Nigeria Sets Historic African Record at Lefika International Relays

Nigeria’s sprint relay team delivered a memorable performance in Botswana, producing a run that has now been etched into the history of African athletics.

At the Lefika International Relays in Gaborone, Team Nigeria stormed to victory in the mixed 4×100 metres relay, clocking an impressive 41.44 seconds to set a new African Record in the event. The performance also secured qualification for the upcoming World Relays Championship, placing Nigeria firmly among the emerging contenders in the discipline.

The quartet of Chidera Ezeakor, Maria Thompson, James Taiwo Emmanuel, and Obi Jennifer Chukwuka combined speed and precision to deliver a commanding race. Exploding out of the blocks, the opening leg immediately positioned Nigeria among the leaders. Smooth baton exchanges maintained the rhythm as the team surged down the track, with each runner building on the momentum created by the previous leg.

By the final stretch, Nigeria had established a clear advantage. The anchor leg powered to the finish line, stopping the clock at 41.44 seconds, a time that now stands as the fastest ever recorded by an African team in the mixed 4×100m relay.

The mixed sprint relay is a relatively new event in global athletics, inspired by the success of the mixed 4×400m relay introduced at major championships in recent years. By combining male and female athletes in a single relay team, the event highlights strategy, coordination, and seamless baton exchanges.

Nigeria’s record-setting run in Gaborone signals the country’s early strength in this evolving discipline. The performance also moved the team to 12th place on the global qualification rankings for the World Relays, strengthening their chances of competing against the world’s top relay squads.

The race itself featured strong competition. Kenya finished second with a time of 41.70 seconds, setting a new national record for the East African nation and underlining the growing competitiveness of sprint relays across the continent.

For Nigeria, the victory reflects a long-standing tradition of sprinting excellence. Over the decades, Nigerian athletes have produced world-class performances in both individual sprint events and relays, consistently placing the nation among Africa’s leading track and field powers.

The performance in Botswana represents another step forward for Nigerian athletics as a new generation of sprinters continues to emerge. By setting the continental benchmark in the mixed 4×100m relay, the Nigerian team has opened an exciting new chapter for the country in an event that is steadily gaining prominence on the global athletics calendar.

With their place at the World Relays Championship now secured, the Nigerian quartet has already made history. Their time of 41.44 seconds stands as a symbol of the speed, teamwork, and discipline that continue to define Nigeria’s presence on the international athletics stage. 

Loom Craft Chocolate: How Uzoamaka Igweike Is Rewriting Nigeria’s Chocolate Story

Nigeria ranks among the world’s leading producers of cocoa. For generations, cocoa beans harvested from farms across the country have travelled thousands of miles beyond its borders, shipped to distant factories where they are transformed into the chocolate bars that fill supermarket shelves across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Yet for many years the irony remained striking: a nation richly endowed with cocoa had almost no chocolate culture of its own.

For a long time, Nigeria grew the beans, but rarely made the chocolate. That paradox lingered in the background of the country’s agricultural story until a new wave of entrepreneurs began asking a simple question: if Nigeria grows so much cocoa, why shouldn’t it also craft its own world-class chocolate?

Among those helping to reshape that narrative is Uzoamaka Izukanne Igweike, founder of Loom Craft Chocolate, a Nigerian bean-to-bar chocolate company that is steadily redefining how chocolate is produced and experienced within the country. Her journey toward that mission began in an unlikely place.

On 9 July 2016, Igweike was wandering through the bustling stores of Manchester city centre in the United Kingdom. It was her first visit to the country, and the experience was both overwhelming and exhilarating. Like many curious travellers encountering a new environment, she allowed herself the simple pleasure of exploring. For Igweike, however, supermarkets held a particular fascination. She loved walking through aisles studying packaged food products, admiring creative branding, appreciating clever packaging design, and imagining which products she might choose and why.

That day she moved from shelf to shelf with curiosity. By evening, her pedometer recorded nearly 24,000 steps. Though physically exhausted, her mind remained alive with impressions from the day. One observation, however, refused to leave her thoughts - Chocolate was astonishingly cheap!

A 400-gram Toblerone bar sold for just £1, roughly the equivalent of ₦400 at the time. Back home in Nigeria, the same bar retailed for nearly ₦3,000.

For Igweike, who loved baking, the discovery was more than surprising, it was perplexing. As a home baker, one of her favourite recipes to make was chocolate cake. Yet sourcing quality chocolate in Nigeria had always been frustrating. Most baking stores stocked compound chocolate, a substitute made with vegetable fats instead of cocoa butter. What she wanted was real chocolate, rich with cocoa, layered with flavour, and capable of delivering the depth that good chocolate cake deserves. However, when genuine chocolate occasionally appeared on store shelves in Nigeria, the price was often prohibitive.

Standing there in Manchester, the contradiction became impossible to ignore. Nigeria is one of the world’s major producers of cocoa, yet the chocolate sold across the country is overwhelmingly imported. At the time, Igweike had never even seen raw cocoa beans, but she knew cocoa was one of Nigeria’s most important agricultural exports. The thought lingered with her long after the trip ended.

Looking back years later, she would reflect that she never imagined that six years after that moment she would become part of putting Nigerian chocolate on the map.

Curiosity soon turned into exploration. Determined to understand how chocolate was made, Igweike began researching the craft behind it. Her search eventually introduced her to the world of bean-to-bar chocolate making. Unlike mass-produced chocolate, bean-to-bar makers begin with raw cocoa beans and oversee every stage of the process themselves, from roasting, to grinding, refining, and tempering the beans to develop the final flavour and texture. It is a method that allows chocolate makers to express the unique characteristics of cocoa grown in different regions.

For Igweike, discovering this craft opened an entirely new world. In 2020, she transformed that curiosity and experimentation into a business, founding Loom Craft Chocolate in Abuja. The idea behind the company was simple but profound: Nigeria should not merely grow cocoa, it should also produce exceptional chocolate.

An Electronic Engineering graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Igweike approached chocolate making with both analytical precision and creative curiosity. From the beginning, Loom Craft Chocolate focused on producing handcrafted chocolate bars and cocoa products using Nigerian cocoa beans and locally sourced ingredients.

Today the company offers a growing collection of chocolate varieties. Among them are 70 percent dark chocolate, 55 percent milk chocolate, dark chocolate with sea salt, mango chilli chocolate, coconut sesame crunch, salted cashew chocolate, kuli-kuli chocolate, strawberry lemongrass chocolate, and vanilla white chocolate. Loom Craft Chocolate also produces baking essentials such as chocolate chips, cocoa nibs, and chocolate blocks, alongside specialty items including milk chocolate spread and curated gift boxes.

Many of these creations reflect an adventurous spirit, combining cocoa with flavours inspired by local culinary traditions and ingredients.

The work being done by Loom Craft Chocolate speaks to a broader reality about Nigeria’s cocoa industry. The country is among the largest cocoa producers in the world, with cultivation spread across several states including Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, Oyo, Ogun, and Cross River. Yet historically, most of the crop has been exported as raw beans, leaving the more profitable stages of processing, manufacturing, and branding to foreign companies.

For Igweike, this imbalance represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Industry estimates suggest that Nigeria’s chocolate confectionery market has been projected to exceed $1.72 billion by 2033, reflecting the country’s growing appetite for chocolate. Yet there are still relatively few local producers. Igweike believes many more Nigerian chocolate makers are needed if the country is to fully capture the value created by its cocoa.

Building a chocolate company in Nigeria, however, comes with significant hurdles. Travel to cocoa farms can be complicated by isolated security concerns, while chocolate production itself requires steady electricity, something many manufacturers continue to struggle with.

Even so, Igweike remains optimistic about the future of Nigerian chocolate. With high-quality cocoa and growing knowledge among local producers, she believes chocolate made in Nigeria can compete internationally once regulatory and export standards are met.

Not long ago, the phrase “Nigerian bean-to-bar chocolate” sounded almost improbable. Today, however, a small but growing community of craft chocolate makers is emerging across the country, each exploring new ways to transform Nigerian cocoa into finished chocolate. Some even operate at the tree-to-bar level, cultivating, harvesting, fermenting, and drying their own cocoa before turning it into chocolate.

Together, these pioneers are gradually reshaping the story of Nigerian cocoa, moving it beyond raw exports and into refined, locally produced chocolate.

At Loom Craft Chocolate, the mission extends beyond producing sweets. The company seeks to inspire creativity and demonstrate what becomes possible when local resources are transformed into exceptional products.

By crafting chocolate from Nigerian cocoa beans and pairing them with imaginative flavours, Uzoamaka Igweike is helping to rewrite a long-standing narrative.

Nigeria’s cocoa story, after all, should not end at the farm gate but in the hands of visionary makers, it is only just beginning. 

The JSS2 Founder: How Adekoya Ezekiel Built Adeze Footwear

In many parts of the world, entrepreneurship often begins after graduation, when young professionals step cautiously into the workforce, but across Nigeria, a different story is increasingly taking shape, one where ambition starts earlier, skills are honed outside conventional classrooms, and enterprises are born long before most careers even begin. Few examples illustrate this transformation better than the journey of Adekoya Ezekiel, a 22-year-old entrepreneur whose company, Adeze Footwear Ltd, is steadily establishing its place within Lagos’ expanding leather industry.

Remarkably, Ezekiel’s entrepreneurial story did not begin in adulthood but started nearly eight years ago when he was still in Junior Secondary School 2 (JSS2). What began then as a youthful experiment has gradually matured into a functioning manufacturing venture. Today, Adeze Footwear is no longer simply producing occasional handcrafted items; it operates as a structured leather-making outfit competing for school and corporate footwear contracts across Lagos.

His journey reflects a broader movement shaping the New Nigerian Economy, where vocational skills are increasingly becoming the foundation for industrial ambition. Across the country, young Nigerians are proving that craftsmanship can evolve into scalable enterprise when paired with discipline, patience, and strategic thinking.

From the beginning, Ezekiel made a deliberate decision about the identity of his products. In a market crowded with cheap synthetic footwear imports, he chose a different path, one built on 100 percent genuine leather. The philosophy behind the brand is simple but deliberate: durability, value, and craftsmanship over mass-produced alternatives. This focus on quality has helped Adeze Footwear carve out its own space within a highly competitive market.

An important turning point came in 2025, when the company adjusted its growth strategy. Rather than relying primarily on individual bespoke orders, Adeze Footwear shifted toward a Business-to-Business (B2B) supply model. Through formal proposals and quotations sent to institutions, the company began securing contracts for customized school shoes and organizational footwear. This pivot from retail craftsmanship to bulk institutional supply has become a key engine driving the company’s expansion.

Like many young founders building from the ground up, Ezekiel had to confront the familiar challenge of startup capital. Instead of waiting for loans or outside investment, he chose a path defined by patience and practical learning. He took jobs as a factory hand in established footwear companies, including World Record Footwear and other Lagos-based manufacturing plants.

Those factory experiences served two crucial purposes. They provided the income needed to support his growing venture, but perhaps more importantly, they offered an insider’s education in industrial production. By working within established plants, Ezekiel gained firsthand exposure to assembly-line processes, operational efficiency, and large-scale manufacturing systems. The lessons learned during that period now shape the production methods he is implementing within Adeze Footwear.

Yet beyond business strategy and production techniques, Ezekiel’s leadership philosophy introduces an unusually collaborative dimension to entrepreneurship. Within his workshop, workers are trained through apprenticeship, but their journey does not end with permanent employment. Instead, Ezekiel actively prepares them for independence.

Once an apprentice completes training, he provides a “graduation grant”, helping them overcome the financial barrier that often prevents skilled artisans from launching their own ventures. In effect, he is investing in the next generation of leather producers, even if they eventually become competitors.

Rather than weakening his position, this approach strengthens the broader industry. By supporting former trainees as independent entrepreneurs, Ezekiel is helping nurture a network of leather artisans that expands the reach of Nigerian-made footwear. Within this emerging ecosystem, Adeze Footwear functions as a central craft hub, while its graduates help widen the market footprint of locally produced leather goods.

Ezekiel has also begun lending his voice to conversations about the structural barriers facing young Nigerian entrepreneurs. Speaking at the Woman of Substance (WOS) 2026 conference, he identified what he believes is one of the biggest obstacles confronting aspiring founders in the country: the absence of standardized funding mechanisms for skilled youth.

According to him, training programs alone are not enough. Without immediate financial support after training, many newly acquired skills fade before they can be converted into viable businesses. His proposal is the creation of a government-led “Skill-to-Capital” bridge, where graduates of vocational programs receive starter kits or micro-loans that allow them to begin operating immediately.

For decades, Nigeria’s leather industry has been most closely associated with major production centres such as Aba and Kano. Yet the story unfolding around entrepreneurs like Adekoya Ezekiel suggests that Lagos is gradually emerging as another vibrant hub within the sector.

Adeze Footwear remains a young company, but its trajectory captures the spirit of a generation determined to build rather than wait. These are enterprises born not in boardrooms but in workshops, ventures powered by skill, persistence, and an unrelenting belief in local capability.

In many ways, companies like Adeze Footwear represent what could become Nigeria’s future micro-multinationals: businesses that begin modestly but scale steadily through quality production and entrepreneurial discipline.

For Adekoya Ezekiel, the journey that began in JSS2 has already evolved into a serious manufacturing pursuit. Within the busy leather clusters of Lagos, his story stands as another reminder that across Nigeria, an industrial awakening is underway, driven not only by institutions or capital, but by determined young builders willing to craft opportunity with their own hands.

Nigeria Mandates Professional Certification for All Teachers by 2026/2027 Academic Session

Nigeria’s drive to raise standards in its classrooms is entering a decisive new phase, as authorities move to ensure that every teacher standing before students is professionally trained, certified and licensed.

Under a directive from the Federal Ministry of Education, all teachers in Nigeria must obtain full professional certification before the end of the 2026/2027 academic session. The policy will be implemented through the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), the statutory body responsible for regulating teaching practice across the country.

The reform targets a long-standing concern within the education sector: the presence of individuals without proper training or credentials in classrooms. By enforcing professional licensing nationwide, regulators aim to strengthen teaching quality and reinforce public confidence in the profession.

Nigeria’s education system is vast with over 200,000 public schools and more than two million teachers across primary and secondary levels, according to national education statistics. Yet several studies have shown that a significant proportion of teachers, particularly in some private institutions, have historically operated without full professional certification. The new directive seeks to close that gap.

Under the new framework, every practising teacher must register with the TRCN and obtain a professional licence, which will be valid for three years and subject to renewal. Registration and licence processing will be conducted through the Council’s official digital portal, making the process more transparent and accessible nationwide.

Beyond domestic regulation, the initiative is also designed to position Nigerian educators for opportunities abroad. Teachers who complete the licensing process and seek employment internationally will be eligible to obtain a Letter of Professional Standing, a document that confirms their professional status and supports recognition by foreign education authorities.

Another key feature of the reform is the introduction of a mandatory induction programme for new entrants into the profession. Before full registration is granted, prospective teachers will undergo structured orientation designed to strengthen ethics, pedagogy and professional conduct.

To further protect the integrity of the profession, the regulatory body has also introduced stricter screening measures as individuals with criminal records or ethical violations will not be eligible for registration, reinforcing efforts to safeguard students and uphold the credibility of Nigeria’s teaching workforce.

By ensuring that every educator is properly trained, licensed and accountable, the country is taking a firm step toward building a stronger and more professional education system, one capable of shaping the next generation of Nigerians with competence and integrity.

Lagos Free Zone Unveils Irele Tower, Its First Commercial Office Building

Lagos State has taken another step toward strengthening its position as a leading economic hub with the commissioning of Irele Tower, the first completed commercial office building within the Lagos Free Zone in Lekki.

The nine-storey structure was officially inaugurated by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, marking a milestone for the rapidly developing Lekki economic corridor, which is home to the Lekki Deep Sea Port, Dangote Refinery, and several large industrial projects.

Developed by Lagos Free Zone Company, Irele Tower is designed to serve as a modern workspace supporting office operations, corporate headquarters, and retail services within the free zone. The building provides premium commercial space for companies operating in one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing industrial and logistics hubs.

Beyond its commercial function, the tower stands out for its environmental design. The building has received EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification, a global green building standard developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.

Through energy-efficient systems and sustainable architecture, the development is designed to achieve 26 percent lower energy consumption and 46 percent lower water usage compared to conventional buildings.

The structure’s architectural concept draws inspiration from maritime design, reflecting the strategic coastal location of the Lagos Free Zone near the Lekki Deep Sea Port. This design approach also aligns with the zone’s vision of becoming a major logistics, trade, and industrial gateway for West Africa.

The commissioning of Irele Tower represents a significant step in building the supporting commercial infrastructure required for businesses operating in the zone, reinforcing Lagos’ ambition to attract global investment while promoting sustainable urban development.

 

SEDC Launches $50m Venture Capital Fund for South East Startups

Nigeria’s expanding innovation economy is gaining fresh momentum from the South East as new efforts emerge to unlock capital for the region’s growing community of entrepreneurs. The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has introduced the South East Venture Capital Programme (SEVCP), a financing initiative designed to expand funding opportunities for startups operating within the region.

Structured as a blended finance vehicle, the programme aims to mobilise up to $50 million drawn from public funding, institutional investors, development finance institutions, diaspora capital, and private investment. In a statement released Tuesday by the commission’s media office, the initiative was described as a coordinated, time-bound intervention intended to accelerate the digital, technology, and innovation ecosystems across South East Nigeria.

The programme also reflects a broader institutional effort aligned with national ambitions to deepen local financing channels and attract sustained investment into high-growth sectors. As part of the region’s wider development roadmap, the initiative was recently presented to the House of Representatives Committee on South East Development. The fund itself will be anchored by the South East Investment Company, the commission’s wholly owned investment vehicle, which will participate as a limited partner.

Beyond providing capital, the SEVCP has been structured as a comprehensive platform designed to support startups from early-stage discovery through growth. It operates through five interconnected workstreams: fund operationalisation, a regional pitch competition, incubation and acceleration programmes, financing partnerships, and a network of regional implementing partners. Together, these components create a pipeline for identifying promising startups, guiding their development, and preparing them for investment while maintaining strong governance and global investment standards.

Central to the programme is the South East Pitch Competition, which will serve as the main entry point into the fund’s investment pipeline. From across the five South East states, 30 startups will be selected for the first cohort. Twenty startups will enter the Accelerator Track, while ten will participate in the Incubation Track.

The selected companies will collectively receive $450,000 in Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) investments. Startups in the Accelerator Track will receive $20,000 each, while those in the Incubation Track will receive $5,000 each. The investments will be released based on milestones, a structure designed to balance founders’ operational flexibility with investor safeguards.

Applications for the programme opened on 13 March 2026 and were initially scheduled to close on 27 March, but the commission has extended the deadline to 3 April 2026 to encourage broader participation, noting that this will be the final extension. The pitch competition finals are scheduled for 13 May 2026, followed by an investment ceremony on 14 May 2026. Selected startups will then participate in a structured hybrid incubation and acceleration programme delivered across key locations within the region.

Eligibility requirements reflect the programme’s regional development focus. Startups applying for the Accelerator Track must demonstrate clear product - market fit, active users, and revenue traction, while the Incubation Track is intended for founders with validated ideas supported by a minimum viable product. Eligible companies must either be based in the South East, operating within the region, delivering measurable impact there, or founded by individuals of South East origin with a defined regional focus. All applications must also demonstrate a meaningful technology component, reinforcing the programme’s long-term goal of building a sustainable and investable innovation ecosystem across the South East. 

Nigeria enters the Global Carbon Market with 5.2 million Carbon Credits

Nigeria is stepping confidently onto the global climate stage, opening a new chapter in its emerging carbon market while advancing practical environmental solutions at home.

For the first time, Nigeria has authorised the international transfer of carbon credits generated within the country. The approval, issued through the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), enables 5.2 million carbon credits from clean cooking initiatives to be exported under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement.

The authorisation was granted to BURN, a Kenyan clean energy company, allowing the firm and its partners, including Key Carbon, to transfer the credits to CORSIA, the global carbon offset mechanism used by the international aviation industry.

These credits were generated through the large-scale distribution of improved cookstoves, a technology that reduces reliance on traditional biomass fuels. By improving cooking efficiency, the initiative lowers emissions, eases pressure on forests, and helps deliver cleaner air in households and communities.

The development marks a major step in Nigeria’s effort to establish a credible domestic carbon market capable of attracting global climate finance. Through such frameworks, emissions reductions produced locally can be traded internationally as Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs), a mechanism that enables countries to cooperate in achieving their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

This progress builds on policy groundwork laid in 2025, when Nigeria introduced the Nigeria Carbon Market Activation Policy (NCMAP). The strategy outlines a pathway to mobilise $2.5 billion by 2030 through the generation and trading of carbon credits.

According to NCCC Director-General, Dt Nkiruka Maduekwe, Nigeria’s carbon market framework is designed to ensure climate finance translates into real benefits for local communities while supporting national emissions reduction goals.

Momentum has already begun to build. In February 2026, the country issued its first industrial-scale carbon credits through the Releaf Earth project, which produced 190 verified carbon credits.

Nigeria’s move also comes as global climate policies increasingly shape economic realities. Instruments such as the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) are encouraging industries worldwide to reduce emissions or face new trade barriers, making strong carbon market systems more important than ever.

Within this evolving landscape, Nigeria’s approval of 5.2 million clean cooking carbon credits reflects a growing alignment between climate responsibility, economic opportunity, and everyday household needs.

From cleaner kitchens to participation in global carbon markets, the initiative underscores Nigeria’s expanding role in shaping sustainable solutions for the future.

Ekiti’s Teenage Wordsmith Claims Africa’s Crown

A remarkable academic triumph has placed Ekiti State firmly on the continental stage after Adeolu Oluwadamilola Ooreofe, a 14-year-old student, emerged winner of the 2026 African Spelling Bee Junior Category in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Her victory did not come suddenly as it is the culmination of years of disciplined preparation and steady progress through increasingly competitive arenas. Before lifting Africa’s top junior spelling title, Ooreofe had already built an impressive reputation within Nigeria’s spelling circuit. She finished second at the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee, placed second again at the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee, secured fifth position at the 2025 African Spelling Bee, and went on to claim second place at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee. That trajectory of excellence set the stage for her historic moment.

The young scholar, a student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College in Ado Ekiti, began her latest journey by displaying a superior performance in the Ekiti State qualifiers. From there, she advanced to the national competition in Port Harcourt, where she secured second place, earning her spot among Africa’s brightest young spellers.

In Harare, she faced formidable competition from participants representing more than 20 African countries, yet with calm confidence, razor-sharp concentration and impressive command of language, Ooreofe steadily advanced through the rounds until she emerged the continent’s Junior African Spelling Bee Champion.

Her victory comes with tangible rewards as she received a $5,000 educational scholarship and will now go on to represent Africa at the World Spelling Bee in China later this year.

For Ekiti State, the achievement is more than a personal milestone; it is a moment of collective pride. The triumph reflects the nurturing support of her family, the dedication of teachers who guided her academic journey, and the broader environment that encourages educational excellence.

It also underscores the Ekiti State Government’s commitment to strengthening education, demonstrating how investment in learning continues to produce young Nigerians capable of shining on the global stage.

At just fourteen, Adeolu Oluwadamilola Ooreofe has already written her name into Africa’s academic history, a brilliant reminder that Nigeria’s future is being shaped by determined young minds ready to compete with the very best anywhere in the world.

Nigeria Moves To Formalise AI Governance With National Strategy

Nigeria is moving to formally anchor artificial intelligence within its governance framework as a comprehensive national strategy awaits legislative approval.

The Federal Government has completed work on the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a policy blueprint intended to guide the development, regulation and responsible deployment of AI technologies across the country. Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, revealed that the strategy has moved beyond the drafting stage and is expected to be presented to the National Assembly within the next one or two weeks for final approval.

He made the disclosure during a keynote address at the Crisis Management Advocacy Month 2026 Conference in Lagos, a gathering of policymakers, technology experts and industry leaders examining emerging digital risks and the evolving systems required to manage them.

At its core, the strategy reflects Nigeria’s ambition to position itself as a leading artificial intelligence hub in West Africa, with a broader goal of emerging as a global AI player by 2030. Minister  Tijani also highlighted a notable milestone: the development of a government-backed large language model, making Nigeria the first African country to build such a system capable of understanding and communicating in Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba and Ibibio, in addition to English. The initiative ensures that Nigeria’s linguistic diversity and local context are represented within the rapidly expanding global AI ecosystem.

First introduced in 2024 and rolled out nationwide in 2025, the strategy is built around five key priorities which includes; establishing foundational infrastructure such as high-performance computing centres, upgraded data centres and clean-energy-powered AI clusters to support advanced research and innovation.

Another pillar focuses on talent development, with plans to create Centres of Excellence and innovation hubs to nurture a new generation of AI researchers, engineers and innovators. The framework also encourages the accelerated adoption of AI across critical sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, energy, finance and public services, where intelligent technologies could significantly enhance productivity and service delivery.

The policy further embeds ethical safeguards to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability, alongside governance structures designed to provide effective regulatory oversight of AI development and deployment in Nigeria.

Implementation will rely on strong collaboration between public institutions, startups, academic bodies and private-sector partners, supported by funding mechanisms, monitoring frameworks and milestone tracking aimed at expanding AI research capacity and strengthening skills development nationwide.

The initiative is being led by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, with technical backing from the National Information Technology Development Agency and its National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, while the Nigerian Communications Commission and Galaxy Backbone are also contributing to the effort.

Alex Iwobi Joins 2026 Football Black List Honourees

Nigerian international Alex Iwobi has been recognised among the most influential Black figures shaping British football, earning a place on the 2026 Football Black List, a respected platform that honours excellence and leadership across the game.

The announcement has been welcomed with enthusiasm from both his club and country. Fulham FC confirmed the news on its official social media channels, praising the midfielder’s growing influence within the sport and noting that he will be honoured alongside other recipients at a celebration event scheduled for Tuesday, 14 April, in Westminster.

“Alex Iwobi has been named in the 2026 Football Black List, which recognises the most influential Black individuals in British football. Iwobi and his fellow recipients will be honoured at a celebration event in Westminster on Tuesday, 14th April. Congratulations, Alex!” the club stated.

Nigeria’s national team also joined in celebrating the achievement. In a brief message, the Super Eagles expressed pride in the midfielder’s recognition, writing: “We are proud of you Alex.”

Strong Season Behind the Recognition

Iwobi’s inclusion comes during an impressive 2025–26 Premier League season with Fulham, where the Nigerian midfielder has been a consistent presence in the team’s lineup. Having already made more than 25 league appearances, he has contributed seven goals and assists, underlining his importance in the club’s midfield.

His name appears alongside a notable group of football personalities recognised in the 2026 edition. The list includes Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze, England defender Jess Carter, and respected figures in the administrative and coaching spaces such as Omar Berrada and Kolo Touré.

A Platform Celebrating Black Excellence in Football

The Football Black List, created in 2008 by Leon Mann and Rodney Hinds, has grown into one of the sport’s most influential initiatives highlighting the contributions of Black professionals across football. The annual recognition spans several areas of the game, celebrating players, coaches, administrators, media professionals, and grassroots organisers who are shaping the sport’s future.

This year’s edition marks a particularly significant milestone: for the first time, women outnumber men on the list, signalling gradual progress in representation within football.

The organisers have also introduced key adjustments to the structure of the awards. The Community and Grassroots category now has Barclays as its first title sponsor, a move designed to highlight individuals who are building football at the local level.

Additionally, the Administration category has been renamed the Lord Herman Ouseley Leaders category, honouring the legacy of the late Herman Ouseley, the anti-racism campaigner and founder of the Kick It Out initiative.

Representation Challenges Remain

While representation on the pitch continues to grow, disparities remain in leadership roles across the game.

According to figures from the Black Footballers Partnership, 43 per cent of Premier League players are Black, while 34 per cent of footballers in the English Football League come from the same background. However, these numbers are not reflected in positions such as coaching, management, and football administration.

The Football Black List aims to draw attention to individuals helping to bridge that gap, while inspiring future generations to see themselves not only as players but also as leaders shaping the sport.

Honourees are selected from public nominations, with the final list decided by a panel representing key football institutions including the Premier League, The FA, the English Football League, and the Professional Footballers’ Association.

Inspiring Visibility Across the Game

Reacting to the latest edition, co-founder Leon Mann emphasised the importance of the increased presence of women on the list.

“I am absolutely delighted to see more women than men on this year’s Football Black List. Black women often face significant barriers in sport and society, so this recognition is a testament to their talent and resilience. I hope their visibility inspires future generations,” he said.

Mann also reflected on how far the initiative has come, noting that seeing top-level executives and elite coaches recognised alongside players once seemed unlikely.

“There was a time when featuring a CEO of one of the biggest clubs in the world, alongside elite-level coaches, felt like a distant dream. In 2026, I now expect to see this. However, while progress has been made, there is still work to do to improve representation in leadership and coaching.”

Co-founder Rodney Hinds echoed that sentiment, describing the initiative as a powerful reminder of the impact Black professionals continue to make across football.

“Once again, the Football Black List highlights outstanding individuals making a real impact. Congratulations to everyone recognised, as well as those nominated. This initiative continues to inspire many, and we are incredibly proud of what it has become. It’s about celebrating the vital role our community plays in the game,” he said.

All honourees will gather in Westminster for the official ceremony, an event supported by the Premier League which spans multiple categories.

For Nigeria, Iwobi’s recognition adds yet another chapter to the country’s enduring contribution to global football, an example of talent, influence and leadership making its mark far beyond the pitch

Advanced Medical Facility Opens in Kogi as Private Investment Strengthens Healthcare Access

Healthcare delivery in Edumo, Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has taken a significant step forward with the unveiling of the Southward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, a privately developed facility equipped with modern diagnostic technology.

The hospital was officially commissioned on Tuesday by Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, who described the new facility as a “lifeline for communities” and a meaningful contribution to improving healthcare services in the state.

Built to expand access to specialised medical services, the centre houses a range of diagnostic tools, including digital X-ray systems, ultrasound services, CT scan equipment, MRI machines, and a fully equipped laboratory. The facility is expected to strengthen early disease detection and treatment, particularly for residents of Kabba/Bunu and nearby communities.

The project dates back to 2018, when construction began under the leadership of Jumoke Bosede Omodara, the Chief Executive Officer of Southward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre. According to Omodara, the hospital was established to support government efforts aimed at improving access to quality healthcare in Kogi State and across Nigeria.

She explained that acquiring advanced diagnostic equipment was made possible through an ₦800 million loan obtained from the Bank of Industry.

Although located in Kabba/Bunu, the facility is designed to serve a broader population across neighbouring states such as Kwara, Ondo, and Ekiti, in addition to communities within Kogi State. By providing advanced diagnostic services locally, the hospital hopes to reduce patient referrals and limit the need for medical tourism.

Governor Ododo commended the promoters for investing in vital healthcare infrastructure and assured the hospital’s management of the state government’s support. He noted that the commissioning aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery through expanded access to the Kogi State Health Insurance Programme and upgrades to hospitals across the state, while urging residents to utilise and protect the facility.

Traditional leadership also welcomed the development as HRM Dr Solomon Owoniyi, the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman of the Okun Traditional Council, praised the initiative and encouraged authorities to intensify efforts to curb quack medical practices in the area.

With its advanced diagnostic capacity now operational, the Southward Hospital and Diagnostic Centre stands as a clear example of how private investment can strengthen healthcare access and improve community wellbeing across Nigeria.

How Aasiyah Abdulsalam is using robotics to transform wig manufacturing

Few segments of the beauty industry reveal the weight of tradition quite like the global wig business. Despite generating more than $8 billion each year and serving millions of users worldwide, much of its production still depends on painstaking techniques developed decades ago. For Aasiyah Abdulsalam, an entrepreneur of Nigerian origin, that disconnect between demand and innovation signaled an opportunity. Through The Renatural, the company she founded, Aasiyah is introducing robotics, biomimetic materials, and precision engineering into wig manufacturing, rethinking how one of beauty’s most enduring products can be made.

Her path toward that innovation began not in a laboratory but through lived experience. Born in London to Nigerian parents and raised in rural Ireland, Aasiyah grew up in an environment where specialized care for textured hair was limited. At the age of twelve, she was diagnosed with incurable scalp psoriasis, a condition that caused severe irritation and eventually led to alopecia, forcing her to confront hair loss early in life.

Wigs and extensions became a practical solution, restoring confidence while also introducing her to the complex ecosystem behind the industry, from stylists and installation specialists to hair brokers and manufacturers. What began as necessity soon turned into curiosity about how wigs were sourced, produced, and installed.

That curiosity followed her into university and while studying geography at the University of Leicester, Aasiyah chose the global wig market as the focus of her undergraduate dissertation, examining the geopolitical supply chains that sustain the industry. Determined to see those systems firsthand, she spent six months working in a wig factory in South Korea, studying manufacturing techniques while speaking directly with wig wearers about their experiences.

The feedback was strikingly consistent as many users faced the recurring cost of professional installations, sometimes spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually. Adhesives such as glue and tape frequently irritated the scalp and, in some cases, contributed to additional hair loss. Other common solutions like tight elastic bands, wig grips, or combs sewn into caps, often placed tension on the hairline, sometimes leading to traction alopecia.

After completing her undergraduate studies and later earning a master’s degree from the London School of Economics, Abdulsalam decided to tackle one of those persistent problems. Teaching herself AutoCAD, she began designing a product that could secure wigs comfortably without relying on glue, tape, or combs.

Early prototypes were produced using 3D printing, before she partnered with a medical silicone manufacturer to refine the design. The result was The Wig Fix, a patented device that anchors wigs securely while protecting the natural hairline.

When Abdulsalam launched The Renatural from her bedroom in London in 2020, the product quickly gained traction and within six months, the company recorded 4,000 orders at $29 each, prompting her to partner with a third-party fulfillment provider to manage demand. Social media collaborations accelerated awareness, including a partnership with YouTuber Patricia Bright, which helped sell nearly 2,000 units within 24 hours.

Much of that early demand came from abroad. Despite shipping costs of roughly $30, about 80 percent of customers were based in the United States. Over time, more than 80,000 units of The Wig Fix were sold, widely regarded as the first patented innovation in the wig industry in over sixty years.

By the company’s third year, Abdulsalam had bootstrapped The Renatural to approximately $3 million in annual revenue. Yet customers continued asking the same question: when would The Renatural begin producing wigs themselves?

The question prompted Abdulsalam to rethink the product category entirely. One of the most persistent limitations she identified was the lace base used in most modern wigs. Even with techniques such as bleaching knots, tinting lace, and carefully plucking hairlines, lace rarely produced a convincingly natural scalp effect.

Searching for alternatives, Abdulsalam turned to biomaterials used in medical skin replacements for burn victims, valued for their thinness and flexibility. From that research, she developed a proprietary bamboo polymer hybrid material designed to replace lace and replicate the appearance of natural skin.

The innovation became The Renatural Base, a patented skin-replica hairline engineered to be three times thinner than traditional lace. The material mimics the look, feel, and breathability of human skin while eliminating the grid patterns that often reveal when someone is wearing a wig.

Improving the material raised another challenge: manufacturing. Traditional wigs rely on hand-ventilating, where artisans knot thousands of individual hair strands into lace caps, a delicate craft that requires years of training but Aasiyah's answer was automation.

In early experiments, she improvised by combining an embroidery machine with a 3D printer, exploring ways to replicate the repetitive precision required to insert individual hair strands. Later, working alongside engineers, she developed more advanced systems capable of performing the task with consistency. Today, The Renatural operates with two patented robots that inject strands of hair into the base through thousands of microscopic openings.

Production now takes place in a warehouse in Brooklyn’s Dumbo district, where a small team oversees robotics-assisted manufacturing, quality control, and shipping. Each wig contains roughly 12,000 micro-pores, allowing hair strands to be inserted in patterns that mimic natural follicle growth. The system eliminates visible knots while enabling natural density transitions from lighter hairlines to fuller crowns and allows the hair to be parted in multiple directions without exposing the cap beneath.

The company’s Signature Collection features wigs crafted from 100 percent virgin human hair, offered in textures such as Gentle Wave, Deep Curl, and Kinky Straight, reflecting the diversity of natural hair patterns.

The Renatural’s technological ambition has attracted growing interest from investors. The company has raised more than $6 million in funding, including $4.2 million in seed investment, with backing from prominent supporters. Aasiyah has also secured $65,000 in non-dilutive funding through a Harvard Business School competition and received $100,000 in investment through Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition initiative.

Among the company’s early believers is Olamide Olowe, founder of skincare brand Topicals, who invested after discovering The Wig Fix while searching for a more effective way to secure her own wigs.

Demand for Renatural products continues to grow rapidly and over the past eighteen months, the company has built a waitlist of more than 40,000 customers, even as it works to scale production to around 100 to 150 wigs per month.

Yet beyond the technology and investment milestones, Aasiyah says the most meaningful feedback comes from the people who wear the wigs. When someone tries on a Renatural wig for the first time, she often notices a subtle shift.

“They roll their shoulders back,” she says. “And I hear the same thing again and again - finally, someone’s created it.”

That reaction brings the story full circle. What began as a personal search for better solutions is now reshaping an industry. By combining engineering, biomimetic science, and entrepreneurial imagination, Aasiyah Abdulsalam is helping move the wig industry into a new technological chapter, demonstrating how innovation connected to Nigerian heritage continues to influence industries far beyond Africa’s shores.

Nigeria launches the National Single Window to cut port delays and boost trade

Nigeria’s push to modernise its trade architecture has taken a significant step forward with the launch of the first phase of the National Single Window (NSW), a digital platform designed to streamline international trade documentation and eliminate costly bureaucratic delays.

The initiative, unveiled on Tuesday by Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, represents a major attempt to dismantle what many businesses have long described as the country’s hidden “congestion tax”, the web of administrative delays that slows trade and inflates logistics costs across the economy.

For years, Nigerian ports have struggled with lengthy cargo clearance timelines that put local businesses at a disadvantage. By 2025, the average cargo dwell time at Nigerian ports ranged between 18 and 21 days, a figure that stands approximately 475 percent higher than the global benchmark of four days. According to Minister Edun, the new digital platform is specifically designed to tackle the largest contributor to those delays.

Surprisingly, the biggest bottleneck has not been cranes, berths, or roads as about 73 percent of cargo dwell time is attributed to “transaction dwell time”, the time spent navigating paperwork, regulatory approvals, and multiple agency processes.

The National Single Window seeks to collapse those layers into a single digital gateway. Under the system, traders will be able to submit Licences, Permits, and Certificates (LPCOs) electronically, while digital manifest processing and centralised risk management across government agencies will replace the current patchwork of manual interactions and repeated documentation checks. The goal is simple: fewer desks, fewer delays, and faster trade.

The rollout of the NSW is happening alongside another strategic intervention: the upgrade of Nigeria’s two busiest seaports, Apapa and Tin Can Island. Together, these facilities handle around 70 percent of Nigeria’s total trade volume, making their efficiency critical to the country’s economic competitiveness.

Authorities say the port modernisation programme will tackle long-standing issues including terminal congestion, outdated infrastructure, and inefficient cargo handling. Improvements in these areas are expected to speed up cargo discharge, vessel turnaround times, and truck evacuation from the ports, easing pressure across the supply chain.

Combined with the digital reforms, the government is targeting a dramatic reduction in cargo clearance timelines. The ambition is to cut cargo dwell time from the current 21 days to less than seven days by 2026, bringing Nigeria significantly closer to global efficiency standards.

For businesses, the impact could be substantial especially as manufacturers and importers would gain faster access to raw materials and critical inputs while reducing inventory holding costs and demurrage charges. Exporters, on the other hand, stand to benefit from quicker access to international markets, an advantage that could strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Addressing concerns around the partnerships involved in upgrading port infrastructure, Minister Edun emphasised that the arrangement is not structured as a one-sided deal. According to him, Nigeria gains modern infrastructure, improved productivity, and job creation, while partners participate through financing arrangements and commercial opportunities tied to the upgrades.

At its core, the reform agenda targets a problem Nigerian businesses have quietly absorbed for years: the cost of delay and by confronting the bureaucratic layers responsible for most port inefficiencies, the government hopes to remove a major barrier to trade and unlock new momentum for the economy.

As the Minister put it, the initiative goes beyond a technological upgrade, it signals a broader message about Nigeria’s place in global commerce.

“Nigeria is not just opening a window; Nigeria is opening for business.”

Moniepoint acquires Orda, expanding into Africa’s $50bn food service industry

Africa’s food economy is vast, vibrant, and central to daily life. Across Nigeria’s cities and towns, restaurants, cafés, bukas, and roadside kitchens feed millions while driving one of the continent’s most active sectors. Increasingly, Nigerian technology companies are stepping in to modernise this ecosystem, building tools that help small businesses operate more efficiently and access financial services.

In a move that reflects this shift, Nigerian fintech company Moniepoint Inc. has acquired restaurant management startup Orda Africa, positioning itself to expand into Africa’s fast-growing $50 billion food service industry.

The acquisition will integrate Orda’s cloud-based restaurant software into Moniepoint’s business management platform, Moniebook, allowing restaurants and food vendors to manage orders, payments, inventory, and accounting from a single system. For businesses that still rely on manual records or disconnected tools, the integration promises a more efficient way to manage daily operations.

The deal also highlights a broader evolution within Africa’s fintech sector. Companies once focused solely on payments are increasingly building platforms that support the full operational needs of small businesses, combining transactions, management tools, and access to credit.

For Tosin Eniolorunda, Moniepoint’s co-founder and group chief executive officer, the food sector represents one of the continent’s most active yet underserved industries.

“The food industry is a major source of jobs and daily survival for many Africans,” Eniolorunda said, noting that many businesses still operate with manual systems and fragmented processes.

Restaurants are particularly attractive to fintech firms because they generate high-frequency transactions, rely on steady supply chains, and often require working capital to sustain daily operations.

The sector itself is expanding quickly as urban populations grow and dining habits evolve, Africa’s restaurant industry continues to scale. Nigeria alone is projected to see its restaurant market reach about $19.3 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of more than 11 percent.

Founded in 2020, Orda Africa built software specifically for small and independent restaurants, many of which previously operated without digital infrastructure. Its platform helps businesses track orders, manage kitchen workflows, and monitor stock levels, replacing manual systems with organised digital processes.

According to Guy Futi, Orda’s chief executive officer, the partnership with Moniepoint allows the company to combine operational expertise with financial infrastructure.

“To truly transform the industry, we needed to connect that expertise with comprehensive financial infrastructure,” Futi said, adding that customers will continue using the platform while gaining access to expanded services.

The acquisition also reflects Moniepoint’s rapid rise within Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem. Founded in 2015 by Eniolorunda and Felix Ike, the company says it now serves more than 20 million businesses and individuals and processes over $250 billion in digital payment transactions annually. It has also become one of Nigeria’s largest merchant acquirers, powering a significant share of point-of-sale transactions nationwide.

By integrating Orda’s technology, Moniepoint will gain deeper insight into restaurant operations , including sales patterns, peak demand periods, and inventory cycles. Analysts say such data could support sector-specific lending, helping restaurants access financing based on real operational records.

The deal may also intensify competition in Africa’s growing food-tech ecosystem, where startups are developing solutions for restaurant management, delivery services, and supply chains. Yet much of the continent’s independent food sector still operates offline, highlighting the scale of opportunity that remains.

For Moniepoint, the acquisition forms part of a broader strategy: building a comprehensive financial ecosystem around African small businesses, rather than focusing only on payments.

For millions of food entrepreneurs across Nigeria and the wider continent, from neighbourhood kitchens to established restaurant operators, the convergence of technology and finance could unlock new tools and funding needed to power the next phase of growth in Africa’s food economy.

CBN Wins Global “Central Bank of the Year” Award for Reforms

The Central Bank of Nigeria has received global recognition for a reform programme that has reshaped the country’s monetary landscape, earning the apex bank the “Central Bank of the Year” title at the 2026 Central Banking Awards.

The honour reflects a sweeping set of policy and institutional changes introduced over the past two years to stabilise Nigeria’s financial system and rebuild confidence among investors and businesses. According to the awards committee, the recognition acknowledges a decisive return to orthodox monetary policy, improved governance, and reforms that have strengthened market stability.

The award comes after a period when Nigeria’s economy was under significant pressure. By 2023, inflation had climbed to 22.4 per cent, foreign exchange liquidity had deteriorated, and the country faced about $7bn in unmet foreign exchange obligations. At the same time, the difference between the official and parallel market exchange rates widened to over 60 per cent, reflecting deep distortions within the currency market.

The broader economic context further underscored the urgency of reform. Nigeria, which held the position of Africa’s largest economy in 2014, had fallen to fourth place behind South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria. The combination of monetary financing and subsidy-related interventions had pushed economic management into what the awards committee described as an unsustainable position.

One former senior central bank official, quoted in the committee’s statement, recalled that the situation had become so concerning that analysts feared Nigeria might be drifting toward the economic turmoil experienced in Venezuela and Zimbabwe, as worries intensified over fiscal instability, currency depreciation, and weakening institutional independence.

A shift began in October 2023 when Olayemi Cardoso assumed office as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. His administration quickly introduced wide-ranging reforms aimed at restoring credibility to the institution and strengthening macroeconomic stability.

Central to the reform programme was a commitment to end quasi-fiscal interventions, reinforce institutional independence, and restore discipline to monetary policy. Clearing the country’s foreign exchange backlog and improving transparency within the financial system were also identified as immediate priorities.

One of the most visible changes came in the restructuring of Nigeria’s foreign exchange market. For years, multiple exchange-rate windows had created inefficiencies and uncertainty for investors and businesses. The CBN replaced this fragmented structure with a unified, market-driven system operating on a willing-buyer, willing-seller framework, supported by an electronic FX matching platform designed to enhance transparency and improve price discovery.

The impact of the reforms became evident in the behaviour of the naira. According to Cardoso, the currency now trades within a much narrower and more stable band, while the gap between official and parallel market rates has reduced dramatically to under 2 per cent, compared with over 60 per cent before the reforms.

Another major step involved clearing outstanding foreign exchange commitments owed to key sectors such as aviation and manufacturing, a move that helped restore liquidity and ease long-standing concerns within the business community.

As liquidity improved, Nigeria’s external buffers strengthened. The country’s gross external reserves rose to $46.7bn by November 2025, representing the highest level recorded in nearly seven years and providing more than 10 months of import cover. The improvement was supported by stronger capital inflows and increased non-oil exports, which helped reinforce stability within the foreign exchange market.

In its July 2025 Article IV assessment, the International Monetary Fund commended the reforms, noting that they had strengthened confidence in Nigeria’s markets and improved liquidity conditions within the foreign exchange system.

At the same time, the CBN pursued an aggressive strategy to rein in inflation where Interest rates were raised from 18.75 per cent in 2023 to 27.5 per cent by November 2024, marking one of the most assertive tightening cycles in the bank’s recent history.

Although inflation initially rose to 34.80 per cent in December 2024, largely due to subsidy removal and currency liberalisation, the tightening measures gradually began to take effect.

By January 2026, inflation had declined significantly to 15.10 per cent, while food inflation moderated to 8.9 per cent, reflecting improved price stability across the economy.

With inflation easing, the central bank cautiously adjusted its stance, lowering the benchmark interest rate to 26.5 per cent in February 2026. Even so, Cardoso has stressed that the bank remains committed to bringing inflation down further, emphasising that double-digit inflation cannot be acceptable in the long term. The CBN is now working toward a more structured inflation-targeting framework, supported by stronger data systems and clearer policy communication.

Beyond monetary policy, reforms also targeted the resilience of the banking sector. In 2024, the central bank introduced a recapitalisation programme requiring banks to meet higher capital thresholds designed to strengthen the financial system.

Since then, more than 33 banks have raised fresh capital, while at least 30 institutions have already met the new requirements ahead of the March 31, 2026 deadline. Institutions that fail to comply may face licence downgrades, acquisitions, or liquidation.

Supervisory oversight has also been strengthened through the transition toward Basel III standards, which aim to improve risk management and liquidity monitoring within the banking industry.

Financial inclusion has also expanded during the reform period. Microfinance lending grew by more than 14 per cent, while digital credit products reached over 1.2 million small businesses in 2025, widening access to finance for entrepreneurs and small enterprises across the country.

The digital payments ecosystem has grown rapidly as well. The CBN introduced measures to improve cash management systems, increase ATM efficiency, and enhance supervision of payment agents nationwide. Currently, more than 12 million contactless cards are in circulation, while about 40 fintech companies operate within the CBN’s regulatory sandbox, where new financial technologies are tested under regulatory oversight.

Governance reforms have also played a critical role in restoring international confidence. The central bank established a dedicated compliance department and strengthened anti-money laundering controls, efforts that contributed to Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list in 2025.

The policy improvements have been reflected in global credit ratings. Fitch upgraded Nigeria’s rating from B- to B with a stable outlook in April 2025, while Moody’s raised its rating from Caa1 to B3 in May, citing stronger economic fundamentals and improved policy credibility.

Investor confidence was further demonstrated when Nigeria returned to the international capital market in 2025, issuing a $2.35bn Eurobond that was oversubscribed more than five times, highlighting renewed global interest in the country’s debt.

Despite the progress, the awards committee cautioned that the reform process is still ongoing. Sustaining disinflation, completing the banking sector recapitalisation programme, and strengthening institutional frameworks remain critical tasks.

Nevertheless, the committee concluded that the transformation achieved by the central bank has been significant. As one former official observed, “What the CBN has achieved is nothing short of remarkable.”

For Nigeria, the recognition marks an important moment in the country’s economic journey, signalling that determined reforms can begin to restore stability, rebuild confidence, and reshape the trajectory of one of Africa’s most influential economies.

Damilola Ogunbiyi Becomes First Nigerian Named to TIME Earth Awards

At a time when the search for credible climate leadership is intensifying, a Nigerian has been recognised among the figures shaping the world’s energy future. Damilola Ogunbiyi, Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) and Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, has been named to the 2026 TIME Earth Awards, becoming the first Nigerian to appear on the influential list.

Now in its fourth year, the TIME Earth Awards recognise individuals whose work is making measurable contributions to tackling climate change and advancing sustainable energy systems. Ogunbiyi was selected as one of six global leaders honoured for driving progress toward a cleaner and more inclusive energy future.

Her work focuses on one of the world’s most pressing challenges: expanding access to electricity while reducing carbon emissions. Across many developing regions, millions still live without reliable power, forcing countries to balance development needs with environmental responsibility. Ogunbiyi has consistently argued that these goals can advance together, with clean energy serving not only as a climate solution but also as a driver of economic opportunity.

Through her leadership at Sustainable Energy for All, she has helped coordinate international partnerships aimed at accelerating energy transitions, particularly across the Global South. The organisation now works with more than 200 partners and supports over 100 countries in developing strategies to expand electricity access while reducing emissions. These efforts have helped mobilise over $1.6 trillion in energy finance commitments, reflecting growing global momentum behind sustainable power systems.

Responding to the recognition, Ogunbiyi emphasised that the energy transition must remain centred on people and communities whose lives are transformed by reliable electricity. She pointed to progress already underway across the Global South, including Pakistan’s rapid solar expansion to 33 gigawatts and Kenya generating more than 90 percent of its electricity from clean energy. Nigeria, she noted, is also witnessing the expansion of one of the world’s largest distributed renewable energy programmes, improving livelihoods while broadening access to power.

Before stepping onto the global stage, Ogunbiyi built her reputation within Nigeria’s power sector. As Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, she led the $550 million Nigerian Electrification Project, an initiative designed to deliver electricity to underserved communities through decentralised and renewable energy solutions.

The programme has since provided electricity access to more than eight million Nigerians and supported the deployment of over 100 megawatts of decentralised energy projects, supplying power to hospitals, schools and government facilities across the country. By prioritising solar mini-grids and off-grid technologies, the initiative demonstrated how innovative energy solutions could accelerate electrification in communities long beyond the reach of traditional infrastructure.

Ogunbiyi’s inclusion in the TIME Earth Awards adds to a growing list of international recognitions she has received in recent years. Beyond the honour itself, it reflects the rising influence of leaders from the Global South in shaping the global climate and energy agenda.

For Nigeria, the recognition carries deep significance especially as the world navigates the complex transition toward cleaner energy systems and Ogunbiyi’s work underscores a simple truth: Nigerian expertise is not only participating in global solutions but helping to lead them. 

Historic Night for Lookman in Thrilling Madrid Derby

Across Europe’s biggest football stages, Nigerian talent continues to leave its mark and on Sunday night, the spotlight turned to Madrid. Ademola Lookman delivered a historic moment in the fiercely contested Madrid derby, becoming the first Nigerian to score in the fixture during Atlético Madrid’s dramatic 3–2 clash with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The Nigerian forward opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, finishing a beautifully constructed Atlético move. Johnny Cardoso and Matteo Ruggeri helped initiate the attack before Giuliano Simeone produced a clever backheel that released Lookman inside the box. From close range, the forward kept his composure and slotted the ball home to give Atlético the lead.

Beyond the early advantage, the strike carried historic weight. Lookman became the first Nigerian ever to score in the Madrid derby, while also becoming the eighth Atlético player in the 21st century to score on his La Liga derby debut.

For followers of Nigerian football, the moment reflected a broader story, the steady rise of Nigerian players across Europe’s top leagues. Lookman’s growing presence in Spanish football continues to reinforce that narrative.

However, the derby soon shifted after the restart. Vinícius Júnior brought Real Madrid level in the 52nd minute, calmly converting a penalty to ignite the Bernabéu. Momentum quickly swung in Madrid’s favour, and just three minutes later, Federico Valverde fired the hosts into the lead.

Atlético responded with resilience. In the 66th minute, Nahuel Molina produced a superb strike to restore parity and keep the contest finely balanced but the drama was not over as Vinícius Júnior struck again in the 72nd minute, restoring Real Madrid’s advantage with what ultimately proved to be the decisive goal.

Despite the defeat, Atlético manager Diego Simeone praised Lookman’s continued development and impact.

“He’s been improving, working very hard, offering us different options in attack, and that’s exactly what we need from him. We also need him to help us improve defensively, because he has what it takes. With a huge heart and a willingness to learn and try to improve, he’s brilliant, and hopefully he’ll continue to deliver important moments for us, just as he did today,” Simeone said.

For Lookman, the goal marked his second in 12 league appearances in his debut La Liga season, another step forward in his adaptation to Spanish football.

Atlético may have left the Bernabéu without the points, but the night still produced a milestone. 

On one of football’s grandest stages, a Nigerian forward wrote his name into the history of the Madrid derby, another reminder of Nigeria’s growing imprint on the global game.

A New Energy Chapter: Dangote Refinery Begins Fuel Exports Across Africa

For decades, Africa’s energy story carried a striking contradiction: a continent rich in crude oil yet heavily dependent on imported refined fuel. Tankers routinely travelled thousands of miles from foreign refineries to African ports, reinforcing a cycle where raw resources left the continent only to return as finished products. That pattern is beginning to change and Nigeria is emerging at the centre of the shift.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has now exported 456,000 tonnes of refined petroleum products to African markets through 12 cargoes lifted by international trading firms. The shipments consisted mainly of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and were delivered to Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Tanzania and Togo.

Industry sources say the cargoes were sold on a Free on Board (FOB) basis, meaning international traders purchased the products at the refinery and handled delivery to the destination markets.

The exports follow a major operational milestone for the refinery. In February, the Dangote refinery reached its full designed capacity of 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day (bpd), becoming the first refinery globally to achieve full nameplate capacity in a single train of that scale.

According to the refinery, the achievement followed the optimisation of its Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and improvements in the Motor Spirit (MS) production block, helping stabilise production at Africa’s largest oil refining facility.

Beyond the engineering achievement, the development marks a turning point in Nigeria’s energy story. For decades, the country paradoxically relied on imported fuel despite being one of the world’s major crude oil producers. The refinery’s export activity now signals Nigeria’s gradual shift from a major fuel importer to a growing regional supplier.

The facility is also producing Euro 5 standard gasoline and diesel, offering higher-quality fuels than many of the products historically shipped into parts of Africa. This is particularly significant for West Africa, a region long criticised as a destination for substandard fuel imports.

Demand for alternative fuel supply within the continent is also rising as reports indicate the Dangote refinery has seen increasing inquiries from African countries seeking fuel supplies following disruptions caused by the Iran war and several governments are exploring new supply options as geopolitical tensions threaten traditional fuel supply routes.

Energy stakeholders say the growing interest reflects concerns about fuel availability rather than pricing, as governments prioritise energy security and seek to diversify supply sources.

Currently, about 75% of refined fuel imports into East and Southern Africa originate from the Middle East, according to energy consultancy CITAC, a dependency that leaves many countries exposed to external disruptions.

Despite growing exports, around 75% of the refinery’s output is reserved for Nigeria, while the remaining capacity is available for international markets. Discussions are already underway to expand those export relationships, with sources indicating that South Africa is seeking a 12-month standard fuel supply contract with Nigeria.

Beyond trade volumes, regional supply could significantly reduce logistics costs, shorten delivery times, and ease the delays associated with long-distance imports. In the process, it could strengthen energy security across West, East, and Central Africa while easing pressure on fuel pricing in regional markets.

What is unfolding is more than the success of a single refinery as it signals the emergence of a new reality, one where Nigeria is not only producing crude oil but increasingly supplying refined energy to the continent.

A long-standing paradox is beginning to fade and Africa’s resources are gradually being refined closer to home, and Nigeria is playing a defining role in that transition.

Nigeria Moves To Scrap Common Entrance Exams

Nigeria may be on the verge of a major change in its education system as the Federal Government considers scrapping the long-standing Junior Secondary School Common Entrance Examination and introducing a system to track every pupil throughout their academic journey.

The proposal was disclosed by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos on Saturday. At its core, the reform seeks to strengthen how pupils are monitored as they progress through Nigeria’s education system, ensuring that more children are properly accounted for as they move from primary school into the next stage of learning.

For decades, the common entrance examination has served as the gateway between primary and junior secondary school. Under the proposed changes, however, the single high-stakes exam would be phased out and replaced with Continuous Assessment (CA), which evaluates pupils based on their academic performance over time rather than a one-off examination.

According to the minister, the assessment will capture pupils’ academic progress from Primary One, creating a record that follows them wherever they go. If a pupil transfers to another school, the academic record will move with them.

“The CA will reflect the performance of the pupil from primary one and even if a pupil is transferring from one school to another, he will take it along to his new school,” Alausa explained.

Beyond changes to assessment, the reform is also designed to strengthen how Nigeria tracks pupils as they progress through the education system. While enrolment at the primary school level remains high, the government believes better monitoring will help ensure that more pupils transition smoothly into secondary education.

Officials say improving access to secondary education will also play an important role in strengthening this transition. In many communities across the country, expanding school infrastructure will help ensure that pupils who complete primary education are able to continue their academic journey.

The minister disclosed that discussions have already taken place with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, with a focus on encouraging state governments to build more schools capable of accommodating the growing number of pupils moving through the education system.

“State governments need to build more schools to accommodate more pupils and students,” he said.

Another key element of the reform is the introduction of a Learner Identification Number that will be assigned to pupils from the primary school level. The unique number will remain with each child throughout their schooling, regardless of where they begin their education or whether they later transfer to another school.

The system is expected to give education authorities a clearer picture of pupils’ progress while making it easier to follow their academic journey across different schools and stages of learning.

“If somebody is expected to be in JSS class one and he is not there, we will be able to know the reason why he is not continuing his education,” the minister explained.

Alongside these measures, the government is also considering reviving the school feeding programme, which previously helped strengthen enrolment in public schools. The initiative may be moved to the Federal Ministry of Education to improve monitoring and ensure more effective implementation.

Taken together, the proposed reforms reflect a broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s education system, improving access, enhancing how pupils are monitored throughout their schooling, and ensuring that more children are able to progress confidently from primary school into secondary education.

Diaspora Surge Powers Lagos’ Detty December as Spending Climbs to N396bn

 

Every year, as the calendar edges toward December, Lagos prepares for a familiar transformation as flights begin to fill with returning Nigerians, Afrobeats playlists dominate global charts, and social media feeds fill with countdowns to the city’s most anticipated season. What began as a festive homecoming has grown into one of Africa’s most significant cultural and economic movements: Detty December.

The scale of that movement was fully visible during the 2025 season, when diaspora visitors and local revellers together generated N396.54 billion in consumer spending across Lagos. The figures come from a report by MO Africa Co titled The Economics of Euphoria: Lagos’ Detty December 2025, which highlights how the annual celebration has evolved into a major driver of tourism, hospitality, and entertainment in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

One of the report’s most notable findings is a shift in where many of the visitors are coming from. For the first time since the phenomenon began gaining international recognition, the United States overtook the United Kingdom as the leading source of international arrivals. Travellers departing from the U.S. accounted for 27 percent of all arrivals, pushing the UK into second place. Researchers describe this as the most significant travel shift recorded during the 2025 festivities.

The development reflects the growing influence of the Nigerian-American diaspora, estimated at over 700,000 people in the United States. Cities such as Houston and Atlanta, home to large Nigerian communities, emerged as key departure points for travellers making the journey back to Lagos. 

According to the report, the viral success of earlier Detty December celebrations also played a major role in drawing new visitors. Images of packed concerts, beach festivals, and celebrity gatherings circulating on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube created a powerful “FOMO” (Fear of Missing Out) effect, particularly among younger members of the diaspora.

Beyond the United States and the United Kingdom, participation came from across the world. Europe accounted for 12 percent of arrivals, Canada contributed 11 percent, while African countries made up 10 percent. Visitors from Asia, the Middle East, and other regions represented the remaining 9 percent, underscoring how Lagos’ festive season is steadily gaining global reach.

Between mid-November 2025 and January 10, 2026, the city hosted an estimated 3.6 million participants across concerts, nightlife events, beach gatherings, fashion activations, and cultural festivals during the 55-day celebration window.

Much of the energy came from younger travellers like the Gen Z and Millennial visitors, accounting for more than 70 percent of attendees, reflecting the role of digital culture, influencer travel trends, and the global rise of Afrobeats in shaping the modern diaspora homecoming.

Diaspora visitors were also the biggest spenders as the report shows that 55 percent of all consumer spending during the season came from travellers arriving from abroad.

The largest share of that spending went to hospitality and accommodation, which absorbed N175.40 billion, representing 44.23 percent of total expenditure. Hotels, luxury apartments, and short-let properties across Lagos operated at near capacity throughout the festive period.

Entertainment and nightlife followed closely, generating N129.55 billion, or 32.67 percent of spending, as large concerts, club nights, and beach parties drew crowds from across the world.

Meanwhile, food and dining accounted for 12.91 percent, while fashion, retail, and wellness services captured the remaining share, a reflection of how Lagos’ December season blends music, lifestyle, and commerce.

Even before arriving in Nigeria, visitors were already injecting money into the global travel system as diaspora travellers collectively spent an estimated $384.5 million on air travel, illustrating the scale of international movement tied to the celebrations.

Within Lagos itself, economic activity concentrated heavily around the city’s upscale districts. Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki hosted many of the high-value transactions linked to luxury hotels, premium restaurants, and major entertainment events.

At the same time, mainland districts recorded some of the highest foot traffic, as concerts, street festivals, and community gatherings spread across different parts of the city.

Yet the surge also exposed the strain placed on Lagos’ infrastructure. During the peak of the festivities, the city was estimated to be operating at about 238 percent of its designed human capacity, intensifying traffic congestion, increasing waste generation, and placing pressure on urban transport systems.

Behind the scenes, staging the season required extensive logistical coordination. The report estimates that N19 billion was spent on logistics, security, and operational support, adding another layer of economic activity beyond direct consumer spending.

The momentum behind Detty December did not appear overnight as data from the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture shows that the 2024 edition generated $71.6 million across hospitality, tourism, and entertainment sectors. Hotels accounted for $44 million, while short-let apartments contributed $13 million, driven by strong demand from domestic and international visitors seeking accommodation during the festive rush.

Those gains helped lay the foundation for the larger participation and spending recorded in 2025.

Today, Detty December is far more than a festive catchphrase as it has become a special convergence of diaspora identity, global music culture, tourism, and Nigerian creativity.