Nigeria at the Global AI Table: Prof. Rita Orji Appointed to UN Scientific Panel as the Nation’s Sole Representative

Following the recommendation of the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, Professor Rita Orji has been formally appointed to the United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, a high-level global body established to guide international understanding and governance of artificial intelligence. 

Her appointment places her among only 40 experts selected worldwide and makes her the sole Nigerian on the panel, a distinction that underscores Nigeria’s growing intellectual presence in one of the most influential technological arenas of our time.

A Professor of Computer Science at Dalhousie University in Canada, Prof. Orji will serve a three-year term, contributing expertise in human-centred, equitable, and responsible AI. 

A Nigerian scholar with a global footprint, she has built a career around ensuring that technological progress aligns with human values rather than overriding them. Her research focuses on how intelligent systems interact with behaviour, culture, and trust, particularly within diverse and underrepresented contexts. 

As the Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology and Director of the Persuasive Computing Lab, she has led innovative work on AI-enabled systems for health, wellbeing, and social impact, grounded in ethical design and cultural sensitivity.

The Independent International Scientific Panel on AI was created in response to widespread recognition that the pace of AI development has outstripped existing mechanisms for oversight. Established by the United Nations in 2025, the panel serves as an independent scientific authority tasked with examining AI’s capabilities, limitations, and societal consequences, and with supporting informed global dialogue on how the technology should be governed in the public interest.

The competitiveness of Prof. Orji’s appointment further highlights its significance as her nomination emerged from a global pool of more than 2,600 highly qualified candidates, from which just 40 individuals were selected. The final panel reflects a deliberate balance of disciplines, regions, and perspectives, ensuring that guidance on AI governance is informed by a wide spectrum of scientific, social, and cultural insight. 

AI technologies are increasingly deployed in societies that have limited influence over their design, often reinforcing existing inequalities and Prof. Orji’s work has consistently pushed back against this pattern, advocating for systems that are inclusive by design, culturally adaptive, and accountable to the people they affect. Through her role on the panel, perspectives shaped by lived realities beyond dominant tech hubs are brought directly into global AI governance discussions.

Prof. Orji is a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society of Canada, honours that reflect long-term international impact. She has received several of Canada’s most competitive research awards and fellowships, alongside numerous distinctions recognising innovation, leadership, and mentorship. Beyond formal honours, she is widely respected for advancing diversity and inclusion in science and technology, and for championing equitable access to digital opportunities.

Prof. Orji’s research is widely published and cited, shaping discourse across artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, digital health, and ethics. She is regularly invited to contribute to policy initiatives, serve on strategic advisory bodies, and deliver keynote addresses at major international forums. Equally notable is her mentorship legacy, through which she has helped cultivate a new generation of researchers from diverse backgrounds, expanding global participation in AI scholarship.

The panel’s work will feed directly into the UN’s Global Dialogue on AI Governance, supporting governments as they confront complex questions around innovation, safety, ethics, and long-term societal impact. 

Alongside Prof. Rita Orji of Nigeria, the other members appointed to the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence are;

Adji Bousso Dieng (Senegal),

Aleksandra Korolova (Latvia),

Alvitta Ottley (Saint Kitts and Nevis), 

Andrei Neznamov (Russian Federation), 

Anna Korhonen (Finland),

Awa Bousso Dramé (Cabo Verde), 

Balaraman Ravindran (India),

Bernhard Schölkopf (Germany), 

Bilal Mateen (Pakistan),

Carlos Coello Coello (Mexico), 

Girmaw Abebe Tadesse (Ethiopia), 

Haitao Song (China), 

Hoda Heidari (Islamic Republic of Iran), 

Jian Wang (China), 

Joëlle Barral (France),

Johanna Pirker (Austria),

Joyce Nakatumba Nabende (Uganda), 

Juho Kim (Republic of Korea),

Leslie Teo (Singapore), 

Lior Rokach (Israel), 

Loreto Bravo (Chile), 

Maria Ressa (Philippines),

Mark Coeckelbergh (Belgium), 

Martha Palmer (United States of America), 

Maximilian Nickel (Germany),

 Melahat Bilge Demirköz (Türkiye), 

Mennatallah El-Assady (Egypt), 

Piotr Sankowski (Poland),

Qinghua Lu (Australia),

Román Orús (Spain), 

Silvio Savarese (Italy), 

Sonia Livingstone (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), 

Tegawendé Bissyandé (Burkina Faso), 

Teresa Ludermir (Brazil), 

Tuka Alhanai (United Arab Emirates), 

Vipin Kumar (United States of America), 

Vukosi Marivate (South Africa), 

Yoshua Bengio (Canada), 

Yutaka Matsuo (Japan).

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape societies and global power structures, Prof. Rita Orji’s appointment stands as a clear affirmation of Nigeria’s forward momentum. It reflects a country whose scholars are not merely adapting to the future, but actively helping to shape it.

For Nigeria, it is a moment of confidence and pride; for the world, it is a reminder that the most durable global solutions emerge when excellence from every region is recognised and empowered.

Three Nigerians. Three Grammys. A moment nearly missed.

When the lights dimmed at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and the final applause faded, Nigeria had quietly secured one of its most significant cultural moments in recent years. Three winners a prestigious music stage carried Nigerian heritage with them, an outcome that, in ordinary circumstances, would have dominated national conversation, instead, the moment passed with little fanfare.

The muted response was shaped largely by the emotional weight of unmet expectations. Much of the public mood revolved around the disappointment surrounding highly anticipated contenders whose absence from the winners’ list dominated post-ceremony discussion. In that atmosphere, victories that arrived from less familiar corners of the global music industry were easily overshadowed. The silence was not dismissal, but distraction.

Shaboozey, born Collins Obinna Chibueze, stood among the night’s defining figures after claiming a Grammy in a genre where few expected a Nigerian name to emerge. His work, which blends country, hip-hop and Americana, has redrawn musical boundaries in the United States, while his personal story remains closely tied to Nigeria, where he spent part of his formative years. His acceptance speech, centred on migration, sacrifice and inheritance, resonated with experiences shared by many.

Cynthia Erivo’s win added further weight to the evening. Her career, spanning Broadway, film and music, has already placed her among the most accomplished performers of her generation. Beneath the global acclaim lies a lineage unmistakably Nigerian, carried with quiet confidence rather than declaration and her success reflects how cultural roots can travel widely without losing their depth.

Completing the trio was Tyler, the Creator, born Tyler Gregory Okonma, whose influence extends beyond music into fashion, design and film. His Grammy win for creative excellence reinforced a career defined by reinvention and originality, while his open embrace of his Nigerian heritage underscored a truth often overlooked: distance does not erase origin, and global success does not dilute identity.

Taken together, the victories told a clear story; Nigerian talent is not confined by geography, accent or genre but does thrive wherever opportunity allows it to grow, often in forms that challenge expectation.

Nigeria, in reality, has never struggled to recognise its diaspora. Across fields and continents, Nigerians abroad are regularly claimed and celebrated. What happened on Grammy night was not tension, nor a rejection of identity, but a moment when expectation eclipsed outcome and attention was fixed on what many hoped would happen, rather than on what quietly did.

Yet achievement does not lose its value because it arrives unexpectedly or from outside familiar frameworks. Cultural triumphs remain triumphs, regardless of where they are produced or how they fit prevailing narratives. The wins in Los Angeles were not consolation prizes; they were statements of Nigerian excellence expressed on a global scale.

As Nigeria’s footprint continues to expand across continents, such moments will recur, sometimes loudly, sometimes quietly but what matters is the willingness to pause, recalibrate, and recognise success in all its expressions. This is essential because a nation’s story is shaped not only by its expectations, but by its ability to acknowledge achievement wherever it appears.

In the end, the Grammy victories were a reminder that Nigerian talent does not compete for relevance, it already has it. The applause may come late, but the achievement stands, undiminished and unmistakably Nigerian.

FG plans internet access for 55,675 schools and hospitals

In today’s digital age, access to the internet is no longer a luxury for Nigerian students and health workers, it is a basic requirement for learning, research, innovation and service delivery. From virtual classrooms and digital textbooks to telemedicine and data-driven healthcare, connectivity now sits at the heart of modern education and public health systems.

It is against this backdrop that the Federal Government has unveiled plans to extend broadband internet to tens of thousands of public schools and health facilities across the country, particularly in communities that remain largely cut off from reliable digital access.

According to official project documents, the initiative is expected to connect 55,675 public institutions nationwide, including 38,803 schools and 16,872 health facilities, by September 2030. If fully delivered, it would represent one of the most far-reaching public digital infrastructure interventions in Nigeria’s history.

Reliable internet access opens the door to digital libraries, online curricula, teacher training platforms, global academic collaboration and skills development tailored to a rapidly changing job market. For students in underserved areas, it could help narrow the widening digital divide that increasingly mirrors existing inequalities in income and opportunity.

The health sector stands to gain just as much as broadband connectivity enables telemedicine services, faster access to patient records, remote diagnostics and continuous training for medical personnel, tools that are especially critical in rural and hard-to-reach communities where specialists are scarce.

Beyond schools and hospitals, the government’s plan also covers thousands of public institutions. By the end of the project, the number of broadband-connected public facilities is expected to rise to over 59,000, up from fewer than 34,000 recorded in 2025. This includes local government offices, which are often the closest point of contact between citizens and the state.

At the centre of the initiative is a nationwide fibre-optic rollout, with plans to deploy about 90,000 kilometres of cable, most of it designed to withstand climate-related risks. The expansion is expected to lower wholesale broadband costs by about 20 per cent and significantly improve internet speeds, making digital services more affordable and reliable across the country.

The programme also places emphasis on human capacity, with plans to provide digital literacy training to 37,000 Nigerians, the majority of them women and to generate gender-disaggregated data that can guide future broadband policy. Project targets include high service satisfaction rates and timely resolution of user complaints once operations are fully underway.

While the scale of ambition is clear, the funding model reflects the realities of large infrastructure projects as the initiative is backed by a $500 million concessional loan from the World Bank’s International Development Association, with the bulk of the funds set aside to capitalise a new fibre infrastructure company. The company will operate as a special purpose vehicle, majority owned and managed by the private sector, while the Federal Government participates as a minority shareholder through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.

The structure is designed to crowd in private investment,  potentially exceeding $1 billion over the project’s lifespan and limit direct government control, while ensuring open-access wholesale services for licensed telecommunications operators.

As of early 2026, the loan had not yet been disbursed, though preparatory work is ongoing and implementation is expected to begin in earnest this year. The World Bank has rated progress so far as satisfactory, even as it flagged political, institutional and fiduciary risks that could affect delivery.

Ultimately, the success of the initiative will be measured not by kilometres of fibre laid or funds committed, but by whether Nigerian students can learn without digital barriers and whether health workers can deliver care with modern tools at their disposal. 

In a world increasingly driven by data, connectivity has become foundational infrastructure as essential as roads, power and water and Nigeria’s development trajectory will depend on how effectively it is deployed.

Nigeria tops Africa and ranks 12th globally in food visibility on social media

Nigeria is now the most visible food culture on the African continent and one of the most talked-about in the world.

According to a 2026 global report by Chef’s Pencil, Nigerian cuisine ranked first in Africa for social media visibility and 12th globally, outperforming several long-established European cuisines. The ranking reflects not popularity in restaurants or kitchens, but presence meaning how often Nigerian food appears, circulates and sparks conversation across major digital platforms.

The study, The Most Popular Cuisines on Social Media in 2026, examined cuisine-related activity on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, using hashtag data gathered at the beginning of the year. Each platform was given equal weight, a method the publishers say helps surface cuisines that perform consistently across different online communities.

What sets Nigerian cuisine apart, the report suggests, is not just visual appeal but narrative depth. From home kitchens to roadside stalls, Nigerian food content is driven by stories of family, heritage, technique and memory. Videos of bubbling soups, street-food preparation and step-by-step cooking processes routinely draw high engagement, particularly on TikTok and Facebook, where comment-led interaction fuels wider sharing.

As social media continues to shape how food is discovered, Nigerian cooking appears well matched to the current moment. Instagram’s evolution from still photography to short-form video has favoured cuisines that show movement, process and personality and Nigerian dishes, often prepared through tactile, expressive methods, translate naturally to this format.

Chef’s Pencil is careful to note that the ranking is not a measure of quality or consumption as It does not claim that Nigerian cuisine is eaten more than others, nor does it attempt to judge taste. Instead, it tracks cultural activity, what people choose to post, recreate, debate and celebrate online.

Globally, Italian cuisine topped the list, buoyed by its everyday presence across continents and its adaptability to quick recipe videos and restaurant content. Indian and Japanese cuisines followed, sustained by strong street-food culture, modern dining narratives and visually distinctive dishes. Mexican and Korean cuisines performed particularly well on TikTok, while Thai and Chinese cuisines maintained steady visibility across platforms.

Yet the report also highlights cuisines that outperform expectations when the focus shifts beyond Instagram alone. Nigerian cuisine was grouped alongside Filipino, Indonesian and Vietnamese food cultures, cuisines that thrive on community participation and diaspora engagement rather than polished presentation.

For Nigeria, the ranking speaks to something broader than food trends as It reflects how culture now travels: through phones, short videos, shared memories and global networks of people telling their own stories. In that space, Nigerian cuisine has found both voice and audience.

From local kitchens to global timelines, Nigerian food is no longer on the margins of the conversation but firmly at the centre - seen, shared and shaping how the world engages with African culture.

Enugu State generates ₦406.8bn IGR in 2025, achieving 80% of its target

Enugu State closed the 2025 fiscal year with a strong revenue performance, recording ₦406.8 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), a figure that represents about 80 per cent of its ₦509.9 billion target for the year.

The achievement was disclosed in Enugu by the Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS), Emmanuel Nnamani, during a briefing on the state’s revenue journey under the current administration.

Nnamani recalled that when Governor Peter Mbah announced the ambitious ₦509 billion revenue target for 2025 back in 2024, it was greeted with scepticism in many quarters. That doubt, he said, has now been answered with results. By the end of 2025, the state had generated exactly ₦406,774,321,758.87, translating to a remarkable 80 per cent attainment of the set goal.

The figures also reflect a dramatic leap from the previous year. In 2024, Enugu State recorded ₦180.5 billion in IGR. The 2025 outcome therefore represents a 125 per cent increase year-on-year, underscoring what Nnamani described as a sustained growth trajectory.

A closer look at the revenue mix shows that taxes paid directly by residents accounted for ₦51.5 billion, or just 12.6 per cent of the total IGR. The bulk of the revenue, ₦355.2 billion, representing 87.4 per cent, came from non-tax sources. Despite its smaller share, tax revenue itself rose significantly, growing from ₦30 billion in 2024 to ₦51.5 billion in 2025, a 72 per cent increase that outpaced the 31 per cent growth recorded the previous year.

Placing the numbers in historical context, Nnamani noted that before Governor Mbah assumed office in 2022, Enugu State’s total revenue stood at ₦26.8 billion, made up of ₦16.2 billion in tax revenue and ₦10.6 billion from non-tax sources. Upon taking office, the governor issued clear directives to aggressively expand revenue, particularly by unlocking non-tax opportunities across the state.

In 2023, the governor further mandated that routine expenses such as salaries, pensions, and overheads, must be funded strictly from IGR rather than federal allocations. That policy shift yielded ₦37.4 billion in tax revenue and ₦14.5 billion in non-tax revenue by the end of that year.

Momentum accelerated in 2024, when total revenue jumped to ₦180.5 billion, representing growth of over 370 per cent. Of that amount, ₦30 billion came from taxes, while non-tax sources contributed ₦150 billion. According to Nnamani, the performance of 2024 proved that the state’s revenue reforms were not only effective but also sustainable.

He added that funds generated from taxes have been channelled into visible development projects, including the construction of smart green schools, establishment of Type II primary healthcare centres, and the revitalisation of previously dormant public assets.

Looking ahead, Enugu State has set an even more ambitious IGR target of ₦870 billion for 2026. Nnamani acknowledged that tax revenue may temporarily soften due to the introduction of pro-citizen tax reforms, but expressed confidence that improved compliance and growing public trust in governance would support long-term revenue expansion.

With consistent policy direction and a widening revenue base, he said, Enugu State is positioning itself for sustained fiscal strength in the years ahead.

Ogun State Plans AI-Powered Digital Classroom for Remo Secondary School

On a bright celebratory day in Sagamu, history and the future met on the same school grounds. Remo Secondary School, an institution that has shaped generations for eight decades, marked its 80th anniversary not only by looking back, but by setting its gaze firmly on what lies ahead.

At the heart of that forward vision is a plan by the Ogun State Government to construct a 900-seat, Artificial Intelligence powered digital classroom complex within the school. Valued at about ₦1 billion, the proposed facility represents a shift in how public education in the state is being reimagined, from traditional chalkboards to intelligent, technology-enabled learning spaces designed for a rapidly changing world.

Governor Dapo Abiodun used the anniversary celebration as a platform to articulate that vision. Speaking to students, alumni, educators and guests, he emphasized education as the most strategic investment any society can make. For him, the digital classroom is not simply a building, but a response to the realities of the 21st-century economy, where technology, data and innovation increasingly define opportunity.

The new classroom complex is expected to build on learning infrastructure already in place at Remo Secondary School. Over time, the institution has been equipped with a resource centre and a robotics laboratory, facilities aimed at nurturing creativity, problem-solving and digital competence among students. The addition of an AI-enabled learning environment is intended to deepen those efforts and expand the range of skills available to young learners.

Beyond the long-term plan, the governor also announced immediate financial support for the school, pledging ₦100 million toward its development. Half of that amount is to be released promptly, with assurances that at least one major project connected to the anniversary commitments will be fully delivered within his administration.

The government’s involvement with the school has already produced visible results. Science laboratories have been renovated and fitted with modern equipment, aligning teaching spaces with contemporary standards. Student hostels, both male and female have also been rehabilitated, reflecting an understanding that learning thrives best in safe, comfortable and supportive environments.

Throughout the event, Remo Secondary School was repeatedly described not just as a place of learning, but as a living institution, one shaped by shared memory, discipline and collective effort. The governor acknowledged the role of the school’s old students, whose contributions over the years have helped preserve its heritage and sustain its reputation.

For him, the school’s story is a reminder that progress in education is rarely the work of government alone. It is built through partnership, continuity and a shared belief in the future. Designated as one of Ogun State’s flagship schools, Remo Secondary School now stands as a bridge between its storied past and an increasingly digital tomorrow.

As the celebrations drew on, students were urged to recognise the responsibility that comes with opportunity. The message was simple but firm: new facilities and modern tools must be matched with character, discipline and a commitment to excellence.

In proposing an AI-powered classroom within the walls of an 80-year-old institution, Ogun State is making a clear statement, that tradition and innovation need not stand apart, and that the future of public education can be built on the foundations of its past.

Yobe Teacher Gambo Lawan Emerges North-East Best at 2026 National Teachers’ Awards

Gambo Lawan, a teacher at Yerimaram Government Day Junior Secondary School in Potiskum, Yobe State, has been named Best Teacher in the North-East at the 2026 National Teachers’ Award Ceremony, earning national recognition for excellence, innovation, and impact in public education.

The award, organised by the Federal Ministry of Education, was presented at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Lawan received a ₦25 million cash prize. She also earned a tertiary education scholarship, placing her among the most celebrated educators at the national ceremony.

Education officials said Lawan emerged from a highly competitive and merit-driven selection process that assessed professionalism, creativity in teaching methods, and measurable learning outcomes. Her achievement further highlights Yobe State’s growing profile in education, a sector that has recently produced notable academic successes at both national and international levels.

Last year, students from the state drew international attention after posting strong performances at global academic competitions in London, reinforcing the connection between classroom dedication and student excellence. Education observers say such milestones reflect the influence of committed teachers working within the public school system, particularly in regions often left out of national education narratives.

Reacting to the honour, Lawan described the recognition as the result of years of consistency, patience, and deep passion for teaching. She said the announcement came as a surprise but viewed it as both encouragement and responsibility.

“This award has motivated me to do even more for my students,” she said, adding that she intends to mentor younger teachers and continue promoting discipline, values, and academic excellence in the classroom.

The Executive Chairman of the Yobe State Universal Basic Education Board (YSUBEB), Umaru Hassan-Babayo, said Lawan’s success reflected sustained investments in education and human capital development across the state. He noted that her emergence at the national level demonstrated that quality teaching and innovation can thrive in public schools when teachers are properly supported.

Education stakeholders say Lawan’s recognition sends a strong signal about the importance of rewarding excellence in teaching and reinforces the role of educators as central drivers of long-term development.

World Crafts Council Honours Olusegun Runsewe as Africa’s Icon of Crafts, Culture and Hospitality

At the 2026 World Crafts Forum in Kuwait, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe was conferred with the title Icon of Crafts, Culture and Hospitality in Africa by the World Crafts Council, marking a moment of international recognition grounded in long-term cultural leadership.

The Council’s citation focused on his role in strengthening craft ecosystems and supporting artisan communities across Africa, particularly through policies and platforms that link heritage preservation with economic relevance. The award, presented in the presence of global cultural leaders, situates African craftsmanship within contemporary discussions on sustainability and creative enterprise.

Otunba Runsewe’s career reflects a deliberate strategy of positioning Nigeria as an active participant in global cultural exchange. During his tenure as Director General at the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation and later the National Council for Arts and Culture, Nigeria expanded its presence at leading tourism and cultural marketplaces across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, using these platforms to project national identity through curated cultural content.

Beyond trade and exhibition spaces, Nigeria’s cultural visibility was extended to major global gatherings. Carefully structured cultural activations accompanied Nigeria’s participation at international sporting events, including the FIFA World Cups in South Africa and Russia, demonstrating how cultural expression can operate as diplomatic capital independent of political or athletic outcomes.

Within Nigeria, Otunba Runsewe pursued institutional reforms that redirected festivals and expos toward economic participation. Flagship programmes such as NAFEST and INAC were leveraged to introduce vocational training, investment engagement and enterprise development, particularly for young people and women entering the creative economy.

His policy outlook consistently challenged the marginalisation of culture within national development planning. He argued for tourism and the creative industries as scalable contributors to economic diversification, positioning culture as infrastructure rather than spectacle, a perspective increasingly aligned with global development thinking.

Equally central to his work was national self-definition. Through sustained advocacy for history education and cultural literacy, he maintained that international reputation is inseparable from internal coherence. For Nigeria, he emphasised that credibility abroad must be built on clarity of identity at home.

Following his exit from public office, Otunba Runsewe has remained an active reference point within Africa’s cultural and tourism sectors. Professional associations, media institutions and international bodies have continued to acknowledge his contributions, reflecting influence that extends beyond administrative tenure.

The Kuwait forum, convened under the theme Craft in the Creative Economy, offered a relevant context for this recognition. As global policy increasingly turns toward heritage-based industries and sustainable cultural production, Otunba Runsewe’s work stands as an early example of applied cultural economics within an African context.

In recognising Olusegun Runsewe, the World Crafts Council not only honoured an individual career but also reinforced Nigeria’s standing as a country capable of shaping, not merely participating in, international cultural dialogue.

Nigeria Sets the Pace for Regional Energy Trade as Ghana Turns to Dangote Refinery

Nigeria is increasingly defining the direction of energy trade in West Africa, with Ghana confirming plans to import refined petroleum products from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos.

The move highlights a structural shift in regional fuel supply, driven by Nigeria’s new refining capacity and industrial scale. With an installed capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the Dangote Refinery has positioned Nigeria not only to satisfy domestic fuel demand but to act as a primary supplier of refined products across the sub-region.

Ghana’s reliance on imports, stemming from limited local refining capacity, has made the country a natural market for Nigerian refined fuel. By sourcing from Nigeria, Ghana is aligning with a nearby producer capable of delivering large volumes of petrol and diesel on a consistent commercial basis.

Engagements between Ghanaian authorities and the Dangote Group are already underway, signalling confidence in Nigeria’s refining infrastructure and its ability to anchor long-term supply relationships. The proximity between the two countries strengthens Nigeria’s cost advantage and reinforces its leadership in regional fuel logistics.

For Nigeria, the development marks a clear departure from decades of dependence on imported refined products despite being Africa’s largest oil producer. The Dangote Refinery has reversed that model, enabling Nigeria to export value-added petroleum products and shape downstream trade flows within Africa.

As regional markets increasingly look inward for energy security, Nigeria is setting the agenda by moving from crude exporter to refining powerhouse, influencing pricing, supply routes, and industrial integration across West Africa.

Maser Group Plans Major Investment in Nigeria as Part of $1.6bn Africa Expansion

Dubai-based Maser Group is accelerating plans to invest $1.6 billion across Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya, targeting sectors where demand growth and long-term capital returns are converging namely data infrastructure, artificial intelligence capacity and large-scale agriculture.

The investments, scheduled over the next 24 months, mark a strategic expansion for the company as global interest in Africa’s digital and food production markets intensifies. Nigeria features prominently within this strategy, reflecting its market size, consumption dynamics and expanding role in regional technology and supply chains.

Responding to Market Signals

Maser, founded in 2014, established its African presence through consumer electronics sales in countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa and Egypt. The move into farmland and data centers represents a progression toward infrastructure assets aligned with structural demand.

The company has already committed approximately $300 million to land acquisition and other asset-backed projects across its target markets, positioning it ahead of broader capital inflows expected into these sectors.

Africa imported more than $83 billion in food in 2023, according to the UN Economic Commission for Africa, while data-center demand is projected to rise sharply. McKinsey estimates that capacity will need to increase from around 0.4 gigawatts today to about 2.2 gigawatts by 2030, requiring up to $20 billion in new investment.

Nigeria’s Investment Case

Nigeria’s inclusion reflects a combination of scale and momentum. Rapid growth in digital services, cloud computing and AI-enabled platforms is reshaping infrastructure requirements, while the size of the domestic market continues to support investment in agricultural production and processing.

Maser has indicated it is engaging with technology partners in Taiwan on potential joint ventures to develop data centers in Africa, a move aimed at aligning technical expertise with local market demand.

Capital and Partnerships

Financing for the expansion will be led by MDR Investments LLC, a Maser Group unit managing a $500 million fund, alongside Chia Ventures Co. of China. MDR is also pursuing public-private partnerships with governments, including Nigeria’s, across sectors such as agriculture, mining and affordable housing.

A Competitive Investment Landscape

With global capital increasingly seeking growth outside mature markets, Nigeria and other African economies are attracting attention as platforms for long-term expansion. Maser’s planned investments suggest a view that early positioning in infrastructure and productive assets could shape returns as demand deepens.

Nigeria’s Reform Momentum Delivers as First Abu Dhabi Bank Anchors African Entry in Lagos

Nigeria’s economic reforms are no longer theoretical, they are now translating into concrete global investment decisions. First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the largest lender in the United Arab Emirates, has chosen Lagos as the launchpad for its expansion into sub-Saharan Africa, underscoring renewed international confidence in Nigeria’s policy direction and market fundamentals.

The decision, announced in Lagos at the Investopia Africa conference, reflects a strategic calculation rather than exploratory interest. With operations across more than 20 countries, FAB’s choice of Nigeria as its African base signals recognition of the country’s scale, reform credibility, and ability to absorb complex, long-term capital.

FAB’s confidence is rooted in lived experience especially as the bank has already been deeply involved in financing Nigerian infrastructure, most prominently through its role in the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. In partnership with the African Export-Import Bank, FAB helped structure a $1.126 billion financing package for a critical section of the project, deploying advanced risk-mitigation instruments backed by the Islamic Development Bank. The transaction demonstrated Nigeria’s growing sophistication in structuring bankable infrastructure deals that meet international standards.

This development sits squarely within the framework of Nigeria’s broader reform agenda. The recent Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Nigeria and the UAE, concluded in January 2026, has opened tariff-free access for thousands of Nigerian products and accelerated non-oil trade flows that surpassed $3 billion within nine months of 2025. Rather than relying on commodity cycles, Nigeria is deliberately repositioning itself as a diversified, trade-enabled economy.

Under Central Bank of Nigeria guidelines, FAB’s Lagos presence will operate as a representative office focused on investment facilitation, capital mobilisation, and market intelligence rather than retail banking. This clarity of rules reflects a maturing regulatory environment designed to attract credible institutions while safeguarding financial stability.

The bank’s entry also coincides with Nigeria’s landmark banking recapitalisation programme, which is resetting capital standards and strengthening the sector’s capacity to finance large-scale growth. Far from deterring investors, the reforms are reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a market willing to make difficult but necessary adjustments to secure long-term resilience.

Energy remains a natural pillar of engagement, but FAB’s expanding interest in transport, logistics, and climate-resilient infrastructure speaks to Nigeria’s evolving investment narrative. Projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway are no longer isolated ambitions; they represent a new generation of nationally strategic assets designed to unlock productivity, regional trade, and private-sector participation.

As Africa moves toward a population of nearly 1.8 billion, Nigeria’s size, talent pool, and urban centres, particularly Lagos, offer unmatched scale. Government officials, including the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, have described FAB’s move as validation of reforms such as exchange-rate unification and the rollout of the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System, both of which have improved transparency and investor confidence in Nigeria’s financial markets.

FAB’s Lagos office is expected to open in the coming weeks, giving the bank a direct platform to deepen its existing commitments and originate new investments aligned with national priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Logistics, industrial infrastructure, and climate-smart development are set to feature prominently.

At a time when global capital is increasingly selective, Nigeria’s ability to attract a leading international bank is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate reforms, policy consistency, and a clear signal to the world: Nigeria is open for serious, long-term investment and the market is responding.

Edo’s Refinery Bet: How a 10,000bpd Condensate Plant Could Redefine the State’s Industrial Trajectory

Edo State is making a calculated push to reposition itself within Nigeria’s downstream energy landscape, following a fresh agreement with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited to develop a 10,000 barrels-per-day condensate refinery in the state.

Planned to span Oredo and Orhionmwon Local Government Areas, the refinery is expected to be delivered within a 24 to 36-month window. Beyond its physical footprint, the project signals a broader ambition by the state government to leverage energy infrastructure as a foundation for industrial growth, employment generation, and regional economic integration.

When operational, the refinery is projected to supply approximately 20 truckloads of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 10 truckloads of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) daily. For Edo and neighbouring states, this level of output could ease supply pressures, shorten fuel distribution chains, and reduce reliance on distant refining and import-dependent logistics.

Governor Monday Okpebholo disclosed the development during a meeting with NNPC’s Executive Vice President for Downstream operations, Mumuni Dagazia, and senior members of the company’s management team in Benin City. He framed the initiative as a strategic investment that aligns with the Nigerian Government’s wider economic and industrialisation objectives.

According to the governor, the refinery is expected to function as more than a fuel-processing facility. Instead, it is envisioned as a catalyst for job creation, skills development, and private-sector confidence, particularly within the South-South region where energy resources coexist with long-standing infrastructure gaps.

The Edo State Government has committed to providing critical support to ensure the project’s execution. This includes the allocation of land, issuance of Certificates of Occupancy, provision of security, and other logistical backing. These measures, analysts note, are increasingly central to attracting large-scale investments in Nigeria’s energy sector, where regulatory delays and land acquisition challenges have historically slowed project delivery.

From NNPC’s perspective, the condensate refinery fits into a broader downstream investment strategy focused on sustainability and value retention within the domestic economy. Dagazia described the project as one designed to drive revenue growth while supporting industrial development at the subnational level.

Further reinforcing this view, NNPC’s Chief Downstream Investment Officer, Ikedichi Dick-Nwoke, said the refinery would enhance Edo’s profile as an emerging energy and industrial hub. He noted that such infrastructure has the potential to crowd in additional investments, strengthen investor confidence, and expand employment opportunities for local residents.

If completed on schedule, the Edo condensate refinery could mark a turning point in the state’s economic narrative, illustrating how targeted partnerships between state governments and national energy institutions can translate resource potential into tangible industrial outcomes.

Rita Orji recommended to serve on the United Nations International Scientific AI Panel

In a world where artificial intelligence is reshaping economies, societies, and power structures at unprecedented speed, the question of who gets to help shape its rules has never mattered more. This is why the recent recommendation of Professor Rita Orji to the United Nations International Scientific AI Panel is both a personal triumph and a moment of global significance for Nigeria, for Africa, and for the future of responsible AI governance.

Recommended by the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, Prof. Orji stands among 40 experts drawn from across the world, following a rigorous international selection process. She is the only Nigerian on the list, and one of the very few voices representing the Global South at a table where decisions will influence how artificial intelligence evolves across borders and generations.

The final appointment now lies with the United Nations General Assembly, whose vote will determine the composition of a panel designed to guide humanity through one of its most transformative technological eras.

Why the United Nations AI Panel Matters Now

Artificial intelligence is advancing faster than any regulatory or ethical framework can easily contain. From automated decision-making to generative systems capable of influencing elections, economies, and culture, the stakes are no longer theoretical. They are immediate, global, and deeply human.

Recognising this urgency, the United Nations General Assembly took a landmark step last year by establishing an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. The goal is clear: to ensure that global AI governance is grounded in independent, science-based assessment, not commercial pressure or geopolitical rivalry.

If approved, the panel will provide authoritative guidance to help governments keep pace with rapid technological change, ensuring that innovation remains aligned with humanity’s collective interests rather than drifting beyond democratic and ethical oversight.

Rita Orji’s recommendation places her at the heart of this global effort.

A Scholar Whose Work Anticipated This Moment

Rita’s career has long been shaped by the very questions the United Nations is now racing to address. As a Professor of Computer Science and Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology, she has spent years interrogating how intelligent systems interact with human values, behaviour, trust, and culture.

Her work sits at the intersection of human-centred AI, ethics, and persuasive technologies, fields that are increasingly central to debates around AI governance. Long before ethical AI became a policy buzzword, Rita was asking hard questions about bias, inclusion, and accountability, and building frameworks that show how technology can influence behaviour without manipulation or harm.

This depth of expertise makes her recommendation less symbolic and more strategic. She is not merely being recognised; she is being called upon because her research speaks directly to the challenges the world now faces.

Global Recognition, Built on Intellectual Rigor

Rita Orji’s academic journey is marked by sustained excellence rather than momentary acclaim. Her research has been published in leading international journals and conferences, widely cited, and applied across disciplines. She has received multiple awards for innovation, research impact, and leadership, and she is recognised globally as a thought leader in ethical and inclusive technology design.

Beyond publications and honours, her influence is evident in how her ideas travel from academic spaces into real-world conversations about policy, design, and governance. This ability to bridge theory and practice is precisely what the UN panel requires: experts who can translate scientific insight into guidance that governments can act upon.

A Voice for Inclusion in a Uneven Global Landscape

Perhaps the most profound aspect of Rita's recommendation is what it represents in a global system where technological power is often concentrated in a few regions. AI systems are frequently developed without sufficient input from the cultures, contexts, and communities most affected by their deployment.

Prof. Orji has consistently challenged this imbalance. Her work insists that technology must be inclusive by design, sensitive to cultural differences, and accountable to the people it serves. This perspective brings essential balance to a panel tasked with shaping governance frameworks meant for the entire world, not just its most technologically advanced corners.

Her presence ensures that conversations about AI ethics are not abstract, but grounded in lived realities across diverse societies.

Looking Ahead

As the United Nations General Assembly prepares to vote on the panel’s composition, Rita Orji’s recommendation already stands as a moment of significance. If confirmed, she will help guide how the world thinks about, governs, and lives with artificial intelligence in the years ahead.

In a defining era for technology and humanity alike, her voice brings clarity, conscience, and credibility.

For Nigeria, it is a moment of quiet pride. For the world, it is a reminder that the future of AI governance is strongest when it reflects the full diversity of human experience.

Nigeria’s Economic Rebound and the Race for Africa’s Top Three

Nigeria is emerging from a period of economic recalibration with renewed momentum, as new projections from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) point to a significant shift in Africa’s economic hierarchy by 2026. The Fund expects Nigeria to overtake Algeria to become the continent’s third-largest economy, reflecting both cyclical recovery and the early effects of structural reform.

In 2025, Nigeria ranked fourth in Africa, with a gross domestic product of roughly $285 billion. It trailed South Africa and Egypt, Africa’s two largest economies, while Algeria held third place with an estimated GDP of $288 billion. The narrow gap between Nigeria and Algeria underscored how sensitive continental rankings had become to exchange-rate movements, energy output, and fiscal policy adjustments.

By 2026, the IMF projects Nigeria’s economy will expand to about $334 billion, compared with Algeria’s forecast GDP of $284 billion. South Africa and Egypt are expected to retain first and second positions, with projected outputs of $443 billion and $399 billion respectively. While the ranking change may appear incremental, it signals a broader shift in economic fundamentals rather than a one-off statistical adjustment.

Nigeria’s projected rebound is anchored primarily in higher oil production, improved foreign-exchange liquidity, and the gradual stabilisation of macroeconomic conditions. The liberalisation of the exchange rate and the removal of petrol subsidies, long considered politically sensitive but economically necessary, have altered price signals and reduced fiscal distortions. Although these reforms have contributed to short-term inflationary pressures, they are expected to support stronger and more sustainable growth over the medium term.

The IMF’s confidence in Nigeria’s outlook is further reflected in its revised growth estimates. In January 2026, the Fund raised Nigeria’s projected growth rate for the year to 4.4 percent, up from an earlier estimate of 4.2 percent. The World Bank reached a similar conclusion, lifting its 2026 growth forecast from 3.7 percent to 4.4 percent. The convergence of projections from both institutions suggests increasing consensus around Nigeria’s recovery trajectory.

Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest economy has shifted repeatedly over the past decade, shaped by currency devaluations, GDP rebasing exercises, and external shocks affecting commodity-dependent economies. The latest projections indicate that Nigeria’s climb in the rankings is less about headline size and more about improving economic structure and policy direction.

Whether the country can sustain this momentum will depend on the consistency of reform implementation, stability in the energy sector, and the ability to manage inflation without undermining growth. For now, however, Nigeria’s expected return to Africa’s top three economies marks an important turning point in its post-adjustment economic narrative.

Nigeria’s Naval Fleet Emerges As Africa’s Strongest In 2026

Nigeria has consolidated its position as Africa’s foremost maritime power, emerging in 2026 as the continent’s country with the strongest naval fleet. Fresh data from the Global Firepower (GFP) index, which evaluates the military strength of 145 nations, places Nigeria 22nd globally and first in Africa, supported by a fleet of 152 operational vessels.

The ranking reflects more than numerical strength as it highlights a deliberate naval doctrine shaped by geography, economic realities, and the pressing need to secure one of Africa’s most strategic maritime environments.

A Navy Shaped by Geography and Purpose

Nigeria’s naval posture is deeply influenced by its physical landscape. With an 853-kilometre coastline along the Atlantic and an extensive network of over 8,600 kilometres of inland waterways, the country faces a security environment unlike any other on the continent. These waters support commercial shipping, offshore energy production, fishing communities, and international trade routes that demand constant protection.

Rather than investing heavily in large, prestige platforms, Nigeria has prioritised speed, coverage, and adaptability. The result is a fleet optimised for patrol, interception, and rapid response across coastal and riverine theatres.

Inside the Fleet: Strength in Numbers and Specialisation

The composition of Nigeria’s naval fleet underscores this operational focus. Of the 152 vessels currently in service, patrol craft dominate, accounting for nearly the entire force. These include offshore patrol vessels, fast-attack craft, missile boats, and gunboats designed to operate effectively in shallow waters and congested maritime zones.

Complementing these assets is one frigate, capable of extended missions beyond coastal waters and supporting multi-role operations, as well as two mine warfare vessels tasked with protecting ports and key sea lanes. The absence of submarines, destroyers, or aircraft carriers signals a strategic choice: prioritising maritime security and deterrence over global power projection.

Collectively, the fleet carries an estimated 38,000 tonnes in displacement, making it the largest in Africa by vessel count.

How Nigeria Stacks Up Across the Continent

Nigeria’s lead becomes clearer when compared with other African naval forces. Egypt, long considered a maritime heavyweight, follows closely with 149 vessels, placing 23rd worldwide. Algeria ranks third in Africa with 111 vessels and a global position of 34th.

Other notable fleets include Morocco with 100 vessels and South Africa with 63, while countries such as Tunisia, Mozambique, Angola, Kenya, and Eritrea maintain smaller but strategically important naval forces. These navies play vital roles in regional security, yet none rival Nigeria’s scale or inland-coastal operational reach.

Securing Trade, Energy, and Regional Stability

Nigeria’s naval capabilities extend beyond fleet size and rankings. The navy plays a central role in combating piracy, illegal fishing, oil theft, and smuggling in the Gulf of Guinea, a region critical to global energy supply and African trade. Sustained patrols and multinational cooperation have contributed to a steady decline in piracy incidents in recent years.

On a broader scale, Nigeria ranks 33rd globally when land, air, naval forces, manpower, defence spending, and strategic positioning are assessed together. Within Africa, it stands third overall, behind Egypt and Algeria, reinforcing its status as a leading security actor on the continent.

Defence Spending and Strategic Partnerships

Backing Nigeria’s naval strength is increased defence investment. The 2026 federal budget proposal allocates ₦5.41 trillion to defence and security, up from ₦4.91 trillion in 2025. The funding is directed towards personnel welfare, modern equipment acquisition, intelligence capabilities, and ongoing security operations.

International partnerships, particularly with the United States and allied navies, continue to enhance training standards, operational coordination, and technological capacity, ensuring the fleet remains effective and future-ready.

A Maritime Power With Staying Strength

Nigeria’s rise as Africa’s leading naval force is the product of strategic choices rather than coincidence. Its expansive waterways, security-focused fleet structure, rising investment, and operational experience have combined to produce a navy tailored to contemporary threats.

As maritime security grows increasingly vital to Africa’s economic and geopolitical future, Nigeria’s naval fleet stands not only as a national safeguard but as a pillar of stability across West Africa and the wider Gulf of Guinea.

Ugo Ugochukwu crowns a season of resilience with the Formula Regional Oceania title

At just 18 years old, the racing prodigy Ugo Ugochukwu has delivered a defining statement of resilience and class, clinching the Formula Regional Oceania Trophy in a season that reaffirmed his place among motorsport’s brightest young talents.

Only three months after parting ways with McLaren’s Formula 1 development programme, Ugochukwu responded not with uncertainty but with authority. Competing across 15 fiercely contested races in New Zealand, he secured four victories, finished on the podium at every round, and wrapped up the title 15 points clear of Audi F1 junior Freddie Slater. In a category often decided by fine margins and fleeting momentum, his campaign was built on calm precision and relentless consistency.

What set the championship run apart was not merely speed, but composure under pressure. Ugochukwu finished outside the top ten just twice all season, a rare feat in a field stacked with emerging talent. Each weekend reinforced the same message: he was not chasing moments, he was building a title.

The decisive test came at the season finale, where adversity threatened to undo months of work. A left-front suspension failure during qualifying resulted in a technical breach, dropping him to 13th on the grid. For many young drivers, it would have been a breaking point. Instead, Ugochukwu delivered a measured, intelligent race, gathering the points he needed and sealing the championship when it mattered most.

After the New Zealand Grand Prix, his relief was unmistakable. He spoke of a race that felt unusually long, a reflection of the mental strain that accompanies championship-deciding moments. More than personal triumph, he reserved his strongest praise for his team, acknowledging their relentless effort and unity throughout the season.

The title marks a pivotal chapter in Ugochukwu’s rapidly unfolding career. It is proof that setbacks do not define a driver, rather, responses do. His ability to reset, refocus, and dominate in a new environment has sent a clear signal across the junior racing ladder.

Next on the horizon is a second FIA Formula 3 campaign with Campos Racing, beginning at the Australian Grand Prix from March 6 to 8. 

Armed with confidence, experience, and a championship mindset, Ugo Ugochukwu now steps forward not just as a promising talent, but as a proven winner, one whose journey is only beginning.

Nigeria moves closer to hosting Africa’s first large-scale electric vehicle manufacturing ecosystem

Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s transition into electric mobility is beginning to take concrete shape, as the country moves closer to hosting the continent’s first fully integrated electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing ecosystem.

At the centre of this push is a new strategic partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and South Korea’s Asia Economic Development Committee (AEDC), an agreement designed to accelerate local EV production while building the supporting infrastructure needed for nationwide adoption. The understanding was formalised in late January 2026, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s long-term industrial and energy transition agenda.

Rather than a single, one-off factory project, the collaboration is structured as a phased industrial programme. Early stages will focus on vehicle assembly, allowing operations to commence quickly, before expanding into full-scale local manufacturing. Once fully operational, the facility is expected to produce up to 300,000 electric vehicles annually and generate roughly 10,000 direct jobs, strengthening Nigeria’s manufacturing base and workforce capacity.

Beyond production numbers, the initiative is designed to deepen local capabilities. It is expected to drive technology transfer, attract fresh investment, and support skills development across engineering, design, research, and innovation. The broader objective is to build a sustainable automotive ecosystem, one that integrates clean energy, local value addition, and global competitiveness.

The project aligns closely with Nigeria’s National Energy Transition Plan and the National Automotive Industry Development Plan, both of which prioritise reduced emissions, industrial growth, and a gradual shift away from fossil-fuel dependence. Together, these policies reflect a deliberate effort to position Nigeria as a hub for green manufacturing in Africa.

Nigeria’s journey toward electric mobility did not begin overnight. As far back as 2021, government agencies were already laying the groundwork for locally produced electric vehicles, including the formation of technical teams focused on EV development. In 2022, further momentum was added through international partnerships aimed at assembling and manufacturing electric vehicles within the country.

Despite ongoing concerns around power supply and road infrastructure, interest in electric vehicles has continued to grow. This interest is reinforced by Nigeria’s long-term targets: the national Energy Transition Plan envisions a complete shift to electric vehicles by 2060, while Lagos State has committed to reaching the same goal by 2050. In the interim, several local and foreign-backed companie, such as Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, SAGLEV, Jet Motor Company, Spiro, NEV Motors, and EMVC, are already contributing to the emerging EV landscape.

International attention is also intensifying. In 2025, China announced plans to establish electric vehicle factories and related manufacturing ventures in Nigeria, highlighting the country’s increasing appeal as a destination for clean-energy investment. Analysts suggest that such projects could help unlock Nigeria’s rich mineral resources while strengthening domestic value chains and export potential.

Taken together, these developments signal a broader industrial shift and with policy backing, growing international partnerships, and an expanding local manufacturing base, Nigeria is steadily positioning itself not merely as an adopter of electric vehicles, but as a central player in shaping Africa’s electric mobility future.

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti: When the World Finally Bowed to Afrobeat

For a man who spent his life confronting power, defying convention, and refusing to ask for permission, recognition was never the point. Yet, nearly thirty years after his death, the world’s most influential music institution has finally paused, looked back, and said it out loud: Fela Anikulapo-Kuti mattered.

On a quiet night in Los Angeles, ahead of the 2026 Grammy Awards, the Recording Academy posthumously honoured the Nigerian icon with a Lifetime Achievement Award, making Fela the first African artist to receive the distinction. It was a historic moment, not just for one man, but for an entire continent whose creative brilliance has too often gone unacknowledged.

The award was received by members of the Kuti family, custodians of a legacy that refuses to fade. As his children stood where their father never did in his lifetime, the moment carried layers of meaning; pride, irony, and vindication all at once. 

Fela, after all, was never one for trophies. He made music as a weapon. Afrobeat was not designed for comfort; it was built to provoke, educate, and awaken. Long before African music became fashionable on global charts, Fela was already using sound to interrogate power, calling out military dictators, mocking corruption, and challenging both colonial and local systems of oppression. His songs were long, unfiltered, and unapologetically African.

That same defiance made him an outsider in many elite spaces. Despite his global influence, Fela was never nominated for a Grammy while alive. To his family, this belated honour feels deserved, if overdue. “Better late than never,” his daughter Yeni has said, a sentiment shared by many who believe Africa’s cultural contributions are still waiting for full recognition on the world stage.

There is a striking irony in the moment. Fela was famously anti-establishment, yet here he is being celebrated by one of the most influential cultural establishments in the world. For those who knew him, the contradiction feels almost poetic. If he were alive, some imagine him raising a clenched fist, half-amused, half-triumphant, proof that even the institutions he challenged could not ignore him forever.

Born in Abeokuta in 1938, Fela’s journey began far from the glitter of global stages. He trained in music in London before returning home to Nigeria, where he began fusing highlife, jazz, funk, soul, and Yoruba rhythms into something entirely new. Afrobeat was not just a genre; it was a philosophy, one that insisted African stories, sounds, and struggles deserved to be heard on their own terms.

As his influence grew, so did the backlash. His Lagos commune, the Kalakuta Republic, became a symbol of resistance. His album Zombie openly ridiculed military obedience, provoking a brutal state response that left many injured and ultimately led to the death of his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, herself a towering activist. Arrests, harassment, and imprisonment followed, yet Fela never softened his voice. Instead, he became a global symbol of artistic resistance.

Decades later, his impact remains unmistakable. Modern Afrobeats, now a global force, traces its DNA directly to Fela’s innovations. Artists across continents from pop icons to alternative rock legends continue to draw inspiration from his sound, his style, and his fearless commitment to truth.

When Fela died in 1997 at just 58, Lagos stood still. An estimated one million people turned his funeral into a historic procession, a final reminder that his connection to the people was deeper than any award could measure.

Today, his children carry the torch. Through the New Afrika Shrine and the annual Felabration festival, Fela’s music and message continue to reach new generations, not as nostalgia, but as a living call to consciousness, unity, and African self-belief.

The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award does not change who Fela was. It does not sanitise his rebellion or soften his message. What it does is confirm what Africa has always known: that Fela Anikulapo-Kuti was not just ahead of his time, he was larger than it.

The world may have arrived late but Afrobeat had already won.

Nigeria ranks among the world’s top 10 contributors to global GDP growth in 2026

Nigeria has firmly established itself as one of the world’s key drivers of economic expansion, ranking sixth among the top contributors to global real GDP growth in 2026. 

According to IMF data, the country is projected to account for 1.5 percent of total global growth, placing Africa’s largest economy alongside major global players and ahead of several advanced and emerging economies, including Germany, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, and many European countries. 

This performance highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in the global economy and signals a shift in where global growth momentum is increasingly concentrated.

While China and India are expected to remain the largest contributors to global growth, together accounting for 43.6 percent of total expansion, Nigeria’s position among the top ten carries its own significance. 

Asia-Pacific may dominate in aggregate terms, but Nigeria’s 1.5 percent contribution on its own exceeds that of most European nations combined, reinforcing its role as a leading growth engine among emerging markets and a central pillar of Africa’s economic relevance on the global stage.

This shift has also drawn global attention as Elon Musk, commenting on the IMF data, observed that “the balance of power is changing.” His remark reflects a broader transformation underway in the global economy. 

While traditional centers such as Wall Street and Silicon Valley continue to set the technological pace, the engines of economic growth are increasingly emerging beyond the West, with Nigeria’s inclusion among the world’s top contributors serving as clear evidence of this transition.

Despite persistent domestic and global challenges, Nigeria’s ranking speaks to resilience, scale, and long-term potential. It underscores a country that is not only contributing meaningfully to global growth today but is also shaping future economic trends. 

With sustained reforms, disciplined fiscal management, and a deliberate focus on translating growth into durable industrial capacity, Nigeria is well positioned to strengthen its standing further. 

What the data already makes clear is that Nigeria is no longer on the margins of the global economy, it is actively shaping its direction.

Abia Moves Toward Energy Independence and New Investment Opportunities

Nigeria’s electricity sector is growing alongside the country’s population, cities, and businesses. As demand for power increases, new approaches are being developed to support economic growth and attract investment. One of the states taking clear steps in this direction is Abia State.

Governor Alex Otti has announced that Abia State has made strong progress in its plan to take control of electricity distribution within the state. According to him, the state’s offer to acquire the Umuahia ring-fence from the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has been accepted, and arrangements are being made to complete payment.

“I had reported earlier that our offers to EEDC have been accepted, and we are in the process of raising the funds to pay off EEDC,” Otti said.

Abia Takes Charge of Its Power Sector

On December 24, Abia officially took over the regulation of electricity within the state through the Abia State Electricity Regulation Authority (ASERA). This followed the Electricity Act 2023, which allows states to manage power generation, distribution, and transmission inside their borders.

“So everything about distribution, generation, and transmission is going to be regulated within the state,” the governor explained.

This step gives Abia the ability to plan its power needs better, work directly with investors, and create solutions that fit local businesses and households.

Aba Shows What Local Power Can Achieve

Abia’s plan is based on experience. The Aba ring-fence, powered by Aba Power Limited, already provides a good example of how local electricity systems can work well. Aba Power combines its own generation with a dedicated distribution network, helping to provide more stable electricity for Aba and its surrounding areas.

This has supported Aba’s role as a major business and manufacturing centre, especially for small and medium-scale enterprises.

“The whole idea is to ensure energy sufficiency and independence in the state, just like the Aba Power provides power for the Aba ring-fence,” Governor Otti said.

Nigeria’s Size Creates a Big Energy Market

With over 200 million people, Nigeria has one of the largest electricity markets in the world. As industries grow, cities expand, and technology use increases, the need for reliable power will continue to rise.

Experts estimate that Nigeria’s long-term electricity demand could reach 80,000 to 100,000 megawatts, while current supply is much lower. This difference is not a weakness but shows the size of the opportunity for investors who are ready to build power plants, improve distribution, and introduce new technologies.

Due to Abia already having part of its power assets under state control, the impact of wider system challenges has been limited in some areas.

“I am sure you would have noticed that some recent incidents did not affect our state, because a good part of our power assets is within our authority,” Otti said.

Umuahia Ring-Fence: A New Door for Investors

The planned acquisition of the Umuahia ring-fence will allow Abia to improve electricity supply in the capital city and surrounding areas. It will also make it easier for private investors to work with the state on power projects.

“That is the whole idea of acquiring the whole Umuahia ring-fence. I am happy we are making a lot of progress in that area,” the governor added.

Investment opportunities include:

.Embedded and captive power projects

.Gas-powered electricity plants

.Solar and hybrid energy systems

.Smart meters and billing systems

.Power solutions for markets and industrial clusters

A Positive Future for Power and Investment

Nigeria’s electricity sector reflects the country’s growth, energy, and ambition. Demand for power remains strong because people are building businesses, creating jobs, and expanding industries.

By taking practical steps, creating clear rules, and welcoming private investment, Abia State is showing how states can support development through reliable electricity. 

For investors looking at Nigeria’s future, the power sector offers long-term value and Abia is positioning itself as a ready and reliable place to invest.

A New Track for Kano: How a ₦1 Trillion Rail Project Could Redefine Urban Life

Kano is on the cusp of a historic transformation.

In a move that signals a bold reimagining of urban mobility and economic growth in Northern Nigeria, the Federal Government has approved a ₦1 trillion Metropolitan Rail Service for Kano State, one of the most ambitious transportation investments in the city’s modern history.

The project, which is expected to fundamentally reshape how people move, trade, and live within the Kano metropolis, was announced by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf during an address to the Kano State contingent at the 2025 National Qur’anic Recitation Competition held in Borno State. The announcement was later confirmed in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Beyond the headline figure lies a deeper story of strategy, alignment, and long-term vision.

Governor Yusuf explained that his administration’s decision to realign politically with the Federal Government was guided by a clear priority: positioning Kano to attract large-scale, transformative development projects capable of delivering tangible benefits to its people.

At the heart of that vision is the Kano Metropolitan Rail Service.

Designed as a modern, efficient, and affordable mass transit system, the rail network will connect key districts across the sprawling metropolis, offering residents a reliable alternative to congested roads. For a city renowned as a historic centre of commerce and culture, improved mobility is expected to unlock new layers of productivity, making it easier for workers to commute, traders to move goods, and businesses to thrive.

Governor Yusuf described the rail project as a landmark intervention, one that goes beyond transportation to touch every aspect of urban life. By reducing traffic congestion, cutting commute times, and improving access to commercial hubs, the rail service is projected to stimulate trade, attract investment, and enhance overall quality of life.

More significantly, the project positions Kano to reclaim and strengthen its status as a major transportation and economic hub in Northern Nigeria, bridging history with modern infrastructure and future-focused planning.

The governor assured residents that the Kano State Government will work hand-in-hand with relevant federal agencies to ensure the smooth implementation of the project. Transparency, accountability, and value for money, he emphasized, will remain central to the execution process, with the ultimate goal of delivering maximum impact for the people of the state.

Expressing appreciation to the Federal Government for what he described as a visionary initiative, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to complement federal efforts through supportive policies, enabling infrastructure, and sustained collaboration.

As the tracks begin to take shape in the months and years ahead, the ₦1 trillion Kano Metropolitan Rail Service stands as more than a construction project, it represents movement in every sense of the word: movement of people, of commerce, and of a city confidently stepping into its future.

Women-powered palm oil production takes off in Oku, boosting output, income and shared prosperity

Akwa Ibom State has reinforced its commitment to women-driven economic growth with the commissioning of a modern palm fruit processing mill in Oku, Abak Local Government Area. The facility, inaugurated by Governor Umo Eno under the Nigeria for Women Project, represents a deliberate effort to move women from small-scale activity into organised, high-value agro-processing while boosting local palm oil output.

The processing mill is designed to cater to women across the 11 wards of Abak Local Government Area and has already delivered measurable gains in productivity. With the introduction of mechanised processing, daily output has risen sharply from a single drum of palm oil to about eight drums, improving efficiency, consistency and market readiness. The expansion has not only reduced processing time but has also improved oil quality, positioning producers to compete more effectively within the wider palm oil market.

Speaking at the event, the governor’s Delivery Adviser on the Nigeria for Women Project, Ini Adiakpan, described the initiative as a comprehensive empowerment programme rather than a stand-alone infrastructure project. She noted that participating women are equipped with skills in financial management, leadership and cooperative governance, alongside training in water, sanitation and hygiene practices and awareness around gender-based violence. Adiakpan praised the state government for driving the programme locally and acknowledged the World Bank for providing the financial backing that enabled its execution.

Providing insight into the broader impact of the project, the State Coordinator of the Nigeria for Women Project, Ofonime Etuknwa, explained that the Federal Government-supported initiative was structured to help women transition from informal trading into commercial-scale palm oil production. She said the project has significantly improved the economic fortunes of beneficiaries, revealing that many women who previously saved as little as ₦100 weekly now save between ₦3,000 and ₦5,000. This shift, she added, has strengthened their financial independence and improved access to capital for business growth.

Etuknwa further disclosed that the palm processing facility is jointly owned by about 200 women operating as a cooperative. Through this collective ownership model, members are able to share resources, reduce operating costs and benefit from economies of scale. With improved output and market access, the cooperative is expected to generate meaningful dividends for its members by the end of the year, reinforcing the long-term sustainability of the enterprise.

At the heart of the initiative is the palm fruit processing mill itself, a mechanised facility that converts freshly harvested palm fruit bunches into crude palm oil through a series of integrated operations. These include sterilisation, fruit separation, digestion, pressing and clarification, processes that significantly increase yield while minimising waste. By replacing labour-intensive traditional methods, the mill enhances productivity and ensures better quality control.

Beyond its economic value, the mill stands as a catalyst for wider community development as it creates employment opportunities along the palm oil value chain, strengthens cooperative structures and positions women as key contributors to local industrial growth. Through the Nigeria for Women Project, the Oku palm fruit processing mill illustrates how targeted investment, skills development and inclusive ownership can translate into sustainable economic empowerment for women and lasting benefits for their communities.

Orondaam Otto: The Man Building Schools Where Opportunity Is Missing

Orondaam Otto does not talk about education as charity, he speaks of it as infrastructure, the quiet architecture that determines whether nations rise or fracture. To him, classrooms are as critical as roads, teachers as vital as power grids, and access to learning as consequential as access to water. It is a belief forged not in theory or privilege, but in close contact with places where the absence of education is visible, measurable, and devastating. From that understanding, Orondaam has built a life’s work focused not on sympathy, but on systems, fixing what fails, and designing what should have existed all along.

Born on 8 August 1987 at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria and rooted in Ellelem World Town, Port Harcourt, Orondaam was raised in a household where public service was not an abstract value but a daily ethic. The influence of his late father, Major Dr. E.O.C. Otto, and his mother, Mrs. Marianne Otto, instilled discipline, empathy, and a deep sense of responsibility long before leadership titles followed.

By the time he reached secondary school at the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Borikiri, leadership had already found him. He served as health prefect and led the school’s editorial board, learning early that responsibility is less about authority and more about care for the collective. These experiences quietly shaped his understanding of systems, accountability, and impact.

Orondaam's academic path initially pointed toward medicine. He studied Human Anatomy at the University of Port Harcourt, drawn by a desire to understand life at its most fundamental level but outside the lecture halls, his worldview was expanding. Through youth development work across Nigeria and West Africa, including stints in Ghana, Cameroon, and Côte d’Ivoire, he encountered communities rich in talent but starved of opportunity.

That realisation hardened into resolve during his National Youth Service in Lagos State where in waterfront and border communities such as Makoko and Iwaya, Orondaam encountered children locked out of the education system, not by lack of ability, but by neglect. In Makoko, hundreds of children spent their days on the lagoon, invisible to policy and untouched by planning and for Orondaam, it was a moment of moral clarity.

Though officially posted to a bank, he made a decision that would define his life’s direction. He resigned from his NYSC placement and committed himself fully to enrolling out-of-school children and with volunteers, community support, and little institutional backing, he renovated a public primary school and enrolled 114 children, many entering a classroom for the first time. Today, several of those children are studying in universities across Nigeria, living evidence of what timely intervention can achieve.

Recognition followed, including state and presidential honours for national service, but Orondaam's focus shifted immediately to scale. In 2012, he founded Slum to School Africa, not as a short-term charity, but as a long-term human capital movement designed to confront Africa’s educational gaps at its roots.

Over the next decade, the organisation expanded across hundreds of Nigerian communities, supporting nearly one million children and young people through scholarships, mentoring, digital learning, and psychosocial care. A global volunteer network spanning more than 60 countries powered its growth, while strategic partnerships unlocked millions of dollars in funding.

When the COVID-19 pandemic shut classrooms across the world, Orondaam once again responded with urgency. He led the creation of Africa’s first virtual learning classroom tailored for underserved children. What began as a modest pilot quickly scaled, in partnership with UNICEF, to reach over half a million learners across northern Nigeria, earning continental and global recognition for innovation in education access.

Orondaam's work has also redefined what education infrastructure can look like. Through the Slum to School Green Academy, he championed an eco-friendly, solar-powered school model built with bamboo architecture, rainwater harvesting systems, and waste-to-energy biodigesters. The project sent a clear message: Africa can build learning spaces that are sustainable, intelligent, and locally grounded.

Behind the fieldwork is a formidable intellectual foundation that has seen Orondaam pursue advanced studies in leadership, development finance, social entrepreneurship, and public policy across Europe, Africa, and North America, including a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, where he was an Edward Mason Fellow. His academic focus mirrors his practical work - education reform, institutional design, and human capital development.

Beyond education delivery, Orondaam has contributed to governance and policy at the highest levels. He served as a founding board member of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, helping shape youth employability and innovation initiatives, and has advised national platforms focused on economic growth and human capital development.

Global recognition has followed, including multiple Future Awards Africa wins, UN recognition among the most influential people of African descent, the Eisenhower Global Fellowship, and selection as a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum; yet accolades remain secondary to purpose.

At the heart of Orondaam Otto’s work is a conviction that Nigeria’s future will be determined by how well it prepares its young people , not just to earn certificates, but to build systems, shape narratives, and lead transformation. For him, education is not an act of charity, it is liberation.

From waterfront communities to global policy rooms, Orondaam's journey is a study in purposeful leadership, proof that when systems fail, individuals can design better ones, and in doing so, help a nation secure its future.