Nigeria Takes the Helm of Africa's Telecom Union

Nigeria has strengthened its leadership in Africa's digital transformation after assuming the chairmanship of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Conference of Plenipotentiaries at the close of the union's seventh ordinary session in Abuja.

Hosted by the Nigerian government, the conference concluded with member states adopting the 2026 Abuja Declaration on Meaningful Connectivity for Africa and approving key strategic and governance decisions that will shape the organisation's direction over the next four years.

The outcome further cements Nigeria's position at the forefront of efforts to advance Africa's digital economy and amplify the continent's voice in global digital governance.

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, described the conference as a strong demonstration of Africa's collective resolve to build a more connected and digitally empowered future through collaboration.

"Every discussion, every decision, every compromise has reflected a shared commitment and belief that Africa's digital future is stronger when we work together," he said.

Tijani noted that the resolutions reached would only achieve their full impact through sustained cooperation among member states to expand digital infrastructure and ensure that every African benefits from the opportunities of the digital economy. He also expressed appreciation to member states, delegates, development partners and the ATU Secretariat for their cooperation, while reaffirming Nigeria's commitment to expanding digital infrastructure, strengthening digital skills, promoting responsible innovation and deepening Africa's influence in global digital governance.

A major highlight of the conference was the adoption of the 2026 Abuja Declaration, through which member states committed to expanding broadband access through technology-neutral regulation, improving access to spectrum and fibre infrastructure, strengthening consumer protection and cybersecurity, and advancing digital affordability, literacy and inclusion, particularly for women, young people, persons with disabilities and underserved communities.

The conference also elected Zambia's Kezias Kazuba Mwale as the next Secretary-General of the ATU after four rounds of voting. Mwale secured 21 of the 34 votes cast in the final round and will assume office on January 1, 2027, for a four-year term.

Accepting the mandate, Mwale said, "I accept this mandate with a deep sense of responsibility, mindful that leadership is not a privilege to be enjoyed, but a trust to be honoured and carefully guarded."

Delegates also elected 25 member states to serve on the ATU Administrative Council for the next four-year cycle.

Outgoing Secretary-General John Omo said the conference had provided the union with a renewed mandate and a stronger foundation to deliver on its strategic priorities.

With Nigeria now chairing the ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries, the Abuja meeting marks another significant milestone in the country's drive to strengthen digital cooperation, expand connectivity and help shape Africa's digital future.

Kano Digital Market Set to Create 100,000 Jobs, Generate ₦50bn

Kano has reinforced its position as one of Nigeria's leading commercial centres with the commissioning of the Hajaj-ZOEC Digital Market, a major investment expected to generate about ₦50 billion in economic value and create more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Located at the former Luxurious Bus Park along New Road in Tudun Wada, Sabon Gari, the market was developed through a Public-Private Partnership involving the Kano State Government, Hajaj ZOEC Real Estate Limited and ZOEC Construction.

Designed as one of West Africa's largest dedicated electrical and electronics markets, the facility will house more than 1,500 shops, bringing dealers together in a modern trading environment built to support investment and large-scale commerce.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Chief Executive Officer of Hajaj ZOEC Real Estate Limited, Alhaji Jamilu Abdussalam, said the project would strengthen Kano's role as a major commercial and distribution hub for Nigeria and the wider West African region.

He added that the market would provide an alternative sourcing destination for traders across Africa, reducing the need for many businesses to travel to China to purchase electrical and electronic products in bulk.

Valued at between ₦25 billion and ₦30 billion, the development has already attracted companies from Egypt and China, which are establishing permanent showrooms within the complex. Abdussalam also disclosed that between 60 and 65 per cent of the shops have already been sold.

The market features basement parking for about 700 vehicles, underground storage capable of accommodating more than 30 forty-foot containers, and a central firefighting system with sprinkler installations.

According to Abdussalam, the project created jobs even before completion, with more than 1,000 labourers, masons and professionals working on-site daily during construction. Including suppliers and others in the value chain, he said over 8,000 people have already benefited from the project.

He projected that once fully operational, the market would support more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs while expanding commerce and reducing the dependence of Nigerian traders on overseas sourcing.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, represented by his Special Assistant (Technical), Kabir Aminu Dutse, said the Federal Government has streamlined Public-Private Partnership processes to encourage greater private sector investment in infrastructure.

He noted that the ministry has developed an accessible PPP framework for investors within and outside Nigeria, describing the Hajaj-ZOEC Digital Market as a strong example of how digitalisation is transforming commerce and driving economic growth.

Government officials, investors, business leaders, development partners and industry stakeholders who attended the commissioning expressed optimism that the project would stimulate economic activity, expand regional trade and further strengthen Kano's status as Northern Nigeria's commercial hub.

Anthony Joshua Defies Early Disaster to Deliver Stunning Knockout Win Over Kristian Prenga

For a brief moment, it appeared Anthony Joshua's night was slipping away.

The British-Nigerian heavyweight found himself in serious trouble after an explosive opening round in which Albanian challenger Kristian Prenga twice sent the former world champion to the canvas. The early knockdowns shocked the crowd and raised the possibility of one of the biggest upsets in recent heavyweight boxing history.í

Joshua refused to allow the difficult beginning to dictate the outcome. Drawing on his experience, composure and determination, the 36-year-old gradually wrestled control of the contest from an opponent who had started with remarkable intensity. As Prenga's early momentum faded, Joshua's confidence grew, with relentless pressure and powerful combinations turning the tide in dramatic fashion.

Joshua unleashed a crushing right hand that caught Prenga cleanly, sending the Albanian crashing to the canvas. Seeing no path back into the contest for the challenger, the referee waved off the fight, completing a remarkable comeback victory for the British-Nigerian heavyweight.

Beyond the knockout, it was Joshua's emotional reaction after the fight that revealed the deeper significance of the victory.

"It's more than punch power. That was spirit, that was Latz, that was Sina, that was the family. It hurts to even talk about it. It has been tough," Joshua said.

The emotion became overwhelming as he briefly stepped away from the microphone before returning to add, "It's my brother. I don't want to talk about it."

His comments reflected the personal battles he has endured in recent months, making the victory about far more than another addition to his professional record. It was a performance forged through adversity, resilience and a refusal to surrender when the fight appeared to be slipping away.

With the victory secured, attention is naturally shifting to what could become one of the biggest events in heavyweight boxing, a long-awaited showdown with fellow Briton Tyson Fury.

Speculation had suggested Fury might attend the contest despite previously insisting he would stay away. In the end, the former heavyweight champion remained true to his word and was nowhere to be seen, less than 24 hours after recording his own warm-up victory over Mariusz Wach in Thailand.

Joshua, however, made it clear that he is looking forward to finally sharing the ring with his longtime rival.

"I respect everything he has done and everything that he has achieved, but as a fighting person, we're here now. I hope the fans will be in for a lovely treat," he said.

Although contracts for the highly anticipated contest have already been signed, boxing fans will have to wait a little longer for confirmation of the venue and date of a fight that has been more than a decade in the making.

For now, the spotlight belongs to Joshua especially on a night that began with uncertainty and two first-round knockdowns, the British-Nigerian star demonstrated why he remains one of heavyweight boxing's biggest names, transforming adversity into triumph with a devastating second-round knockout of Kristian Prenga.

Another Nigerian Name Enters the Royal Society of Literature's 200-Year Register — Lola Shoneyin Takes Her Place Among the Greats

Some honours announce themselves with fanfare while Others simply confirm what the industry already knew and this one belongs to the second category. Lola Shoneyin, novelist, publisher, and the woman who built one of West Africa's most consequential literary festivals from scratch has been elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (RSL). The induction took place in London during the Society's annual summer gathering, and by any editor's reckoning, it is a well-earned line on an already distinguished CV.

RSL was Founded in 1820 by King George IV and it remains Britain's leading charity for the advancement of literature, and Fellowship is not a courtesy extended to every capable writer but reserved for those whose body of work has demonstrated, over time, real and lasting distinction. 

Shoneyin earned her place among that company as tradition at the RSL runs deep, and it showed. Every Fellow inducted since 1825 - two full centuries of literary history, has signed the Society's Roll Book upon admission. Shoneyin signed hers with a dip pen once owned by the nineteenth-century English novelist George Eliot, a nice historical touch, but the real story here is not the pen but the name it wrote: another Nigerian, in London, entered permanently into a register that has recorded the world's literary elite since 1825, that is the detail worth dwelling on.

Nigerian writers have over the last two decades built a formidable presence on the global literary stage - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Wole Soyinka, Chigozie Obioma, Akwaeke Emezi, to name only a few who have carried the country's name into rooms it was once shut out of and Shoneyin's Fellowship extends that lineage. It is one more confirmation, delivered from one of Britain's oldest literary institutions, that Nigerian storytelling is not a regional curiosity to be sampled occasionally but a serious, sustained force that the world's gatekeepers are being compelled to reckon with.

None of this happened by accident as Shoneyin's reputation was forged more than a decade ago with her debut novel, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives, a book that travelled far beyond Nigeria's borders. It was longlisted for the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2011, one of fiction's most closely watched awards, before going on to win the PEN Oakland Josephine Miles Literary Award and the Ken Saro-Wiwa Prose Prize. That is a formidable trio of credentials by any standard, and it placed her, early on, among the writers reshaping how African fiction is read and rated internationally. 

Shoneyin is also director of the Book Buzz Foundation and she founded the Aké Arts and Book Festival, now firmly established as one of the continent's premier literary gatherings. She also founded Ouida Books, the Lagos-based publishing house and bookstore that has given a home to countless African voices who might otherwise have struggled to find one. Put plainly: Shoneyin has spent years doing the thankless, unglamorous work of institution-building,  the sort of labour that rarely makes headlines but without which no literary culture survives. 

Her Fellowship, then, ought to be read as more than a personal accolade, though it is certainly that too. It confirms a pattern already visible at the RSL, a deliberate, sustained effort to look beyond Britain's shores and admit international writers whose work has genuinely enriched the global literary conversation, and in doing so, to widen the door for the writers who will come after them.

For Nigeria's literary establishment, veterans and newcomers alike, this is a moment to stand tall. It is another entry in a growing national ledger of excellence, proof, once again, that Nigerian writers are no longer merely present at the world's literary tables but are being formally recorded there, name by name, generation after generation, and the country's cultural stock rises with every one of them. Lola Shoneyin has just added her name to that story, and Nigeria should be proud to claim her.

Kano Unveils State-Owned Airline Plan to Boost Aviation, Create Jobs

Kano State is set to strengthen Nigeria's aviation industry with plans to establish a state-owned commercial airline, an initiative expected to commence operations within the next year. 

Beyond creating employment opportunities for professionally trained pilots, the proposed Kano Airline is expected to improve air connectivity, attract investment, boost tourism and trade, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and create jobs across the aviation value chain, including engineering, cabin services, maintenance, ground handling, logistics, customer service, and airport operations.

Governor Abba Yusuf announced the project during the 40th Executive Council Meeting at the Government House in Kano, where he reaffirmed his administration's commitment to providing the support required to transform the vision into a successful commercial venture.

"By the grace of God, the proposed Kano Airline will commence operations within the next one year. We are committed to providing all the necessary support to actualise the project and ensure its successful operation," Yusuf said.

The governor also commended the outstanding performance of Kano-sponsored pilots who underwent professional aviation training in Jordan under a programme initiated by a previous administration. He described their achievements as a testament to the value of investing in local talent and pledged continued support to ensure they contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigeria's aviation industry.

"I am impressed by the outstanding performance of our young pilots. We will continue to support them and create opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the aviation sector," he added.

The Executive Council meeting also provided an opportunity to recognise the governor's contributions to aviation development. Among the several honours presented to him was an award from the Kano State Pilot Association, which acknowledged his administration's role in helping members of the association complete their aviation training.

Speaking at the event, the association's Chairman, Naziru Ibrahim, expressed appreciation to the governor for facilitating the revalidation of members' flying licences, describing the intervention as a significant milestone in their professional development.

"We appreciate Your Excellency for your continued support, particularly in helping our members revalidate their flying licences."

He further appealed for additional government support to enable members to obtain their final certifications, explaining that this would qualify them to operate commercial flights within Nigeria and internationally.

"We appeal for further assistance to enable them obtain their final certifications, which will qualify them to operate commercial flights both within Nigeria and internationally," Ibrahim said.

If successfully implemented, the proposed airline could further strengthen Kano's position as a regional economic hub, expand access to air travel, stimulate commercial activity, and provide a platform for highly trained Nigerian aviation professionals to build rewarding careers while contributing to the continued growth of the country's aviation sector.

Commonwealth Games: Roland Ezuruike Wins Nigeria's First Medal in Men's Lightweight Para-Powerlifting

Roland Ezuruike has delivered another memorable performance for Team Nigeria, winning the country's first medal in the men's lightweight para-powerlifting event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The 50-year-old claimed silver after a gripping contest, adding another major international medal to an illustrious career that has made him one of Nigeria's most accomplished para-powerlifters.

Ezuruike came within touching distance of another Commonwealth title after lifting an impressive 187kg, almost four times his body weight on his second attempt. The lift earned him 153.9 points, leaving him level with England's Mike Swan in the battle for gold heading into the decisive final attempt.

The contest remained finely balanced until the very end when both Ezuruike and Swan were unsuccessful with their final lifts, but Ezuruike's attempt was ruled a foul, leaving him to settle for the silver medal while Swan claimed gold. Malaysia's Bonnie Gustin completed the podium with the bronze medal.

Although he narrowly missed adding another Commonwealth title to his collection, the silver medal further cements Ezuruike's remarkable legacy. He won gold in the same event at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, and earlier captured Paralympic gold in the men's 54kg powerlifting event at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Nigeria was also represented in the men's lightweight para-powerlifting event by Ibrahim Dauda, who finished fifth after a determined performance.

Ezuruike's latest podium finish is another reminder of the remarkable consistency that has defined his career. More than a decade after conquering the Paralympic stage and years after standing atop the Commonwealth podium, the veteran has once again delivered for Nigeria, adding another memorable chapter to the country's proud history in international para-powerlifting.

Esther Nworgu Wins Team Nigeria's First Gold at Glasgow 2026

Esther Nworgu gave Team Nigeria its first gold medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a commanding display in the women's para powerlifting lightweight event.

Nworgu lifted 123kg to score 119 points, clinching the gold medal and setting two Commonwealth Games records in a remarkable outing. Her victory also earned her an instant cash reward of $3,000, while an additional $5,000 bonus promised by the Federal Government was paid directly into her account.

Nigeria completed a dominant one-two finish as Esther Oyema secured the silver medal. The Edo State-born London 2012 Paralympic gold medallist lifted 125kg to register 115.5 points, while England's Olivia Broome claimed bronze with a lift of 119kg and 106.6 points.

Oyema was also rewarded for her performance, receiving an instant $2,000 cash award and an additional $3,000 paid directly into her account by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

Away from the podium celebrations, Nigeria's boxing team experienced mixed fortunes. Ayomide Folly Hassan exited the men's 70kg event after losing 4-0 on points to Lesotho's Refiloe Thai in the round of 32 at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) Centre. AbdulRamon AbdulWahab also bowed out, falling 5-0 on points to Uganda's Batte Nuhu in the men's 65kg preliminary bout.

Nigeria's boxing campaign, however, continues. Akintola David will face Tanzania's Changalawe Yusuf Lucasi in the men's 80kg preliminary bout, while Ajishola Kadijat, who received a bye, is set to meet Wales' Helen Jones in the women's 54kg round of 16 tomorrow.

Nigerian-British-born Patricia Mbata will begin her campaign on Tuesday against England's Smith Mary Kane in the women's 75kg quarter-final, while Orakwe Blessing is scheduled to make her Commonwealth Games debut against Australia's Pergoliti Lekeisha in the women's 70kg quarter-final.

Nworgu's record-breaking triumph has provided Team Nigeria with a golden breakthrough in Glasgow, setting the tone as the country's athletes continue their pursuit of more medals.

Nigeria Leads Continental Drive to Build AI That Understands Africa's Languages

Nigeria is reinforcing its leadership in Africa's digital transformation with the launch of a new initiative aimed at ensuring the continent's languages and cultural heritage are reflected in the future of artificial intelligence.

The Federal Government on Thursday unveiled the ATLAS Network, a continental initiative designed to accelerate the development of locally relevant large language models across Africa. The platform will bring together governments, researchers, universities, innovators, and technology ecosystem partners to build AI systems rooted in Africa's linguistic diversity, cultures, and knowledge.

The initiative was launched by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, during the opening of the 7th Ordinary Session of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-26) in Abuja. 

The initiative addresses a major gap in global AI development. Although Africa is home to nearly one-third of the world's languages, fewer than 2% are meaningfully supported by modern artificial intelligence systems.

Building on Nigeria's Nigerian Atlas for Languages & AI at Scale (N-ATLAS), the ATLAS Network expands a national programme into a continental collaboration aimed at strengthening Africa's AI capabilities.

Tijani called on African countries to join the initiative, stressing that greater regional cooperation is essential if the continent is to shape its own digital future.

"Africa must arrive prepared, united and credible. We must continue to invest in technical preparation, strengthen regional cooperation and speak with one voice where our interests align.

"Where global digital rules are being shaped, Africa must be ready to participate and help shape outcomes that affect our people, our economies and our future."

Representing Vice President Shettima, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, said Africa's priorities have for too long been underrepresented in global technology policymaking. He reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to advancing the continent's interests through both the African Telecommunications Union and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

ATU Secretary-General John Omo described the conference as a pivotal moment for Africa's digital future, noting that stronger partnerships and sustained commitment from member states are essential to achieving the Union's mission.

Delegates from across Africa are expected to elect the Union's leadership for the next four-year cycle and adopt key policy and governance decisions that will shape the continent's telecommunications and digital economy.

The launch also builds on Nigeria's earlier AI efforts. In 2025, Tijani unveiled the Nigerian Atlas for Languages & AI at Scale (N-ATLAS) during the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) in New York, describing it as proof that Africa is not merely catching up in artificial intelligence but is helping shape its future.

N-ATLAS is a multilingual, multimodal, open-source large language model (LLM) designed to map and digitise Nigeria's rich linguistic heritage while creating datasets for inclusive AI solutions.

With the ATLAS Network, Nigeria is extending that vision beyond its borders, helping position Africa to build AI technologies that understand its languages, reflect its cultures, and amplify its voice in the global digital economy.

Dangote Refinery Completes $2.5 Billion Private Placement Ahead of Next Expansion Phase

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has confirmed the completion of a $2.5 billion private placement, bringing to a close one of the largest corporate capital raises by an African company and reinforcing its financial capacity as it prepares for the next stage of expansion.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the company said the offer was 3.7 times oversubscribed relative to its initial size, resulting in the issuance and allotment of approximately $2.5 billion in new equity. The funds will be applied to the continued expansion of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals (DPRP) complex.

Aliko Dangote, Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, said the transaction was designed to broaden and further institutionalise the company's shareholder base while complementing internal cash generation and existing external funding.

He said the additional capital underscores the company's commitment to expanding domestic refining and petrochemical capacity, reducing Africa's dependence on imported refined petroleum products and strengthening energy security across the continent.

The refinery's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, David Bird, said the level of participation reflected investors' confidence in the company's leadership and its ability to execute large-scale industrial projects.

The announcement formally confirms reports published on July 17 that the refinery had secured $2.5 billion through a private placement in preparation for a planned initial public offering later this year. The exercise is intended to strengthen the company's financing position before its next phase of growth.

The transaction follows several months of sustained investor interest. In June, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery was valued at $39.1 billion during the fundraising process. Reports published last month indicated that subscriptions had already exceeded $2 billion before the offer closed.

Investors were required to subscribe for a minimum of one million shares valued at $350,000, with additional purchases available in blocks of 500,000 shares. According to people familiar with the transaction, the shares are subject to a 365-day lock-up period.

The fundraising is consistent with plans disclosed in April, when Aliko Dangote said he was considering listing approximately 10% of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE on multiple African stock exchanges. The proposed listing forms part of a larger financing strategy to support expansion across the group's industrial businesses.

Interest in the refinery has extended beyond institutional investors. Earlier this year, businessman Femi Otedola announced plans to invest $100 million in the proposed public offering, describing it as a long-term investment in one of Africa's most significant industrial projects.

Alongside preparations for the IPO, the company continues to pursue a clear industrial agenda. It plans to increase refining output, expand its petrochemical operations and replicate the refinery model in Kenya as part of a wider programme of industrial investment across Africa.

The successful completion of the private placement strengthens the refinery's balance sheet at a pivotal stage in its development. As the project expands, it also reinforces Nigeria's growing capacity to finance and deliver industrial ventures of continental scale, with implications for manufacturing, energy security and value addition across Africa.

Nigerian Law Student Triumphs at West African Speech Championship

When representatives from five West African countries gathered in Freetown, Sierra Leone, for the 9th Inter-Universities Speech Contest organised by the Intergovernmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), it was Nigeria's Amra Salihu who emerged as the standout performer.

The University of Abuja law student secured the regional crown after overcoming contestants from The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Ghana, adding another international academic success to Nigeria's growing record of excellence.

Salihu, a 500-level student in the University's Faculty of Law, earned the opportunity to represent Nigeria after winning the country's qualifying competition organised by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). Her victory at the regional contest, held on July 22 in Freetown, earned her the winner's plaque, a certificate of honour and a cash prize of 1,000 US dollars.

The accomplishment was announced by the Acting Director of Information and University Relations at the University of Abuja, Mr Habib Yakoob, who described the student's performance as a proud moment for both the institution and the country.

Nigeria's delegation also featured another 500-level law student from the University of Abuja, Abah Goodness, who attended the event as an observer, reflecting the university's active participation in the regional programme.

The winning performance was built on months of preparation. The University's Law Clinic Director, Dr Nasiru Mukhtar, led the coaching efforts, while Mr J. R. Gogol of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit provided technical guidance that helped prepare the team for the competition.

Celebrating the achievement, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, congratulated the students for raising the institution's profile beyond Nigeria's borders. He also acknowledged the dedication of the Faculty of Law and the Law Clinic, praising their investment in mentorship and student development.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the university remains committed to expanding its global visibility by nurturing academic excellence and supporting students to compete successfully on international and regional platforms.

Salihu's victory is another example of the quality and competitiveness of Nigerian students, whose performances continue to project the country's academic strength across Africa.

Nigerian Students Deliver Strong Medal Haul at 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad

The depth of Nigeria's mathematical talent was on full display in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, where the country's secondary school team produced an impressive showing at the 2026 Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (PAMO) and the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad for Girls (PAMO-G), returning with five silver medals and two bronze medals.

The result adds another notable chapter to Nigeria's growing record in international academic competitions and reflects the steady emergence of a new generation of students capable of matching the continent's finest young mathematicians.

Details of the performance were released in Abuja by the Controller of Information and Public Relations at the National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Sheda, Onyekachi Njoku.

Among the medal-winning contingent, Aghaduno Chimfimnanya finished with two silver medals after reaching the podium in both the main Olympiad and the girls' classification. Oyerinde Damaris replicated the achievement, also collecting a silver medal in PAMO and another in PAMO-G. Lius Liu contributed an additional silver medal in the main competition, while Enwere Kingsley Ikenna secured a bronze medal in PAMO. Nigeria's second bronze came through the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad for Girls, a parallel ranking that evaluates female contestants using the same examination papers and marking criteria as the main contest.

The journey to the continental championship began long before the team arrived in Côte d’Ivoire. Njoku explained that every student earned a place in the national team through the Nigerian National Mathematical Sciences Olympiad, a competitive selection process organised by the National Mathematical Centre to identify the country's strongest young mathematics talents.

Organised each year by the African Mathematical Union (AMU) through its Commission on the Pan African Mathematics Olympiad (AMUPAMOC), the championship serves as Africa's foremost mathematics competition for secondary school students. Each participating nation fields six contestants, while the highest-scoring female competitor is recognised as the African Mathematics Queen.

Nigeria's delegation was led by the Acting Director and Chief Executive of the National Mathematical Centre, Prof. Benjamin Oyelami, who described the students' performance as a source of pride for the country.

He credited the Federal Government for providing the financial support that made the team's preparation and participation possible.

Oyelami said the National Mathematical Centre is intensifying efforts to strengthen mathematics education by improving teaching, expanding research and promoting more effective learning across the country's education system. He maintained that these reforms are designed to raise students' performance at every level and sustain Nigeria's competitiveness in major international mathematics contests.

He also expressed confidence that consistent government backing, combined with stronger preparation, would enable Nigerian students to secure even greater honours in future continental and global mathematics competitions.

Zenith Bank Retains Nigeria’s Banking Crown, Emerges Africa’s Best in Euromoney’s 2026 Rankings

Nigeria's banking industry has earned another major endorsement on the global stage, with Zenith Bank Plc securing two of the sector's most coveted honours at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2026. The bank was named Africa's Best Bank while also retaining the title of Nigeria's Best Bank for the second consecutive year, reinforcing the country's growing reputation for producing financial institutions that compete successfully at the highest international level.

The awards, presented in London, are among the banking industry's most respected benchmarks of excellence. Euromoney assesses financial institutions based on a broad range of performance indicators, including strategic execution, profitability, risk management, digital transformation and the impact they create for customers, shareholders and the wider economy.

Zenith Bank's latest triumph reflects a combination of strong financial fundamentals, sustained digital innovation, high-quality customer service and its continued contribution to economic development across Africa. The recognition further strengthens the bank's position as one of the continent's leading financial institutions.

Behind the international recognition is a year of remarkable financial performance. For the 2025 financial year, Zenith Bank reported gross earnings of ₦4.19 trillion and profit after tax of ₦1.04 trillion. The bank also improved the quality of its loan portfolio by reducing its non-performing loan ratio to 3.8 per cent, down from 4.7 per cent, demonstrating disciplined risk management alongside sustained growth.

Reacting to the achievement, the bank's Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Adaora Umeoji, described the awards as a reflection of the confidence customers and stakeholders continue to place in Zenith Bank. She said the recognition also speaks to the commitment, professionalism and dedication of the bank's workforce, whose efforts continue to drive the institution's pursuit of global standards.

According to Dr. Umeoji, the double recognition will further inspire the bank to expand financial inclusion, deliver superior value to customers and continue supporting businesses across Africa as it advances its vision of building a globally competitive African financial institution.

She also expressed appreciation to regulators in the countries where Zenith Bank operates for providing an enabling environment that supports the banking sector. In addition, she dedicated the awards to the bank's founder, Jim Ovia, acknowledging his vision and leadership in laying the enduring foundation of excellence that continues to define the institution.

The Euromoney honours add to an expanding list of global recognitions for Zenith Bank. Earlier, the institution was ranked Nigeria's number one bank by Tier-1 Capital for the 17th consecutive year in The Banker's 2026 Top 1000 World Banks ranking, further affirming its consistency, resilience and leadership within Nigeria's financial sector.

As Zenith Bank continues to earn international recognition, the achievement also reflects the strength and competitiveness of Nigeria's banking industry. The latest awards underscore the capacity of Nigerian financial institutions to meet global standards while supporting economic growth, expanding financial inclusion and strengthening Africa's position in the international banking landscape.

A New Chapter for Nigerian Culinary Talent Begins with Favour Bessan's Historic MasterChef Triumph

The inaugural season of MasterChef Nigeria has done more than introduce a globally celebrated cooking competition to the country. It has also created a landmark moment for Nigeria's culinary industry, establishing a national platform where technical excellence, creativity and storytelling through food take centre stage.

Among the contestants who embraced that challenge, 26-year-old Favour Bessan, popularly known as Favy, distinguished herself with consistent performances that combined innovation, composure and refined culinary skill. Week after week, she navigated increasingly demanding tasks, emerging as one of the competition's strongest contenders.

A turning point in her campaign came when she became the first contestant to win the MasterChef Nigeria Immunity Pin. Awarded to the winner of a high-pressure challenge, the pin protects its holder from future elimination, making it one of the competition's most valuable strategic advantages. The achievement not only secured her place in the competition at a crucial stage but also underlined her ability to excel when the stakes were highest, helping propel her to the semi-finals.

As the competition drew to a close, only Favy and fellow finalist Fads remained in contention for the inaugural title. Their final assignment required them to prepare a three-course menu that expressed their individual culinary identity, giving both contestants the opportunity to showcase their technique, creativity, presentation and storytelling.

Favy's menu earned the admiration of judges Chef Stone and Chef Eros, who commended her creativity, technical execution, presentation and the narrative behind her dishes. Her starter of smoked salmon served with potato mash and roasted bell pepper soup laid the foundation for a performance that ultimately set her apart.

When the final decision was announced, Favy was crowned the first-ever MasterChef Nigeria champion. Her victory earned her the coveted trophy and a grand prize worth ₦73 million, one of the largest prize packages ever awarded in a Nigerian reality television competition.

MasterChef Nigeria premiered earlier this year as the country's first adaptation of the internationally acclaimed cooking competition. With its successful debut, the franchise has opened a new chapter for competitive culinary arts in Nigeria, and Favour Bessan's name will forever be remembered as the first champion to lift the MasterChef Nigeria trophy.

Germany Plans Fresh Investments in Nigeria, Reaffirms Support for ECOWAS Security Efforts

Germany has announced plans to expand investment in Nigeria while reaffirming its support for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in tackling terrorism and violent extremism across West Africa.

The commitment followed talks in Abuja on Wednesday between Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Germany's Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul. The discussions centred on trade, investment, energy cooperation and regional security.

Wadephul, who was accompanied by senior government officials and business leaders, said the Nigeria-Germany Business Forum would continue to promote commercial ties and attract more German investment into Nigeria.

He noted that Nigeria remains Germany's largest bilateral trading partner in Europe, with trade between both countries growing by 10 per cent over the past year.

"As Nigeria's biggest European trading partner bilaterally, the volume of trade grew by 10 per cent last year," Wadephul said.

"With my visit, many more German investors will be investing in the country."

He also identified Nigeria's energy sector as an area of growing interest and said the Nigeria-Germany Bilateral Commission was performing optimally in advancing cooperation between both countries.

On regional security, Wadephul reaffirmed Germany's continued backing for ECOWAS as it confronts terrorism and violent extremism, particularly in the Sahel.

Recalling the long-standing relationship between both nations, he noted that Germany established its embassy in Lagos just three days after Nigeria gained independence in 1960 and expressed optimism about working with Odumegwu-Ojukwu to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu described Germany as one of Nigeria's most important strategic partners in Europe, saying cooperation has expanded beyond diplomacy to include trade and investment, development cooperation, renewable energy, education, vocational training, science and technology, migration, culture, peace and security.

She said Nigeria remains committed to deepening collaboration in renewable energy, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure development and the green economy.

Describing the Nigeria-Germany Bi-national Commission as "the cornerstone of our bilateral engagement," the minister said its successful 2025 session reaffirmed both countries' commitment to expanding cooperation across key sectors.

She also commended Germany for its longstanding support for ECOWAS in promoting regional integration, democratic governance, peace-building, conflict prevention, humanitarian assistance and institutional capacity development.

According to the minister, evolving threats from terrorism, violent extremism, unconstitutional changes of government and transnational organised crime have made sustained international partnerships increasingly important.

She welcomed Germany's continued collaboration with ECOWAS and expressed Nigeria's desire for closer cooperation in advancing regional peace, security and economic resilience.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu also urged German businesses to take advantage of Nigeria's ongoing economic reforms by investing in renewable energy, manufacturing, critical minerals, transport infrastructure, agriculture, digital technology and industrial development.

She expressed confidence that the Abuja discussions would produce practical outcomes that would further strengthen relations between Nigeria and Germany while benefiting the citizens of both countries.

From Ebonyi to Britain: Salome Enoshi Uwah's Extraordinary Rise Earns National Recognition

Within a year of arriving in the United Kingdom, Salome Enoshi Uwah had built an academic profile that few postgraduate students achieve over an entire degree programme. Her story, which began with a fully funded scholarship from the Ebonyi State Government, has evolved into a remarkable account of academic excellence, innovation, leadership and service, one that has now earned national recognition.

That success reached another milestone when the Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN) named her Black Student of the Year 2026 in London. The honour followed an exceptional academic year in which she graduated with Distinction from her Master's by Research in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Greater Manchester and received the institution's Vice Chancellor's Prize for Highest Academic Achievement, the university's highest honour for its top graduating student.

Her contributions extended far beyond the classroom as Uwah also supported teaching and innovation as a Research and Teaching Assistant at the Centre of Intelligence of Things while simultaneously leading the university's IEEE Student Branch and establishing the IEEE Women in Engineering Affinity Group as its Founding Chair.

She also played key roles in strengthening student life and academic support across the university. As International Student Community Chair, Student Success Coach and Class Representative, she worked closely with students from diverse backgrounds while representing their interests in various capacities. She further contributed to institutional development through the Staff Student Liaison Committee and the Student Engagement Panel, served as Vice President of Ebonyi State Scholars in Manchester, coordinated student welfare as TEDx Welfare and Operations Lead, and founded the Research Student Help Desk to assist postgraduate students embarking on research in Artificial Intelligence.

The initiative became an important support platform for emerging researchers, providing guidance in academic writing, research design and AI development. Through the programme, she mentored postgraduate students, helping many develop the confidence needed to navigate advanced study successfully.

Alongside these responsibilities, Uwah established an impressive academic record as she published 11 peer-reviewed papers indexed in IEEE Xplore, presented her work at several international conferences and won first place at the IEEE Women in Engineering International Leadership Summit Research Poster Competition in London, competing against researchers from different countries.

Her expertise also earned her a place on the international stage as she travelled to Geneva, Switzerland, as part of a team that delivered training on Artificial Intelligence and Automation at the World Trade Organization (WTO), contributing to discussions on how AI can shape the future of global institutions.

Her growing impact attracted further honours with her receiving the Associate Fellowship of Advance HE (AFHEA) for her contribution to teaching and learning and she was selected as an Aspen UK Rising Leaders Fellow. The University of Greater Manchester also presented her with both its Gold Award and Silver Award for leadership, employability and service, while recognising her twice on its Wall of Fame for making outstanding contributions to university life.

Impressive as those accomplishments are, they tell only part of the story. Behind the awards, international recognition and academic success lies a personal journey defined by courage, sacrifice and unwavering determination.

In 2025, Uwah left Nigeria to pursue her Master's by Research in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Greater Manchester after securing a fully funded overseas scholarship. She travelled to the United Kingdom alone, leaving behind her four-month-old daughter until she had settled into her new academic environment.

Behind every milestone was an extraordinary level of personal sacrifice. Alongside the demands of postgraduate study, she balanced campus responsibilities with mentoring, marriage and motherhood, demonstrating remarkable resilience throughout one of the most demanding periods of her life.

Reflecting on the experience, she said:

"Every award represents a sacrifice that no one saw. There were days I was a researcher, a student leader, a mentor, a wife and a mother all at once. My story is proof that challenges do not define our future. With faith, hard work and the support of those who believe in us, impossible dreams can become reality."

Uwah has since begun a PhD in Artificial Intelligence at Robert Gordon University in Scotland. Her doctoral work focuses on Psychointelligence, an emerging field exploring how Artificial Intelligence can better understand and support human behaviour, wellbeing and decision-making.

She also acknowledged the impact of the Ebonyi State Government's overseas scholarship programme, expressing gratitude to Governor Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Ebonyi State Scholarship Board and the Government of Ebonyi State.

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity they gave me. Their investment has changed my life, and I remain committed to using the knowledge, skills and global exposure I have gained to contribute to the development of Ebonyi State, Nigeria and the wider world."

Salome Enoshi Uwah's achievements demonstrate the transformative power of investing in education and creating opportunities for talented young Nigerians. From earning some of Britain's highest student honours to contributing to international conversations on Artificial Intelligence and advancing cutting-edge doctoral research, she has shown what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Her remarkable rise is not only a personal triumph but also another inspiring example of Nigerian excellence making a meaningful impact on the global stage.

Burna Boy Sets the Pace Again as Africa's Best-Selling Artiste

For years, Nigerian music has continued to transcend borders, transforming local sounds into a global cultural force and at the forefront of that movement stands Burna Boy, whose latest international recognition once again underscores the growing commercial strength of Nigeria's creative industry.

The Grammy Award-winning singer has reclaimed the position of Africa's best-selling artiste of all time after recording 14.46 million Equivalent Album Sales (EAS) worldwide, according to global music analytics platform Chartmasters.

The achievement marks another defining moment for the Port Harcourt-born musician, whose rise from a Nigerian star to an international entertainment powerhouse gathered global momentum following the success of his 2018 hit single, "Ye." Since then, Burna Boy has consistently expanded the reach of African music through chart-topping releases, sold-out concerts at major international venues and an ever-growing worldwide audience.

Among the projects that have cemented his global reputation are African Giant (2019) and Love, Damini (2022), both of which rank among the most-streamed African albums on Spotify. Combined with his remarkable touring success, these projects have helped establish him as one of Africa's most commercially successful music exports.

Unlike traditional album sales, Equivalent Album Sales (EAS) measures an artiste's commercial performance across multiple formats. The globally recognised industry metric combines album purchases, physical and digital single sales, and streaming activity into a single standardised figure, allowing achievements across platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music to be assessed on the same scale.

According to Chartmasters, Burna Boy's 14.46 million equivalent album units were accumulated through a combination of album sales, physical and digital single sales, as well as streaming equivalents, rather than traditional album purchases alone.

The latest Chartmasters ranking adds another significant international milestone to Burna Boy's career and further reinforces his commercial impact on the global music industry.

Burna Boy's return to the summit is another testament to a career that continues to redefine the global possibilities for Nigerian music. His sustained commercial success reflects not only his individual artistry but also the increasing worldwide appetite for sounds emerging from Nigeria and by extension Africa.

Beyond celebrating one artiste, the latest ranking highlights the expanding influence of Nigeria's creative economy. As Nigerian musicians continue to dominate streaming platforms, headline iconic venues and shape international music trends, they continue to strengthen the country's reputation as one of the world's leading exporters of musical talent.

Investor Confidence Grows as 31 Companies Secure 37 Oil and Gas Blocks in Nigeria's 2025 Licensing Round

Nigeria's upstream petroleum industry has recorded another major development following the conclusion of the 2025 Licensing Round, with 31 companies emerging as successful bidders for 37 oil and gas blocks spread across producing and frontier basins.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), which conducted the exercise at the Transcorp Event Center in Abuja on July 21, 2026, described the outcome as a reflection of sustained investor interest in the country's hydrocarbon potential. The licensing round drew participation from 143 companies, which collectively submitted 200 bids for 37 of the 50 oil and gas blocks offered.

The available acreage covered a wide geographical spread which included 16 blocks in the Niger Delta Onshore, 18 in the Niger Delta Shallow Water, one in the Niger Delta Deep Offshore, three in the Benin Basin Onshore, four in the Anambra Basin Onshore, four in the Chad Basin Onshore and four in the Benue Trough.

Although 13 of the 50 blocks did not receive bids, the commission noted that interest extended beyond Nigeria's traditional producing areas into frontier basins such as the Benue Trough, Chad Basin, Anambra Basin and Benin Basin. According to the NUPRC, this is the first time in the country's energy history that frontier basins have attracted this level of investor participation during a licensing round.

The successful bidders, listed alphabetically, are:

• Asharami — 2A41
• Attabanson Global Company Limited — 2A33 and PPL 901
• AYM Shafa — 2A57
• Blackrock Holdings Limited — 2A58
• Blueridge E&P — 2A54
• BVOF — 2A43
• CFP Pipeline and Flowlines — 2A30
• Clinton Oil Field — 2A48 and 2A62
• Concept-Reel Petroleum Services Limited — 2A47 and 2A55
• Dakoda & U Limited — PPL 308 and PPL 800
• Dutchford E&P Limited — 2A32
• Eyre Energy Limited — PPL 801
• Funtay Integrated Business Limited — 2A59
• Gupsco Energy Limited — 2A44 and 2A51
• Highban Resources Limited — PPL 700
• Italia — 2A53
• Lanaka Petroleum — PPL 903
• LexOil — 2A42
• Network E&P — 2A40
• Nikstallis — 2A61 and PPL 900
• Nuway Oaklane Limited — 2A49
• Pivot-GIS Limited — 2A39
• Ramec — 2A50
• Riparian Development and Production Limited — 2A60
• Rosem Energy Limited — 2A38
• Saratoga — 2A45
• Southborne Oil and Gas Limited — PPL 902
• SSonic Petroleum Limited — PPL 2A29
• Stardeep Petroleum — PPL 2010
• Up Energies Limited — 2A56
• Volante — 2A46

The commission explained that the announcement of successful bidders does not amount to a final allocation of the assets. Each company must fulfil all post-award obligations, including payment of the applicable signature bonus, before receiving a final award. The process also requires the approval of the Minister of Petroleum Resources in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

NUPRC Chief Executive Officer Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan congratulated the successful companies and urged them to move swiftly in meeting these obligations. She warned that companies that fail to pay their signature bonuses and commence asset development risk losing the assets under the commission's "drill or drop" policy.

Eyesan had earlier stated that any successful bidder that does not satisfy the stipulated conditions within 90 days would forfeit the award.

She also acknowledged the support of the federal government in enabling the commission to deliver what it described as a seamless 2025 Licensing Round.

Beyond the successful bids, the exercise highlights Nigeria's continued efforts to attract investment into its upstream sector while expanding exploration beyond established producing regions. The strong response to opportunities in frontier basins points to growing confidence in the country's long-term energy prospects and reinforces Nigeria's position as one of Africa's leading destinations for petroleum investment.

Nigeria's Olabisi Joseph Shatters ISF Barrier, Becomes First Woman to Lead Africa

Leadership barriers continue to fall for Nigerians on the global stage, and this time the breakthrough has come through school sports.

In a landmark moment for both Nigeria and Africa, Olabisi Joseph, President of the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), has been elected Continental President for Africa of the International School Sport Federation (ISF), becoming the first African woman and the first woman in the history of the federation to occupy the continental leadership position.

The election was held during the 2026 ISF General Assembly in Belgrade, Serbia, where delegates from 82 countries assembled to deliberate on the future of school sports. A total of 79 votes were cast in the election that ushered Joseph into her new role.

While the result represents a personal milestone for the Nigerian sports administrator, it also signals the growing confidence in Nigeria's role in shaping the future of school sports across Africa. Her emergence further strengthens the country's standing in the development and administration of school sports on the continent.

Joseph's rise to continental leadership has been built over years of service and trailblazing accomplishments.

Before taking the helm of the NSSF, she served as Secretary of the federation, contributing to the growth of school sports administration in Nigeria. In 2019, she rewrote the federation's history books by becoming its first female president, emerging unopposed during the NSSF elective congress held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos. Her stewardship later earned renewed confidence from stakeholders, leading to her re-election for a second term at the 2024 NSSF Annual General Meeting in Abuja.

The Nigeria School Sport Federation has described her latest achievement as a proud moment for the country and the African school sports community.

In a statement signed by NSSF Secretary-General Ijeoma Olopade, the federation congratulated Joseph and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting her as she begins her continental assignment.

"On behalf of the NSSF executives, state coordinators, management, staff and the entire Nigerian student community, we celebrate this milestone and pledge our full support as she takes on this continental responsibility to advance school sports for African children," the statement read.

The federation added: "We congratulate her and wish her a successful and impactful tenure."

As she steps into her new continental role, Joseph carries not only the hopes of the Nigeria School Sport Federation but also the pride of a nation steadily strengthening its presence in global sports administration. Her historic election is a defining moment for African school sports and further reinforces Nigeria's growing reputation for producing visionary leaders capable of shaping the future of sport on the international stage.

First HoldCo Leads Historic Reshuffle as Nigeria's Banking Giants Add Nearly ₦700 Billion in Market Value

A fresh wave of investor confidence swept through Nigeria's banking sector on Monday, driving the combined market value of the country's listed banks to ₦25.85 trillion, up from ₦25.18 trillion recorded on July 17.

The latest trading session on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) did more than lift valuations as it also reshaped the hierarchy among the country's largest lenders, with First HoldCo displacing Zenith Bank to become the most valuable banking institution listed on the exchange.

The rally further reinforced the dominance of Nigeria's biggest financial institutions as First HoldCo, Zenith Bank and Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) now account for 54.6 percent of the banking sector's total market capitalisation on the NGX.

The biggest story of the day belonged to First HoldCo. A strong 9.95 percent appreciation in its share price propelled the lender to the top of the market value rankings. Its shares climbed from ₦95.95 on July 17 to ₦105.50 at the close of trading on Monday, adding ₦9.55 per share. That performance increased the company's market capitalisation by ₦434.28 billion, lifting it from ₦4.36 trillion to ₦4.797 trillion.

Although Zenith Bank surrendered the number one position, it also enjoyed a positive trading session. Its share price rose by 2.36 percent, advancing from ₦114 to ₦116.70 per share. The gain translated into an additional ₦110.88 billion in market value, pushing its capitalisation from ₦4.68 trillion to ₦4.792 trillion, only narrowly behind First HoldCo.

GTCO maintained its place among the market leaders despite recording a slight decline. The lender's share price slipped from ₦129.20 on July 17 to ₦129 at the close of trading on July 20, resulting in a ₦7.31 billion reduction in market capitalisation from ₦4.72 trillion to ₦4.71 trillion.

Beyond the three market leaders, trading activity produced varying fortunes across the sector. United Bank for Africa (UBA) emerged as one of the strongest performers during the session. The bank's share price climbed from ₦45.50 to ₦48.40, representing a 6.37 percent increase. The rally added ₦128.16 billion to its market value, raising its capitalisation from ₦2.01 trillion to ₦2.13 trillion and securing fifth position among Nigeria's listed banks.

Stanbic IBTC Holdings retained fourth place with a market capitalisation of ₦2.65 trillion after its shares closed unchanged at ₦166.90. Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) also recorded a flat trading session, maintaining a market value of ₦1.55 trillion as its share price remained at ₦85.70, placing it sixth.

One of the notable changes in the rankings occurred just below the top six. Access Holdings climbed from eighth to seventh position after its market capitalisation increased by ₦27.18 billion, rising from ₦1.35 trillion to ₦1.38 trillion. The improvement followed a modest increase in its share price from ₦25 to ₦25.50.

The movement came at the expense of Fidelity Bank, which slipped to eighth place. Its market capitalisation declined by ₦3.15 billion, falling from ₦1.38 trillion to ₦1.37 trillion after its share price eased slightly from ₦21.85 to ₦21.80.

Wema Bank continued its steady upward momentum, strengthening its standing as the ninth most valuable bank on the NGX as its market value increased from ₦1.22 trillion to ₦1.23 trillion after its share price gained ₦0.45, or 1.47 percent, to close at ₦30.90, up from ₦30.45.

FCMB Group also delivered a strong performance. Its market capitalisation climbed by ₦65.95 billion from ₦712.30 billion to ₦778.26 billion as its share price advanced from ₦10.80 to ₦11.80.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company rounded out the list of the 11 listed banks. The company ended Monday's trading with a market capitalisation of ₦530.73 billion, up from ₦527.43 billion on July 17. The increase of ₦3.29 billion followed a 0.62 percent rise in its share price from ₦8.00 to ₦8.05.

The latest NGX figures illustrate the resilience of Nigeria's banking sector and the continued appetite of investors for banking stocks. While First HoldCo's rise to the top marks the most significant shift in the latest rankings, the bigger picture is one of sustained growth across the industry, with several lenders recording sizeable gains in market value as competition among Nigeria's banking giants continues to intensify.

Nigeria’s Oil Licensing Round Enters Crucial Stage as 143 Firms Compete for 50 Blocks

Nigeria's drive to attract fresh investment into its upstream petroleum industry is reaching a decisive stage as 143 companies prepare to compete for 50 oil and gas blocks under the 2025 Licensing Round.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) will host the invitation-only Commercial Bid Conference on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the Conference Centre of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. The event brings together companies that successfully advanced through the commission's prequalification process.

The licensing round is expected to support the government's efforts to increase crude oil and natural gas production, attract new upstream investment, strengthen energy security, boost government revenue and provide feedstock for Nigeria's expanding domestic refining industry.

Investor interest has remained strong throughout the process. Of the 286 companies that applied for prequalification, 196 advanced to the technical and commercial bidding stage. From that group, 143 companies submitted a total of 200 bids for the 50 available blocks, indicating that several firms are bidding for multiple assets.

The blocks are spread across both established and frontier basins. They include 16 in the Niger Delta Onshore, 18 in the Niger Delta Shallow Water, one in the Niger Delta Deep Offshore, three in the Benin Basin Onshore, four in the Anambra Basin Onshore, four in the Chad Basin Onshore and four in the Benue Trough.

According to NUPRC's Head of Media and Corporate Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, all qualified companies have been formally invited to attend the commercial bid conference.

Winning bids will be determined through a weighted technical and commercial evaluation based on signature bonus commitments, work programme commitments and performance security commitments.

The licensing exercise began on November 11, 2025, following the announcement of the 2025 Licensing Round under the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021. The bid portal opened on December 1, 2025, while a pre-bid conference was held on January 14, 2026, at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos to guide prospective bidders through the process.

Applications closed on February 27, 2026, and the prequalification exercise was completed on March 16, 2026, paving the way for the commercial bidding stage.

The exercise comes as Nigeria continues reforms aimed at creating a more predictable investment environment after years of challenges, including regulatory uncertainty, insecurity, ageing infrastructure, project delays and high operating costs in the upstream sector.

As the commercial bid conference begins, the outcome will be closely watched as another step toward unlocking new exploration opportunities, increasing production and creating greater economic value from Nigeria's petroleum resources.

Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Moves Closer to Reality as ECOWAS Strengthens Support for $25 Billion Energy Corridor

For more than a decade, the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline has stood as one of Africa's boldest infrastructure ambitions, a project envisioned not only to transport natural gas across borders but also to deepen regional cooperation, expand industrial capacity and strengthen energy security across West Africa. That vision has now gained fresh drive following a landmark decision by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Member states of the regional bloc have signed an intergovernmental agreement backing the estimated $25 billion pipeline, bringing participating countries another step closer to turning one of Africa's largest cross-border energy projects into reality.

The agreement was signed on Sunday in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The development was confirmed in a joint statement issued by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and Morocco's National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM).

Designed to connect Nigeria's abundant natural gas reserves with markets across West Africa, Morocco and Europe, the pipeline will stretch approximately 6,900 kilometres along a combination of offshore and onshore routes. Once operational, it is expected to transport up to 30 billion cubic metres (bcm) of natural gas annually through 13 West African countries before reaching Morocco. Of that volume, 15 bcm each year will be supplied to Morocco and European markets through the existing gas pipeline connecting Morocco to Spain.

The project, first agreed upon about a decade ago by the King of Morocco and the Nigerian President, is expected to play a strategic role in improving access to cleaner energy while supporting electricity generation, industrial development and mining activities across participating countries. It is also seen as a major contributor to regional energy integration and long-term energy security.

Years of technical preparation have already been completed. According to ONHYM and NNPC, both the feasibility study and the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) phases have been successfully concluded, clearing important technical hurdles ahead of construction.

Attention is now shifting to the next diplomatic milestone as the joint statement disclosed that Morocco and Mauritania are expected to sign a separate agreement in the presence of Nigeria's President, a move that will further advance implementation of the transcontinental pipeline.

The latest breakthrough builds on several years of regional collaboration. In June 2022, the Federal Executive Council approved NNPC to execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ECOWAS to facilitate construction of the pipeline from Nigeria through West Africa to Morocco and onward to Europe. The momentum continued in December 2022 when NNPC signed additional MoUs with five African countries to strengthen cooperation on the project.

Further confidence in the initiative came in March 2024, when the then Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mele Kyari, announced that the Final Investment Decision (FID) was expected before the end of 2024.

While the scale of the project has inevitably presented challenges including financing requirements, extensive cross-border coordination and the complexity of constructing one of the world's longest offshore gas pipelines, work has continued to progress.

Earlier in 2026, reports indicated that Nigeria and Morocco were preparing to conclude the intergovernmental agreement, a development widely regarded as essential for unlocking the construction phase. With ECOWAS member states now formally endorsing the agreement, the project has crossed another major milestone.

ONHYM believes the pipeline will serve as a catalyst for economic integration across West Africa by expanding access to natural gas, accelerating industrialisation, improving electricity generation and reinforcing regional energy security.

As governments continue to advance the remaining agreements and financing arrangements, the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline is steadily moving from long-term vision to implementation. Beyond its engineering scale, the project represents a strategic investment in regional connectivity, positioning Nigeria at the centre of an energy corridor expected to drive economic growth, strengthen cooperation among African nations and enhance the continent's role in global energy markets.

Nigeria Strengthens Electricity Access with $75 Million Battery Rental Investment

For millions of Nigerians, reliable electricity is more than a convenience, it is the foundation for thriving businesses, better healthcare, improved education and stronger local economies. As efforts to bridge the country's power gap continue, investment is increasingly flowing into practical renewable energy solutions that can serve communities beyond the national grid.

The latest example is a $75 million battery rental programme that will expand access to affordable electricity across Nigeria over the next several years.

The investment follows an agreement between the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Africa-focused battery rental company MOPO, which is backed by Octopus Energy Group Ltd. Under the arrangement, MOPO will expand its battery rental operations across Nigeria by 2030. According to a company statement, implementation will begin with a pilot programme later in 2026 before extending nationwide over the following five years.

Unlike conventional off-grid systems that often require households to purchase expensive solar home systems or depend on mini-grids, MOPO's approach allows customers to rent rechargeable batteries for the hours they need them. By removing the need for significant upfront investment, the model offers households and small businesses another option for accessing dependable electricity.

Explaining the concept, MOPO Chief Operating Officer Luke Burras said the company was addressing challenges that have limited the reach of existing off-grid solutions.

"We solve a lot of the problems that mini-grids and solar home systems struggle with," Burras said.

"We rent batteries to customers for hours. We're not asking them to buy an asset in the case of solar home systems, and we're not asking investors to place a huge bet on their future usage as with mini-grids."

MOPO said the collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency supports broader efforts to expand reliable, affordable and clean electricity across Nigeria and the African continent.

The agreement also reflects the federal government's continued emphasis on off-grid electrification through the Rural Electrification Agency.

Earlier in 2026, the agency announced plans to invest ₦100 billion in hybrid mini-grids for government institutions within and outside Abuja. The allocation forms part of the National Public Sector Solarisation Programme, which is included in the REA's ₦170 billion budget proposal for 2026.

The agency also expanded regional cooperation in February 2026 by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The agreement will deploy solar power systems to 15 public institutions across Nigeria under the Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (ROGEAP), a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at expanding off-grid electricity access across West Africa and the Sahel.

As part of the programme, ECOWAS will provide a $700,000 grant to install solar photovoltaic systems in selected rural health centres and schools across the Federal Capital Territory, Niger State and Nasarawa State.

These projects are part of a wider effort to make electricity more accessible through renewable and off-grid technologies. While Nigeria continues to invest in expanding energy access, the need remains significant. According to the World Bank and the African Development Bank, nearly 560 million people across sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, a reality that continues to affect education, healthcare delivery, productivity and economic development.

Each new investment broadens the range of energy solutions available to Nigerians. As public institutions, development partners and private investors continue to support innovative approaches, battery rental is emerging as another practical option for extending reliable electricity to more homes, businesses and communities across the country.

Nigeria's Omoniyi Ibietan Earns Fresh APRA Mandate

Nigeria has further strengthened its standing in Africa's strategic communication community with the re-election of Dr. Omoniyi P. Ibietan as Secretary General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), a renewed vote of confidence in one of the country's most accomplished communication professionals.

The election took place at the APRA General Assembly in Swakopmund, Namibia, where Mr. Arik Karani of Kenya emerged as President while Professor Michele Mekeme of Cameroon was elected Vice President.

Ibietan brings decades of experience to the continental role. As Head of Media Relations at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), he leads key aspects of the Commission's corporate communication strategy. His career has spanned journalism, public service, academia and communication management, including service as Special Media Adviser to the Federal Minister of Information and Communication, where he helped drive the adoption of new media in government communication. A Fellow of both the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and APRA, he holds a doctorate in Communication from North-West University, South Africa, and is the author of Social Media, Social Demography, and Voting Behaviour in Nigeria, published in 2023.

Congratulating him on his re-election, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris described the outcome as a fitting recognition of Ibietan's professionalism, dedication and enduring contributions to the growth of public relations across Africa.

The Minister said the renewed mandate reflects the confidence of communication professionals across the continent in Ibietan's leadership and expressed optimism that he would continue to strengthen collaboration within the profession while advancing Africa's digital transformation agenda.

He also praised APRA for its steadfast commitment to ethical communication and professional excellence, expressing confidence that Nigeria's hosting of the 37th APRA Annual Conference and the World Public Relations Forum in Abuja later this year will further consolidate the country's position as a leading voice in strategic communication on the continent.

Nigeria Strikes Gold on World Spelling Stage in Shanghai

Nigeria has opened its account at the Spelling Bee World Cup in spectacular fashion, winning the Middle School Group Category at the 2026 competition in Shanghai, China, during the country's first appearance at the global event.

The place in Shanghai was earned through strong performances at the African Spelling Bee Championship and the Nigeria Spelling Bee, where the country's representatives secured qualification for the World Cup.

Representing Nigeria were Chinedu Okediachi of Madonna International Schools, Asaba; Maryam Yusuf of Ar-Raheem International College, Ilorin; Oluwadamilola Adeolu of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado-Ekiti; and Abdurrahman Yusuf, also of Ar-Raheem International College, Ilorin.

Ar-Raheem International College separately celebrated the success of its students, confirming that Abdurrahman Yusuf and Maryam Yusuf both won medals at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup Final in Shanghai.

The team's performances in China were built on an impressive showing at the African Spelling Bee Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe. There, Abdurrahman Yusuf finished third, Nigeria placed second overall, while Oluwadamilola Adeolu emerged the 2026 African Spelling Bee Junior Champion after defeating contestants from more than 30 African countries.

Before the competition, Adeolu said she was honoured to represent Nigeria as part of the Nigerian and African Spelling Bee delegation. She said she looked forward to meeting outstanding young spellers from across the world, broadening her vocabulary, strengthening her confidence and returning home with the World Cup trophy.

In the build-up to the tournament, held from July 10 to July 20, the Nigeria Spelling Bee described the team's qualification as the product of consistent hard work, tracing its progress from the national championship to the continental competition before reaching the World Cup. The organisers also noted that the students would compete on behalf of both Nigeria and the African continent against some of the world's finest young spellers.

The gold medal victory capped a memorable debut for Nigeria at the Spelling Bee World Cup and added another international academic honour to the country's expanding list of achievements by young Nigerians.

US Congress Honours Nigerian Business Leader Atta Onoja for Expanding Africa-Caribbean Trade

Nigerian business executive Onoja Atta Onoja has received a congressional proclamation from the United States Congress in recognition of his contributions to strengthening trade, investment and private-sector cooperation between Africa, the Caribbean and the United States.

The honour was presented by Hakeem Jeffries, a leader in the US Congress, during the Guyana Independence Celebration Committee of New York's commemoration of Guyana's 60th Independence Anniversary. The event brought together diplomats, business leaders, policymakers and members of the African and Caribbean diaspora committed to expanding economic collaboration across the regions.

The proclamation recognised Onoja's more than two decades of leadership in the shipping, distribution, marketing and energy sectors, as well as his contributions to international business development, service on corporate boards and efforts to deepen commercial engagement between emerging economies and the United States.

As President of the African Caribbean Chamber of Trade, Commerce and Industry (ACCTCI), Onoja has championed trade, investment and institutional partnerships connecting Africa, the Caribbean and North America, creating stronger pathways for businesses to collaborate across borders.

Speaking after receiving the honour, Onoja said the recognition reinforced the need to build practical partnerships that deliver shared economic growth.

"This recognition reinforces the importance of creating practical opportunities for businesses to trade, invest and innovate together," he said.

"Our shared history must now evolve into shared economic prosperity."

The recognition comes as Nigeria seeks to maximise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) while expanding commercial relationships with emerging global markets.

Industry stakeholders say the congressional proclamation reflects the growing international standing of Nigerian business leaders who are advancing global commerce through institution-building, strategic partnerships and economic diplomacy. It also reinforces Nigeria's expanding role in shaping cross-border trade and investment across Africa and beyond.