenge, is the world’s most ambitious environmental award. It seeks out and funds innovative, scalable solutions to five urgent challenges, protecting nature, cleaning the air, reviving oceans, building a waste-free world, and fixing the climate. Each winner receives £1 million in funding and long-term mentorship to help scale their impact. Beyond its prizes, the initiative fosters a network of changemakers across continents who prove that the path to planetary recovery can be built from the ground up.

For Nigeria and Africa, Akerele’s win is more than symbolic, it is deeply transformative. It shows that sustainability can be an African story, driven not only by necessity but by vision and creativity. It challenges the perception that environmental innovation must come from science labs or high-tech industries; instead, it can grow from culture, craftsmanship, and communities. Akerele’s model, grounded in local artisanship and powered by global ambition, bridges tradition and technology in a way that could redefine how the fashion world approaches sustainability.

Her work, however, is not without its challenges. Building a circular supply chain across Africa’s fragmented textile industries demands investment, data, and collaboration. Measuring impact, how much waste is prevented, how many artisans are empowered, how consumer habits evolve, will take time and transparency. Yet, the momentum is undeniable. Lagos Fashion Week’s transformation into a sustainability hub is inspiring designers, consumers, and policymakers alike to view fashion not as disposable art but as a tool for environmental and social renewal.

This recognition also situates Akerele within a growing wave of African innovators shaping the global climate agenda. Nearly a thousand nominees for the Earthshot Prize have already emerged from Africa in various fields, from clean energy and waste management to ecosystem restoration. Her triumph stands as both a testament and an invitation: proof that Africa is not just reacting to climate change but actively leading solutions rooted in its own context, culture, and creativity.

Ultimately, the story of Omoyemi Akerele is one of vision and reinvention. A lawyer who traded legal briefs for fabric swatches, a stylist who turned her passion into an industry, and a fashion curator who has made sustainability a cultural language. In doing so, she has redefined what it means to be a designer, a leader, and a changemaker.

As the world applauds the 2025 Earthshot Prize laureates, Akerele’s journey stands out as a beacon for the future, a reminder that innovation doesn’t only belong to technology or science. Sometimes, it begins with thread, fabric, and the courage to weave a better world.